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diff --git a/41134.txt b/41134.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ac9c8b3..0000000 --- a/41134.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,22752 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's The White Rose of Memphis, by William C. Falkner - -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: The White Rose of Memphis - -Author: William C. Falkner - -Release Date: October 21, 2012 [EBook #41134] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ASCII - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WHITE ROSE OF MEMPHIS *** - - - - -Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images available at The Internet Archive) - - - - - - - - -THE - -WHITE ROSE - -OF - -MEMPHIS: - -A Novel. - -BY - -W. C. FALKNER. - - "Stone walls do not a prison make, - Nor iron bars a cage; - Minds innocent and quiet take - That for an hermitage; - If I have freedom in my love, - And in my soul am free, - Angels alone that soar above, - Enjoy such liberty." - -_Richard Lovelace._ - -M. A. DONOHUE & COMPANY - -CHICAGO NEW YORK - -COPYRIGHT, 1881, BY - -G. W. CARLETON & CO. - -COPYRIGHT, 1909, BY - -J. W. T. FALKNER. - - - - -_White Rose of Memphis._ - - - - -PUBLISHERS' PREFACE. - - -For thirty-one years, this book has met popular favor, and a sale of -_one hundred and sixty thousand copies_. Its sale now is steadily -increasing, notwithstanding the worn condition of the plates. - -_This 35th edition_, now printed from new plates, is offered, believing -it will outlive its fifty-six years of copyright. - -But few works of fiction are accredited with such favor, or with such -extensive circulation. - - - - -THE WHITE ROSE - -OF - -MEMPHIS. - - - - -CHAPTER I. - - -"Speak it out, captain; I know by your looks you have something to say, -and I am full of curiosity to hear it." - -"Very true, my dear fellow; I have at last hit on a scheme which I think -will prove very profitable, and will be glad to take you in as an equal -partner." - -"Glad to hear it; I am ready for anything to make an honest living." - -"I have chartered the best boat on the river, and mean to put her to -work on the line between here and New Orleans, and shall of course be -her commander, and would be glad to have you take charge of the office, -and we will divide profits." - -"I am truly grateful, captain, for the manifestation of confidence -contained in your offer, and will gladly undertake the business." - -"Very good; then we may consider it settled so far. The next thing to be -done is to get up a handsome advertisement, and meantime the boat must -be re-painted, re-furnished and overhauled generally." - -"Give the necessary instructions as to these things, captain, and draw -on me for my share of the expenses. By the by, what boat have you -chartered?" - -"The 'Star of the West;' but I will have her name changed, as I do not -like that one. What shall her new name be?" - -"I leave that to you, and trust you will select a pretty name; there is -nothing like having a pretty name for a pretty boat. Shakespeare was -decidedly mistaken when he thought that there was nothing in a name." - -"I agree with you there, Sam, and insist that you shall select the -name." - -"No, no; but I'll tell you what we will do: you write down three names, -and I'll write three; we'll put them in a hat, and the first one drawn -shall be her name." - -"All right." - -The names were written, placed in the captain's hat, and Sam was -requested to draw out one. - -"What have you got, Sam?" said the captain. - -"The prettiest name that ever was seen on a wheel-house. You might have -given me a month to think about it, and I never should have thought of -such a sweet-sounding name." - -"Well, what is it?" - -"THE WHITE ROSE OF MEMPHIS." - -"I am truly glad to know that you think it a pretty name, and we will -have the letters made in gold." - -"When can we be ready to start, captain?" - -"It will take six weeks to get everything ready. We must manage to make -a grand display when we start on our first trip." - -"You had better prepare the advertisement, then, and let it appear at -once. Suppose we give a grand masquerade ball on board just before we -start." - -"Capital idea, Sam; we'll make the first trip one of pleasure, so as to -attract the attention of the public. I'll prepare the advertisement at -once." - -The foregoing conversation was carried on between Captain Oliver Quitman -and Samuel Brazzleman, two well-known and very popular steam-boat men of -Memphis, whose experience in that business had won for them an -established reputation for reliability and integrity. - -The following advertisement appeared in one of the morning papers a few -days after the conversation above related: - - The new and splendid passenger boat, "White Rose of Memphis," has - been purchased by Captain Oliver Quitman, and will be put on the - line between Memphis and New Orleans. She will start on her first - trip at 9 A. M., on May 1st, for the Crescent City, under the - immediate command of her owner. Samuel Brazzleman will officiate at - the clerk's desk, and Dave Halliman, at the wheel. The old reliable - river man, Thomas Henderson, has agreed to take charge of the - engine. Professor Frazzlebrains's splendid string band has been - employed to make music for the amusement of the passengers. A grand - masquerade ball will be given on board the "White Rose" on the - evening of the 30th inst., and arrangements will be made to - continue the amusement every night during the round trip. The grand - saloon is eminently suited for dancing parties, and has been - gorgeously furnished with everything necessary to make the - passengers comfortable. It is the intention of the captain to make - the first trip one of pleasure and amusement. Reduced rates will be - given to excursion parties who may apply for them for the round - trip. - -This advertisement (as might be expected) created quite a sensation -among the fair sex of Memphis, and added very greatly to the cash -receipts of silk merchants and milliner shops; while it caused a -corresponding shrinkage in the money bags of doting parents of -marriageable daughters. Memphis was then, and is now, famous for the -beauty of her women, and the muddiness of her streets. Cotton bales and -pretty women seem to be a spontaneous production in and about Memphis, -and, in spite of bad government and yellow fever epidemics, she is -handsome and lively still. - -"Well, Sam, old fellow, what do you think of the prospect?" - -"Splendid! we have made a ten strike this time--every room has been -engaged, and still they come." - -"Is she not a beauty, Sam?" - -"Never saw her match in my life. What's the time, captain?" - -"Eight thirty, and time for the maskers to begin to arrive; by the by, -here they come now. Has the music arrived?" - -"Long, long ago, captain; everything is ready." - -"Good, Sam; we must put our best foot foremost to-night; much depends on -first impressions. Have you got plenty of wines and ice?" - -"Oceans, oceans of all kinds." - -This conversation occurred on board of the "White Rose," between Captain -Quitman and Samuel Brazzleman, who were both rejoicing at the prospect -of a remunerative trip, which was to begin on the next morning. Before -nine o'clock the dazzling lights in the long saloon were streaming down -on the vast crowd of maskers as they glided along through the mazes of -the dance; while soft, sweet sounds floated out on the night air. -Fantastic costumes, sparkling jewels, white, blue and red plumes, -rustling silk, shining satin, soft velvet, sparkling diamonds, -high-heeled boots, splendid music, the popping of champagne bottles, the -hum of many voices, the merry laughter, the brisk and graceful movement -of charming women, were all contributing to the dazzling show. All kinds -of costumes were to be seen, old-fashioned and new, gaudy and plain. -Mary, Queen of Scots, with her rich, royal costume of Scotland, all -bedecked with sparkling diamonds, was dancing with Ingomar, the -Barbarian Chief, with his savage beard reaching to his waist, and his -top-boots all shaded with gold. The knight of Ivanhoe, with his -glittering armor on, was dancing with the first maid of honor, who wore -blue silk, and yellow mask. Don Quixote, the Knight of Salamanca, -dressed in shabby but quaint armor, was jumping high and awkwardly, as -he danced with the second maid of honor, who was a graceful dancer, -dressed in orange-colored silk with pink mask. Henry of Navarre, with -his black plume waving high above the throng, was marching up and down -the saloon with the queen of Sheba leaning on his arm. Sancho Panza, -with his clownish costume, was playing the clown to perfection, to the -great amusement of the children. The Duke of Wellington and Napoleon -were taking a mint julep at the bar, while George III. was quarreling -with Sam Brazzleman because he wouldn't tell him the name of the lady -who represented the Queen of Scots. - -"Positively against our rules to divulge the names of parties in mask, -without their consent," says Sam. - -"Well, does she reside in Memphis?" - -"Can't answer; I tell you it is contrary to orders." - -"Is she going to New Orleans on this boat?" - -"Yes." - -"Good! I'll find out who she is, if I follow her to the other side of -the world!" and the imitator of the defunct tyrant made his way to where -the mysterious queen stood conversing with her Barbarian Chief. - -"Who is that lady dancing with Ingomar?" inquired George III. of -Ivanhoe. - -"Do not know; wish I did." - -"I'll give a hundred dollars to know who she is." - -"I'll go you halves," says Ivanhoe. - -George III. and Ivanhoe were not the only ones who wanted to know who -was personating the Scottish queen. It seemed to be a general desire -among the male maskers to know who she was. It is hard to say what -caused this general wish to know who she was. It might have been caused -by a combination of circumstances. There appeared to be a desire on the -part of the gentlemen to get near her. Was it the soft, sweet melody of -her voice, or was it the queen-like grace of her movements? Perhaps it -was the profusion of golden hair that fell, unconfined, beneath the -quaint crown of sparkling jewels that graced her brow; or it may have -been the little provoking, pretty foot that now and then made its -appearance as she floated like a fairy over the floor. When she took her -seat at the piano, and began to sing, while the rich, sweet voice rose -until the saloon seemed to be filled with soul-stirring music, curiosity -went up to fever heat, and George III. would have given his kingdom to -know who she was. Ingomar, the Barbarian Chief, with his long, shaggy -whiskers, stood near the queen, turning the music sheets as the song -progressed, and occasionally stooping to whisper something in her ear, -which she answered with a nod and a smile. As soon as the song was ended -the knight of Ivanhoe requested Ingomar to present him to the queen. -Ingomar in a low whisper asked her permission to present the knight of -Ivanhoe, which was promptly granted. - -"I have the honor, your Majesty, to present my distinguished and -honorable friend, Sir Knight of Ivanhoe." A graceful bow and the queen -held out her little white hand, which Ivanhoe pressed to his lips. - -"Sir Knight, we are delighted to know you. Shall we have the pleasure of -your presence during our excursion to New Orleans?" - -"I am profoundly grateful for your Majesty's condescension, and shall be -overjoyed at the privilege of making one of the party." - -"To-morrow being the first day of May, our festivities will commence, -and it is our royal pleasure, sir knight, that you shall attach yourself -to our court during the trip." - -"I cannot find language, my dear madame, to express my gratitude for the -distinguished honor you confer upon me." - -"Partners for a quadrille," rang through the saloon as the band struck -up a lively tune. George III., the Duke of Wellington and Napoleon all -made a dash toward the queen at once, each one anxious to secure her as -a partner, but with a low bow and a sweet smile she turned to Ivanhoe, -took his arm, and was soon gliding through the dance. The British King -appeared to take his discomfiture rather hard, while Wellington looked -somewhat chop-fallen; but Napoleon proposed that their sorrow should all -be drowned in a bowl of punch, which was agreed to, and the trio marched -to the bar to commence the drowning process. - -"Devilish provoking," muttered George III. - -"What's provoking?" says Wellington. - -"That mysterious piece of humanity styling herself queen of Scots. I -shall always hate masquerade balls after this. I don't think they are -respectable at all." - -"Come, come, your royal highness, you should not surrender at the first -repulse; Ivanhoe has only gained a temporary triumph, and if you will -come to the charge again with a brave heart, you may yet compel victory -to perch on your banner." - -"Ingomar had a monopoly until Ivanhoe leaped into the arena and carried -off the prize, and I advise you to show a bold front. Strategy won't win -in battles of love. If you expect to win, don't attempt to make a flank -movement, but come boldly up to the front. Remember that 'faint heart -never won fair lady.'" - -"I don't want to win a fair lady, or any other kind of lady, until I -know who she is." - -"I guess you will find that out to-morrow, for she is going to New -Orleans." - -"True, but I learn that she means to make the entire trip incog." - -"Impossible, sir, impossible; how can she remain on this boat two or -three weeks without being recognized by some one?" - -"That's the question to be settled hereafter; she will have to play the -game very cautiously, if she prevents me from finding out who she is. By -the by, do you know who that savage-looking fellow is who personates -Ingomar?" - -"No, but you may be sure the queen knows him; did you notice how -affectionately she leans on his arm, and how close she puts her mouth to -his ear when she speaks to him?" - -"Yes, to be sure I did; but she is now playing the same game on -Ivanhoe." - -"Who the deuce is Ivanhoe?" - -"I don't know that either, and without meaning any discourtesy to you, I -beg to say that I don't care a copper to know who he is." - -"I hear that it is the intention of Ingomar and Ivanhoe to imitate the -example of the queen by making the trip incog." - -"By all means let them do it; and I suggest that we three do the same, -and keep our names concealed from them, and we shall have rare sport. -Don't you know that the ladies will die of curiosity if we conceal our -names? Let us form a combination against them, look and talk -mysteriously, and my word for it, propositions will be made for a treaty -looking to a general disclosure of names and the discarding of masks." - -"Capital idea, my lord, and you may depend upon my hearty co-operation. -As soon as the boat leaves the wharf to-morrow let the war begin." - -"Perhaps the captain will object to passengers going in disguise all the -time." - -"No; he told me that the queen intended to make the entire trip in mask, -and that the same privilege would be extended to all who desired to -avail themselves of it." - -"Very good, very good; then the alliance, offensive and defensive, may -be considered as ratified and confirmed." - -"Charge, Chester, charge! and on, Stanley on!" said Wellington, as he -drew the cork from a fresh bottle of champagne. - -"Screw your courage up to the sticking point, my gallant king, and with -the emperor and duke at your back, move on the enemy, unfurl your -banner, cry 'havoc,' and let slip the dogs of war. Confusion and -discomfiture shall overwhelm our foes." - -"We must win the queen of Sheba to our side at all hazards, as I learn -that she and her two maids of honor are going on the excursion." - -"That shall be your task, then--to secure her co-operation. See her at -once, and if she will join us, we will have an easy victory." - -"You may depend on me for that," said the counterfeit king, as he -started on his recruiting expedition. "I'll be back in a moment, and -report progress. Meantime you and Napoleon mature the plan of the -campaign during my absence." - -George III. soon returned with a favorable report: "Her Majesty presents -her compliments to the emperor, and my lord the duke of Wellington, and -will be much gratified to have them enrolled as permanent members of her -festive court, which will be convened on the hurricane deck at eleven -o'clock A. M. to-morrow." - -"Now you have her message _verbatim_," said the king, as he dove both -hands into his pockets, with a self-satisfied look. "Won't we have rare -sport? won't we make the enemy die of curiosity? We must organize -thoroughly, and make a systematic siege, and if we don't capture the -entire party before three days, take my hat and hang it on the tallest -wave that rises behind the 'White Rose of Memphis.' We must seem to -ignore the other party entirely--look and talk as if no such party were -aboard; drop mysterious hints--about things that never were heard of, -speak of love-making that we could tell more about if we would. Let all -these hints be carelessly dropped in the hearing of some one of the -other party, and you may be sure that they will sue for peace and union -before we reach New Orleans. Should any one of the other party ask -questions (which they will be sure to do) shake your head, look -mysterious, shrug your shoulders, and heave a mournful sigh. Do you -think the world ever produced a woman that could stand that? Would you -believe it, the queen of Scots' first maid of honor is now half dead to -know who I am? Can't I see how she has been watching me for the last -hour? I'll capture her the first thing to-morrow and employ her as a -spy in the enemies' camp." - -At last the ball ended, the guests departed, save those who had engaged -passage for the grand excursion, and they had retired for the night, to -dream of the sport to be enjoyed on the morrow, while Captain Quitman -paced proudly on the hurricane deck, with heart swelling with -satisfaction at the pecuniary prospects before him. - - - - -CHAPTER II. - - -The eventful and long-looked-for day on which the "White Rose of -Memphis" was to start on her first trip had come at last, and a mighty -stir, indeed, did that day produce on and under the tall, romantic bluff -in front of Memphis. The morning was delightful, the atmosphere pure and -invigorating, the sweet odor of fresh spring flowers was on the breeze, -mingling with the soft notes of music produced by the band from the -hurricane deck. The stars and stripes floated gracefully from the -flag-staff, dark clouds of black smoke rose from the chimneys, a white -cloud of steam struggled up through the black smoke and disappeared far -above, innumerable drays rattled along the pavement, carriages thundered -over the rocky road, carriage drivers swore at dray drivers, dray -drivers returned the compliment with interest, in language not of a -religious nature, deck hands sung "Dixie," cabin boys danced juber, -chamber-maids darted hither and thither, apparently anxious to perform -their duty, without the slightest conception of what that duty was. A -villainous urchin, in the arms of his nurse, was making a heart-rending -noise with a tin horn, and a passenger muttered something not taught at -Sunday-school. - -"Them's my sentiments to a T," said another man who had been annoyed -with the tin horn. - -As the hour drew near when the boat was to start the confusion -increased. The pilot was at his wheel, the engineer was at his engine; -Captain Quitman stood on the upper deck in front of the pilot house, -looking happy, and feeling vastly important. Hundreds of men, women and -children in holiday costumes stood on the bluff, shouting and waving -white handkerchiefs to their friends on the boat. A mocking-bird in a -cage on the boiler deck imitated every imaginable sound with his -wonderful voice, while a parrot, perched on a pole near the clerk's -office, kept crying, "Let her rip! let her rip, Sam!" - -"How much steam have you got, Tom?" cried the pilot through his -speaking-tube. - -"One sixty, sir, and still rising." - -"All right; blow off the mud valves and keep a good head; we must make a -good run at the start." - -"Time's up, Dave; let her go," said the captain. "Run her up to the -mouth of Wolf, make a turn to the left, and then let her come down with -her best speed." - -"Let go the head line," cried the mate. - -"Draw in the stage," says the captain. - -"Go ahead on the larboard, and back on the starboard," cried the pilot -to the engineer. - -"Go ahead on the steward, and back on the cook-house," cries a -mischievous little negro, who is dancing a jig in front of the pilot -house. - -The boat moves slowly up stream until a point opposite the mouth of Wolf -river is reached, then makes a graceful curve to the left, and comes -flying past the city with a speed never equaled by any other boat on -that river. As the "White Rose" passed the last crowd on the bluff a -tremendous shout rose from a thousand voices, which was answered by the -throng of passengers who lined the deck of the boat. As the golden rays -of the morning sun glanced down against the side of the boat, and played -and danced with the painted glass of her cabin, a thousand dazzling -streaks of light flashed back, presenting a sight of indescribable -beauty. It was but a few moments until the boat passed round the bend -below President's Island, and shut off from view the tall domes of the -bluff city; but the fresh green foliage with which the tall trees were -clothed presented a scene of beauty on which the beholders gazed with -delight. As might have been expected, quite a sensation was created -among the large crowd of passengers when a dozen or more men and women -appeared on deck disguised with as many different and curious costumes. -A murmur of dissatisfaction rose among some of the passengers, which -threatened to produce trouble; but finally it subsided when the clerk -announced the fact that all the maskers were well known to him, and that -they were respectable people. - -"How is your royal highness this morning?" said the Duke of Wellington, -as he shook hands with George III. - -"First rate, first rate, my lord. How is it with you?" - -"Fine, fine, sir! Splendid day this! By the by, where is the emperor?" - -"Here he is. Now let us commence the siege at once. I see her Majesty, -the queen of Sheba, and her attendants, are waiting for us. The Scottish -queen has marshaled her forces on the hurricane deck." - -"How is that?" demanded the emperor. - -"They have all taken seats in a circle, and seem determined to continue -the selfish plan. Now we will take seats at a respectable distance from -them--just so as to be in hearing distance, and begin the battle -according to our original plan. Our object is to so rouse their -curiosity as to force them to come to our side, or in other words, to -induce them to come and mingle with us. A little skillful maneuvering on -our part, and the victory is ours." - -"Lead, lead, my gallant king! You shall be our commander in this fight. -Take the queen of Sheba to the field, and the emperor and I will bring -up the maids of honor, and then let the skirmishing begin." - -A canvas had been put up above the hurricane deck and seats arranged -under it, in order to afford passengers an opportunity to view the grand -scenery without being exposed to the rays of the sun; and this spot had -been selected as the field of action. The queen of Scots and her party -were seated in a circle, near the stern of the boat, wholly unconscious -of the hostile preparations which were being made by the queen of Sheba -and her adherents. Ingomar was entertaining the queen and the ladies of -her court with an eloquent description of the burning of the steam-boat -"Bulletin," and the heart-rending scenes that were witnessed on that -occasion. The queen of Sheba with her party was located about twenty -feet from the spot occupied by the queen of Scots. - -"Now," said George III., making a low bow to the queen of Sheba, "what -is your Majesty's pleasure? What is to be the fun to-day?" - -"Social conversation and enjoying the beautiful scenery will occupy us -till luncheon, and when we have had enough of that, we will then form -our plans for the future." - -"By the by," said Wellington with a loud voice, evidently intended to -attract the attention of the Scottish queen's party, "have you heard the -strange news?" - -"No, no; what is it?" - -"There are two detectives aboard in mask, on the look-out for the -perpetrator of a diabolical murder that was committed near Collierville -day before yesterday. They have tracked the man to this boat, and have -satisfied themselves that he is aboard, and are prepared to arrest him. -They have got a man spotted, and are going to take him off at -Vicksburg." - -"That's the best shot that ever was fired," whispered Napoleon. - -"See," said the queen, "the shot has taken effect. They are all looking -this way, and intently listening. They are dying to hear more. Give them -another shot." - -"What were the circumstances of the murder?" inquired Napoleon, as he -raised his voice and winked at Wellington. - -"Oh, it was a most horrible and cruel murder--it was a love affair. The -deceased was a young and pretty girl; she had loved not wisely, but too -well. Poison was the means used to produce death." - -"There, there, Wellington," whispered Napoleon; "let 'em rest on that a -while. They have all been gradually moving this way. They can't hold out -much longer." - -"Let me throw one more shell into their camp," whispered Wellington. - -"All right; go ahead." - -"There is a skillful pickpocket aboard of this boat, and those who have -money had better be on their guard. One passenger has been relieved of a -purse containing five hundred dollars. The pocket was cut clean off, and -so skillfully done that the owner knew nothing about it until his -attention was called to it by a friend. I fear that our amusements will -all be interfered with, and that we shall be compelled to lay aside our -disguises, because, whoever he is, you may be assured he is in mask." - -"Good, good, Wellington!" said George III., in a whisper; "stop; you -have got them completely demoralized, and we may safely wait for the -result." - -"Oh, mercy on us!" exclaimed one of Queen Mary's maids of honor, "we are -in the midst of thieves and murderers! Didn't you hear that gentleman -say that a bloody murder had been committed, and that a gentleman had -been robbed, and that both criminals were aboard of this boat? Who knows -but what we shall all be murdered and robbed!" - -"Don't look toward them," said Wellington; "the last shot has mortally -wounded the last one of the party." This sentence was whispered, so as -not to be heard by the opposition. - -Ivanhoe drew near Wellington and said: "Pardon me, sir, but I beg to -inquire about this dreadful murder of which I heard you speak just now." - -Wellington shrugged his shoulders, and gave a deep sigh. "Horrible! -horrible; must cruel! unprecedented! but that's all I know about it." -And with a knowing wink at George III., Wellington observed: "Look at -that beautiful little island there. See what delightful foliage. How -splendid it would be to have a picnic on that nice green turf under such -a cool-looking shade!" - -"Oh, wouldn't that be delightful!" said the queen of Sheba. - -"We'll have a picnic to-morrow," said Napoleon. "The boat is going to -take on a large lot of cotton just below Helena; and we will order the -steward to prepare a picnic dinner, and we will have a dance, as well as -a dinner." - -Ivanhoe bit his lip with vexation as he returned to his party no wiser -than when he left it. - -"Hold your hand over my mouth, else I shall be compelled to laugh out," -said the queen to her first maid of honor. - -"Pray, don't laugh," cried the young lady; "it would cause them to -suspect something." - -"What did you learn about the murder?" inquired the queen of Scots, as -Ivanhoe returned to his seat. - -"Nothing," was the solemn reply. "They all seem to be an ill-mannered, -ungenteel crew, and, for my part, I am inclined to think they have been -making sport of us." - -"I see through it all," said Ingomar gravely. "They are offended because -we did not invite them to mingle with us. For my part, I am unwilling to -notice such silly conduct. I like amusement well enough, but it must be -such as sensible people may engage in. Allow me to suggest that we move -to another place and inaugurate a regular systematic plan to while away -our idle moments." - -The suggestion was unanimously concurred in, and the entire party went -to the front end of the boat, and soon were seated, leaving the other -party overwhelmed with mortification. - -"That is too bad!" exclaimed Napoleon; "we had won the victory, and lost -it by all grinning at once. They have evidently seen our hand, and we -have lost the game." - -"Suppose we invite the other party to join us," said Ingomar. "If we -expect to enjoy our trip, it would be advisable to dispense with the -rigid rules of decorum and become acquainted with each other." - -"Your sentiments are generous and noble, sir, and are heartily approved; -and with your permission I will invite the other party to join us." - -"Have I your permission, madame, to deliver the invitation?" - -"Yes, and I trust it will be accepted." - -Ingomar approached the spot where the queen of Sheba and her party were -seated, and with a dignified bow said: "I am requested by my royal -mistress, the queen of Scots, to present her highest regards to your -Majesty, and request the pleasure of your company at her royal court. -She further requests me to beg you to bring all the ladies and gentlemen -of your party with you, in order that a friendly union may be entered -into, for the better enjoyment of such festivities and pleasures as may -be jointly considered worthy of well-bred and intelligent people." - -"Right noble and worthy chief, most eloquently hast thou delivered the -message of thy royal mistress, and it would be extreme rudeness for us -to refuse to accept it. Therefore, we request you to convey to her -Majesty our most distinguished regards, and inform her that her generous -offer is accepted, and that it will be our pleasure to visit her festive -dominions." - -"My royal mistress will be delighted with the news." And as he said this -he raised the queen's hand to his lips, then turned and delivered his -message to the queen of Scots. - -"I am going to laugh," said the first maid. - -"Laugh as much as you please, now; it can do no harm; we are forever -disgraced; we are beaten, overcome, captured!" said Wellington, as he -clinched his fists with vexation. - -"Is this the victory that we have been fighting for?" - -"I call it a complete victory," said the queen. "Was it not the object -of our plan to force them to invite us to join them, and have they not -yielded? You may be sure they would never have given us the invitation -had it not been for the bait which we threw out to them." - -"I agree with your Majesty there," said George III. "We have -accomplished the object for which we contended, and now let us join -their party, and make ourselves agreeable." - -"Be it so, then," replied Wellington, as he offered his arm to the queen -and led her to where the other party were seated. - -The two queens seemed to enter into a contest as to which should be -considered most polite. The graceful bowing, the gentle hand-shaking, -the sweet smiling, the high compliments, and general bearing, were such -as might have been witnessed between Queen Victoria and the Empress -Eugenie when they first met. - -"Now," said Ingomar, addressing the two queens, "as I understand the -object of this excursion to be one of pleasure and amusement, permit me -to suggest that we organize ourselves into a sort of committee of the -whole, and agree on some plan by which each hour of the day shall be -furnished with some kind of innocent sport." - -"We think the idea a good one, sir," replied Queen Mary, "and we appoint -you and Ivanhoe as a select committee, whose duty it shall be to draft a -set of rules or by-laws for the government of our court. We allow you -one hour for the performance of that duty; meantime we will amuse -ourselves by a promenade in the saloon." - -Promptly at the expiration of the hour the queen ordered her court to -convene on deck in order to hear the by-laws read. - -"We are now ready to hear what you have written," said the queen, -speaking to Ingomar. - -"We have the honor to inform your royal highness that we have performed -the duty assigned to us, and are now ready to report." - -"Read the report, my noble chief." - -Ingomar read as follows: "Whereas certain ladies and gentlemen of the -good city of Memphis, State of Tennessee, have embarked on an expedition -of pleasure, on board of the steam-boat known as the 'White Rose of -Memphis,' and whereas the aforesaid ladies and gentlemen are desirous of -contributing as much as they can to the happiness and pleasure of their -comrades thereby, and by means whereof they expect to obtain innocent -enjoyment for themselves and their associates, therefore be it -remembered that on this, the first day of May, the following rules and -regulations have been adopted, and the honor of each member pledged that -said rules and regulations shall in all respects be complied with and -faithfully obeyed, and that any one who shall be guilty of a willful -violation of any one of the rules shall be considered disgraced and -unworthy to be a member of this association, and shall be excluded -therefrom: - -"RULE 1st. Her Royal Highness, the queen of Scots, shall reign as the -grand sovereign of this association. - -"RULE 2d. It shall be the duty of the reigning sovereign to determine -what shall be the plan of amusement for the day, and give orders -accordingly. - -"RULE 3d. No disrespectful language to be used by any member of this -association. - -"RULE 4th. The right of each member of this association to remain in -disguise is recognized, and no one shall be questioned as to his or her -real name without his or her consent. - -"RULE 5th. None but harmless sport shall be proposed or indulged in." - -"We think the rules very good," said the queen, "and we now propose -their adoption. All who favor the rules make it known by saying aye. It -is unnecessary to call for the nays, as the vote is unanimous in the -affirmative--and the rules are adopted." - -"Well," said Ingomar, "your Majesty will issue your commands for the -day. What shall be the programme?" - -"It is our royal pleasure that each member of the association shall be -required to relate a story consisting of events, the truth of which are -to be vouched for by the narrator. I dare say that each one will be able -to tell something that will be both amusing and instructive. Love -stories would be preferable; but no one shall be restricted as to that. -Personal reminiscences of the party who may tell the story would be -listened to, doubtless, with attention and pleasure. Therefore, it is -our royal command that the Barbarian Chief, Ingomar, shall now proceed -to relate a story." - -"Ingomar! Ingomar! Ingomar! a story by Ingomar!" cried every one. - -"It would have been more to my liking to have listened to others, may it -pleasure your Majesty, but as it would be rank treason to disobey your -command, I shall endeavor to comply, by relating the history of -transactions, many of which came under my own observation in and near -the city of Memphis. The substance of the story would no doubt be very -interesting were it well told, but I greatly fear I shall bore you all -by my awkward manner of telling it. But there will be a consolation in -knowing that if you should become wearied of it, you can command me to -stop, which order I beg to assure you I would more gladly obey than any -other you could give." - -"If your manner of telling the story is as modest and well spoken as the -apology, we shall be very much delighted, I assure you. Therefore we -command you to proceed." - -"As the occurrences which I am about to describe all have an intimate -connection with the city of Memphis, and as many of the persons who -played prominent parts in the story are now residing there, I think it -proper to inform my audience that the names used are fictitious. I could -not for a moment think of parading the real names of the actors before -the public without their consent." - -"The idea is commendable, sir, and only serves to increase our anxiety -to hear the story. Therefore we again command you to proceed." - -"There's the gong for luncheon," cried Napoleon as he sprang to his -feet. "Postpone the story until after refreshments." - -"That's a splendid idea!" said Ingomar. "It will give me time to collect -my ideas." - -"Very well," said the queen. "We will assemble here immediately after -lunch, to listen to Ingomar's story." - -Ingomar led the queen of Scots to the saloon, while Wellington offered -his arm to the queen of Sheba, and the party went down to lunch. - - - - -CHAPTER III. - - -The arrangements which Captain Quitman had made for the accommodation of -the large party of excursionists were of the most costly and liberal -character, showing that neither labor nor money had been stingily -expended. The spacious saloon had been gorgeously decorated by an -experienced artist, while innumerable historical incidents and poetical -scenes had been painted on the snow-white surface of the wall in front -of each state-room. Three scenes in "Mazeppa" appeared first on the left -as you entered from the front. The first picture represented the -beautiful wild steed in the act of making a plunge forward, while -Mazeppa is being bound to his back. The second scene represented the -foaming steed as he bounded through the forest, with the large gang of -wolves in pursuit; and the last showed the dying steed stretched on the -ground, while a flock of vultures covered the surrounding space, ready -to begin the work of destruction. The artist had executed the work so -skillfully that one might almost imagine that he could hear the horse's -hoofs as they thundered against the earth, and distinguish the hideous -howl of the savage wolves. The next painting represented Achilles -driving his chariot round the walls of Troy, dragging the helpless body -of Hector by the heels, while the beauteous wife of the dead hero stood -weeping on a distant tower, as she witnessed the horrible cruelty. Then -a little farther down on the same side, we see Cleopatra seated in her -magnificent gondola, gorgeously clad in her royal robes, surrounded by -her officers and slaves, while she sails over the glittering surface of -the water, where she goes to conquer a mighty warrior with her -irresistible charms. We come next to a ludicrous scene representing -Gulliver on the island of Lilliput, standing erect with his legs placed -far apart, while twenty thousand Lilliputian cavalry, with the king and -queen at their head, are marching between his huge legs. A beautiful -representation of the burial of De Soto in the Mississippi river -appeared farther on. Many other thrilling scenes appeared which we -cannot spare time to describe. - -So the guests marched into the spacious saloon. Professor -Scatterbrains's band played a national air, the soft, sweet sounds -filling the room with a delightful harmony. The gorgeous display of -costly table-ware that adorned the festive board was such as one might -expect to behold at a king's palace. Massive goblets of solid silver, -tureens, pitchers, castors and fruit stands of shining gold, large china -vases, filled with fragrant flowers, arranged in pairs from one end of -the table to the other, while gilded china imported from the East, of -various colors, green, yellow and blue, wrought in quaint but beautiful -patterns, covered the snow-white cloth. Two beautiful thrones for the -especial use of the two queens had been erected at the head of the -table, one on the left, the other on the right, handsomely decorated -with pink velvet cushions and canopied with blue cloth, richly studded -with stars of silver and gold. The charming picture that met the eyes of -the delighted guests caused an exclamation of delight to escape from the -lips of many a beautiful belle, as they filed into the saloon. - -As soon as all the passengers were seated, the captain, waving his hand -toward the vast crowd by way of commanding silence, said: - -"My young friends, if you wish to please me, and enjoy this excursion, I -hope you will lay aside all feelings of restraint, become acquainted -with each other, and engage in such innocent sport as is calculated to -amuse and instruct. Julius Caesar said: - - "'Let me have men about me that are fat, - Sleek-headed men who sleep o' nights. - Yon'd Cassius has a lean and hungry look. - He thinks too much; such men are dangerous.' - -"Now, my young friends, the sequel proved that Caesar was right in his -dislike of the lean and hungry Cassius; give me friends who laugh and -grow fat--men and women who can throw off the dull cares of life, and -condescend to be pleasant and happy on occasions like this. There are -times when man should be serious, but there are also times when he -should be social and sportive. I have spent money and labor freely in -order to complete the arrangements for the comfort and pleasure of my -guests, and it will gratify me greatly to know that I have not made a -failure. I was gratified when I heard of the admirable plans which your -Majesty has adopted in order to amuse and entertain your loving -subjects. Indeed, sir, I am delighted to know that our little scheme -meets with your approbation; we thought it would afford innocent -amusement, as well as profitable food for thought. The Barbarian Chief -has kindly consented to entertain our party by the relation of a story -which is to be the first of a series to be told during our trip." - -"I hope," said Scottie, "that the noble Barbarian Chief will tell us all -about Parthenia, the beauteous little captive whose irresistible charm -subdued and tamed Ingomar, and led him with the rosy chain of love from -the barbarian camp to the walks of civilization, converting a heartless -savage into a fond and gentle lover. Oh, how I should like to capture -such a hero! it would be such fun to tease him until he began to rave, -and then to soothe him with sweet whispers from the soul. I would make -him gather flowers for me, and then talk to him about 'Two souls with -but a single thought, two hearts that beat as one;' and I would enjoy -such sport so much!" - -"For my part," said the queen of Sheba, "I would much prefer to listen -to a patriotic story, such as the 'Scottish Chiefs,' or 'Thaddaeus of -Warsaw;' I admire those noble-hearted heroes who are always willing to -die for their country, but manage somehow not to do it. The heroic -Thaddaeus of Warsaw was very anxious to sacrifice himself for his -country, but finally took a more sensible view of it, and fled to -England, and married Mary Buford, the great heiress." - -"I prefer love stories," replied Scottie; "give us something like -'Henrietta Temple,' 'Alonzo and Melissa,' 'Foul Play,' or 'Little -Dorrit.'" - -"I prefer 'Gulliver' or 'Crusoe,'" said George III. "I do not think I -could command sufficient patience to listen to such a love story as -'Henrietta Temple.'" - -"Give me something like the 'Talisman,' or the 'Heart of Midlothian,' -and you may count on securing my undivided attention," said Ivanhoe. - -"Permit me to make a suggestion to my young friends," observed Captain -Quitman, "which I have no doubt will contribute greatly to your -pleasure. We have a young gentleman aboard whom I consider an excellent -Shakespearean reader. I had the exquisite pleasure of hearing his -rendition of 'Hamlet' one evening at a social gathering in Memphis, and -I have no doubt he would consent to gratify his friends by repeating it -to-night." - -"We would be more than delighted if you could prevail on him to give us -an entertainment of that sort this evening," rejoined Queen Mary. - -"If we can be so fortunate as to organize a troupe of poetical readers," -observed the Duke of Wellington, "it would instruct as well as amuse our -friends. If such a scheme should be desirable (and I am pleased to think -it would), I can produce a young lady who can repeat 'Lalla Rookh' from -memory; and I have no doubt that there are many others aboard who could -give us some excellent readings of poetry." - -"We commission the duke and Captain Quitman as our agents to organize a -troupe," rejoined Queen Mary; "and our programme will be to listen to -Ingomar's story this evening, and, at night, to assemble in the saloon -and hear the recitations." - -"I shall not be able to complete the relation of my story this evening," -said Ingomar. - -"That will make no difference," replied the queen; "we will be -entertained by our Barbarian Chief during the day, and the poetical -readings during the night." - -"That will be a most excellent plan," said Captain Quitman; "variety is -the spice of life you know." - -"Yes, and I beg to remind your Majesty," exclaimed the duke, "that the -opportunity to shake the fantastic toe must be provided for." - -"Of course," ejaculated Captain Quitman; "that is a consummation -devoutly to be wished. We can find plenty of time for that. Dancing -hours will be from seven till nine, and the literary exercises will -commence at nine, and continue until Morpheus takes command." - -"I wonder what kind of a story the Barbarian Chief is going to dish out -to us," said George III. "Will it treat of war, love, or politics; will -it tell of battles, and blood, or will it describe sweet birds, sweet -flowers, and sweet love?" - -"It would be better, perhaps, to tell the story first, and answer your -questions afterward," replied Ingomar. "I shall tell it under protest. -The materials which are at my disposal, if skillfully handled, would -construct an interesting novel; but I am not vain enough to imagine that -I can weave them into anything like a good story. My life has been -crowded with many thrilling incidents--I have tasted the bitterest dregs -in fortune's cup, and I have sailed on the smooth ocean of pleasure; and -as her Majesty has commanded me to entertain her guests with a story, I -shall confine myself to a truthful history of scenes in which I have -been an actor. In order to save time, I shall group the most prominent -incidents, and set them down in the city of Memphis and vicinity, taking -the liberty to change the venue of an important criminal case from New -York to the Bluff City. If you should ask me by what authority I venture -to change the venue from one State to another, I would answer by -referring you to the numerous instances where the United States Courts -have exercised the arbitrary power to do such things. Shall I, as a -champion story teller, regularly commissioned by a mighty and beauteous -queen, be denied the privileges claimed by a little United States Court? -I say the venue is changed to Memphis, and when I begin to describe the -interesting trial, I trust no one will be so inquisitive as to examine -the records, with a view to contradicting my truthful history. If I -choose to introduce my _dramatis personae_ under _nom de plumes_, I hope -my friends will raise no objections, because, while I claim that the -acts of public men constitute public property, I am afraid to take too -much liberty in that respect, lest I should endanger my valuable -person." - -"We command you to cease your continuous talk about preliminaries," -observed Queen Mary, as she waved her hand impatiently toward Ingomar; -"no one shall be compelled to listen to the tale. Tell the story, and -let us judge for ourselves as to its merits." - -"I obey your Majesty's commands," replied Ingomar. - -"Perhaps," said Captain Quitman, as a quizzical smile played on his -handsome countenance, "our friend Sancho Panza would contribute -something of an intellectual character to our programme to-night." - -"Maybe he will do us the honor to become a member of our literary club," -said Scottie, as she courtesied to him. - -"I beg to assure you, madame, that you honor me too highly, but at the -same time permit me to say that I have no doubt I shall be able to -render some assistance. If, as I understand, it is to be intellectual -amusement you seek, I flatter myself with the opinion that my -contribution will be invaluable." - -"What shall it be, Sancho?" inquired George III. - -"I will repeat the multiplication table from beginning to end, and -whistle 'Yankee Doodle.'" - -A perfect roar of laughter was produced by Sancho's thrust, but the -young people became convinced that nothing was to be made by poking wit -at him. A couple of politicians, who occupied seats near the lower end -of the table, were engaged in an animated discussion which was -attracting considerable attention. - -"For my part," said General Camphollower, "I think that our Government -dealt too leniently with rebels after the war." - -"I believe," replied Colonel Confed, "that the views you express were -those held by men who never smelled burned powder, or heard the whistle -of a hostile bullet; but all brave soldiers who fought in the Union -army, from General Grant down to the humblest private, were opposed to -any harsh measures." - -"I perceive," replied General Camphollower, "that you are not being much -reconstructed." - -"Gentlemen," said Captain Quitman, "pardon me for interrupting your -conversation, but I would beg to suggest the propriety of eschewing -politics while on this excursion. Let the past bury the past--let us -cultivate a feeling of friendship between the North and South. Both -parties committed errors--let both parties get back to the right track. -Let us try to profit by our sad experience--let us teach forgiveness and -patriotism, and look forward to the time when the cruel war shall be -forgotten. We have a great and glorious nation, of which we are very -proud, and we will make it greater by our love and support. It was a -family quarrel, and the family has settled it, and woe be to the -outsider who shall dare to interfere!" - -"Hurrah! hurrah for Uncle Sam!" was unanimously shouted by all the -passengers. - -"Uncle Sam shall live forever, and those unpatriotic politicians who -have crippled him shall be driven into obscurity. Let peace and good -will, brotherly love and good faith, exist between the North and South, -and let Satan take those who wave the bloody shirt." - -"Good! good! hear! hear!" was shouted long and loud by all the guests, -while the two politicians shook hands across the table, and bumped their -glasses together. - -By this time the table was cleared, and the waiters began to uncork -innumerable bottles of champagne. - -"Ladies and gentlemen," said Captain Quitman as his tall, handsome form -rose high above the crowd, "fill your glasses and hear my toast." Some -little confusion then ensued while each guest was having his glass -filled, and then the captain's voice rang out as he spoke: "Here is to -the Union as it was in the days of its purity." General Camphollower -responded in an eloquent speech, and took his seat amid thundering -applause. Then, reaching his hand across the table toward Colonel -Confed, he exclaimed: "Here is my hand, colonel--let us shake across the -table, and consider it the bloody chasm." - -George III. whispered to the duke: "Do you know that lady yonder in the -black silk domino?" - -"Indeed I do not; in fact, I had not noticed her." - -"There is a mystery about that woman, as sure as we stand here; just -look at her, will you--she is weeping. I have been watching her for the -last half hour, and there is a strangeness in all her movements hard to -understand, and harder still to describe." - -"Come, come, my lord," exclaimed the duke, as he laid his hand on the -shoulder of the king, "you cannot deceive me--you are endeavoring to -imitate Romeo; he fell in love with Juliet at a masquerade." - -"Upon honor, I have not said a word to that lady, and I have no -intention or desire to do so; but I would like very much to know who she -is. What can be the matter with the poor lady, I wonder; don't you see -how she is weeping?" - -"I dare say that the song the queen sang a while ago has called up -unpleasant reminiscences. She may have sung that song to a lover who was -afterward killed in the late war. This unfortunate land is full of -aching hearts and crushed hopes. Thousands of mothers, sisters and -sweethearts are weeping and wailing for dear ones who silently sleep in -bloody graves." - -"That is all very true, but that lady is distressed about something that -has happened on this boat, because she was weeping before the queen sang -the sweet song. She did not go to the table at lunch, and she has been -continually passing among all the passengers and apparently searching -for somebody." - -"Well, I hope she will succeed in finding the individual she is looking -for, if, as you think, she is really shadowing some one." - -"My lord," said the queen, as she approached the duke, "if you will be -so good as to collect our friends on the hurricane deck, we will order -the Barbarian Chief to commence the relation of his little story." The -duke courtesied to the queen and immediately began to execute her -commands; and it was but a few minutes until the entire party were -seated on the upper deck. - -The party having arranged themselves in a circle, in the center of which -sat the queen in a large arm-chair, Mary bowed to Ingomar, and requested -him to commence his story. Ingomar took his seat facing the queen, in a -comfortable low chair which had been provided for his especial use, and -began to relate the following story: - - -INGOMAR'S STORY. - -"I was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and was six years old when my -mother died. I was her only child, and, as a matter of course, was much -petted and greatly beloved by her. The memory of my dear mother is as -indelibly fixed on my mind as the inscription on a marble monument, -though I trust that my poor heart does not in any manner resemble the -cold, unfeeling marble. My father was, at the time of my mother's death, -a prosperous merchant, but from that date he began to neglect his -business, and, I regret to say, commenced to spend his time at hotels -and liquor saloons. I was left at home, alone with the house-maid and -another servant, except what time I spent at school. I was too young to -understand or realize how rapidly my father was traveling the downward -road, but I soon began to notice that he was unsteady in his walk, and -that he was becoming cross, and hard to please. I did not know then that -he was growing fond of brandy, nor did I imagine that one whom I loved -so dearly could do anything wrong. But alas, how soon was this blissful -ignorance displaced by a knowledge of the awful truth! My father had -been born and bred a gentleman, and, when not under the influence of -brandy, was as kind and tender with me as heart could wish. The exact -amount of his fortune at the date of my mother's death I never knew, -though I have since learned that it was no insignificant sum; but, as a -natural result of his neglect of business, the firm became involved more -and more every year, until it finally collapsed at the end of the second -year after my mother's death. When I was eight years old the servants -began to talk of leaving, on account of the bad treatment which my -father gave them--complaining of a neglect on his part to pay them their -wages. I also frequently heard them hint of a second marriage which my -father was contemplating, which, as may be imagined, gave me great -uneasiness, for I had imbibed the usual prejudice felt by children -against step-mothers. But if I had known then what I do now, I should -have entertained very different views. If there ever was an angel on -earth, my step-mother was one. I shall never forget my feelings when the -house-maid informed me that my new mother would be brought home that -evening. My heart felt as if it would break, and my eyes were filled -with tears, as I let my young mind wander back to the happy days when I -had been fondly held to my own dear mother's bosom. While I was dreaming -of the happy days that were forever gone, and occasionally shuddering at -the prospect before me, my step-mother, accompanied by her two children, -entered the room where I was, and without ceremony caught me in her arms -and kissed me. I have never ceased to love her from that moment. She was -a frail, delicate, darling little woman, with dark brown hair and -expressive blue eyes, and a voice as sweet as the music of the cooing -dove; and her two children were very much like her as to beauty and -gentleness of disposition. Harry Wallingford, her son, was one year -younger than I, and his sister, Charlotte, was one year younger than her -brother. She was the very image of her mother, having the same kind of -deep blue eyes, only somewhat larger, and her hair, of a bright golden -hue, floated in pretty curls about her well-shaped neck and shoulders. -Her skin I thought was too white, as it had rather a bloodless -appearance, amounting to transparency. The eye-lashes were long, the -brows likewise, which gave to the countenance something of a dreamy, -thoughtful appearance. I may have been rather extravagant in making my -judgment as to her personal appearance, but I thought then, and I think -now, that she was the most charming little creature that I had ever -beheld. Harry was a spare-built, and as I thought, rather effeminate -boy, but a more manly fellow than he proved to be I never knew. He and I -became bosom friends from the start, and we were both in love with -Lottie. He loved her as a brother, and I worshipped her, because I could -not help it, and to be candid, I never tried to help it. How was it -possible for any one to associate daily with such a darling child and -not love her with all his heart? Lottie seemed to permit me to love her, -as if such devotion was no more than her just dues, and without making -any demonstrations of affection for me. I am at a loss to know how to -begin to describe Harry Wallingford, for I must say that I never had -met any one before or since who possessed such a combination of peculiar -traits of character as he did. Sometimes you would think he was the most -cold-natured, passionless boy that ever was created, and then, when -anything happened to rouse him, he would show such signs of passion as -to almost frighten me, or when any cause of real sorrow would come upon -him, his heart would begin to melt at once, and he would weep like a -woman. There was no such feeling as jealousy between Harry and me on -account of my love for his sister; being then mere children, and all -intensely in love with each other. We were all sent to the same school, -situated about a mile from our home. We were kept at the same school for -four years, and oh, what happy years were they to me! Not a ripple of -sorrow ever crossed the smooth surface of our sea of pleasure, save when -my father would come home intoxicated, and then, for a time, we would -collect in the garden and speak in whispers, lest he should find us. He -was very kind to us when sober, but when his reason was clouded with -brandy, he seemed to be jealous of the love which our mother manifested -toward us, and often gave way to his passion, and abused her in a most -shocking manner. Poverty began at length to make its unwelcome presence -at our home, but we were too young to realize or feel its influences as -our poor mother did. The servants had all left us, because my father had -no money to pay their wages, and our mother was compelled to do her own -work; but Lottie was as industrious as a honey bee, and assisted her -mother all she could, while Harry and I did all we could to make her -work light. We cultivated the garden, made the fires, and assisted -Lottie to milk the cow. In fact, we made ourselves useful in every way -we could, and in spite of our poverty we were very happy. I don't think -my step-mother would have married my father if she had known of his bad -habits; but after the fatal step had been taken, she seemed to have made -up her mind to make the best of her bad bargain. No matter how thick and -heavy were the troubles that crowded on her, she always met us on our -return from school with a pleasant smile; and the same love and -tenderness which she bestowed on her own children were at all times -extended to me. When our wardrobe began to grow scant, and our garments -to become seedy and sometimes full of rents, our dear mother would work -till midnight, with Lottie by her side, mending them. I would often drop -my book and gaze at Lottie as she sat by the dim lamp, the golden curls -falling about her shoulders, while her little fingers made the needle -bob up and down with lightning speed, as she mended a rent in my old -coat, and wonder if the angels in Heaven were like her. My father spent -but little of his time at home, which circumstance enabled us to snatch -happiness from the very bottom pit of poverty. I was deeply grieved to -notice that my mother's health was gradually declining, but I did not -know then that it was the result of overwork and scanty food, coupled -with the cruel treatment from my father. Neither Harry nor I had a -suspicion of the true state of affairs, else we would have quit school, -and gone to work in order to help support the family. When our little -basket would be filled with provisions every morning by our mother -before we started for school, we did not know that she was left -frequently to work hard all day without a morsel for dinner. I would -have worked night and day as a slave to have made her comfortable, and -so would Harry; but the secret of her real condition was concealed from -us until we had been at school four years, when we began to realize the -situation. We at once left the school and began to seek employment, but -in this attempt we were often doomed to disappointment, because we were -too young to expect to get situations as clerks, and not strong enough -to do much at manual labor. Harry was one of those persevering, -tenacious kind of boys that never abandon anything they undertake, and, -although he was younger than I, he was the leader in all our -enterprises. He was self-reliant, energetic and hopeful. I was the -reverse of that, and I could not accomplish anything except when I was -encouraged and led by him. I therefore submitted to his leadership, and -followed him from place to place seeking employment. Sometimes we would -manage to secure several little profitable jobs during the day, and -every cent we got was handed over to our mother. Then some days we would -traverse the streets from early morning until night without finding any -work to do, and when this would happen our scanty supply of provisions -would grow more scant, until we found the wolf at our very door. I do -not know how my father managed to obtain his meals, for he scarcely ever -came home, and when he did come he was so much overcome with brandy that -he would fall down on a bed and sleep for many hours, then rise and go -straight to the nearest whisky shop. It was about six months after we -were compelled to quit school that a strange-looking man, with red nose, -and bloated face, and very shabbily dressed, staggered into our house, -and informed my mother that her husband had fallen from a second-story -window and broken his neck. I learned that my father had been carousing -with a gang of disreputable men in the second story of a drinking and -gambling house, and had staggered through the window, falling -head-foremost on the stone pavement below. His neck was dislocated, his -head and face mangled, and he was quite dead when his drunken companions -went to him. This dreadful ending of my poor father's life gave my -mother such a shock that she was compelled to take to her bed, from -which she never rose again. It was not quite a month after my father's -remains were deposited in the grave when my darling step-mother's gentle -spirit went to its eternal home. The last days of her life were not days -of suffering, as is usual in such cases, for she informed her weeping -children that she was perfectly free from pain. - -"'Come here, my son, and sit near me,' she said to Harry one day a short -time before her death. 'I wish to speak to you about what you shall do -when I am gone.' - -"Poor boy! he was weeping as if his heart would break. No one ever loved -a darling mother more than Harry loved his; and no mother ever had a -more noble, dutiful son than Harry. - -"'You must not grieve about me after I am taken from you, my darling -boy; but you will live such a life as will enable you to come to meet me -when it is ended. I need not advise you to be good, noble, honorable, -all through life, because I feel assured that you will be all that. But -few mothers have been blessed with such children as I have, and -therefore I can depart from them with a loving faith and hope of meeting -them again. One promise I shall ask you to make, though, and that is -that you will devote your life to the protection of your sister, Lottie. -The pitfalls and dangers which lie in the path of human life are much -more numerous and much greater in the road of a young girl than are to -be found in the one of a young man.' - -"'Dear mother,' said I, as I knelt by the bedside and seized her little -pale hand, 'I now solemnly promise to join Harry in this sacred duty. I -will follow him through life to aid in protecting my darling sister; for -I love her with all my heart, and do here now swear to devote my life to -her service!' - -"'God bless you, Edward!' she said as she placed her hand on my head; -'this is very good in you, and will be remembered to your credit where -good and bad deeds are recorded.' - -"Harry was unable to make a promise of any kind, being so overcome with -grief that he could not utter a word, but had fallen on the bed by his -mother's side, clinging to her neck, and pressing his lips to her pale -brow. He appeared to lose control of his feelings--an unusual thing for -him to do, for he was generally more self-possessed than other boys. His -mother whispered to me, directing me to take him away. I lifted him in -my arms and carried him to another room and laid him on the bed, and -remained with him until he became somewhat calm. - -"'Oh, Edward,' said he, while his eyes were full of tears, 'how can we -live without her? Shall that darling, sweet face be forever hidden from -us? What will become of poor Lottie when our mother is gone?' - -"'Can we not work for her? Can we not take care of her? I will help you, -Harry. I will never forsake you and Lottie. I will go with you to the -end of the world, to help work for Lottie. You are my brother, she is my -sister, and nothing shall ever part us but death.' - -"'Thank you, Eddie, you are very good; and we shall stay together.' - -"Lottie was soundly sleeping, unconscious of the fact that she was soon -to be motherless. We had so far kept her in ignorance of the situation, -but I afterward was convinced of the great error we committed in doing -so, for when the time came in which concealment was no longer possible, -she was wholly unprepared for the blow. She had not suspected that her -mother was on her death-bed, but had been continually chatting -cheerfully about the new blooming flowers, telling her mother how pretty -they would be by the time she should be able to walk in the garden. -Every morning she placed a fresh bouquet of fragrant flowers on a little -table by her mother's bedside, and would sit for hours talking to her, -while she was busy mending garments for Harry and me. - -"It was a beautiful day in early spring when the gentle spirit of our -darling mother took its leave of this world. The sweet songs of many -little birds loaded the air with their delightful music. The fresh, cool -breeze came stealing through the open windows, sweetened with the -fragrance of spring flowers, and all nature seemed to exert her energies -to make our mother's last moments happy. - -"'When I am gone' she said to Harry, 'you will take Lottie to my brother -who resides in Memphis. He will give her a home, and you and Edward can -find employment there. I leave you in the hands of Him who promised to -be a father to the orphan. "Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall -be comforted." "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."' - -"These were her last words, and without a struggle or symptom of -suffering, she fell asleep in the arms of death like one dropping off in -usual slumber. Her arms, which had been twined about Harry's neck, were -gently removed, and he was carried away in a swoon, while poor Lottie -sank down on the lifeless body, totally prostrated with her great -sorrow." - - - - -CHAPTER IV. - - -The description of the death-bed scene was given by Ingomar in a low, -tremulous voice, which showed that he was struggling hard to smother his -grief, while Queen Mary was seen to brush a tear from her cheek quickly, -as if she were trying to appear unmoved. A long silence ensued, and the -maskers sat motionless and anxious to hear more of the story. Why the -queen should be so deeply moved by the story was a mystery to many of -the listeners. Who is she, anyway? was the question that many of the -maskers mentally asked themselves. - -"Please to proceed with your story," said the queen, bowing to Ingomar. - -Bending low in acknowledgment of her courtesy, Ingomar proceeded as -follows: - -"The county undertaker was sent for by some of our neighbors, and was -about to take charge of our dead mother's remains, in order to give it a -pauper's interment, and we never, perhaps, would have understood the -deep degradation, but when the plain, pine-board coffin was brought to -the house I saw Harry gaze at it for a moment; and such a strange look, -too, it was. A deathly paleness overspread his face, as he directed the -man to carry the rough box away; and although he spoke low and gently, -there was a firmness in his tone that convinced the man that he had -better obey. - -"'Come with me, Eddie' he said, as he gently plucked at my sleeve. 'She -sha'n't be buried in such a box as that.' - -"I, of course, followed him to the nearest undertaker's shop. No words -passed between us as we walked side by side, but I noticed that he had -ceased to weep, and that there was an expression on his features -evincing indescribable suffering. His face still retained its extreme -paleness, while his thin lips were firmly compressed. - -"'My mother is dead, sir,' said he to a middle-aged gentleman of -benevolent appearance, who met us at the door of the shop. 'I want her -remains put away in a nice rosewood case. I want her buried in a nice -grassy lot in the north-east corner of the cemetery. I have no money to -give you, sir, but we have some household furniture, some of which is -very valuable; there are some beds and bedclothing, a cow and calf; give -my dear mother's remains a decent burial. Take all we have, and let me -know what is lacking to compensate you, and I give you my word of honor -that you shall never be the loser thereby.' - -"The kind-hearted gentleman fixed his gaze on Harry's pale face, and -continued to stare at him for several seconds, as if he were trying to -pierce him through with the fierceness of the look; then, abruptly -turning on his heel, he went behind the counter, placed both elbows on -it, resting his cheeks on his hands, then commenced a renewal of the -strange gaze. Harry never for a moment turned his eyes from the man's -face. At last the man rose up and struck the counter a heavy blow with -his fist, as if he were endeavoring to murder some enemy. - -"'You'll do! I'll take your word of honor; there's no falsehood hidden -behind that face--your mother shall have the most cozy spot in the -cemetery, and the finest rosewood coffin in the house; there, now, go -home, and I'll attend to everything.' - -"Right well indeed did the generous man keep his word, for I don't think -I ever saw a prettier burial case, and the grave was dug in a green -shady spot where the turf was very thick and fresh. - -"'What shall we do now, Harry?' said I. - -"'Do as we promised our dying mother, of course. You know she made us -promise to take Lottie to our uncle at Memphis; we must prepare to go at -once. You stay here with Lottie, while I go to see Mr. Fogg, the -undertaker, and arrange with him about the furniture.' - -"He soon returned and informed me that the business had been settled, -and that Mr. Fogg would take possession of the effects on the next day. -We at once began to make arrangements for commencing our journey to -Memphis, as soon as Mr. Fogg should take possession of the furniture. -That gentleman kindly offered to let us keep the furniture, and allow us -to pay him the funeral expenses when fortune should be disposed to deal -more kindly with us. But when Harry informed him that in pursuance of -his mother's wishes we were going to Memphis, he agreed to take the -furniture, saying that it would amply suffice to pay the debt which we -owed him. Accordingly, early the next morning the keys were delivered to -Mr. Fogg, and we set out on the road toward Memphis. We had not the most -remote idea as to the nature of the journey that lay before us. We were -as ignorant regarding the distance as we were about the means necessary -to take us there. We had often heard and read about Memphis as a young -and thriving city on the banks of the great river, and when I now look -back to that time, I can scarcely realize the extreme simplicity of our -minds, and the extravagant ideas we had as to our ability to accomplish -the journey. We were too deeply plunged in sorrow to ever think of -making inquiries as to the distance or the best route to travel. We -might have saved money enough by the sale of our effects to pay the -funeral expenses, and then had enough left to pay our fare on a boat to -Memphis. But we considered nothing--thought of nothing but misery. Kind -people there were plenty, who would have gladly aided or advised us, but -we sought no aid, nor did we speak of our intentions to any one. The -greatest trouble that presented itself to our young and thoughtless -minds was the sad leave-taking of the poor but dear home where so many -happy days had been spent. There was the little garden, with its neat -beds of new flowers that had flourished under the constant care bestowed -on them by Lottie; there were the jolly little birds, singing so sweetly -in the blooming apple-tree near the window; a thousand things of a -trifling sort, but dear to the memory, were now to be looked at for the -last time. How could it be expected that under the circumstances we -should make the necessary preparations for such a journey? How could we -think of bread and meat, clothes or cash, when our poor hearts were -melting with the very bitterness of sorrow? The wonder is that we should -have started with anything at all. We hastily packed a few extra -garments into a couple of sacks, snatched up a few articles of food, and -with eyes swimming in tears, bade adieu to our home forever. Harry moved -on in front, Lottie and I following. Not a word was spoken; no one bade -us good-by; no one consoled us in our desolation; and we neither asked -nor sought it. As we passed through the streets, a strange look would -occasionally be cast on us by the pedestrians as we passed them. We saw -but little, and were moving on in silence, when I perceived that Harry -had turned his course and was going toward the cemetery. I knew his -object, and was pleased to know that we should once more be near our -dear mother. We entered the city of the dead, approached the sacred spot -in silence, and fell upon the little mound of fresh earth that rose -above our mother, and moistened it with our tears. Harry had brought a -little basket of fresh flowers which I had not noticed until I saw him -placing it on the grave. Mr. Fogg had promised to have a plain marble -slab erected with the proper inscription, to mark the spot where our -mother rested. He complied with his promise. But a beautiful monument -now rises high over the grave which we afterward had erected. We -remained nearly an hour bathing the cold earth with our tears. No words -were spoken, no passionate outbursts of grief were heard; but in solemn -silence we knelt side by side and paid the last tribute of love to the -memory of the dead one who slept below. At length Harry turned away; I -took Lottie by the hand and followed him, and soon we were moving along -the road outside of the city limits. We traveled about ten miles the -first day, and I was surprised to see that Lottie had not appeared to be -fatigued at all. She had walked by my side all the time, her beautiful -eyes fixed on the ground, and I noticed ever and anon a fresh shower of -tears would fall from her eyes. She was a heroine in the strongest sense -of the term--never complaining, unselfish, confiding, hopeful, and when -not thinking of her great loss, she always smiled sweetly when speaking -to Harry and me. - -"'Are you tired, Lottie?' inquired Harry after we had marched about five -miles from the city. 'If you are, we will stop and rest awhile.' - -"With her usual smile lighting up her sweet face, she answered in the -negative, shaking her head till the golden curls danced about her -shoulders. 'Go on, brother, pray don't mind me; I am not the least -tired.' - -"As the sun began to disappear behind the steep hill that rose on the -west side of the road, and the shadows of the tall trees on the hill-top -were growing very long, we began to think of the manner in which we -should pass the night. - -"'Shall we stop at a way-side inn?' said Harry; 'or shall we camp in the -woods?' - -"'We had better camp out,' I replied; 'because we will soon be out of -money if we undertake to secure lodging at a way-side inn.' - -"This was the first time that the money question had been mentioned or -thought of by either of us. Harry and I both instinctively commenced to -examine our pockets to see how much money we could command, and found -that the sum total, when put together, amounted to two dollars and -seventy-five cents. - -"'I have got twenty-five cents,' exclaimed Lottie, as she produced the -shining coin from her pocket, and handed it to Harry, looking as if she -thought it sufficient for all expenses. - -"Harry was unanimously chosen cashier, and the funds all handed over to -him, the grand total amounting to three dollars; and this little sum was -all we had to depend on for our subsistence. Harry sighed as he held the -money in his hand, evidently beginning to reflect seriously now (when it -was too late) as to the folly of undertaking such a journey with so -small a sum of money. This was perhaps the first time that either of us -had given a thought to the question of finance, and those who are -inclined to sneer at our ignorance must not lose sight of the fact that -we had a double excuse for it. In the first place we were mere -children--I being then in my thirteenth year, Harry in his twelfth, and -Lottie not quite eleven. Besides this, we had been so suddenly deprived -of both our parents that our great sorrow absorbed all our thoughts; but -now, when the situation began to be disclosed, it was too late to mend -the matter. - -"'We will not stop in a house,' observed Harry sadly. 'We can't afford -to incur the expense. We must economize in every way we can.' - -"So it was agreed that we would depend on grass and leaves for a bed, -and the blue sky for our shelter. As the sun finally disappeared we came -to a halt near a bubbling spring that gushed from a little bluff near -the edge of a thick patch of timber, depositing our little effects at -the root of a beech tree, whose branches were thickly covered with -leaves, which would protect us from the falling dew; and soon a blazing -fire shot its cheerful flames forth, as the blue smoke curled gracefully -up among the branches of the tree. Our household and kitchen furniture -(if I may be permitted to use a facetious remark), including table-ware -and all, consisted of three little tin cups, three pure silver -tea-spoons, and one little tin coffee-pot; while our stock of provisions -consisted of one pound of pulverized coffee, four pounds of salt pork, -three pounds of raw ham, and six pounds of baker's bread, one box of -matches, and one pound of brown sugar. With her sleeves rolled up above -her elbows, her round white arms looking very pretty, a clean white -apron tied with a pink ribbon about her waist, Lottie was busy broiling -some slices of ham on the coals, while Harry was trying to make the -water in the coffee-pot boil. As I sat on the turf leaning against the -tree, watching the operation with intense interest, my eyes followed -Lottie in all her movements; and I am not now ashamed to confess it--I -mentally asked myself, whose wife will she be when she becomes a grown -lady? 'Mine, mine!' The last words seemed to force themselves from my -lips in much louder tones than was intended, for Harry asked me whom I -was speaking to? - -"'Is the water boiling yet?' I asked, by way of hiding my confusion. - -"'I think it is,' was the reply. - -"It is a true maxim that 'necessity is the mother of invention,' which -was practically demonstrated on that occasion by Lottie's ingenuity in -arranging our supper table. She went to the edge of a little brook near -by, selected a smooth, flat rock some fifteen inches square, washed it -very clean, and placed it on the turf; then she went back, selected -three other rocks of the same kind, only not so large; and, after she -had scrubbed them till they were very clean, she placed them on the -ground near the large rock; then with a little forked stick she lifted -the slices of ham, and placed them on what she was pleased to call a -table. When the broiled ham had been placed on the table, she sliced the -bread and placed it by the ham, then arranging the three little tin cups -in a row on the table, she poured out the strong, black coffee. - -"'Supper is ready now,' she said with as much dignity as if she had been -inviting us to a costly banquet. We accordingly gathered round the -table, seating ourselves on the grass and Lottie held a spoonful of -sugar toward me. - -"'Have sugar in your coffee, Eddie?' she said softly as I held my cup -toward her to receive it. - -"'You are a capital cook, Lottie, and a real genius in the way of -inventive faculties,' said I. - -"'I am truly glad you are pleased with my cooking; but you know I have -had but little chance to show you what I can do. I shall improve very -much too when I have a chance.' - -"'I dare say you will, and I mean to see that you shall have a fair -chance one of these days.' - -"I can truly say that I enjoyed that meal as much as any one I ever ate. -Notwithstanding its lack of variety, it was enough for me to know that -it was prepared by the one I loved so dearly. Supper being over, I began -to erect an edifice to be used as a sleeping apartment by Lottie; and -having watched the display of inventive genius which she had exhibited -in procuring table furniture, I felt it to be my duty to exert all my -mechanical skill in the erection of a sleeping chamber for her. I stuck -four little forked sticks in the ground, then laid several small -straight sticks across the top, and covered the building with branches -cut from the green trees. I put them on so thick that it would have kept -out the rain. Then I took a great number of the same kind of branches -and set them round the sides, leaving a little opening at the end next -to the fire; then I gathered up a large quantity of dry leaves and -spread them on the turf, in this quaint little house, took my coat, -spread it on the leaves, placed my little sack of clothes at the back -end for her pillow, and crossing my hands behind my back, inspected the -entire building, and was satisfied. - -"'There it is, Lottie,' said I. 'When you wish to retire your -bed-chamber is ready.' - -"'You are very kind, Eddie, and I thank you very much; but where will -you and Harry sleep?' - -"'O, never mind about that; we'll make us a nice bed of leaves on the -other side of the fire.' - -"'You had better lie down, Lottie,' said Harry. 'I dare say you are very -tired, and then, you know, we must go a long way to-morrow.' - -"Lottie took a little Testament from her satchel, and read a chapter as -she stooped near the fire so as to get the benefit of the light, -replaced the book in the satchel, then went into her cozy little -bedroom. Harry and I sat gazing silently at the fire, watching the -columns of smoke as they went winding up through the green leaves above -our heads. A mocking-bird every now and then would make the night air -ring with a song, as he sat on the top of the tree. The gentle murmur -of the little brook, as its sparkling waters went dancing among the -rocks, had a soothing effect on my mind. No words were spoken by either -of us. We were not asleep, but both were dreaming. My body was still, -but my mind was at work. The architectural skill of my mind was being -taxed to its utmost capacity. The castle which I was preparing to build -was one of indescribable beauty and symmetry; the foundation had been -laid, materials for the edifice collected, and the magnificent structure -began to assume a finished appearance. But, alas, just as I was rounding -off the beautiful dome and giving it a finishing touch, the whole -building came tumbling topsy-turvy down. - -"'I'll die first!' Those words came gushing forth, and I was as much -startled by them as Harry was. - -"'What are you talking about?' said he. - -"'Nothing,' was the reply, for I was ashamed to have been caught -muttering to myself. I had fallen into a habit of muttering to myself, -especially when my mind was very busy with some sort of castle building, -which was by no means seldom. The materials out of which my castle had -been built were very good, and the workmanship not at all inferior, but -the main part of the foundation had been laid on sand, which proved to -be too weak or soft to support such a weight; hence the destruction of -one of the most beautiful castles ever built. The materials used in the -building were composed of pure love. The dome was made of sweet -prospects of a cottage in a shady grove near Memphis, with Lottie as my -wife. The magnificent fluted columns that were to adorn the portico of -my castle were made of long years of true service, which I had vowed to -devote to Lottie's happiness. The polished cornice, that was to make -such a charming finish to the four fronts, was made of an imagination, -or golden dreams of a long and happy life to be spent with dear Lottie -as my wife. But suppose she should fall in love with and marry some -other fellow. This supposition was the sand that brought my castle down. -As the castle came crumbling down, it was the fall that startled me, and -I exclaimed in my bitter anguish: 'I'll die first.' If I had uttered the -entire sentence aloud, it would have read thus: 'No other man shall ever -be Lottie's husband. No, never! I'll die first!' Let it not be inferred -that I was at all disposed to abandon my occupation of castle building, -for I set about the work again with a more determined resolution to -finish the grand enterprise; but before I got it finished my eyelids -began to feel very heavy and I soon was compelled to lay aside my tools -for that time, and was directly sleeping soundly on my bed of leaves by -the side of my dear brother. I imagine that I must have slept very -soundly during the night, for if I was at all disturbed by dreams, they -could not have been of an unpleasant kind, else I should have remembered -them when I awoke. Only one dream came to interfere with my repose, and -that occurred after sunrise next morning. I dreamed that Lottie and I -were on the banks of a beautiful little river, whose deep blue water -glided smoothly along, filled with innumerable tiny fishes, and that I -was holding my hook in the water to catch them. Just as a beautiful -little trout began to nibble at my hook, and when I was expecting to -fasten him, a huge mosquito, with long, sharp bill, alighted on my nose -and began to partake of his breakfast. I struck at the impudent -intruder, and hit Lottie's hand, who was tickling my nose with a blade -of grass. - -"'Get up, brother sluggard, breakfast is ready,' said she, as she -pointed toward the smoking ham which she proceeded to place on the -table. - -"'How did you rest last night, Lottie?' - -"'O, very well, indeed; thanks for the nice, comfortable bed you made -for me.' - -"'Did you not get cold during the night?' - -"'No, I don't think I did, for I slept very soundly, and probably should -have been sleeping yet, but brother Harry called me at daylight to help -him get breakfast. I feel so much refreshed that I shall be able to walk -a long way to-day.' - -"We arranged ourselves round the table, and soon dispatched our -breakfast, and began to prepare for a renewal of our journey. Harry and -I carried all the household and kitchen furniture in the two little -sacks which swung on our shoulders; while Lottie was not permitted to -carry anything but her little satchel. The road we traveled on the -second day of our journey traversed a part of the country that was -thickly inhabited by thrifty farmers; rich green clover fields spread -out on our left, while large numbers of fat cattle were grazing on the -rich pasturage. Many beautiful residences, with well-cultivated gardens -in front of them, appeared on each side of the road. Happy children -frolicked on the green turf, honey bees sucked the sweet clover -blossoms, busily collecting their winter store of food. Hundreds of -little birds made charming music among the green trees that lined the -roadside. The scenery was altogether delightful, but we stopped not to -enjoy it, but moved steadily on, with minds bent on the accomplishment -of the task before us. I marched as usual by Lottie, Harry moving -steadily in the lead. I would occasionally drop behind, for no other -purpose than to watch Lottie's pretty little feet as they rose and fell -with fairy-like tread, making such nice little tracks in the dust. -Notwithstanding the many eventful years that have passed since then, I -remember well how I almost worshipped the dust that kissed her feet. -Toward noon I noticed from her movements that she was becoming very -tired, but in answer to my questions on that subject, she tried to make -me believe differently. I whispered to Harry, calling his attention to -the fact, and suggested that we had better stop to let her rest. We -halted near a running stream, and selecting a cool shady spot, we threw -ourselves on the grass. We had traveled about eight miles, and I began -to feel somewhat fatigued myself, and when I was comfortably stretched -on the ground I soon fell asleep. We rested about three hours, eating a -cold snack of bread and ham, and then resumed our journey, moving -steadily on until the sun went down, when we halted, having marched -about fifteen miles in all that day. And I was deeply pained to see that -Lottie began to limp with her left foot, which I learned was caused by a -painful blister which appeared on her instep. I took my knife and cut a -little hole in the shoe, so that the blister would not be rubbed by the -leather, and the grateful look that she cast on me would have been -compensation for any amount of trouble. A description of our second -encampment is unnecessary, as it was nearly similar to the first, the -only difference being the lack of cold spring water, which we of course -regretted; but we managed to make out with the water from a clear -running brook near by. Having finished our frugal repast, I set about -preparing Lottie's sleeping apartment, which I soon completed, pretty -much on the same plan as the one I had made for her the night before, -though I think I made a much better job of it this time. We had finished -our preparations for the night, and were seated near the fire, when a -strange, hungry-looking dog came up, deliberately seating himself by -Lottie, and began to whine and lick her hand. He would in all -probability have wagged his tail, but he had none; and it seemed that -his misfortunes had not stopped with the loss of his tail, for he had -only one eye and one and a half ears, the half of his left ear being -painfully missing. Lottie was a little startled and perhaps frightened -at first, but when she saw how anxious the poor dog was to make friends -with her, she held out her hand and patted his back. The mournful -expression of his countenance, and the dilapidated condition of his -body, at once enlisted her sympathies, and she gathered up all the -scraps of bread and meat and gave them to him, which he devoured -quickly, and like Oliver Twist, 'wanted more.' When Lottie went to bed -the poor tailless old dog laid himself down at her feet with dignity and -composure, doubtless thinking that he had found a friend at last. I -watched the dignified movements of the strange animal with some degree -of interest. He paid no attention to Harry and me, but appeared to -consider it his duty to guard Lottie. It was a clear case to my mind of -love at first sight. How could the poor dog help loving her? Birds, dogs -and men all loved her. The fact is, it seemed that she was made to be -worshipped by men, animals and birds. I suppose that with his one eye -the old dog could see her kind, beautiful face, and that he knew she was -good. Judging from appearances, one might safely conclude that the dog -had been an inhabitant of the earth for a great number of years, and -that he could form a correct opinion as to the character of those whom -he chose to serve. When we started on our journey next morning old Bob -(as we had named the dog--the name being suggested to our minds by his -lack of a tail) began to walk with strange dignity by the side of -Lottie. He was the first dog I ever saw that couldn't trot; but his -principal gait was a walk, though he could strike a gallop when -occasion required, and was often seen pacing. Trouble began to crowd on -us the third day of our journey--our little stock of provisions was -exhausted. Lottie, though she would not complain, was beginning to fail; -her feet were covered with blisters, and it was distressing to see her -struggling to conceal her sufferings. She took off her shoes and -attempted to walk barefooted, but the road was covered with innumerable -flinty rocks, the sharp points lacerating her tender feet in a shocking -manner. It made my heart ache to see the stones stained with the blood -from the wounds on her feet, and I told Harry that we would be forced to -stop, as it was cruel to keep her on the road in the condition that she -was. I saw the tears trembling in his eyes when he examined his sister's -feet. We came to a little creek, and I took Lottie down to the water's -edge and bathed her feet in the cold water, and wiped them with my -handkerchief. I then procured some slippery-elm bark, and made a kind of -soft plaster of it and covered her feet with it, then bound cloth over -the salve, and was gratified to hear her say that the pain was greatly -relieved. It was but a few moments after I had completed my doctoring -operations, when a farmer came along the road driving a team of four -horses; he invited us to get in his wagon, as he was going on our road -as much as ten miles. This invitation was of course gladly accepted, and -we were soon seated in the wagon, moving on leisurely, but much faster -than we had been in the habit of traveling. I enjoyed the ride more on -Lottie's account than on any other, knowing as I did that it was giving -her a chance to rest." - -"There's the gong sounding for supper," cried Scottie; "let Lottie ride -in the wagon till we eat." - -The party rose and went down to the table. - - - - -CHAPTER V. - - -Queen Mary took Ingomar's arm, and Ivanhoe offered his to Scottie, and -as they went toward the saloon, Scottie said to Ingomar, "Do pray tell -us what became of Lottie. I am dying with curiosity to know whether you -married her or not." - -"You had better allow me to tell the story in my own way," he replied -dryly. - -"I think so, too," observed the queen. "It would spoil the story to skip -from one part to another. Let us re-assemble after supper and hear more -of it." - -"I think the queen has had something to do with the story," whispered -Scottie to Ivanhoe. "She has been constantly wiping the tears from her -eyes, and she always turned her face another way, endeavoring to conceal -her emotion; and I could see her hand tremble distinctly." - -"Very true; I noticed it, and I dare say that she knows more of the -story than she is willing to tell. By the by, have you noticed those two -seedy-looking men who have been watching us all the time?" - -"No; pray tell me about it." - -"I have a suspicion that they are detectives, looking for some one who -has committed some great crime. I accidentally overheard a part of their -conversation this morning. One of them pointed at one of our party and -said, 'He is the man.'" - -"Which one of our party did he point at?" - -"Ingomar." - -"What further did you hear?" - -"The other man replied that there was no doubt about it." - -"Are you sure they were speaking about Ingomar?" - -"They pointed at him, and I therefore concluded that the conversation -referred to him. I fear that our amusements will be broken up ere long." - -"I hope they will not interfere with Ingomar until he finishes his -story." - -"Yes, it would be vexatious to have it cut short by his arrest. It may -be a false alarm, but something strange is going on. The movements of -the queen have excited my curiosity more than anything else. Look here; -those are the men I was telling you about. See how they are eying -Ingomar. Don't let them see you looking at them. I mean to try to -unravel the mystery." - -"I can't think that Ingomar is a criminal; he speaks so kindly to every -one, and then he is so eloquent when telling his story." - -After supper the party re-assembled on deck, and after a few moments -spent in conversation, the queen ascended her throne (the large -arm-chair being used for that purpose), and commanded Ingomar to proceed -with his story. In obedience to the queen's command, he proceeded as -follows: - -"It was near night when we reached the point where the farmer informed -us that we must get out of the wagon, as he was not going any farther on -our road. There was an old, dilapidated, vacant house near the point -where we parted with the farmer, which would protect us from a -thunder-storm, that was then threatening to burst on us. Lottie's feet -were so much swollen and so badly lacerated that she was unable to walk -at all, and I lifted her from the wagon and carried her into the old -house. I was grieved beyond measure to witness her sufferings; for, in -addition to the pain she was suffering on account of her wounded feet, I -noticed that she had some fever. Our condition was by no means pleasant; -in fact, it was becoming serious. Our provisions were exhausted, Lottie -about to fall ill, the weather prospects gloomy, only forty miles of our -journey completed, and only three dollars in our purse; the prospects -were of a nature to make my heart sink within me. While I was making a -fire, Harry went to a farmhouse hard by to purchase provisions. He -bought a chicken and a few pounds of bread from a widow lady for -twenty-five cents. He also bought a little tea for Lottie. It devolved -on Harry to prepare supper, which he commenced as soon as he had -returned with the provisions. I was busily engaged in making a bed for -Lottie, working very fast, so as to get it finished, before the rain -should begin to fall. The lady who resided at the farm-house permitted -me to take some dry straw from a pen near by, which I spread out on the -floor near the fire, placing my coat on the straw, and requested Lottie -to lie down and rest until we could make her some tea. I took the -bandages from her feet, bathed them in cold water, then replaced the -bandages, and was greatly pleased to hear her say that she was much -better, and felt as if she could sleep very comfortably. - -"'You must not go to sleep,' said Harry, 'before your tea is ready. We -shall soon have some nice broiled chicken and good tea ready for you.' - -"'I shall try to keep awake, but my eyelids begin to feel very heavy, I -assure you.' - -"It did not take Harry many minutes to cook supper, and it made me very -happy to notice that Lottie partook of it with a good relish. - -"'Well,' said she, 'brother Harry, you must permit me to thank you for -making such good tea. I am going to sleep now, and I bid you and Eddie -good-night;' and it was but a short time till she was sound asleep. - -"Dark, angry-looking clouds began to collect overhead; the ominous -sounds of distant thunder gave warning of the approaching storm; heavy -drops of rain began to rattle on the dry boards on the house-top, -increasing rapidly until it fell in torrents. The wind dashed with great -force against the tottering walls, and whistled mournfully among the -trees, while Harry and I sat gazing vacantly into the fire, our minds -busy, as usual, castle building. Old Bob had managed to make a pretty -fair supper off the bones of the chicken and such other scraps as he -could find, and was licking his nose with apparent satisfaction, as he -coiled himself down by Lottie's feet. It was after midnight; the rain -continued to fall steadily, the wind blew more violently, the fire had -ceased to blaze, and darkness pervaded the room. Harry had been asleep -several hours, and I was dozing near the hearth, when I was startled by -a loud, shrill scream, uttered by Lottie. In an instant Harry and I were -by her side. Scream followed scream, while old Bob was leaping and -jumping about the room in every direction. Such confusion as appeared -was beyond my comprehension. A most singular noise rang through the -darkness--slap, slap, crack, crack, and old Bob seemed to be in a deadly -struggle with something. What it was we knew not. Lottie kept on -screaming, and I knew that something awful had happened, because she was -no coward. On the contrary, she was a real heroine. - -"'For Heaven's sake make a light,' said I to Harry, as I took Lottie in -my arms. He obeyed me at once, and it was but a few minutes till the -fire began to blaze so as to light up the room, though it seemed to me -it was a very long time. - -"'What in Heaven's name has happened?' cried Harry, while he was -throwing fuel on the fire, and trying to make it blaze. - -"I made no answer, of course, for I was busy with Lottie, and knew as -little of the cause of the confusion as he did. I was endeavoring to -compose Lottie, who was trembling like one with an ague fit. Every now -and then I felt some strange substance slap against my legs, while Bob -threw himself first one way, then another, struggling as if he was -fighting for life. - -"'What is it, darling?' said I. 'Tell me what has happened?' - -"No answer, but I felt her head drop heavily on my shoulder as the -weight of her body came against my breast, and I knew she had either -fainted or was dead. - -"'Be quick, Harry, she is dead! do pray make a light!' - -"It is a well-known fact that when one gets in a very great hurry to -accomplish anything the anxiety to do it quickly very often prevents him -from doing it at all, or operates greatly to delay its accomplishment. I -was conjecturing a thousand kinds of awful things that had happened, -and, as usual in such cases, never hit near the real one. The first -thing that suggested itself to my mind was that some savage wild animal -had come into the room, and had frightened Lottie. There were at that -time many bears, and some few panthers, and large numbers of wolves, -existing in that part of the State, and I thought one of those animals -had ventured in the house. I heard the continuous snapping of teeth, and -the strangest sounds--not like anything I had ever heard before. I spoke -sharply to Harry, and accused him of a want of feeling for his sister, -for which I was very sorry as soon as the words had passed my lips; he -was so frightened that he hardly knew what he was doing. At last the -fire blazed up, casting a bright light over the floor, when I was almost -paralyzed with horror at the spectacle before me. One large rattlesnake -lay dead at my feet, while old Bob was shaking the life out of another -of equal size. It was the noise made by the rattles on the tails of the -snakes that had sounded so strangely. I had never seen a rattlesnake -until that moment, and therefore did not know what was making such a -singular noise. Lottie lay in my arms as pale as death, and I saw that -she had been bitten on the wrist by one of the snakes. There were two -small holes made through the skin, and two little drops of blood had -come out through the wounds. The flesh had already begun to turn a -yellowish color. The poisonous fangs had been driven deep into the flesh -and the deadly venom was beginning to take effect. I suppose the snakes -had come up through the crack in the floor, and had perhaps coiled -themselves in the straw near Lottie; and that, in her restless slumbers, -she had struck the serpent with her arm, and thus provoked it to strike, -because the rattlesnake never bites unless provoked in some way. I have -heard it said, too, that they always go in pairs, and I had also heard -experienced persons say that the safest remedy for snake bites was to -cut out the flesh in which the fangs had struck, and then for some one -to suck the wound with the lips so as to extract the poison as soon as -possible. Fortunately I happened to have in my pocket a knife with a -very sharp blade. Without a moment's reflection or hesitation I seized -the flesh of the wrist between my finger and thumb and cut out a piece -large enough to include the entire wounds made by the poisonous fangs of -the serpent, then placed my lips over the wound and began to suck with -all my strength. The wound bled freely, and I continued to suck it for -over an hour. Lottie had immediately regained consciousness after the -cutting of her wrist, and held her wound to my mouth, while the grateful -glance which she cast on me was ample compensation for the risk I was -taking. We could not then tell whether she was suffering much or not, -for one of her peculiar traits was never to complain of anything; but -she declared in most positive terms that the only pain she experienced -was the slight suffering caused by the wound I had made with my knife on -her wrist. After sucking the wound for an hour, I began to feel deathly -sick--a strange dizziness seized upon me--the house appeared to be -turning round with great rapidity, and a blindness fixed itself on my -eyes; I gasped for breath, and felt as if I was being smothered. My -blood seemed to be boiling hot in my veins; I sank insensible on the -floor; and when I regained consciousness I was on a clean nice bed, in a -cozy little room, with Lottie's golden curls dangling about my face, for -she was kissing me when I came to my senses, and my face was moist with -the tears that had fallen from her dear eyes. - -"'Where am I? What has happened?' were the questions I put to her. - -"'Hush, Eddie dear, you must not talk; you have been dangerously ill; -and oh! how I hate myself for being the cause of your illness. Why did -you not let me suffer from the poison, instead of trying to kill -yourself?' - -"Then a dim recollection of what had happened began to come to me. 'How -long have I been ill?' - -"'Five days, and oh! such long, miserable days were they, too! We -thought you were going to die, and that made us so very unhappy; but -when the doctor left here this morning he said that all danger was over; -and then I knew that God had answered my prayers; because I have prayed -constantly and fervently to Him, asking Him not to let you die. If you -had died, I should have looked upon myself as your murderer. I never -should have seen another happy day. There now, don't talk.' And she -placed her hand on my mouth just as I was going to ask more questions. - -"I noticed that she had her hand in a sling, and was about to question -her about it when she covered my mouth with her hand. I afterward -ascertained that she had not been entirely relieved from pain, that her -wrist and arm had been very much swollen, and had caused intense -suffering, but that she had watched by my bedside day and night, never -sleeping any, except such short naps as she could take by leaning her -head on the edge of my bed. If I had loved her before this, and I assert -that I did, what do you imagine my feelings toward her were then? It -would require a more expressive term to describe them than I am able to -command. - -"'Tell me, Lottie, all that has happened; it appears like a dream.' - -"'I will, if you promise to lie still, and keep quiet.' - -"I made the promise reluctantly. - -"'When you fell insensible on the floor, from the effects of the poison -which you had sucked from my wrist, I began to scream so loud that Mrs. -Holly heard it, and she and her son came to see what the matter was. I -thought that you were dead, and I, of course, couldn't help screaming. -We had you brought to this house, and Harry went after Dr. Dodson, who -lives five miles away. When he came he made you drunk with strong -brandy, then gave you an emetic, then made you drunk again, then gave -you another emetic. He kept on repeating this treatment until he thought -all the poison had been thrown off. Then he bled you until you fainted; -then he gave you more brandy, mixed with opiates, and you slept a long -time; but you kept talking all the time in your sleep about me and the -snakes. The good doctor remained with you all that day, and all the next -night; then he went away, telling us that all danger was past, and that -you would be sure to get well, which of course made us very happy, -because we had all been so frightened when we thought you were going to -die. Doctor Dodson said that there was a slight cut or wound on your -lip, and that when sucking my wrist the poison managed to make its way -through that little wound and got into your blood, thereby causing all -the trouble. There would have been no danger, he said, but for the wound -on your lip. He said you were the greatest little hero he had ever heard -of; those were his very words, because he said that I would have died in -ten minutes from the poison if you had not sucked it out of my veins. -Harry, poor fellow, has been working all the time in the field to pay -Mrs. Holly for our board, and when we get done paying her, and you get -well, we are going to go over to Doctor Dodson's and work for him, to -pay him for saving your dear life; and when we have finished paying the -doctor, we will then start on our journey to Memphis. There, now, I have -told you everything; take this beautiful bouquet in your hand, and lie -perfectly quiet, while I go and make your soup.' - -"My eyes followed the lovely form till she disappeared through the door. -Then I began to count the minutes by the stroke of the old clock on the -mantel, and the wheels of time seemed to stop while she was away from -me. She returned at last. - -"'Here is a nice bowl of soup, and you must drink it, for you have eaten -scarcely anything since you have been ill.' - -"I had no appetite at all, but I drank the soup to please her; and I -dare say it did me much good, for I was very weak. - -"On the morning of the eighth day of my illness I was able to leave my -bed, and, with Lottie's assistance, could walk across the room. Then the -next morning she took me into the flower garden, while I leaned on her -shoulder for support. I was very much gratified to see that all the -wounds on Lottie's feet had disappeared, and that she could wear her -shoes again without pain; and I determined to invent some plan to -protect her feet when we should again begin our journey. I procured some -strong cloth and made a pair of shoes, sewing leather soles on the -bottom, so as to prevent the stones from cutting her feet. The cloth -uppers would keep her feet from blistering, while the thick leather -soles would protect them from the gravel. She watched me intently while -the work progressed, and when it was finished she expressed great wonder -at my skill. The truth is, it was a very clumsy job, and the shoes were -ugly, but they answered the purpose for which they were intended, for -she never was troubled any more with blisters or sore feet. We had been -at Mrs. Holly's two weeks, when I entirely recovered; then we went to -work for Doctor Dodson, to pay his bill. He was very kind to us; his -bill was moderate; in fact, he was willing to let us go without paying -anything, but Harry would not hear to it. He vowed he never would leave -until the last cent was paid. I always thought he had very strange views -on such subjects. He was too sensitive, I imagined, because he abhorred -the idea of accepting anything like charity. I do believe he would have -starved rather than to eat bread for which he was unable to pay. We -remained with the doctor ten days, during which time Harry and I plowed -a large field of corn, and cleaned out all the grass. Lottie insisted on -being permitted to help us, but Harry would not allow it; therefore she -went to work in the garden, and I mean what I say, when I assert that it -is my candid opinion that garden never before had been in such a -splendid fix. She destroyed every weed and blade of grass--cultivated -the vegetables, trimmed the shrubbery, transplanted the flowers; in -fact, she made an Eden out of a wilderness. When the work was finished -the kind-hearted old doctor was profuse in his praise. - -"'I declare,' said he, as he gently stroked Lottie's hair, 'I have been -amply rewarded for my attendance on your brother, by your services, to -say nothing of the valuable work done on my farm by Harry and Edward. I -wish all my patients would pay me as well as I have been paid in this -instance; if they did, I should soon grow very rich. I will not allow -you to work another lick, and when you wish to start on your journey, -you shall have as much provisions as your two brothers can carry.' - -"The morning after this conversation we parted from our kind host, and -set out on our journey toward Memphis, loaded down with nicely cooked -provisions. - - - - -CHAPTER VI. - - -"It was on a Friday morning that we parted from Doctor Dodson; the -weather was getting to be uncomfortably warm, and we were compelled to -travel very slowly, lest Lottie should be prostrated by the heat. Ten -miles a day was the average distance which we marched. We usually -started at sunrise, walked five miles, then rested in the shade until -four o'clock, and marched the other five miles by dark. As we had -determined not to travel on the Sabbath, we began early in the day on -Saturday to look for a cool, shady spot where we might rest comfortably -until Monday morning. Shade and pure water were two articles that must -be found adjacent to each other, before we could expect to pass the time -pleasantly. We, however, had the good luck to come to a spring where -many large trees stood, all overgrown with grape-vines, making a -covering not only sufficient to keep off the hot rays of the sun, but a -shelter that would have protected us from a heavy shower of rain. It -proved to be an unfortunate spot for us, as an occurrence happened there -that gave us a great deal of trouble. The place where we halted was only -one mile from the county-site, and it was from this village that the -source of our troubles came. It was Sunday evening; we had finished our -humble supper, and were all engaged in singing an old favorite song. I -suppose that it was our singing that attracted the attention of some -rude boys from the village. There were three boys in the gang that came -up to where we were seated; the leader, a lad whom I supposed to be -about fifteen years of age, whose features exhibited unmistakable signs -of dissipation and brutality; the other two were much younger and -appeared more genteel. The leader, whose name I afterward learned was -Benjamin Bowles, in a domineering tone said: - -"'Is this a singing-school, or a Gipsy camp?' - -"'Neither, sir,' Harry replied. - -"'Is it a Sunday-school, or a camp-meeting then?' - -"'No, sir, it is neither a Sunday-school nor a camp-meeting.' - -"'Then what in the deuce is it?' - -"'It is no business of yours, sir, and we would be much obliged if you -would let us alone.' - -"'Oh, would you, now? See here, little sweetheart, I'll give you a -dollar for one of those pretty curls.' And he reached out his hand to -take hold of Lottie's hair. She blushed and moved to Harry's side. I -felt the blood in my veins begin to boil, and the demon to rise within -my heart. - -"'You had better go away and leave us alone,' said Harry, as he made a -movement toward the boy. - -"'Now, do you really think so?' said he sneeringly. 'What a polite nice -boy you are!' - -"I thought Harry was going to strike him, but Lottie laid her hand on -his shoulder. - -"'Don't have any difficulty with him, brother, he will go away -directly,' she said softly. - -"'Now that's a daisy, my little queen,' he said; 'let us be social.' - -"The other two boys seemed to be disgusted with the rude conduct of -their comrade, and began to persuade him to go with them back to the -village; and when he peremptorily refused, they went away and left him. - -"'Let us drink and be friends,' said he, as he drew a flask of brandy -from his pocket and presented it to Harry, who of course refused; then -offering it to me--'You'll drink with me I know, won't you, old boy?' - -"'No.' - -"'Well, indeed, I must say that I never met such uncivil fellows in my -life. If you won't drink, suppose we have a dance.' Then he began to -caper about like a madman. 'If you won't drink nor dance, suppose we -have a boxing match.' Then he threw himself in an attitude supposed to -be that of an experienced pugilist. - -"'Give me a drink of water then,' he said, 'and I will leave you.' - -"I went immediately to the spring to fetch him some water in order to -get rid of him. The spring was over a hundred yards from our camp. I had -arrived at the spring and had stooped to dip up the water, when I heard -Lottie calling me. - -"'Come quick, Eddie,' she screamed, 'he is killing Harry!' - -"I got there as soon as I could. The boy was gone, and the blood was -streaming over Harry's face from a wound on his head. The boy had -evidently sent me off after water on purpose to have a chance to abuse -Harry; because as soon as I was gone he seized Lottie by the wrist and -attempted to kiss her, when Harry struck him on the head with a small -stick; then he threw Harry down (being much larger and stronger than he -was), and began to beat him, when old Bob seized Bowles by the leg, -tearing the flesh to the bone. Then the boy quickly released Harry and -scampered off, vowing that he would have revenge. Harry was not -seriously hurt, and very soon we were all asleep. We had scarcely -finished breakfast next morning when the town marshal came out and -arrested all of us, saying that Bowles had caused a warrant to be issued -against Harry for an assault and battery committed on him. We were -required to go with the marshal to the mayor's office, where we were -ordered to wait until that individual should finish his morning nap. We -had been there about two hours when his honor came bustling in. Falstaff -would have appeared lean by the side of this moving mountain of fat. He -was the largest man I ever saw; the greasy rolls of flesh under his chin -lay in waves on his breast; his jaws bulged out like the jaws of a fat -hog, and a couple of teeth in the corners of his mouth stuck out over -his lips like the tusks of a wild boar. Two little bunches of hair on -the sides of his head were all he had; the red skin on top of his head -was sleek, and glistened like polished metal. - -"'What have you got for me this morning, Mr. Marshal?' he inquired as -he seated himself by a table and began to adjust his spectacles on his -large nose. - -"'We have two cases for trial this morning, sir,' said a foppish young -man. 'One criminal case and one civil suit.' - -"'Ah, good! We'll try the civil suit first.' - -"The plaintiff in the civil suit was a pale-faced, poorly-dressed woman, -with a forlorn, forsaken, half-starved appearance, who sat on a bench -with a sickly-looking infant in her arms. When she stood up to be sworn -as a witness she was compelled to lean on the table to keep from -falling. - -"'What is your complaint, madame, against Judge Bosh?' demanded the -mayor gruffly, as he stared savagely at the poor woman. In a low, -tremulous tone she stated her case: - -"'I contracted with Judge Bosh to work for him three months, for six -dollars per month; I worked for him for two months and three-quarters, -then fell ill, so that I was unable to work any more. He refused to pay -me because I was unable to work the other quarter of a month. As soon as -I got able to walk I went back and offered to work out my contract, but -he said that it was too late--that he had made other arrangements. We -are out of provisions at home, sir, and I hope you will make the judge -pay me for the work I have done for him.' - -"'No doubt you do, no doubt you do,' growled the fountain of justice, as -he told the plaintiff to stand aside. 'What has the defendant got to -say?' and he smiled blandly on Judge Bosh as that distinguished -individual stepped forward and laid his hand on the Bible. 'It is -unnecessary to swear you; please make your statement.' - -"'That woman contracted to serve me three months. She failed to comply -with her contract. As to her reasons, I know nothing about them, neither -do I wish to know. A contract is a contract, and it binds both parties. -She violated it, and I demand judgment.' - -"'Certainly, certainly, judge; most assuredly you are clearly entitled -to it. Judgment against plaintiff for cost,' he muttered as he wrote -down the entry on his docket. - -"The poor woman staggered out of the room, and fell fainting on the -pavement. - -"'What's next, Mr. Marshal?' - -"'A charge of assault and battery against Harry Wallingford.' - -"'Is that the little scamp who tried to murder our esteemed young -friend, Bowles? He looks like a first-class rascal. I'll teach him a -lesson that he'll not forget soon. O, Lord, how wicked this world is -getting to be!' And he attempted to sigh, but it was a savage growl. - -"Bowles was sworn as a witness; he took the stand, and commenced -uttering falsehoods from the start; I was almost struck dumb with -astonishment at his total disregard of the solemn oath he had made to -tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. He wore a -bandage on his head, and pretended to be suffering intense pain from the -wound on it, while he had his leg in a sling. He stated that he 'had -been attracted to the camp by the singing, and that as soon as he -arrived there he was insulted and abused in a most rude and vulgar -manner by the two boys, the girl joining in with them. He said that -while his back was turned toward the defendant he was knocked down with -a club, and the savage dog set on him, lacerating the flesh of his leg; -that as soon as he was able to regain his feet he had made his way home, -completely prostrated from loss of blood.' - -"'Shocking, shocking!' growled the mayor savagely, as he began to open -and shut his mouth rapidly. 'I wish I had the power to send all of them -to the Penitentiary; they are traveling thieves, no doubt.' - -"'We are no thieves, sir,' exclaimed Harry, springing to his feet; 'the -insinuation is false!' - -"'Silence, sir! How dare you insult this honorable court? I guess I'll -put you where you won't have a chance to murder anybody soon. Any other -witnesses, Mr. Bowles?' - -"'No, sir,' said Bowles meekly, 'that's all.' - -"'Have you any witnesses, sir?' he said to Harry. - -"'My sister was present, sir, and knows all about it.' - -"'Of course, of course, she was present; and I suppose you expect me to -believe what she has to say, ha?' - -"'She will tell you the truth, sir, and nothing but the truth, and I -hope no insinuation will be made to the contrary.' - -"'Ah, no doubt; come here, gal, and be sworn; and be sure you confine -yourself to the facts. What are you shaking that way for? Nobody wants -to eat you. Put your hand on this Bible.' - -"Lottie was very much frightened, and was trembling like an aspen leaf. -Tears were streaming down her cheeks and I stepped to her side to -re-assure her. - -"'Take your seat, sir, and let her tell her own story,' said the mayor, -as he thrust his huge finger at my nose. - -"I obeyed reluctantly, and Lottie began to tell her version of the -matter. A large crowd of spectators had come in to witness the -proceedings, and I perceived that the eloquent manner in which she was -delivering her evidence was winning the sympathies of the crowd. I saw -several of the spectators wiping tears from their eyes while she was -describing the death of her mother, and telling how she and her brothers -were trying to get to their uncle at Memphis. Her extreme beauty and -modesty, the sweet melody of her voice, and the simplicity of her -pleading, to some extent softened the marble heart of the mayor. She -began to regain her self-possession as the story of her sufferings came -from her lips. The brutal old official leaned back in his chair, with -his mouth wide open, gazing with wonder at the angelic creature before -him. Lottie seemed to have lost sight of the case before the court; but -she began to plead for her brother with such persuasive eloquence that -every man in the house was moved to tears. She gave a graphic -description of her adventure with the rattlesnakes; showed her wounded -wrist to the court, which had been nearly healed up when it was badly -hurt again by the violence of Benjamin Bowles, who had insulted her and -hurt her wounded arm at the same time. - -"'Cowardly villain was he, to insult my darling little flower queen!' -exclaimed Doctor Dodson, as he hurriedly caught Lottie in his arms and -pressed a kiss on her brow. 'Where is the cowardly wretch who has dared -to insult this poor orphan child? Let me see his face. I'll venture the -assertion that it is more like a beast's than a man's face.' - -"Bowles limped out of the room, being careful to keep behind the crowd -as he passed out, looking as if he had important business that required -his immediate attention at some other place. 'Why, my dear doctor, -how do you come on? I declare I'm delighted to see you!' exclaimed the -mayor, seizing the doctor's hand and making an obsequious bow. 'I am -glad to see that you know this little lady; I dare say you will be able -to throw some light on the matter now before the court.' - -"'I should say I did know that darling little orphan child. I know she -is the sweetest little lady in the land; and who dares to say otherwise? -Yes, and I know those two boys there (pointing to Harry and me); any one -who has aught to say against them let him say it now in my presence!' - -"The good old doctor was very much excited as he continued to defend our -side of the case. Having exhausted himself, he dropped into a chair, and -began to wipe the large drops of perspiration from his brow; and, as he -blew his nose, he gave a snort that startled every man in the room. - -"The mayor seemed to be at a loss how to proceed; for he was afraid to -offend Doctor Dodson, who had been his family physician for many years; -besides this, he was largely indebted to the doctor; and it was not -exactly convenient for him to pay the debt just then. On the other hand, -Benjamin Bowles was the son of a merchant to whom he was owing a very -considerable sum, and he was anxious to decide the case so as not to -offend him. The idea of deciding the case according to the rules of law -and justice from the evidence never for a moment came into his mind. - -"'My dear doctor,' said the mayor, as he scrambled up from his seat, -'let me consult with you a moment privately.' - -"The doctor followed him into a private room, when the mayor said: -'Doctor, what do you know about those three children?' - -"'I know enough to convince me that the boys are heroes, and that the -girl is a lovely little heroine. I know that they are friendless -orphans, which should entitle them to the sympathies of all good men. I -know that any one who would oppress or wrong them ought to go to the ----' - -"'Yes, yes, I know, doctor; I'll discharge them at once.' - -"'You should never have molested them at first. What business had that -Bowles boy at their camp, I should like to know? You knew that he was -the meanest, most unprincipled boy in this county, and I am surprised -that you should so far have forgotten yourself as to have those poor -helpless children dragged into court as if they were thieves. Now -that's what I think of the whole business. You go in there and discharge -those children immediately, else we are enemies for life.' - -"'Oh, my dear doctor, I beseech you, don't for a moment imagine that I -would oppress the orphans, or deal harshly with the helpless. I was -going to discharge them anyway. I was merely investigating the case for -form's sake. You know one has to appear stern and unbending sometimes, -while his heart is melting with pity.' - -"'Yes, I know how it is. I have long been acquainted with the secret -goodness of your heart; I wonder how you could keep it smothered so -well.' - -"'Ah! doc, one in my position has much to contend with. It's a difficult -thing to hold the scales of justice so as to be impartial. I am not fit -to be in office--my heart is too tender; I can't keep from sympathizing -with the weak and helpless, even when they have violated the law. I -think I shall resign.' - -"'I would if I were you; your heart is too tender for the place; but let -us go in and have the children discharged.' - -"The mayor resumed his seat, adjusted his spectacles, and deliberately -surveyed the crowd. - -"My young friend Wallingford, we have had some difficulty in arriving at -a correct conclusion respecting our duty in this case. We have patiently -listened to the evidence, pro and con, and find in many respects a great -conflict; that is to say, somewhat of a contradiction between the -statements made by Mr. Bowles and the evidence given by Miss -Wallingford. But I am pleased to be able to say that it is the opinion -of the court that no willful perjury has been committed in this case; -but the apparent conflict grew out of the confusion caused by the -interference of that savage old dog in the little unpleasantness. The -court very much regrets that it has no power to imprison dogs, or to -impose fines upon them. This is more especially to be regretted in this -case, as it is the opinion of the court that the dog is the only MAN to -blame in the matter. That being true, and as there is no lawful -authority given me to punish the dog as he deserves, I am consequently -compelled to dismiss Master Wallingford from custody and tax the -corporation with the cost. I would admonish my young friend to endeavor -to teach his dog better manners in future, lest he might involve his -master in some serious trouble. Adjourn court, Mr. Marshal; and don't -fail to collect the cost in the case of Mrs. Bonds against Judge Bosh.' - -"Now let the curtain fall, for the farce is finished. It was a lucky -thing for us that Doctor Dodson came to town that day, for Harry would -have been sent to prison but for his timely arrival. Lottie threw her -arms round the old gentleman's neck and kissed him fervently, and I saw -the tears trembling in his eyes as he pressed her to his heart. - -"'Heaven bless you, my child!' said he. 'I had a daughter about your -age, but she is dead. Poor thing, she was very much like you; and should -you ever need a home, come to me and you'll find one.' - -"'I thank you so very much--much more than words can express, and I hope -God will reward you!' - -"'There, there, child, hush, or you'll make a fool of me!' and he left -the room with the brim of his hat pulled down over his eyes to hide his -tears. - -"Once more we were permitted to renew our march on the road to Memphis; -and during the next three days nothing occurred worthy of mention. We -were happy because Lottie kept up so well--she was so cheerful, and -never complained; the cloth shoes I had made for her proved a great -success; no more blisters appeared on her feet; the weather, though -quite warm during the day, was pleasant mornings and evenings, while the -nights were delightful. We continued our gipsy plan of camping out -nights, and traveled leisurely during the day, so as not to fatigue -Lottie. - -"But as I hear the music in the saloon, which is the signal for the -dance to commence, I shall break off the thread here, and promise to -take it up again when her Majesty shall be pleased to command me." - -"I had rather listen to the story than to dance," said Scottie. - -"So would I," said the queen. - -But just then the band struck up a lively air, and the temptation of the -dance proved irresistible, for the majority of the maskers hastened to -the cabin, and the others had nothing to do but to follow. - - - - -CHAPTER VII. - - -IT required no summons to be issued by the queen next morning in order -to assemble her followers. They were on deck immediately after -breakfast, long before the queen made her appearance, anxiously waiting -to hear more of the tale. Therefore, when her Majesty made her -appearance, Ingomar was at once requested to proceed, which he did -without preliminaries. - -"Incidents apparently trifling oftentimes shape our destiny. But in -making this statement I do not mean to convey the impression that I am -about to describe a trifling incident, but the insignificant -circumstances which caused the incident are what I refer to. Had it not -been for an old bob-tailed, one-eyed, stray dog that happened to take a -fancy to Lottie, and concluded to cast his destiny with her, there would -have been no use telling this story. Old Bob was fond of chasing -rabbits. One day he started one; the rabbit ran for life; Bob ran for -the rabbit. The rabbit ran in a certain direction; Bob ran in the same -direction; he followed the rabbit, and we followed him; while doing so -we came to a gravel pit, which gravel pit I am sure we never would have -seen had Bob not started the rabbit; but as he did start it, thereby -causing us to go to the gravel pit, I shall proceed to tell what -followed. A large number of men were shoveling the gravel onto flat -cars, to be hauled on the line of the railroad for ballasting the track. -The rabbit took refuge in a hollow tree near where the men were at work; -they came and cut the tree down and caught the rabbit. We sat down near -the gravel pit to rest; the foreman invited us to ride on the gravel -train to the next station, which was directly on our road. We were -delighted at the prospect of a ten-mile ride on the cars, and what made -it most desirable was the fact that it would put us ten miles nearer -Memphis in a few minutes, whereas it would be a good day's walk if we -had to foot it. We thanked the foreman heartily and accepted his kind -offer. - -"'Hurry up, my men,' said the foreman, as he looked at his watch, -'throw in lively; we have no time to spare, for we must get to the -station before the passenger train.' - -"The men threw the gravel on the cars with great rapidity, and very soon -the flats were loaded and the train began to move. Lottie and I took -seats on the car next to the engine, while Harry went forward to ride on -the pilot. - -"'My little man,' said the engineer to Harry, 'it is very dangerous to -ride on the pilot. You had better not attempt it, as we are compelled to -run very rapidly so as to reach the station before the passenger train.' - -"I was astonished to see that Harry paid no attention to the warning; it -was so different from his usual way of doing things. It was I who had -been considered reckless, while Harry was looked upon as the embodiment -of prudence and wisdom. Lottie called to her brother, begging him to -come back and ride with her; but he sat immovable and silent, without -turning his head to notice her. Harry afterward informed me that a -strange, unaccountable desire to ride on the pilot of the engine seized -upon him, and he could not resist it. - -"'It may be imagination, merely,' said he, 'but I thought something -whispered to my mind, positively directing me to ride there. I had the -inclination to heed the warning of the engineer, but a most mysterious -influence seemed to rivet me down to the spot, so I could not move. I -have heard that notice of approaching events was often conveyed to the -human mind through the medium of dreams, but in my case the notice came -while I was wide awake, and in a manner to me incomprehensible and most -mysterious. Call it superstition if you will; call it nonsense if you -choose; I care not; I state facts, and you may draw your own -conclusions.' - -"I did not argue the question with him, for I perceived that he was -deeply in earnest, and his manner was so serious that I thought best to -say nothing against his strange theory. - -"'Let her run, Dan,' said the conductor to the engineer, as he held his -watch in his hand; 'only ten minutes till number four is due at the -station, and eight miles to run.' - -"The engineer, who had a frank, open countenance and keen, intelligent -eyes and iron-gray hair, seized the lever and gave a backward pull, and -the engine dashed forward like a ball discharged from a siege gun. -Fences, trees and houses all seemed to be flying; the wind whistled -about Harry's face, and played with his dark-brown hair as it floated -straight out behind his head. He held his hat in his hand, while his -face was all aglow with excitement. - -"'You had better order that boy away from the pilot,' said the engineer -to the conductor, as he opened the throttle to let on more steam; 'he -might get hurt where he is; we are taking great risk anyway; the track, -you know, is very crooked from here to the station; if a cow, or hog, or -anything should be on the track, he would be killed.' - -"'You had better not ride there, my little man,' said the conductor, 'it -is very dangerous.' - -"Harry sat immovable, as if he had been fastened there with bolts of -steel, while the train flew onward at the extraordinary speed of a mile -per minute. It is very probable that Harry did not hear the warning -given by the conductor, as the noise made by the engine as it thundered -on may have prevented it. At all events, he did not move; he was rapidly -approaching his destiny; whether that destiny was for weal or woe will -be a matter for after consideration. Harry always contended that it was -a supernatural influence that compelled him to take his seat on the -pilot of that particular engine at that particular time. He said that -the influence, or whatever it was, came upon him with such unmistakable -distinctness that he would have resisted any attempt to force him away. -The more I ridiculed the idea, the more firmly did he stick to it. - -"'It was Providence,' said he, 'that is certain.' - -"'I wonder if Providence made old Bob start the rabbit, merely to guide -us to the gravel pit?' said I. - -"'No doubt of it,' was his reply. - -"'I didn't know before now that you were so full of superstition.' - -"'If it is superstition to believe that Providence prompted me to ride -on the engine that day, then I am overflowed with it.' - -"The brave old engineer stood with his hand on the lever, his sleeves -rolled above his elbows, his face blackened with smut and smoke, his -gray locks pushed back and streaming in the wind. Undaunted courage was -stamped on every feature; his lips were firmly closed, and the picture -he presented reminded me of the description of Vulcan which I had read -in Homer. - -"'Will she make it, Dan?' inquired the conductor. - -"'Yes, I think so,' replied the engineer; 'but it will be a close -race--two miles to run; two minutes and a quarter to make it in.' - -"'We're safe then,' said the conductor. 'They can hear us coming and -will wait for us.' - -"Within one mile of the station there was a sharp curve in the track -where it swung round the base of a tall ridge, then lay out on the top -of a very high embankment, thence across a bridge, with a straight run -from there to the station. The train was coming round the curve with -unusual speed, as it was running down grade. Harry sat on the pilot with -his eyes fixed in front, and just as the train came round the last spur -of the ridge, he saw a little girl sitting on the gravel in the center -of the track, with her apron filled with wild flowers, which she was -busily weaving into festoons. The train was within one hundred yards of -her before she was discovered. She was on the part of the track that lay -on the top of the high embankment, the sides of which were very steep, -and it was full thirty feet to the ground from where the little girl -sat. The engineer immediately blew the signal for down brakes, then -reversed his engine (a very dangerous operation to perform while running -rapidly down grade); all the brakes were put on, and the brakeman seemed -to strain every nerve to hold them as much down as possible. The -engineer kept his whistle shrieking and screaming in order to warn the -child of her danger. She rose and started to run toward the bridge, then -hesitated a moment, and made a move as if she were going to jump over -the embankment. An Irish woman who was the child's nurse had imprudently -left her on the track while she was gathering the flowers some distance -from it. When the nurse discovered the danger to which the little girl -was exposed she hallooed to the child, telling her to leap down the side -of the embankment. She made a movement as if she were going to do it, -then evidently became frightened at the great distance to the ground. -Meantime the train was rapidly approaching the spot where the child -was, notwithstanding the fact that all the brakes were down and the -engine reversed. The momentum was so great, and the grade being -downward, the train continued to move forward. The noise made by the -whistle, added to the thundering sounds made by the approaching train, -only served to increase the child's confusion. The second time she -started to run across the bridge, and again she ran back a few paces; -then became so paralyzed with fright that she stopped, unable to move. -The train was within a few feet of the little girl, and it now became -certain that the engine could not be stopped before it reached the -bridge, although it was running quite slowly, not faster than a man -could run; but what did that signify? Wouldn't the child be crushed to -death unless the engine could be stopped before she was reached? It was -plain to be seen that the little girl had lost her self-possession, and -she stood gazing at the approaching train in despair. She had very long -hair, which floated loose down her back, while the flowers lay scattered -on the ground where she stood. The picture she presented then was -pretty, 'tis true, but the situation was awful. My heart grew sick at -the sight. I noticed Harry getting down on the very front of the iron -frame commonly called the cow-catcher; but what good could he do by -that? The engine was within ten feet of the little girl when I saw the -old engineer turn his face away and throw both hands to his eyes, as if -he were trying to shut out the shocking scene that was about to be -witnessed. - -"'Oh! great God have mercy on us,' he exclaimed, as he turned away. - -"Harry placed his foot on the outer end of the longest bar of iron, then -made a desperate leap forward, seized the child by the arm, and both -went rolling down the steep side of the embankment. He made the leap -when the engine was only about six feet from the child, and he must have -made his calculations very accurately, for he only let one foot strike -the ground between the rails, while the other struck the ground outside -of the rails. The slightest miscalculation or the least mistake, would -have been fatal to him as well as her for whom he made the gallant leap. -At the base of the embankment there was a pond of muddy water, bordered -with briars and broken rocks. Harry and the little girl landed in the -middle of the pond, bruised and bleeding from many wounds. The engine -came to a halt as soon as it struck the bridge, and the engineer leaped -down to where Harry lay in the water and lifted him up in his arms. It -was an affecting sight to see the man of iron nerve weeping like a -child. - -"'My brave little hero,' he exclaimed, as he pressed Harry's brow to his -lips, 'are you hurt?' - -"'Not much sir, I believe, though my leg is broken,' said Harry. - -"Poor fellow! he fainted in the arms of the strong man who carried him -up the embankment and placed him on the train. The little girl had a -severe contusion on her temple, caused by falling against a -sharp-cornered rock at the base of the embankment. She was also placed -on the train, and then it was put in motion, and soon was at the -station, and a surgeon sent for, while the wounded children were removed -to a hotel near the depot. The mother of the little girl (a pale-faced, -delicate little woman of great beauty) swooned and fell to the ground -when she saw the bleeding child in my arms. The father of the child took -her from me. - -"'In Heaven's name pray tell me what has happened!' said he, as he took -his daughter from me. - -"'She is not seriously hurt, sir,' said I, and then I told him what had -occurred. - -"Harry had regained consciousness before we reached the station, and -when he saw how Lottie was weeping as she held his head in her lap, he -smiled pleasantly. 'Don't be alarmed, Lottie dear, I am not seriously -hurt--just one leg broken, that's all. Wasn't it lucky that I happened -to be on the front of that engine? Is the little girl much hurt?' - -"'No, I think not,' said the conductor, 'she got a slight cut on the -temple.' - -"'Wasn't she a pretty little darling?' continued Harry; 'I fell in love -with her as we rolled down the embankment together; and when I get to be -a man, if she is willing, we'll go down the path of life together.' - -"'His mind is wandering,' whispered the conductor. - -"Harry overheard him. - -"'Perhaps it is,' said he, 'but let it wander as much as it likes, so -long as it happens to stray in that direction. Hush crying, Lottie dear, -I tell you I am not much hurt; I shall be well again in three weeks.' - -"The old surgeon arrived, threw off his coat, rolled up his sleeves, and -went to work like a man who knew what he was about; and I was struck -with admiration for the man when I saw the skill with which he reset the -broken bones and placed the splints. - -"'There now, we're all right, my brave little hero,' he said, smiling as -he finished pinning the bandage. 'Keep it moist with cold water to -prevent inflammation, and in three weeks this leg will be as good as the -other one. By the by, what's your name, little man?' - -"'Harry Wallingford, sir.' - -"'Ah, ha! a very nice name, too, it is. And the pretty little girl whose -life you saved is the sweetest little angel that ever touched the -earth!' - -"'Who is she?' Harry inquired. - -"'Viola Bramlett is her name. She is the daughter of Mr. Bolivar -Bramlett, of New York City, who is traveling in the South for the -benefit of his wife's health. They have been stopping at this hotel some -three or four weeks, and being called in to see Mrs. Bramlett -professionally, I have had a chance to become well acquainted with the -family; therefore, you see, I speak advisedly when I say that little -Viola is an angel.' - -"'I hope,' said Harry, 'that she is not badly hurt.' - -"'Oh, no; she is not hurt much at all--a slight contusion on the temple, -and a few scratches from the briars--that's all. Her father will be in -to see you directly; he is overwhelmed with gratitude to you; and little -Viola (Heaven bless her!), won't talk about anything except the pretty -little brave boy who kept her from being killed. She insisted on coming -to see you now, but I persuaded her to wait till your wounds were -dressed. So you see that you may expect soon to be overflowed with -thanks and kisses from the sweetest little darling that the world ever -saw. Ah, you're a lucky lad, anyway. Good morning; I'll see you again -this evening; don't move the wounded leg; keep it perfectly still, and -talk as much as you please to the little angel when she comes to see -you.' - -"Then the old surgeon bustled out of the room, and went to visit his -other patients. It was but a little while after Harry's wounds had been -dressed when Viola came bounding into the room, threw her arms round his -neck, kissing his lips at least a dozen times in rapid succession. Then -she said, with a voice which I thought very sweet and musical: 'Oh, you -don't know how much I thank you for saving my life! Papa says that I -should have been crushed to death but for your bravery. He says you are -a real hero, and he is going to divide all his money with you. My papa -has great heaps of money, and he is going to give you half of it, and I -am to have the other half. Now, won't that be nice?' - -"I watched her movements with intense interest, and concluded that the -old surgeon's description of her charms had not been exaggerated. Harry -gazed at her with such a look of admiration that I was convinced that he -concurred in the opinion expressed by the surgeon in regard to her -exceeding great beauty. Mr. Bramlett then made his appearance, and was -very enthusiastic and profuse in his thanks to Harry for saving his -little darling, as he called Viola. - -"'She is all we have, sir, and if she had been taken from us, it would -have been a fatal blow to our happiness. Words cannot express the -gratitude we feel toward you; and, as soon as you get well, we shall -talk more about it. I am a man of business, and not a man of many words; -therefore, you shall hear from me again when you get well;' then, -bending down, he gathered Viola to his heart, and as he kissed her -fervently, said: 'Go now, my darling, and get some choice flowers for -the little brave hero who risked his life to save you. You must be his -nurse, you know, and must keep him well supplied with flowers and iced -lemonade, etc., etc;' and before the sentence was finished Viola had -skipped off to collect the flowers. - -"Very soon she came in with her apron full of roses, pinks and -geraniums, and deposited them in great heaps on Harry's bed, filling the -chamber with their sweet odor. - -"'Now, Mr. Harry,' she said, 'there's your nice flowers; and, while you -are enjoying their fragrance, I must go and fetch you some lemonade and -ice. Papa is making the lemonade for you, and he told me to give you the -flowers, and then to come for the lemonade.' - -"She was gone but a moment, when she returned with a little tray, on -which sat three goblets full of lemonade and ice; giving the first -goblet to Harry, she then gave the other two to Lottie and me. When she -went out Harry said: 'Eddie, isn't she the sweetest little thing you -ever saw?" - -"'Yes, with one exception, undoubtedly,' I replied, casting a side -glance at Lottie. She understood my meaning, and blushed crimson as she -turned her face away. - -"'Of course you think Lottie is the prettiest, and I sha'n't quarrel -with you about that.' - -"I was delighted to see Harry so cheerful under his sufferings, because -it was plain that his wound was paining him. His leg was broken about -three inches above the ankle joint; but thanks to the skillful old -surgeon, no lameness or deformity resulted from it, and in less than -four weeks he was able to walk without crutches. The railroad men from -far and near came to see Harry, and they almost worshiped him. The old -engineer came every day to inquire how he was getting on, calling Harry -his brave little hero. Mrs. Bramlett was unremitting in her attention to -Harry, overwhelming him with grateful thanks. She said that her husband -had concluded to go with us to Memphis, and never to part from us until -he saw us safely landed with Harry's uncle. The days of Harry's -convalescence were days of unalloyed happiness to me; for I had nothing -to do but to saunter among the flowers with Lottie, while Harry was with -Viola all the time." - -The queen requested Ingomar to suspend a while. Then the party began to -promenade the deck. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. - - -SCOTTIE was leaning on the arm of Ivanhoe, as they promenaded the deck, -conversing in subdued tones. - -"Have you noticed that lady with black silk domino and yellow mask?" - -"No; what about her?" - -"That's she leaning on the arm of the old gentleman with long, white -whiskers. I suppose he is her father. Her movements have a mystery about -them that excited my curiosity. She has been listening to Ingomar -attentively all the time, yet she never speaks a word to any one, except -the old gentleman, nor does she mingle with our party; yet she follows -Ingomar wherever he goes, as though she was a spy on his track." - -"Indeed! that is strange; and to add to the mystery, I see that those -two seedy men have kept close to Ingomar all the time, and appear to be -in earnest conversation, which is always carried on in whispers. I think -something unusual will develop itself soon." - -"So do I; but I hope it will be nothing against Ingomar; I believe he is -a perfect gentleman." - -"I hope you may be right there; but it won't do to judge by -appearances." - -"Look, look! see that woman in the black domino! she is pointing at -Ingomar now, and whispering to the old gentleman. I heard her say in a -whisper to the same person last night that the suspense was killing her; -now, what could that mean?" - -"You are too much for me there; but we must wait patiently for further -developments; meantime, let us get our party together and hear more of -Ingomar's story." - -"Yes, yes; I am anxious to hear more; go see the queen, and ask her to -order the tale continued." - -"About five weeks after Harry had been hurt Mr. Bramlett came into his -room, and after talking for a few minutes on general topics, he handed -him a roll of bank bills, containing one thousand dollars. - -"'Take this, my brave little hero,' said he, 'as a present from Viola; -and if ever the time comes when you should need a friend, just write to -me, and I promise you that I will respond.' - -"'You are very, very kind, sir,' said Harry, as he bit his lips, and it -was plain to be seen that he was deeply offended, on handing the money -back; 'I hope you won't think me rude, sir, but I can't take your -money.' - -"I was greatly vexed at Harry's conduct; here was money enough to answer -all our demands; it seemed to me that no one but a crazy person would -refuse such a sum. - -"'Why, my little friend,' said Mr. Bramlett, 'you must allow me to show -my gratitude in some way; and how could I do it any better than by -helping you with ready money? You must think of your little sister; she -must be taken care of; and how can you do it unless you have money to -pay her board and buy her clothes?' - -"'I can work for her, sir, and so can Eddie; we shall both work for her; -I should feel like a beggar, sir, if I were to take your money.' - -"'All a mistake, I assure you; I have an ample fortune; you saved the -life of my darling Viola, and you must allow me to do something to show -my gratitude.' - -"'I was not thinking of money, sir, when I saved your daughter; I was -thinking of her.' - -"'No doubt, no doubt you were; but you have suffered much on account of -the gallant deed, and I shall be deeply mortified if you refuse to allow -me a chance to show how much I feel the obligation.' - -"'I am very sorry, sir, to hear you say that; but really, I cannot take -any money.' - -"'Suppose then, we make a trade. Let me loan you three thousand dollars -at five per cent. interest, taking your note, with Edward as security, -on condition that you use the money in completing the education of -yourself, your sister and Edward; then you study law, and when you begin -to make money at your profession, you shall pay my money back with -interest. What say you to that?' - -"'That would be worse; it would be receiving the money under false -pretenses; I can readily understand the kindness that prompts you to -make the offer, but as I never should be able to pay your money back, it -would not be right for me to take it.' - -"Mr. Bramlett left the room rather abruptly; he was vexed at Harry's -obstinacy, and when he went into his wife's room he said: 'That foolish -boy refuses to accept any aid from me; I declare it is too bad; it is a -shame to see them start out afoot again; he is the most high-strung -chap I ever saw; I'll resort to strategy; I'll employ some agent to look -after those children.' - -"'Allow me to make a suggestion,' said Mrs. Bramlett to her husband; 'as -we are going to Memphis, anyway, you might procure a situation for the -boys with some of your business friends in Memphis, and then you could -place money with your agent and have it paid to them in such sums as -they need, making them believe all the while that they are earning it; -that would keep them from feeling that they are objects of charity, for -to tell you the truth, I rather admire their high-strung notions, as you -call them. Of course they are too young to be of much service to -anybody, but it would encourage them if they could be made to think that -they were earning their support.' - -"'Thank you, dear, for the suggestion; it is the very thing. We will go -to Memphis to-morrow, and the matter shall be arranged.' - -"Of course, we were ignorant of this arrangement, and did not find it -out for many years afterward. I was at that time unable to support -Harry's independent views, and tried to argue the question with him, but -it was a failure on my part. - -"'I should despise myself,' said he, 'if I were to take the kind -gentleman's money, knowing that I never should be able to pay it back. -Then, perhaps, it would displease our uncle if he knew we had accepted -money in the way of charity.' - -"He went so far as to refuse to take the train with Mr. Bramlett until -that gentleman promised to furnish him employment as soon as we should -reach Memphis, by which we could re-imburse him for the money advanced -to pay our fare; and I don't believe he would have done that but for the -influence brought to bear on him by Viola, who threw her arms about his -neck and declared that she would cry her eyes out unless he went with -her to Memphis. - -"When we arrived at Memphis, Mr. Bramlett took us to the Worsham House, -promising to inquire for our uncle on the next day; and when he came -back, after having gone out for that purpose, and informed us that our -uncle had gone to California, with a view of making it his permanent -home, we began to realize the fact that we were now left all alone and -must think and act for ourselves. - -"'What are we to do now, Harry?' I inquired. - -"'We must seek employment at once,' said he, 'and we must lose no time -about it either. You stay with Lottie, and I'll go out and see what we -can get to do.' - -"Harry returned after three hours' absence, and the look of -disappointment that appeared on his face convinced me of his failure -before he told it. - -"'No one seems to want us,' he said gloomily, as he dropped exhausted on -a chair. 'I have met nothing but disappointment at every point; but I -will try again, when I get rested.' - -"Lottie wiped the perspiration from his brow with her handkerchief, and -ran her fingers through his hair. - -"You must get some work for me to do, too, Harry; you know how nicely I -can sew, and how neatly I can cut and fit a lady's dress. I shall make a -great deal of money, if you'll only get the work for me to do.' - -"'I know you would, Lottie, but no one will give us work. I fear, -because we are strangers here, and people don't like to trust strangers, -you know.' - -"'Papa has gone out to hunt work for you to do, Harry,' said Viola, as -she pushed Lottie gently away from her brother; 'you go and stay with -Eddie there, Miss Lottie, and leave me to look after Harry. I shall be -jealous, you know, if you pay so much attention to my hero. Speaking of -work, I heard papa say to mamma that he would find a good place for you -to live at before he left the city; then we are going to New Orleans, -and then we are going to Havana, and then we are going to come back here -to see you; and then won't we have lots of fun?' And stooping down with -her mouth to Harry's ear she said: 'I've got something nice for you, but -you must come with me to my room before I show it to you, because Eddie -and Lottie are not to see it at all, so come along now.' - -"Of course Harry went, and he was not prepared for the surprise which -she gave him, for she held up a large golden locket swinging to a heavy -gold chain. 'There it is; isn't it pretty? Papa gave seventy-five -dollars for it, and you must accept it as a present from me. You see it -has got my picture in it. I thought maybe you would like my picture to -look at when I am gone; for I'm sure I should like very much to have -yours to look at when I am so far away from you.' - -"'I shall wear this pretty picture next to my heart as long as I live, -and I shall always love the darling who gave it to me.' - -"'You must get your picture made, and give it to me before I go away, -won't you?' - -"Harry did not know what answer to make, for he knew that it required -money to have a picture made, and money was not his. - -"'Maybe so,' he said sadly. - -"'O! don't say that; you must not by any means refuse me your picture.' - -"'You shall have it as soon as I can earn the money to pay for it.' - -"'Never mind the money, I'll get that from papa; he always gives me -money when I ask him.' - -"'I should rather pay for it with my own money; then it would be a -present from me.' - -"I persuaded Harry to remain at the hotel until I should make a tour -through the city to try my luck in seeking employment. I went from house -to house, from one end of Main street to the other, asking at all places -for work; and then I went on Front row, and tried every business house -for employment, willing to do anything to make an honest living. I -offered to drive a dray, or to roll barrels, or any sort of work that -anybody might want done; but no one seemed to care to employ me. I -suppose it was my green and seedy appearance that went against me, and I -was returning to the hotel, completely overcome with fatigue and -disappointment, when I heard a familiar voice call my name. - -"'Ah, ha! here we are again, Eddie, old fellow; you are the very chap I -was looking for. Ah, ha! Eddie, what good luck?' - -"I was seized by both hands, and looking up, saw the kind eyes of old -Doctor Dodson bent on me. No one will ever know how my sad heart leaped -for joy when I heard his kind words. - -"'Yes, yes. Ah, ha! You were the very lad I wished to see. I have just -come to Memphis with a view of making it my home; I have bought a -drug-store, and mean to practice my profession here, and sell drugs -also, and I mean to put you in the store as my clerk, etc., etc. Ah, ha! -Eddie; yes, yes; you see it all now, don't you?' - -"I was so overjoyed with the news that I was unable to answer then; but -as soon as I could collect my ideas I thanked him and promised to accept -his kind offer. It was agreed that I should commence business with the -doctor on the next morning. - -"'Ah, ha! Eddie, all settled, you see; that's business. I mean to make a -great doctor out of you one of these days. You've got a splendid head -for a doctor. Ah, ha! that you have, my boy. There now, you may go until -to-morrow, and then to business, you know.' - -"I hastened to the hotel to impart the good news to Harry and Lottie, -and I must say that I had risen at least one hundred per cent, in my own -estimation. Wouldn't I now be able to support Lottie, and Harry, too? I -imagined that I should be able to support them with all ease; but that, -of course, was one of the childish dreams which often found lodgment in -my simple brain. When I returned to the hotel and imparted the good news -to Harry and Lottie, it made me very happy to see how much pleasure it -gave them. Meantime Mr. Bramlett had been arranging his plans, or rather -executing the plans he had determined on previously. He was seated in -the office of Mr. Rockland, an eminent lawyer, who had for many years -been his agent and adviser. - -"'Mr. Rockland,' said Mr. Bramlett, 'this is a delicate matter, and I -trust you with its management; and I may as well tell you now that it -will require some strategy, and much skill, to make the plan work -smoothly. I have never met with three such children. They are as proud -as Lucifer, and as independent as if they had the wealth of the -Rothchilds; and if they ever should suspect that the money comes from -me, the whole business goes overboard certain.' - -"'I see,' said the lawyer. 'I think I shall be able to manage the -business so as to accomplish what you wish. If I understand you -correctly, Mr. Bramlett, you want those children properly educated, and -then you want the boys to be put to the law as soon as their education -shall have been completed.' - -"'Just so, Mr. Rockland; you understand me correctly. I feel under great -obligations to young Mr. Wallingford, and have offered to show it by -aiding him, but he rejects my offer merely through pride; therefore I -mean to help him in this secret manner. I beg you not to stand back on -account of money--draw on me for all that may be necessary, and the cash -will come.' - -"'The description you have given of those children convinces me that my -task will be rather an agreeable one; because pride and independence are -by no means evil qualities, unless possessed by ignorant people; and -they are far from being ignorant, judging from what you have told me. -Mrs. Rockland will be glad to receive them, as we have no children of -our own; consequently, she leads rather a lonely existence; so you may -consider the matter settled.' - -"'Here is a card for Harry Wallingford,' said a bell-boy, as he dipped -his head in the door. - -"Harry read as follows: - - - "'HARRY WALLINGFORD: - - "'SIR--Please call at my office immediately. I wish to see you on - important business. Respectfully, - - N. ROCKLAND.' - - -"Harry went to the office without delay, while his mind was crowded with -conjectures as to what kind of business was to be discussed. He found -Mr. Rockland seated near a table covered with a huge mass of papers, -busily engaged looking over them, and when Harry entered the office the -old lawyer fixed his eyes on him for a moment as if measuring his worth. - -"'Take a seat, little man; I suppose you are Harry Wallingford?' - -"'Yes, sir.' - -"'Mr. Bramlett was speaking to me about you, and, by the by, he has -given you a very favorable recommendation, and I have concluded to offer -you employment, if we can agree on terms. I want a boy to help me in my -office, and you shall have the place, if you think it will suit you.' - -"'I shall be glad, sir, to get the place, and shall try to please you.' - -"'Very good; I shall not be able to offer you very large wages.' - -"'I could not expect it, sir.' - -"'Then to come to the point, I propose to board and clothe you and your -sister for the work you and she can do. She can be a sort of companion -to Mrs. Rockland. You see we have no children, therefore your sister -will no doubt be able to help Mrs. Rockland in many ways; meantime she -can go to school; so can you; but then you will have to work very hard, -because I shall require you to work mornings and evenings, and sometimes -late at night. This, you know, must be understood before we close the -contract. If I board, clothe and educate you and your sister, you see it -will require all the money that you and she could earn.' - -"'I am afraid, sir, we shall not be able to earn enough to pay for all -that.' - -"'I'll risk that; but you'll find I shall keep you very busy. And then I -must find a situation for your step-brother.' - -"'He has found a situation with Doctor Dodson, sir.' - -"'Oh! has he? That's lucky; then we are all right; is it a bargain -between us?' - -"'Yes, sir; and I am very thankful. When do you wish me to commence?' - -"'Stay with Mr. Bramlett until he starts to New Orleans, then bring your -sister to my house, and we shall go to work.' - -"When Harry came back his handsome face was beaming with pleasure; and -while relating what had occurred, he did not fail to congratulate Lottie -on the chances which she would have of securing an accomplished -education. Fortune seemed to have made up her mind on this occasion to -shower her brightest smiles on us all at once. Had she not provided us -with good homes, kind friends and all we could expect or wish for? And -right here I feel it to be my duty to express my thanks to old bob-tail -Robert; for it was all brought about by him. What a slice of good luck -it was that caused him to take a fancy to Lottie on that eventful night -when he came to our camp and began to lick her hand! I suppose Madame -Fortune had prompted him to do it. We never knew who was old Bob's -master before he concluded to cast his lot with us, but from his 'lean -and hungry look' we inferred that he had been serving a cruel master, -and that he was out on a foraging expedition when he happened to come -upon our camp. The night was dark, and I suppose he came near enough to -see Lottie's sweet face, as she sat gazing into the fire, and here is -the substance of what I imagine passed through old Bob's mind as he -peered into Lottie's face with his one eye: - -"'I am very hungry; the fact is, I am about to perish for food; my -master is unkind and cruel; instead of giving me food, he gives me -nothing but blows and curses, and I believe I shall run away from him, -and seek me another master. That little girl has a beautiful -countenance, and I expect she has a kind heart, and I think she would -have compassion on a poor old hungry dog like me; I believe I'll venture -up to her, and lick her hand, and maybe she will give me a bone to gnaw -on. Oh! how I wish I had a beautiful tail to wag, in order to make her -pity me. I am afraid my ugliness will frighten her, and if it does, I -shall be driven off, and then shall get no bone; but my poor stomach is -so empty, and my mouth waters so, that I shall venture up at all -hazards. If she drives me away it can't make matters worse, and if she -is kind and gives me a bone, I'll follow her, for her sweet face leads -me to think she'll do to tie to.' - -"Immediately after having the unuttered conversation with himself, old -Bob ventured up and licked Lottie's hand; the result was he got a medium -supper, and found that the favorable opinion he had formed as to the -kindness of her heart was by no means too extravagant. We know what -followed--at least we know that Bob followed Lottie, and we further know -that his fondness for rabbits led us to the gravel pit, which led us to -the gravel train which carried Harry to the embankment, where he saved -the life of Viola, whose father caused Mr. Rockland to give us good -homes, and this proves that it is better to give a poor dog kindness -than kicks. Now who knows what might have happened to us if old Bob had -not trusted to Lottie's kind face that night, or if she had taken a -stick and beaten him? I dare say we should have been wandering about the -streets of Memphis, friendless, houseless, and penniless; working for -our daily bread, and sleeping in some filthy, sickly den, while dear -Lottie would have been dressed in rags. But now, through her kindness to -poor old one-eyed, tailless Bob, she has got a splendid home, good -friends, fine clothes, and bright prospects unfolding themselves for the -future. Who will venture to deny that old Bob was possessed of good -judgment? Who will say that he did not make a good selection, when he -concluded to take Lottie for his mistress and protector? - -"'Well, here we are. Ah, ha! Eddie,' said Doctor Dodson next morning, -when he met me at the door of his new drug-store. 'I suppose you are -ready for business? Ah, ha!' - -"'Yes, sir.' - -"'Good, my boy, good!' - -"Then he began to instruct me as to the duties I was to perform, and -teaching me the names of the various kinds of drugs. I went to work with -the determination to succeed, and to please my kind-hearted employer. It -was but a few months before I knew the names of all the drugs, and could -make up the prescriptions with skill and safety; I was very proud to -find that the doctor was pleased with me. The doctor's wife was as kind -to me as if she had been my own mother, and, all things considered, I -had a happy home, and was contented. - -"Harry and Lottie were delighted with their new situations; but I did -not see them as often as I wished, though I went with Lottie to church -occasionally, and sat in the same pew with her, and read my prayers in -her book, and then mixed drugs and built air castles the remainder of -the week. But I am getting tired of talking about children, and I expect -my hearers are tired of it, too, and I shall therefore say but little -more about it. If I have bored you with too much talk of dogs and -children, I beg pardon, and promise to make a long leap over the space -of seven years. They were years of happiness to me--so were they to -Lottie and Harry. Lottie is eighteen, and more beautiful than ever. The -large dreamy eyes are the same, but the tall, queenly form has filled -out, presenting a model that an artist would delight to paint from. The -stamp of intellect was sparkling on her white brow, and she was (as I -thought then, and think now) the most charming girl that my eyes had -ever looked upon. Harry had made rapid progress in his legal studies, -and would be ready to enter on his professional career by the time he -was twenty-one; while I was an overgrown, awkward young man, rather shy, -and sneaky when in the presence of strangers; though I had studied -closely, and Doctor Dodson said I would some day be a great physician. -It was arranged that I should attend the lectures in Philadelphia, and I -thought it best to have an understanding with Lottie before I left. I -had never asked her to be my wife. I became jealous and unhappy because -Lottie was surrounded by devoted admirers, many of whom were men of -wealth and high social standing; and I was alarmed lest I should after -all lose the great prize. But let us rest a while, and I'll tell more -about it in the next chapter." - - - - -CHAPTER IX. - - -"Lottie had been at the Bards Town School in Kentucky for four years; -but she usually spent the summer vacation at home. She graduated with -the highest honors, having won the first prize in Greek, Latin and -French, and triumphantly carried off the costly gold cup offered for the -best original poem. There were two things combined which contributed to -her success. In the first place, she possessed the active brain, and the -ambition; and in the second place, she had been trained and taught much -of the time by Mr. Rockland before she went to the Kentucky school. The -iron lawyer would often take her into his library and make her recite -lesson after lesson, when he would lecture her on the different branches -of her studies. Then he would stray away into ancient and modern -history, poetry and politics, spending hours in expounding them to the -mind that was so able and willing to grasp the meaning. He would often -make Lottie draw up bills in chancery--write pleas and declarations -under his direction. Then he would explain all the legal points in some -important case, and request her to look up the law and arrange his -brief. It was a remarkable fact that Mr. Rockland would neglect his best -paying clients in order to cram his solid ideas into Lottie's grasping -mind. - -"'Ed, she will be home to-morrow,' said Harry Wallingford as he ran his -hand under my arm and walked down the street by my side. 'I have just -received a telegram from her; she left Bards Town this morning, and is -now in Louisville. Mr. Rockland is going to give a grand ball in honor -of her great triumph as the champion prize-taker at Bards Town. I -suppose you have heard about her wonderful victory?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'See here, old fellow, is that all you have to say in praise of this -wonderful sister of mine? What is the matter with you, anyway? You look -as if you wanted to murder somebody.' - -"'There is nothing wrong with me at all, and I am glad to hear of -Lottie's grand achievements,' I replied rather dryly, because I had -begun to discuss with my mind on the probabilities of losing Lottie. I -knew full well that many a gallant knight would be ready to leap into -the arena as a contestant for the charming prize--ready to battle to the -death to win the hand and heart of the most lovely, the most beautiful -and the most talented girl in Tennessee. When I weighed my chances well -I was forced to the conclusion that they were too light to go into the -balances against many other young men who I knew were going to enter the -lists. Lottie had always manifested a partiality for me, but I was -afraid that it was more a feeling of sisterly love than anything else. -During our childhood days we had often talked of the feelings of true -love which we had for each other; but Lottie was now a woman, and I did -not want her to love me as a brother. I had no money, and but little -education--was green and awkward, timid and ugly, and had no confidence -in myself; but I was determined to break many a lance before a rival -should carry off the great prize. - -"Mr. Rockland was so deeply in love with Lottie that it amounted to -idolatry, and it was generally believed, and publicly expressed, that he -would settle his large fortune on her. He was extravagant in the -expenditure of money for her comfort; in fact, he poured it out like -water to gratify her slightest wish, though she was rather inclined to -be economical and prudent. She seemed to think more of her books and -music than she did of dress and display. - -"'Ed, old boy,' exclaimed Wallingford, after a long pause, 'did you know -that I was very proud of my sister?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'Ah, yes, I tell you what it is, she is ahead of any girl in Memphis, -so far as intelligence and goodness are concerned. Mrs. Rockland says -that she is going to set Lottie out when the ball comes off.' - -"'How set her out?' - -"'Pshaw! don't you know what they mean by setting a girl out? Of course -you do. When a girl is ready to receive matrimonial propositions they -set her out; that is, they hang out the sign. As the gamblers say, they -spread their lay-out, don't you see? Well, Mrs. Rockland is going to rig -Lottie up and throw her at the heads of the male community, as it were. -Now, Ed, let me tell you one thing: I mean to have something to say in -that little skirmish, and the man who marries my sister must be the -reliable sort. If any sap-head bumpkin begins to caper around Lottie, -I'll just give him unlimited leave of absence; and if he don't take it, -I'll wring off his head.' - -"'Do you intend to marry her to a rich man; or shall she marry for -love?' - -"'Of course she shall marry the man of her choice, provided he is of the -right stamp. I don't care about the length of his purse, but he must -have brains, and a heart of the right sort, and he must have an -established reputation for honor and integrity. If any man were to marry -my sister and be unkind to her, don't you know I would kill him?' - -"'I should be inclined to do such a man some great bodily harm myself.' - -"'Thank you, Ed, I believe you would; and well you might, because, you -know, Lottie always loved you as a brother.' - -"I felt my heart make a sudden leap and drive the blood to my cheeks -when he spoke of brotherly love. I wanted none of that sort. I felt -miserable, and was unable to conceal my feelings. - -"'By-by, old boy,' said Wallingford, as he turned into the street that -led to his office. 'You must call and see us when Lottie gets home.' - -"I bowed stiffly, said nothing, and hurried on to my home by no means -satisfied with the prospects. 'They are going to set her out, are they?' -I said mentally. 'Good! I'll be there when the show begins, and though -my chance is slim, yet I'll die hard, if die I must.' I made a draw on -Doctor Dodson for cash to pay for a first-class ball dress, and felt -profoundly thankful to my tailor for the skill he displayed in the -make-up. I did not call to see Lottie when she arrived, because I wanted -to appear at the ball in my splendid new costume, so as to take a fair -start in the matrimonial tilt I knew the other young men would make. - -"Grand indeed were the preparations that were being made for the great -ball, and the young people who had been so fortunate as to receive an -invitation were looking forward impatiently to the eventful day; and no -one thought about it more anxiously than I did. I was very full of -apprehension and doubt in regard to Lottie's feelings toward me, and I -propounded a thousand questions to my own mind about it. 'Will she look -down from the high circle where fortune has placed her to the humble -sphere in which I am doomed to dwell? or will she forget the poor -awkward boy who, in the happy days of old, was glad to kiss the dust -that had felt the touch of her little feet? Why should she stoop so low -as to even think of me? What right have I, a poor half-educated clerk, -to expect such a brilliant, beautiful heiress to lavish her favors on -me, when men of wealth and high position are ready to lay their honors -and wealth at her feet? What right have I to aspire so high?' -'None--none--none!' was thundered in my ear by Common Sense, as the -answer to my mental questions. 'Miss Charlotte Wallingford is not for -your sort,' said Reason. 'She is fit for the wife of a king!' 'Yes, but -I saved her life,' said my Mind, 'and she is under obligations to me.' -'True enough,' Reason replies, 'but it does not follow that she must -marry you. Women's lives are often saved by their servants, yet they do -not marry them.' 'But it will kill me if Miss Wallingford marries any -other man.' 'No matter if it does--why should she care? the world will -never feel the loss--the sun will shine as bright, the flowers grow as -sweet, and the seasons will come and go after you are dead just as they -did when you were alive.' With such unpleasant reflections as these I -had managed to work my mind up to an unusual degree of excitement. I -became gloomy and unhappy to such an extent as to attract the attention -of my good mother (as I called Mrs. Dodson), and she begged me to tell -her the cause of my misery. I evaded her questions, and sought solitude, -where I could give vent to my sorrow unmolested. She cast many an -imploring look at me when I would leave my food untasted. My cheeks grew -pale and my appetite failed, and I hugged my misery to my breast, and -told my secret to none. I was proud, and felt offended, but had no -reasons to give for it. No one had been unkind to, or in any manner -maltreated me, yet I was querulous, melancholy and despairing. - -"'Ah, ha! here we come, my boy,' said Doctor Dodson one morning as he -came into the store. 'What's the matter, what's the matter, Ed, my boy? -speak it out, speak it out, let it come; what makes you look like a -ghost, my boy? Pshaw! don't tell me such a tale as that, my boy, ah, ha! -don't you do it, I say; indigestion! did you ever know a Russian bear to -have bad digestion? No, no, Ed, my boy, you needn't try to fool me--you -can't do it. The disease is in your mind, ah, ha! don't you see? Yes, -yes, that's what's the matter. Something has gone wrong. I'd say it was -a love scrape, if it was any other boy; but my old booby has too much -sense for anything of that sort; ah, ha! don't you see how it is, my -boy?' - -"I soon became convinced that the good old doctor would pry the secret -out of me unless I resorted to falsehood, which I resolved not to do; -therefore I begged him to let me alone, promising to tell him everything -at the end of ten days. - -"'Ah, ha! very good, my boy; I won't press you further just now, but I -mean to hold you down to your promise, don't you see? I won't let you go -to Philadelphia while you are looking like a defunct specimen of -humanity, ah, ha! don't you see? You look more like a fit subject for a -grave-yard than a medical school, ah, ha! yes, that you do, my boy. -There now, go to work, and quit this moping about as if you wanted to -sneak into a tomb.' - -"I was glad when the doctor was called to see one of his patients. - -"At last the time for the grand ball arrived, and I had arranged my -toilet with unusual care. My good mother had been persuading me to send -my card to Miss Ella Willchester, a charming young lady residing just -across the street from our house, but it would have required the -strength of a forty horse-power engine to make me escort any other girl -to Lottie's ball. I thought it would be treason to her if I offered any -favors to any other girl. The fact is, I could not think of anybody else -but Lottie; her image was floating before my eyes by day, and swimming -in my mind when I was asleep. I did not make my appearance at the ball -until after ten o'clock, for I wanted to slip in quietly, unobserved, in -order that I might see whether Lottie had even so much as thought about -me. I must acknowledge that I felt rather sheepish when I was going -round so as to come in at the side entrance, hoping to get in unnoticed. -The band commenced playing a lively waltz as I stepped on the veranda at -the end of the ball-room, and a dozen couples went whirling round and -floating gracefully through the hall. I took a seat on a chair near a -window, where I could peep between the folds of the rich lace curtains -and watch the movements of the guests within. I noticed a half dozen -young men crowd round a young lady whose back was toward me. They were -struggling with, and jostling each other, all apparently eager to get a -word with the young lady. Who was the fair one that attracted such -attention? was the question that came up in my mind. I could see the -tall, queen-like form, but could not get a view of her face. The square -shoulders and straight body, the beautiful arms and bright golden hair -were visible, but my mind was full of curiosity to know who she was. I -thought it might be Lottie, but then she was too tall--or at least I -concluded that after a moment's reflection. It was Lottie, nevertheless, -and I had lost sight of the fact that it had been nearly a year since I -had seen her. She abruptly left the crowd of admirers. - -"'Excuse me a moment, please,' I heard her say as she went to her -brother, who occupied a seat just inside the room, and within six feet -of where I was. 'Brother, has Eddie come yet?' I heard the question -distinctly. - -"'No; I don't think he has,' was the reply. - -"'I am afraid he is ill, else he would have been here long ago.' - -"'Pshaw! sister, never mind Ed; he isn't the sort that gets sick.' - -"'Oh, I am so sorry he is not here!' - -"I could bear it no longer; my heart was again in my throat, and I -thrust my hand in between the curtains, and said: 'I did not expect you -would have time to spare a thought about me on such an occasion as -this.' - -"She uttered a smothered scream, sprang through the door, and seized -both of my hands and began to jerk them up and down. Never had my eyes -beheld such a lovely object as the one then before me, such radiant -beauty, such lofty, dazzling charms, such large, liquid blue eyes and -bright golden hair, such round, pretty arms, such a tall, stately form! -Nothing could match this angelic creature! I was stunned--surprised, and -almost paralyzed, as I stood staring with open mouth at the wonderful -beauty before me. 'Is this Lottie? Can this be the same little blue-eyed -thing who tramped so many miles by my side long, long ago?' That was the -question that naturally forced itself on my mind. I could not realize -the fact that this radiant model of perfection and the little -sore-footed tramp were one and the same person. - -"'I am going to give you a real good scolding, Eddie,' she said as she -still held both of my hands tightly clasped in hers. 'Why have you not -come to see me before now; and what made you come so late to-night; and -what made you slip in here and hide as if you had been doing a mean -thing?' - -"All I could do was to stand like an idiot, staring at the indescribable -beauty before me, unable to utter a word. I then and there concluded -that she never would be mine. No such woman could ever come down low -enough to be the wife of a half-educated pill-maker. - -"'What is the matter, Eddie?' she exclaimed in an anxious tone, as she -cast a look of surprise at me. 'You are ill--your hands are very cold, -and your face is as pale as death.' - -"'No, I am very well, I thank you,' I managed with a struggle to say. - -"'You are trying to deceive me, but you cannot do it; you have been -ill?' - -"'Partners for a quadrille!' exclaimed the leader of the band, and three -young men made a dash toward Lottie, each one claiming her as a partner. -She took the arm of Mr. Heartsell, after some little controversy as to -whose turn it was to dance with her, and soon was floating through the -waltz with him. - -"'By Jupiter! She is a stunner, ain't she, Sam?' exclaimed a dandyfied -youth as Heartsell led her away. - -"'Your head's level, and don't you forget it!' replied the one -addressed, who was a little, hook-nosed law student with but a small -amount of brains and lots of brass. - -"Wherever I went I could hear groups of young men lavishing their -extravagant praises on the wonderful young beauty who had so suddenly -blazed down among them like a newly discovered planet. - -"As soon as Lottie was released from Heartsell she came back to me. -'Eddie,' said she, 'I want you to enjoy yourself here to-night, and you -must let me introduce you to some of these charming young ladies. I -heard one expressing an anxiety to be introduced to that tall, handsome -young gentleman with the shaggy whiskers. I think she is smitten with -both you and your whiskers; come, let me introduce you!' - -"'No, you must excuse me--Lottie, I will not dance to-night, unless it -is with you.' - -"'Indeed, you do me great honor, and I'll put you down for the third -set, as I am engaged for the next two, and would have been for every -other one but I declined the honor. You must excuse me now--I am acting -hostess to-night, as mother is not very well.' - -"I waited for my turn with no small degree of impatience, as I sat like -a picture against the wall watching Lottie as she glided like a fairy -through the mazes of the dance. She was dressed in white satin, trimmed -with lace of the most exquisite and costly pattern, with close and -smooth-fitting body, which set off her round, straight form to great -advantage. A cluster of sparkling diamonds fastened both ends of a pearl -necklace which met on her bosom, while a large white rose was pinned at -her throat with a little golden arrow; and a broad band of gold -encircled each wrist, while a large amethyst set glittered from each one -of the bracelets. Her long, golden hair was coiled up in two plaited -rolls, and pinned on the back of her head with a pair of Cupid-darts set -in diamonds. I never had seen Lottie so exquisitely dressed before, -although she was always very particular and neat in her toilet. Mr. -Rockland had ordered her set of diamonds from New York especially for -that occasion. - -"At last the time arrived when I was to waltz with her, and I would have -been glad to offer an excuse, because I was trembling like one in an -ague fit, and felt as if I were going to make a botch of it. I knew I -was clumsy, awkward, and a novice at the business, and just as I was -about to stammer out an excuse, the band struck up a lively waltz, and -Lottie seized me without ceremony and almost dragged me to the middle of -the floor. I imagined that the eyes of every one in the room were gazing -at me, and I was about half right, for my tall, gawky form loomed up -above all the other men, which attracted the attention of the -spectators. When we began to whirl round the room Lottie let her cheek -rest on my shoulder; and I felt her cool sweet breath fanning my face, -while her beautiful eyes gazed up into mine with an expression of -unmixed delight. I had not failed to notice how differently she acted -when waltzing with me from what she did with other men. Her fair cheek -had never touched another man's shoulder on that night, and no one had -been able to keep her on the floor as long as I did. I soon became -warmed up, and my blood boiled with the intoxicating influence of the -music, and the love for the girl whose cheek rested on my shoulder. I -forgot everything but the dear idol who was so near my heart, and would -have kept whirling round until my limbs gave way under me, but the music -ceased, and I led Lottie to a seat; but I did not get a chance to enjoy -her company many moments before she was surrounded by a crowd of young -men, who insisted on leading her to the piano. The musicians had laid -down their instruments, and were enjoying a smoke on the veranda, and -Lottie was urged to sing. I drew as near as I could, and took my stand -on her left. She ran her fingers rapidly over the keys and then asked me -what she should sing. - -"'Give us something to remind us of olden times!' - -"'Very well, here is one of my own invention: - - "'In the happy days of yore - A hero loved me then. - Let my tears of sorrow pour, - My happy days are o'er, - For he loves me now no more-- - He loved me truly then. - - "'Oh, what bliss it is to know - A hero loved me then! - His young heart was all aglow, - And as pure as driven snow; - I must let my hero go. - He loved me truly then. - - "'All the happy days are past-- - A hero loved me then. - This poor heart is o'ercast - With sorrow's consuming blast, - My hero broke it at last, - He loved me truly then. - - "'I remember every vow-- - A hero loved me then. - It crowds my memory now, - For he kissed me on the brow, - Then he sweetly told me how - He loved me truly then.' - -"Every time she lingered on the words 'A hero loved me then,' her eyes -were raised to mine for a moment and I thought I saw an appealing look -in them, and a glance of inquiry. When she came to the last three lines -her voice trembled slightly, and when she fixed her beautiful eyes on me -I saw that they were moist, though no tears fell from them. She repeated -the last three lines in a low, plaintive tone. - -"For a few seconds after the last sweet sound had ceased not a word was -spoken. Lottie declined to sing any more, notwithstanding she was urged -to do so by the entire audience, but she rose from the piano and made -her way to me, and running her arm under mine, said: - -"'Come, Eddie, take me out where we can get a little fresh air--I am -smothering in here.' - -"The proposition suited me admirably, for I was anxious to be alone with -her, and went out on the portico and began to walk up and down the -floor, while Lottie leaned on my arm, with her face turned up toward -mine. I was too happy to talk; my heart thrilled with delight, and I -remained silent. After making a few rounds on the portico without -speaking, we took seats on a low wooden bench, where a thick cluster of -honeysuckle vines formed a canopy that would conceal us from the prying -eyes of Mr. Heartsell and two other young men who were apparently -watching us. - -"'Now, Edward,' said Lottie, 'I want you to tell me what is the matter -with you? Come now, don't try to deceive me, for you know you cannot do -it. I have not seen you smile to-night. You don't look or act as you did -in the happy days of old. You were always cheerful and pleasant then, -but you look pale and serious now.' - -"'Lottie, I know I could not deceive you if I were to try; but I have no -wish to do anything of the sort. I am unhappy, but I do not know that I -could give any good reason for it. One thing, however, I will say, and -that is I think we shall never see any more such happy days as we have -spent together. I see a great gulf beginning to flow in between you and -me, which sooner or later will drive us apart forever!' - -"'Pshaw! Edward, you ought not to talk that way--it pains me deeply to -hear it. No gulf could be made wide enough to separate me from such a -dear, good, noble _brother_ as you have been to me; but what do you mean -when you speak of a gulf coming between us?' - -"'You have an accomplished education, a superior mind, as well as very -great beauty, and are to be a great heiress. Mr. Rockland is proud and -wealthy, and is very fond of you, he will expect you to marry some -distinguished man of his own choosing. I may be mistaken, but I don't -think he would be pleased to have me as a frequent visitor at his house. -He did not speak to me to-night, but cast on me a cold, contemptuous -look, and bowed stiffly.' - -"'Now see here, Edward, in the first place, I think you are very much -mistaken in supposing Mr. Rockland dislikes you. He is naturally a very -stern, sad man, but he has a warm, tender heart, and I believe he loves -me dearly; but I tell you now plainly that the man who hates my dear, -noble brother must hate me too. And when it comes to the question of -matrimony, I guess I will have something to say about that. In the first -place, I do not want to marry at all, and in the next place, I shall be -very certain never to marry any man unless I love him with all my -heart!' - -"While she was uttering the words just mentioned she made the heels of -her little boots clatter against the floor rapidly, and I could see by -the sparkle of her eyes that she meant what she said. I was partially -pleased, and partially vexed--pleased to hear her say that she never -would marry any man unless she loved him; vexed to hear her speak of her -love toward me as a dear _brother_--I wanted a different sort of love. -She now took the beautiful white rose from her throat and put it in the -button-hole of my coat, and while she was doing so her lovely face was -within three inches of mine, and I felt her cool breath gently touching -my cheek. When she finished the job, over which I thought she lingered a -long time, she gave me a gentle slap on the cheek and said: - -"'There, now, that is very nice; and I want you to drive away that ugly -frown from your brow, and go in and help me to entertain my guests. Will -you do it?' - -"'Yes, Lottie, you know I will do anything to please you; but stop a -moment--I want to know what you meant by composing such a song as the -one you sang a moment ago? Who is it that loved you truly then, and -loves you now no more?' - -"'Ask me no questions, and I will tell you no falsehoods, but I guess -you could answer that question better than I could. But come along -now--we must go in, for I heard some one inquiring for me; give me your -arm, and don't forget the ugly frown.' - -"'Trust me now, Lottie, and I'll be as polite to your guests as a French -dancing master.' - -"'Good enough, Edward! so come along.' - -"We returned to the ball-room, when Mr. Heartsell came up to engage -Lottie as his partner for the next set. - -"'I beg you to excuse me, Mr. Heartsell--I am going to dance with Mr. -Demar in this set.' - -"Now here was unmistakable evidence of partiality on Lottie's part -toward me, for I had not asked her to dance with me; in fact, I had not -intended to dance any more that night. - -"My self-conceit went up to a premium, my heart swelled with -indescribable delight, and I began to think that after all I was not to -be laid entirely on the shelf. I knew that Heartsell was going to be a -suitor for Lottie's hand, and I considered him my most dangerous rival, -as I was aware of the fact that he was Mr. Rockland's favorite. He bit -his lip with vexation as I led Lottie off to begin the waltz, while a -feeling of triumph swelled up in my bosom. When the waltz was ended, -Lottie parted from me as she whispered: - -"'Now, Eddie, remember my guests, and try to help to entertain them.' - -"As she left me, Heartsell drew up in front of me, and stared at me for -a moment, while I thought that I perceived something like a sneer of -contempt play for a second on his face. 'Hullo, Demar!' he exclaimed, -'where did you get that beautiful white rose?' - -"'That, sir, was fastened here by the prettiest girl in this room,' I -replied, haughtily, as I drew myself up and walked away. I saw his -cheeks grow purple with anger as he went toward Lottie, who was talking -with a middle-aged lady near by. - -"'Miss Wallingford,' he said as he bowed low before her, 'will you honor -me with a short interview?' - -"Without uttering a word, Lottie took his arm and was led out through a -side door which opened on the corridor. They came round on the outside -of the room and stopped within six feet of the seat where I was, and -immediately opposite a window, the sash of which was up, but the -curtains were down. I knew from the tone of Mr. Heartsell's voice that -he was angry with Lottie about something. - -"'You seem to be enjoying yourself better than usual to-night.' - -"'Why should I not enjoy myself when I am among so many good kind -friends?' - -"'I am truly glad to see you enjoying the society of your very good -_friend_.' - -"'Why do you choose to use the singular number?' - -"'Because if you have any more than one friend (and I am happy to -believe you have), you have been very careful to avoid letting them know -that you recognized them.' - -"'Why, Mr. Heartsell, how can you be so unjust as to say that?' - -"'How many times have you danced with me to-night?' - -"'Once.' - -"'How many times with Mr. Campston?' - -"'I have not danced with him at all.' - -"'Did he ask you?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'How many sets have you danced with Demar?' - -"'Two.' - - "'"Now, in the name of all the gods at once, upon what meat doth - this our Caesar feed that he is grown so great? Why, _man_, he doth - bestride the narrow world like a Colossus, and we petty men walk - under his huge legs and peep about to find ourselves dishonorable - graves."' - -"'If your sarcasm is intended for Mr. Demar, I beg permission to say -that you might find a dishonorable grave without peeping about his legs -to find it.' - -"'Oh, I crave your pardon, Miss Wallingford, I assure you I meant no -offense; but candidly, I should be glad to know what Demar has done to -entitle him to such distinguished privileges? How is it that this great -Caesar can monopolize the beauteous belle of the ball, while we petty men -must peep about among common people to find ourselves partners?' - -"'Mr. Heartsell, it is not agreeable for me to listen to wit of this -nature, because Mr. Demar has been to me a devoted friend, a true, -noble, unselfish brother. Look at that scar on my wrist, if you please.' - -"'Well, I see it; what about that?' - -"'That scar was made by the poisonous fangs of a rattlesnake, and I -would have died in ten minutes but that this generous, heroic brother -drew the poison from my veins with his lips, and came very near losing -his own life by the brave deed. Well may you compare him with Caesar, -because, while you do it in jest, I will do it in earnest, for his -courage entitles him to all the honors that an inexperienced girl like -me can bestow. If it should be my pleasure to grant him more favors -than I do to other gentlemen, I trust I can do so without giving offense -to them.' - -"'Ah, Miss Wallingford, you are an eloquent orator, and if Caesar did -have his friend Marcus Antonius to defend him, Demar has a more eloquent -defender in you. I envy him, and would make any sacrifice to win such -favors as fall to his share. I dare say you are quite lucky to have two -such brave, good brothers as Demar and Wallingford.' - -"'Indeed, I think so, and am happy in the thought, too.' - -"'By the by, Miss Wallingford, you have lost that beautiful white rose -that I saw on your throat a while ago.' - -"'You are mistaken, sir, I did not lose it.' - -"'Ah, indeed! I asked you to give it to me, and you refused; you -certainly did not present it to another gentleman?' - -"'And why should I not give it to whom I pleased; was it not mine?' - -"'Hem! yes, I cannot deny that, but such partiality as that would clip -an insult very close, and I am loth to believe such a charming lady as -Miss Wallingford would offer an indignity to one who loves and who -esteems her so highly as I do.' - -"'Now, Mr. Heartsell, I should be very unhappy if I thought I had given -you any just cause for offense, but in this instance I must say it -appears to me that you are manufacturing a mountain out of a mole-hill. -If you desire it, I will present you with a basketful of roses this -instant.' - -"'No, no; you shall do nothing of the sort. It was not the rose itself -that I cared for, but it was the emblem which would have come with it. -May I know who was the lucky donee?' - -"'Certainly you may, for I assure you there is no secret connected with -it. I had the _honor_ (she put the accent heavy on the honor) to present -the rose to my noble, heroic brother, Edward Demar.' - -"Now we should never use extravagant language, and we should worship no -living being except God; but on that particular occasion I confess I -committed such a sin; though if the recording angel sets it down against -me, I believe he will credit me with a partial justification, at least. -How could I sit there and hear the most charming woman in America -boasting of the _honor_ she had done herself by presenting a rose to -me, and not feel an inclination to fall down and worship her? How could -I hear her dear voice sounding eloquently in praise of me, without -thinking extravagant thoughts? The fact is, I was so much excited that -they might have heard the loud throbbings of my heart, if they had -listened. I determined, however, to put an end to Mr. Heartsell's little -_tete-a-tete_, because I knew it would please her. I went round on the -north side and passed across, coming up to where they stood, and coughed -as I approached, in order to notify Lottie of my arrival. - -"'Your friends will be curious to know what has become of their fair -hostess, Miss Wallingford,' I observed, as I halted by her side. - -"'Ah, thank you, _brother_, for reminding me of my duty,' she replied, -as she took my arm and bowed stiffly to Heartsell. 'We will finish our -little quarrel at another time, sir.' - -"'No, no; the victory is yours, and I make an unconditional surrender. -Render unto Caesar that which is his, but don't crowd things on him that -don't belong to him.' - -"'That fellow Heartsell is an impertinent scamp, and I mean to tell him -so.' - -"'If you do you will displease me beyond measure, for I think he is a -perfect gentleman; I am ashamed to say that I have treated him rather -unkindly to-night, and I mean to apologize as soon as I have an -opportunity.' - -"'Oh! very well, if you love him, you should let him know it by all -means!' - -"'See here, Edward, I must request you not to mention Mr. Heartsell's -name in my presence any more to-night; and I will also ask you to excuse -me now, as I must really mingle among my guests, and give them some -attention.' - -"Then she left me, and soon was surrounded by a crowd of young men. I -did not have a chance to talk with her any more that night, and when I -went home my mind was full of strange conjectures and conflicting -emotions. One question appeared to be pretty well settled, and that was -a perfect knowledge on my part that all my hopes of happiness would be -destroyed if Lottie should refuse to marry me. Love is a strange -passion, and no one knows how it can upset a man's equanimity, unless he -has learned it by actual experience. It is a passion that produces -indescribable happiness to those who are loved in return, but of all the -distressing pains and horrible torture that mortal man ever felt, that -which he suffers when his mind is racked with doubt on that subject is -the greatest. I had resolved a hundred times to have that question -settled, but when in Lottie's presence my tongue was paralyzed and my -brain refused to lay out a sensible idea. I had ordered a jeweler to -make an exquisite gold ring, with a beautiful diamond set, and had -Lottie's and my name engraved on the inside. This I had carried in my -pocket for two weeks, intending to ask her to accept it as an engagement -ring, but for reasons already stated I failed to do it. I had written -out and memorized what I supposed to be an eloquent speech, which I -intended to deliver with the ring, but my courage oozed out the very -moment those large, beautiful blue eyes set their sight on me. Lottie -had a strange habit of looking me square in the face, which never failed -to set my limbs to trembling and my heart to thumping. I was considered -a privileged guest at Mr. Rockland's house, not by him, but by Lottie, -and I visited there often, and was frequently so unlucky as to meet Mr. -Heartsell there, and sometimes other young men who had entered the -lists. I watched Lottie very closely, but I could not tell whether she -loved any one of her suitors or not. So far as I was able to judge, she -treated all alike. - -"I spent at least three days of each week strolling about by Lottie's -side, half crazy with love for her, sometimes buoyed up with hope, at -others struggling with suspense and despair. Summer was about to step -out, and autumn was ready to walk in. The weather was hot and dry, while -dust and heat hung about over all things. Vegetation was parched and -withered by the long drought, while gloom and dust combined to make me -very miserable, except when I was lingering with Lottie in her beautiful -flower garden, which, owing to her industry, was always delightful and -cool, for she had everything thoroughly watered every evening. The east -side of her garden was thickly shaded with young magnolias, whose broad -green leaves protected the thick velvety turf that covered the ground -beneath. The west side was set apart for flowers alone, and -notwithstanding the protracted drought that had prevailed, they looked -as fresh and vigorous as they did in May and June. Old Uncle Zack, as -Lottie called the old negro gardener, was always anxious to please his -pretty nightingale (a pet name he had given Lottie). During her -attendance at the Kentucky school, Uncle Zack had been the manager of -her garden and her birds, and on her return she found that the duty had -been faithfully performed. A charming summer-house stood near the east -boundary of the garden, all covered over with clustering vines and -blooming roses. It was at this delightful spot that I had spent so many -happy hours with Lottie. A large wooden table sat in the center of the -summer house, and low willow chairs were ranged around the sides, and -when the weather was fine the table was covered with books, maps, sheet -music, drawing materials, magazines and a guitar. Lottie called this her -study, for that was the delightful spot where she practiced music and -drawing and reviewed her studies generally. - -"The time when I was to start to Philadelphia for the purpose of -attending the medical lectures was near at hand, and still I had not -been able to muster up the courage to make my love known to her. Doctor -Dodson was anxious for me to start immediately, because he was uneasy -about my health, which was on the decline, but he had no suspicions as -to the cause. He thought that a trip to the sea-coast would be -beneficial; then he had some business at New York and Boston which he -wanted me to transact for him. I could have told him that no journey -would restore my health. There was one thing, and only one, that could -ever bring health and happiness back to me. I knew that could I be -assured of Lottie's love, all would be well with me; but if that was -denied, I never would know health or happiness any more. - -"One sultry evening near the end of August, when the sun was about to -disappear in the West, after having scorched and burned the earth for -twelve consecutive hours, I found myself lingering in the summer-house -by Lottie, where I had been for a long time trying to collect the -necessary courage to tell her of my love. - -"'Sing one more song for me, Lottie, before I go, please,' said I, as I -drew my chair closer to hers. - -"'What shall it be?' she inquired, as she picked up her guitar and began -to run her fingers over the strings. - -"'I would like to hear the one you sang the night of the ball--I do not -know its name. It says something about a hero who loved you in the happy -days of old, who loves you now no more.' - -"'Oh, yes; I never will forget that song, for it is one of my favorites, -and my own composition. Do you like it, Edward?' - -"'I like to hear you sing it, but I do not think I like the sentiment, -for I am sure no one ever loved you in the days of old who does not love -you now.' - -"I saw a crimson tinge steal over her cheeks, as her beautiful eyes were -for a moment fixed on me. - -"'A hero did love me, long ago, anyway, though I don't know so well -about it now; but let that pass--we poor, foolish women should never -complain about anything.' - -"She then began to tune the instrument, which was suspended by a broad -blue ribbon that passed over her left shoulder and was tied to a little -brass hook in each end of the guitar. - -"Lottie's voice seemed to be in excellent tune, and in all respects -under her control, though it was low and tremulous; and when she came to -the line that said, 'He loves me now no more,' she looked me full in the -face, and repeated the line in a pathetic tone that brought the tears to -my eyes. Every vein in my body was full of hot blood. When Lottie came -to the last three lines her voice sank to a mere whisper, and I could -see that some unusual emotion was at work in her bosom. She paused a -moment as the sweet echo of her voice gradually died away, and then she -turned round, and fixing her eyes upon me, repeated the last verse: - - "'I remember every vow-- - A hero loved me then. - It crowds my memory now, - For he kissed me on the brow, - Then he sweetly told me how - He loved me truly then.' - -"She laid the guitar down and turned her face another way, and as I -leaned forward slightly, I saw something like a drop of dew trembling -on her cheek. That little trembling tear settled my fate. An -unaccountable boldness came upon me, and all my timidity disappeared, -and I was rash, impetuous, and I might say rude, because I seized her -hand and pressed it to my lips a dozen times in rapid succession. My -impetuosity seemed to astonish and frighten her, and she began to move -away. - -"'It is time I was in the house, Edward,' said she as she moved away; -'mother will be calling me if I don't go.' - -"'No, no, Lottie!' I exclaimed as I moved toward her; 'don't go now; -remember I am going away next week, to stay a long, long time, and we -never may meet again. The fact of the business is, I think I never shall -come back to Memphis any more.' - -"Her beautiful face grew a shade paler, but she soon regained composure: -'Come along then, and let me show you my pretty birds,' she said as she -moved toward a little latticed house that stood about fifty feet from -the summer-house. I imagined she was endeavoring to get my mind fixed on -other subjects than the one on which my thoughts were bent. I followed -her, and when we entered the cozy little house, the old parrot began to -laugh and chatter away. - -"'Lottie! Lottie! Lottie!' he screamed, as he leaped down on her -shoulder. 'Ah, ha! here we come. Lottie! Lottie! Lottie! ah, ha! here we -come!' - -"'How did he learn to imitate Doctor Dodson so perfectly?' I asked. - -"'The doctor frequently comes to see me, and old Roderick has heard him -so often that he has caught his expressions.' - -"A mocking-bird was singing in a cage that sat on the joist, and a dozen -canaries were making sweet music in their little silver-mounted houses, -while an old jackdaw was muttering to himself in a wire cage. Each bird -seemed to be making music for his own amusement, and on his own hook. It -was a combination of discordant sounds, which might have been good music -if they could have been induced to sing one at a time. It was a shrewd -maneuver of Lottie to decoy me to that place, for no man could talk loud -enough to be heard amid such an ear-splitting clatter as was made by -these birds. - -"I concluded that she had resorted to this strategic maneuver in order -to avoid the disagreeable revelation which she had guessed I was about -to make. Then I became angry, and that increased my courage and made me -quite reckless, and I was determined to know my fate before I left. I -believed she could read my inmost thoughts, for I had never seen her -more embarrassed than she was then. The sun had entirely disappeared, -and a dark purple bank began to loom up in the East, indicating the -approach of twilight; while the face of the moon every now and then -peeped down through a column of white clouds that flew across the -horizon. As the dew began to dampen the flowers around us, a delicious -fragrance arose and filled all the air with its ravishing sweetness. I -took Lottie's hand, and placing it under my arm, led her back to the -summer-house, and took a seat by her side. Old Bob came up and laid his -head on my knee and began to whine, and tried to wag his tail, but it -was too short. Notwithstanding the poor old dog was stone blind, it was -plain that he recognized me. - -"'Lottie,' said I, 'this faithful old friend remembers me, and I am glad -to know that there is one living thing in this cold world that cares for -me. I want you to take good care of him for my sake when I am gone, for -I guess I will not see him any more. I never shall forget those happy -days when we were poor, homeless tramps--penniless, friendless and -simple, but hopeful and cheerful.' - -"Her face was turned away--her eyes were bent on the ground, and she was -busy plucking the tender leaves from a bunch of roses, and scattering -them at her feet. I knew from the rise and fall of her bosom that some -strong emotion was at work in her breast; but I thought it was caused by -an unwillingness to listen to my melancholy expressions. - -"Taking her left hand, I enclosed it in both of mine, and after holding -it a moment, I ventured to raise it to my lips and stamp it with many -fervent kisses; then I pressed it over my loud throbbing heart, while -her face was still turned away from me. - -"'I wonder if any other man ever will press this little hand against his -heart, and call it his?' - -"She instantly withdrew it with a sudden jerk, as if an insect had -stung her, and then fixing her expressive eyes on me with a reproachful -look, said: - -"'I declare, we must go to the house now; mother does not like to keep -tea waiting for any one.' - -"'She will excuse you when you inform her that I was making my farewell -visit; who knows that we ever shall meet again in this world?' - -"Once more she turned her face away and gazed on the ground. - -"'Lottie, here is a beautiful diamond ring I want you to wear; it will -prevent you from entirely forgetting the one who has always loved you.' - -"As I uttered those words in a trembling tone, I took her hand and -slipped the ring on her finger, which she did not resist, nor did she -give any signs of assent; in fact, she did not seem to notice what I was -saying or doing; but I could see that she was deeply moved with -excitement, as her body was trembling violently. - -"'Lottie, will you write me a letter occasionally when I am far away -from the one I love so dearly?' - -"'Yes, Edward, I will answer all your letters.' - -"After I had placed the ring on her finger, I again pressed her -trembling hand against my heart. - -"'Lottie, it will be a long time ere we meet again, and I suppose you -will be married to some distinguished man before my return?' - -"A gentle shake of the head, and a slight jerk of the hand, was her only -answer. - -"'Will you ever think of the boyish tramp who long ago claimed you as -his little wife, after I am gone?' - -"'Yes, Edward, I never shall forget the halcyon days of old, for -although we were poor, homeless wanderers, we were not unhappy.' - -"'Lottie, I loved that pretty little tramp devotedly then, and time has -increased that holy passion, until it has filled my heart, my mind, my -soul, my brain, my body, my thoughts, my dreams and my blood! Fortune -has not lavished her favors on me, but that is not my fault. I know I am -ignorant, green, poor and uneducated, doomed to occupy an humble sphere -in life, while the blind goddess has been more liberal in the bestowal -of her favors on you. Your beauty and your talent alone would have -placed you on a plane far above my lowly valley; but when it is known -that you are to be a great heiress, I feel as if it would be too -presumptuous on my part to ask you to be mine. I know that I have a -rough, ugly and awkward appearance--that I am not such a person as fine -ladies love to look on; but I possess a large, fond heart, that holds an -ocean of pure love for you. Lottie, why do you not say something; why do -you turn your face away from me? Have I offended you by my presumption? -If I have dared to talk of love to you, it does not necessarily follow -that you are bound to give a favorable answer; in fact, I have no right -to expect you to make such a one. If you cannot love me, say so, and I -promise never to annoy you any more with my suit, but will endeavor to -promote your happiness in every way I can. I profess to be a man of -honor, and believe I possess a remarkable amount of pride--too much to -annoy any lady about my love who cannot return my honorable passion.' - -"Her body now began to tremble more violently than ever, shaking like a -leaf stirred by the storm, but she still remained silent, and kept her -face averted. - -"'Why do you not speak to me, Lottie? Am I to understand that the -refusal is caused by the scorn you feel for my presumption, or is it -because you hate to pronounce the doom which you know will consign me to -a life of misery? In the name of those happy days of old--in the name of -our dear, dead mother--in the name of the great ocean of love which this -poor heart holds for you, I implore you to speak to me now!' - -"A tear then fell from my eyes, and dropped on her hand, which I still -held against my heart; that caused her to start up suddenly, and snatch -her hand away. Then she gazed down at the tear which still glistened on -her hand, and I saw another tear start from her left eye and roll slowly -down her cheek--it trembled on her chin a second, and then fell right on -the one that still sparkled on her hand. The two tears mingled into one, -and as they did so her head suddenly fell against my heart, and then I -knew that the great prize was mine. Looking up into my face with a gaze -of unutterable sweetness, while tears were streaming from her beautiful -eyes, she whispered: - -"'Eddie, I have always loved you more than language can express, or mind -can imagine, and I was sure you knew it all the time. I have never -thought of loving any one else; and I do not mean to allow you to -slander yourself any more in my presence as you have done here this -evening, for I think you noble-hearted, generous, intelligent and brave, -and I know you are very handsome!' - -"I was too full of joy to speak; and the man who never kissed the lips -of a pure woman with a knowledge that her virtuous heart was all his -own, cannot understand the indescribable bliss that was mine. - -"'Edward,' she whispered, while her large, liquid blue eyes were rooted -on me, 'have you ever read "Romeo and Juliet?"' - -"'Yes, darling, very often; but why do you ask the question?' - -"'My love for you is like that which Juliet felt for Romeo. I gave you -my heart long, long ago, and if I had it back again then I would borrow -her sweet words which she employs in speaking to Romeo: - - "'But to be frank and give it thee again, - And yet I wish but for the thing I have. - My bounty is as boundless as the sea, - My love as deep: the more I give to thee - The more I have: for both are infinite.' - -"'The sentiment is very sweet, and the language appropriate and -expressive, but I trust that our love will not end so sadly as did that -of Romeo and Juliet.' - -"In the midst of my great joy I did not forget to return my sincere -thanks to the great Creator, for bestowing on me such a precious gem. - -"'Lottie, dear, I believe if you would try you could compose a sweet -song suited to this occasion, and I hope you will do so, and sing it -here every evening while I am far away. Make the effort, and I dare say -you will compose one with sentiments as sweet as ever poet wrote; then -fix an hour at which you will come to this very spot and sing it, and I -will at the same hour steal away and commune with you in spirit, while I -gaze on yonder bright star, and listen with my imagination to the sweet -music my darling is making here for me.' - -"'Edward, I promise to make the attempt, and if I succeed, I will sing -it here at this lovely spot every evening at precisely nine o'clock, -when the sky is cloudless; and I will think of you while singing it.' - -"'And will my darling promise to be mine when I return, thereby making -me the happiest man that ever walked on the earth?' - -"'If papa gives his consent, and if brother Harry is willing, and if you -do not fall in love with, and marry, some beauteous Philadelphia belle, -and if I do not die of loneliness while you are so far away from me, and -if you do not withdraw the proposition, and if, upon reflection, you are -willing to take me with all my imperfections, why, then, I reckon so.' - -"'Now there are a great many if's contained in that answer, but let it -rain if's until I return, and I will surmount them all. If my path was -sown thick with dragons' teeth, and at every step producing armed men to -oppose me, I would march on to secure my great prize!' - -"'Edward, can you not postpone the time set for you to start to -Philadelphia for a few weeks?' - -"'Yes, and will gladly do so, for I must settle the question of the if's -before I go. I must know Mr. Rockland's mind, as well as Harry's in -regard to our betrothal, before I leave Memphis.'" - - - - -CHAPTER X. - - -"Well," said Ivanhoe to Scottie, "what was it you wished to say to me?" - -"Oh, I was dying of curiosity, you see, and I thought maybe you could -save my life by telling me something. I declare, something strange is -going to happen; and you must tell me what it is." - -"It would be an easy task to tell you all about it, if I knew anything -about it myself; but as I happen to know nothing, how can I tell you -anything?" - -"Pshaw! You are no true knight, Sir Ivanhoe, else you would not let a -lady die of sheer curiosity, without an effort to save her. You are not -like the brave knight of Ivanhoe of Sir Walter Scott's creation." - -"Show me an enemy who fights with steel, face to face, and then you'll -have cause to change your mind. By the by, what discoveries have you -made about the black domino?" - -"Very little, I assure you--just enough to keep me on the rack. But have -you really unearthed no secret respecting the two seedy men?" - -"Just enough to keep me on the rack, too." - -"Well, aren't you going to tell me what it is?" - -"I have been setting Greek against Greek, and you know what Byron says -will happen when Greek meets Greek." - -"Oh, bother Byron and his Greeks; tell me what you know?" - -"I bribed the chamber-maid and set her on the track of the seedy men." - -"And, pray, what's the result?" - -"They are sure-enough detectives; that much I have discovered through my -spy." - -"Good! What else?" - -"They are shadowing some one on this boat." - -"They are doing what to some one on this boat?" - -"Shadowing him." - -"Oh, is that all? You mean that they are keeping some one out of the -sunshine." - -"No, no! I mean to tell you that they have spotted their man." - -"Spotted their man! Poor fellow! what color were the spots they put on -him?" - -"Ah, Scottie, I perceive that you are not posted in regard to the -peculiar language usually employed by the police department; when a -detective officer sees a man who he thinks is the one he wishes to -catch, he begins to follow and watch him, and this is called shadowing -him." - -"Ah, indeed! then what is meant by spotting their man?" - -"The same thing." - -"Yes, yes, I see now; but who have they been spotting or shadowing?" - -"Ingomar." - -"Goodness gracious! Is it possible?" - -"It is not only possible, but it is absolutely so." - -"I declare, that is too bad! If I were a man I'd pitch 'em both -overboard, so I would. They look like a brace of sneak thieves anyhow. -What can they want with Ingomar?" - -"That I don't know; but you may be sure I'll find out ere long, for I -have got a clever detective on their track; in other words, I have got -them spotted." - -"If a hundred witnesses were to swear that Ingomar was a criminal, I -wouldn't believe it." - -"Don't believe anything unless you want to, but what would you think if -it should turn out after all that Ingomar has murdered his rival in -love?" - -"Oh, horrible! Don't speak so, I beseech you!" - -"Such things have happened, and why not happen again?" - -"Yes, but Ingomar is not a man of that sort; I'd risk my life on it." - -"Well, now, I have told you all I know, let's hear about the black -domino." - -"I have found out scarcely anything, except the fact that she is very -sad, and is often found weeping in her state-room. I have been watching -her closely, though she seems to avoid me as much as she can. I think -the old gentleman with the white beard is her uncle, and I heard her say -to him this morning that she could not endure it much longer." - -"Endure what much longer?" - -"That was all I heard; but she was weeping as if her heart would break, -and the old gentleman tried to comfort her, and I heard him say that the -matter should be settled in some way soon." - -"What matter did he say should be settled?" - -"How should I know? I have told you all I heard." - -"I'll put my detectives on her track, too, and I'll unravel this -business, if it takes all the money I possess. See here, Scottie, did -you know that I am dying with curiosity to know your real name?" - -"Indeed, I did not." - -"Well it's so; and why not relieve me?" - -"Because the queen would be offended if I were to do it." - -"Tell me your real name, and the queen shall never know of it." - -"You shall know me when I know you, and not before." - -"Very well; that is fair, at all events, and I am content. But I see the -queen beckoning us to come to our seats to listen to Ingomar's story." - -As soon as the maskers were seated the queen ordered Ingomar to resume. - -"The next morning after Lottie had promised to be my wife, I mentioned -the subject to Doctor Dodson, as I considered it my duty to do so. - -"'I am going to be married, sir,' said I, 'as soon as I get my diploma.' - -"'Ah, ha, indeed! and pray who's to be the unlucky woman that you have -resolved to render miserable for life?' - -"'I don't intend to make any woman miserable, neither do I expect to -marry any woman.' I said this rather sharply, as I felt a little -ruffled. - -"'Ah, ha! and you don't mean to marry a woman, yet you say you are going -to be married. I suppose you expect to marry a wood-nymph or a fairy. I -guess you do not aspire to an angel.' - -"'That's exactly the state of my case; it's an angel sure enough.' - -"'When did she light on this part of the globe?' - -"'Seven years ago.' - -"'Ah, ha! here we come, you sly old rascal! I see how it is now. I have -suspected you of villainous designs against Lottie for some time, and I -see I was not mistaken; but look here, my boy, that dear girl is too -good for you; she's worth a thousand such bundles of humanity as you; -and right here let me say a few words with the bark on them. If ever you -speak a cross word to that dear girl, or give her an unkind look, the -fact is, if you ever give her cause to regret her choice, I'll--I'll, -yes, I'll, ah, ha! I'll give you a dose of strychnine, which is -considered by the profession the most polite way of getting rid of mean -dogs; ah, ha! don't you see, my boy?' - -"He gave me a punch under the arm with his thumb. 'Yes, ah, ha! I'll -poison you as I would a rat or a dog, if ever you dare to cause my -little queen a moment's pain.' - -"'I promise to swallow all the strychnine in the drug-stores if ever I -do an act willingly to give dear Lottie pain.' - -"'There! there! ah, ha! spoken like a man. Here we come; take my hand, -and my blessing with it, you rascal! Ah, ha! what a lucky scamp you are! -What on earth possessed the girl, to make her fall in love with such an -overgrown mushroom. Well, well, well! I can scarcely believe that Lottie -is in earnest; she has agreed to marry you out of pure pity, you -good-for-nothing scamp. Well, if Lottie is fool enough to marry you, -I'll be fool enough to give her all my property in order to enable her -to support you; ah, ha! you see how it is, don't you, my boy?' - -"I was very glad to see that the good old doctor was really delighted -with the news of my engagement. - -"'Ah, ha! Eddie, here we come, my boy! go to work, go to work; you are -going to be the head of a family, you know, therefore you must have -something to support a family with.' - -"'What do you wish me to do, sir?' I inquired. - -"'Take an inventory of these drugs, of course; ah, ha! my boy, take -stock, take stock; find out how the business stands. See how the -business stands; see what's on hand, and mind that you don't lose too -much time thinking about Lottie. Ah, ha! my boy, you see how it is -yourself, don't you? Take stock, find out everything. How can a man -support a family without something to do it with? Ah, ha! my boy, tell -me how it can be done? Can't tell? of course you can't; neither can -I--impossible!--family can't be supported on air, or gas--must have -bread--bread, of course. Well, how are you going to buy bread when you -have nothing to buy it with? Lottie must have bread--you know; therefore -go to work, take stock, take an inventory, then the business is half -yours; ah, ha! you see now, don't you, Eddie, my boy? Full partner -signboard: Dodson & Demar, Druggists and physicians, etc., etc., etc. -Ah, ha! do you see, Eddie, my boy? Lottie's a lady, you know; must have -nice clothes; must have bread; money buys bread, money buys clothes, -money buys nice home; where does the money come from? Drug-store, of -course--full partner. Ah, ha! Eddie, my boy, here we come, Dodson & -Demar; now go to work, fix things lively, let me see balance sheet with -nice figures; have everything done up in apple-pie order; think of -Lottie as much as you please, but mind you don't take a dose of dog -poison by mistake. Do you know the reason why I like you, Eddie, my boy? -Ah, ha! of course you do; 'tis because you don't play billiards. You -can't play whist; you can't play poker; you can't play chess; you're a -booby, that's what you are, Eddie, my boy, ah, ha! therefore I like you. -I admire boobies, who can't play billiards nor poker. I'm a booby -myself, you see, consequently I like 'em. Lottie likes boobies--that -accounts for her foolish love for you; she learned that from me; shows -her good sense. I told her that boobies were the best in the long run; -billiard players, poker players, chess players, perfumed pretty boys are -splendid fellows in a short race, but when it comes to long heats, they -are always left behind.' - -"Doctor Dodson had the utmost contempt for idle young men, and usually -expressed his opinion in language by no means complimentary to that -class. I was highly pleased to know that I was to be admitted into the -firm as an equal partner--it would enable me to support my Lottie as a -lady in that station of life to which her accomplishments and beauty -entitled her. It was my duty to make known my engagement to Mr. -Rockland, and to ask his consent to our marriage; and this was a task -which I dreaded exceedingly; because I was not so sure that he would -sanction the union. Mr. Rockland was a first-class lawyer who had -accumulated a splendid fortune by his profession, and he was one of -those austere, cold-natured kind of men whose ambition had usurped many -of his good qualities; yet he loved Lottie with all his heart, and so -did his wife; but I had a strong suspicion that they were inclined to -encourage Mr. Heartsell in his suit for Lottie's hand. The more I -thought the matter over, the more I dreaded to mention it to Mr. -Rockland; I had a high regard for him because he loved Lottie. He had -given her a home, a real happy home, where she had been surrounded with -all the comforts and luxuries that money could procure; he had given her -a first-class education--nay, more than that, he had educated Harry, who -was now preparing to enter the legal profession with brilliant -prospects. Mr. Rockland was always busy--in fact, he was injuring his -health by incessant labor, and I knew he would be annoyed if I should -attempt to seek an interview with him during business hours; I therefore -watched for an opportunity to speak to him when he should be passing -from his office to his residence. One evening, about three days after -Lottie had promised to marry me, I saw Mr. Rockland walking toward his -residence, with a large bundle of papers under his arm. He was looking -very pale and sad, and I felt my knees trembling as I approached him for -the purpose of speaking to him about Lottie. - -"'Are you in a great hurry, Mr. Rockland?' I inquired timidly. - -"'Yes, Edward,' was the solemn answer, 'I am always in a hurry; but why -do you ask the question?' - -"'I was wanting to speak to you about a matter of great moment; but if -you are busy, I can wait.' - -"'Will it occupy much time, Edward?' - -"'No, sir.' - -"'Then walk with me to my residence, and I'll hear what you have to -say.' - -"I walked in silence by his side as he led the way to his home. Lottie -met us at the gate, and greeted Mr. Rockland with a kiss, then took my -arm. - -"'What is the matter with you, Eddie? you look as if you had been ill.' - -"'You must be mistaken, Lottie, for I never was in better health in my -life.' - -"'Come then with me into the garden; I wish to show you my new pet--it -is the prettiest one of all.' - -"'I beg you will excuse me just now; I have come to see Mr. Rockland on -a matter of importance; and he has kindly granted me an interview; when -that is attended to, I shall be more than pleased to see your pets.' - -"She looked inquiringly up into my face: 'Oh, very well, I will excuse -you on that plea. You know you men are always thinking of business.' - -"I don't think she had any idea of the nature of the business I had come -to attend to. She walked by my side till we arrived at the house; then -placing her mouth to my ear, she whispered: - -"'Don't be long about the business--I am dying to be with you.' - -"'What's that you are whispering to Edward about, Lottie?' said Mr. -Rockland, with his low, solemn voice. - -"'Oh, never mind, papa! you go in and attend to your business, and don't -be inquisitive; you are so much accustomed to cross-examining witnesses -in court that you wish to practice on me to keep from getting rusted. -You can't pump me as you do other witnesses; so there now, go along -about your business.' And as she finished the sentence she threw her -arms about his neck and gave him two or three kisses. 'Now go, you dear -old darling you!' Then she went capering off toward the garden, while -Mr. Rockland's eyes followed her with an eager look of intense love. - -"'Ah, Mr. Demar,' said he, as he stood and gazed at Lottie, 'she is the -sweetest darling in the world; do you know that I love her just as much -as I could if she were my own child? She is the most extraordinary girl -I ever saw, sir; the most charming disposition; sings like a -nightingale. I have employed an eminent music teacher, and mean to bring -out her great genius. She has been taught music, but it was by ordinary -teachers; the one I have secured lately is of a different sort. The fact -of the business is, Mr. Demar, that girl has so wound herself about my -heart that it would kill me to lose her. My wife loves her dearly; but, -sir, the feeling I have for her goes beyond mere love--it is something -like idolatry--soul worship; something which one may feel, but which he -can't describe. I mean to will all my property to Lottie; and I may be -permitted to say to you, Mr. Demar, confidentially, that it will be no -inconsiderable sum. She will be ahead of any girl in Memphis, so far as -wealth is concerned, and far beyond them in the way of accomplishments. -Be seated, Mr. Demar,' said Mr. Rockland, at the same time taking his -seat at the table opposite to me. 'I'll hear you now.' - -"I gasped for breath, and felt like one choking; I struggled -desperately to regain self-possession, and succeeded sooner than I -thought I should. The fact is, I became very angry at seeing the cold, -unfeeling expression that settled on Mr. Rockland's face; and I began to -reason with myself: 'Why should I tremble in this man's presence? Why -should I be afraid of him? What right had he acquired that he should be -able to hold my fate in the hollow of his hand? What if he did love -Lottie--didn't I love her more than he did? Why should I be compelled to -come as an humble suppliant to him, begging him to give Lottie to me? -What right had he to give her to anybody? How came she to be his -property? Who should dare dispute my superior claim to her?' - -"'Mr. Rockland,' said I, 'Lottie has promised to be my wife, and I -thought perhaps it was proper to tell you of it.' I did not ask his -consent, which it was really my duty to do; but, as I have said, I was -angry at the austerity and coldness of his manner, and tried to assume -an independence which I now think was wrong. Mr. Rockland made a grab at -a chancery bill that lay near him, and commenced turning over the pages -as if he were looking in it for an answer to my words. I thought I saw a -slight tremulousness in his hand as he held the paper, while his face -turned a shade paler. - -"'It was very imprudent in Lottie, to say the least of it, and I must -say, Mr. Demar, that common courtesy should have induced you to mention -the matter to me before saying anything to Lottie. She is young and -inexperienced--much too young to think of matrimony.' - -"'I will wait, sir, until she is old enough,' said I. - -"Mr. Rockland patted the floor with his boot-heel, and tapped the table -with the chancery bill, and I thought he was viewing me with contempt. -The blood burned in my cheeks, and doubtless made them very red; he -remained silent for some time, as if undecided as to what he should say -next; at length he struck the table a sharp blow with the bill and said: - -"'Lottie is not my daughter, Mr. Demar; but she has been placed under my -protection, and I consider it to be my duty to act in this matter as if -she were my own child. Doubtless she imagines that she is in love with -you; young girls of her age always act foolishly, no doubt; but I -suppose it to be a mere childish fancy, and not, as you imagine, a real -love affair. Therefore, you will pardon me for suggesting the propriety -of canceling what you are pleased to call an engagement, leaving her -free to act as her best judgment may dictate when she arrives at an age -that will enable her to view things from a more matured standpoint.' - -"'If Lottie wishes to cancel the engagement, Mr. Rockland, it may be -done. But, sir, I think you are mistaken when you conclude that her love -for me is a mere girlish fancy. We have loved each other for many years, -and I assure you it is no common love either.' - -"'No doubt you think so, Mr. Demar; and your confidence in that respect -may help us to arrive at a proper understanding. If (as you think) she -really loves you with such a true devotion, you certainly will not -object to allowing the engagement to be canceled, with the understanding -that it may be remade when Lottie shall arrive at the age of twenty-one, -provided she then may wish it.' - -"'I can only repeat what I have said before, Mr. Rockland; if Lottie -wishes to be released, by all means let it be done; otherwise, I must -beg you to let the engagement remain undisturbed. But, sir, I am willing -that the marriage may be postponed until I shall have obtained my -diploma, and settled down to work in my profession; meantime understand -me, sir; if at any time Lottie shall intimate a wish to be released from -her engagement, I promise to raise no objections.' - -"'Very well, sir; if such is your decision I must acquiesce, of course; -therefore, you must promise not to mention the matter to Lottie any more -until I shall have interviewed her on the subject.' - -"'Certainly, I give you the promise most cheerfully.' - -"'You must promise further than that, Mr. Demar; you must pledge your -honor not to speak to Lottie at all until I have had a talk with her. -She is in the garden now. You will return to your place of business, and -allow me to make your excuse for leaving without seeing her.' - -"I hesitated, because my suspicions were roused. I did not like the -cold, iron look that appeared on his face, nor the evasive expression -of his piercing dark eyes. I was afraid he intended to make Lottie -believe it was my wish that the marriage engagement should be broken -off--else why was he so anxious for me to go away without seeing her? -Noticing my hesitation, he evidently divined the cause, for he said: - -"'Oh, you need not fear to make the promise, Mr. Demar; I will do -everything openly and above board. I shall, of course, endeavor to -convince Lottie of the great error she has committed. No dishonorable -means shall be resorted to. I shall say nothing to her behind your back -that I would not say to your face; but I only wish to have a talk with -her alone, when she is not influenced by your presence; that's all, I -assure you, Mr. Demar.' - -"'You will not try to make her believe that I wish the engagement -broken?' - -"'Certainly not; how could I do that when I know you don't wish anything -of the sort?' - -"His frank, candid manner re-assured me, and I made the promise, and -immediately took my leave. As I passed out through the gate Lottie saw -me, and called me to come to her. I shook my head and passed on. -Notwithstanding the distance that lay between us, I could plainly see -the look of astonishment that overspread her beautiful face. She had -started to meet me, almost in a run, but when she perceived that I was -avoiding her she came to a sudden halt, and the little basket she held -in her hand instantly fell to the ground, scattering the flowers round -her feet, while she appeared to be struck dumb with wonder. What could I -do? Had I not given my most solemn promise not to speak to her until Mr. -Rockland could have an interview with her? When I saw the painful -expression of her dear face I wheeled round and started toward her; then -recollecting the promise I had made, I hastened away. I began to snuff -danger in the breeze. - -"Mr. Rockland was an honorable man--so were Caesar's assassins all -honorable men. Mr. Rockland thought it was his duty to prevent the -marriage between Lottie and me--the lean and hungry Cassius thought it -was his duty to kill Caesar. Mr. Rockland did not think of this poor -heart of mine, or care how it would wither and die if he took Lottie -from me--Brutus did not think or care for the heart of his friend, as he -plucked away the bloody blade from Caesar's heart. If Mr. Rockland -thought it was his duty to have the engagement broken off, I felt -certain that he would leave no means unused which would tend to -accomplish it. I thought then, and think yet, he was really an honest, -conscientious man; but what will a man not do in order to gain his -object, when he feels that in doing it he is performing his duty? More -cruelties have been committed by men while doing what they believed to -be their duty than ever were committed wantonly. I suppose that -Jeffries, the bloody tool of a tyrant, thought he was performing his -duty as an impartial judge when he was making all the air of England -shriek with the cries of dying victims. - -"I left Mr. Rockland in his library. He rang a little bell, which was -answered by a servant. - -"'Tell Lottie I wish to see her in my library immediately.' - -"In a few moments she came in with an inquiring look on her face. - -"'What is it, papa? Tell me quick--I am in a great hurry.' She had come -up behind his chair, and was running her fingers through his gray hair, -every now and then pressing a kiss on his brow. - -"'Oh, you dear old darling! why don't you commence? can't you see I am -all attention? What made you let Eddie run off like a thief? Don't you -think when I called him back he shook his shaggy head and refused to -come! Now, papa dear, what have you been doing to my Eddie?' - -"'How came he to be your Eddie?' - -"'Because he loves me, and I love him; now the cat's out of the bag.' - -"'Nonsense, child! I implore you not to talk so foolishly.' - -"'No nonsense about it at all; pray where does the foolish part come in? -Is it wrong, papa, to love such a dear fellow as my Eddie?' - -"'It was wrong for a girl of your age to enter into an engagement -without consulting any one; and that was what I wished to speak to you -about.' - -"'Oh, indeed! was it? Now, you dear old darling, you aren't going to -scold me about it, are you? No, of course you won't; if you do, I'll -make your tea as weak as water, and I'll put pepper in your toast till -it shall burn you up, indeed I will!' - -"'I couldn't have the heart to scold my darling!' - -"As Mr. Rockland said this he threw his arms round her waist and drew -her to his heart, covering her brow with a kiss. Mr. Rockland was -vanquished; her charms were irresistible; and the great lawyer, with -nerves of steel and an iron will, who could brow-beat witnesses, -intimidate judges and over-ride facts, found himself confounded, -vanquished and helpless--all done by a pretty face and two large, dreamy -blue eyes. The truth of the matter is, Mr. Rockland loved Lottie so -devotedly that he was unable to withstand her displeasure. - -"'Take a seat, Lottie,' he said, 'and let us come to an understanding in -this business at once; sit down, and we will talk the matter over -dispassionately, like sensible people.' - -"Lottie took a chair on the opposite side of the table, and fixing her -beautiful eyes on him, said: - -"'I'll hear what you have to say, papa.' - -"The man of iron returned the gaze with a cold, calm look. After a long -silence he said: - -"'Lottie, my dear child, you know I love you as I love life. The only -aim I have is to promote your happiness; and I demand of you permission -to cancel this foolish engagement which you have so imprudently entered -into with Edward Demar. Have I your permission to cancel it?' - -"'Only on condition that Eddie wishes it to be canceled.' - -"'Mr. Demar did not say he wished the engagement canceled; but he agreed -that it should be done if you were willing, and authorized me to say as -much to you.' - -"The blood left her cheeks for a moment, then came back with a -tremendous rush, yet she managed to keep calm. - -"'Send for Eddie now, papa, and let me hear him say he is willing to -annul our engagement.' - -"'That is unnecessary, Lottie; you have my word that such is his wish, -and you know me too well to suspect me of prevarication; again I -command you to break off this most absurd and imprudent engagement; will -you, or will you not, do it? I demand an answer, yes or no?' - -"Lottie's bosom rose and fell with unusual emotion, while her eyes were -fixed on Mr. Rockland. - -"'Yes or no, Lottie?' again demanded the man of iron. - -"'Dear, dear papa, for Heaven's sake don't ask me to be false to the man -I love! I'll not marry him until he returns from Philadelphia; by that -time I will be better able to make you a sensible answer, but I beseech -you not to press me so now; you know how I love you--you know how much I -appreciate your kindness to me; listen, therefore, to my entreaty--grant -me time for reflection.' - -"'Not another moment will I give you to make an answer to such a -sensible request; any girl whose judgment was not choked with a foolish -infatuation would be able to answer such a reasonable demand without a -moment's reflection. Do you wish to tie yourself to a man who is anxious -to get rid of you?' - -"'No, no! a thousand times, no, papa; and no one knows this better than -you.' - -"'Then, Lottie, for the last time, I demand authority from you to cancel -this foolish engagement; will you, or will you not, give it?' - -"'Not unless Eddie wishes it,' was the calm reply. - -"At last the man of iron lost his temper: - -"'Then, Miss Wallingford, you will oblige me by seeking a home -elsewhere.' - -"'Oh, papa, dear, darling papa! please unsay those cruel words! I am not -afraid of hardships; neither am I afraid of poverty, but it is your -displeasure that I dread more than all. I love you truly, earnestly, -devotedly, as much as any child ever loved a parent. Oh, papa, revoke -those cruel words!' - -"'Leave me, leave me!' thundered the lawyer, as he pushed Lottie away -from him rather roughly. She retreated to the farther end of the room -and stared at Mr. Rockland with astonishment, while a mysterious change -came over her. She approached the table, took a seat, and hastily penned -a note to Edward Demar: - - "'DEAR EDDIE--Come to me as quickly as you can. I wish to consult - you on important business. Yours, - - "'LOTTIE.' - -"Then she touched a little silver bell that lay on the table and a -man-servant bowed himself in at the door. - -"'Did you ring, miss?' inquired the servant. - -"'Take this note to Mr. Edward Demar without delay; you'll find him at -Doctor Dodson's drug-store. Tell Burley to come to me instantly.' - -"'The man servant had scarcely passed the veranda when Burley, a mulatto -woman, appeared at the door. - -"'Did you send for me, miss?' - -"'Pack my clothes in the large trunk, Burley; then get Archie to help -you bring it down; set the trunk on the front portico; tell Archie to -put my parrot in his cage, and to bring all my pets and place them by my -trunk. Tell him to tie a string round old Bob's neck, so I can lead the -poor blind friend along while I am seeking a new home. Old Bob and I -have been tramps many days together, and we'll not part now.' - -"'Oh, Lottie, my darling, come to your old cruel papa's arms! I give -up--I surrender--I take back all I have said. Marry Eddie if you will, -but don't leave me--I can't live without you; you shall have your own -way in everything.' - -"Lottie, of course, went into Mr. Rockland's arms, and covered his brow -with kisses. That was what I call a triumph of woman's rights. Here was -a lawyer who commanded money, influenced courts, directed banks, -intimidated witnesses, cleared guilty clients, compelled judges to bow -to his great talent; and then in comes a weak little girl and rules him, -the same as a raw recruit is ruled, by the commanding general. She bids -him go, and he goes--she commands him to come, and he comes. Talk about -woman's rights! What on earth do women want with any more rights than -they have? They have complete control of the world--because they control -man, and through him the world." - -"There is the gong for lunch," observed the queen, "and you may suspend -until it is over. It is our wish, though, that our friends re-assemble -here immediately after luncheon, to hear more of the story." - - - - -CHAPTER XI. - - -"Suppose you and I don't go down to luncheon," said Scottie to Ivanhoe; -"I am not a bit hungry, and would very much prefer remaining up here; -how is it with you?" - -"That's my fix, exactly; I'm glad you mentioned it. Take my arm, and let -us have a walk and a talk both." - -"Agreed; now what did your spy report, a moment ago, about the two -detectives?" - -"I shall find out everything that is going on. It is such rare sport, -too, to be tracking detectives who imagine themselves to be so clever!" - -"Oh, bother the clever detectives! tell me what you know." - -"Now, Scottie, don't you begin to lose your temper; you know I have made -a confidante of you." - -"I think you and I ought to be very good friends." - -"So do I." - -"I think we ought to know more about each other." - -"So do I." - -"When do you intend to tell me who you are, Scottie?" - -"As soon as the queen gives her consent." - -"What has the queen got to do with it, I should like to know?" - -"No doubt you would; but I have given my solemn promise not to reveal -her name nor my own to any person without her permission; and she has -promised that as soon as Ingomar's story is finished all secrecy may be -discarded. But now I want to hear what you have discovered about the two -seedy men." - -"They are going to arrest Ingomar, and take him off at Vicksburg; he is -charged with a bloody murder (so the seedy men say). They state that he -committed the crime somewhere in Mississippi, and while in jail awaiting -trial managed to make his escape. The friends of the murdered man -offered a large reward for the capture of the perpetrator, and then the -State added another large sum to that offered by the friends of the -deceased, and those two seedy men are officers from Mississippi who have -got Ingomar spotted." - -"Does Ingomar know they are watching him?" - -"No, I think not." - -"Then why not warn him of the danger?" - -"That would be wrong, because if he is guilty he ought to suffer; if he -is innocent he is in no danger." - -"Do you believe he is guilty?" - -"I can't say that I do, for I know nothing about it. I shall therefore -accept the legal theory, which regards every man innocent until the -contrary is established by competent proof." - -"It would require a pile of evidence as high as Pike's Peak to make me -believe that Ingomar is a murderer." - -"So it would to convince me." - -"What have you discovered about the mysterious lady in the black -domino?" - -"Ah, my spy has met her match there! With all her cleverness, the black -domino is too much for her. One circumstance, however, has been brought -to the surface; the black domino is shadowing Ingomar too, and the -strangest thing about it is, that she is not in any manner working with -the seedy men--it's a separate game." - -"Goodness gracious! what on earth can it all mean?" - -"I'm sure I don't know; I wish I did." - -"Perhaps she is the wife of the murdered man; or she may be his sister, -or his sweetheart, who is watching him." - -"Can't say as to that; but it is certain that she is shadowing him. One -circumstance connected with her, however, tends to prove your theory -about it. The lady in the black domino seems to be unusually melancholy -all the time--has often been seen weeping, and never speaks to any one. -That goes to prove that she has lost a dear friend or relative; and it -may be, as you say, that she was related to the man who was murdered." - -"The truth is, I can't stand this suspense much longer; I shall die of -mere curiosity if things don't change soon." - -"I beg you not to make a die of it, Scottie, before I get a look at your -face." - -"And pray why should you wish to see my face?" - -"I am sure I should like it." - -"Suppose you did like it--what would that signify?" - -"It might bring about a coincidence, you know." - -"Look, look! there comes the black domino; see how she follows Ingomar! -I saw her pointing at him just now, and whispering something in her -uncle's ear. The whirlwind is going to burst on us ere long; don't you -think so?" - -"Indeed I do! There is a strange game being played on this boat--it may -end in a tragedy." - -"Pray don't talk that way--you frighten me. I think I had better mention -the matter to the queen, and have this nonsense ended at once." - -"No, no! don't do that, by any means, I beseech you. Our best plan is to -remain silent and wait for the denouement." - -"Be it so, then, sir knight. You shall be my champion when the war -begins." - -"I shall be proud of the honor--I'll emblazon my banner with the name of -Scottie, in letters of gold, and fight the world in arms in defense of -my lady-love. Then I'll imitate the brave Spanish king, when he met Sir -Roderick Dhu on Clanalpine's lofty height. You know he threw himself -against a rock--which I'll do when the fight opens." - -"But there are no rocks here, you see." - -"Oh, never mind that; I'll make the pilot-house answer for the rock. -I'll just throw myself against it while you can hide inside, and then -hear me cry: - - "'Come one, come all! this rock shall fly - From its firm base as soon as I.'" - -"Brave, bravo! my gallant knight. I'll swap my domino for a laurel -crown, to deck the brow of my brave champion." - -"There, there, Scottie, I cry enough! Come, let us join our -friends--they are waiting for us yonder. Don't you see the queen is -beckoning to you?" - -"When I received Lottie's note requesting me to come to her immediately, -you may guess how my heart fluttered--for I thought something serious -had surely occurred, and but very few moments elapsed before I was at -the gate in front of Mr. Rockland's residence. It was a considerable -walk from the drug-store to his residence, and I was compelled to halt -in order to rest a moment before entering, as I wished to appear -composed. While I was leaning against a tree wiping the perspiration -from my face and panting with fatigue, I saw Lottie coming rapidly -toward me. She had been watching for me. - -"'Oh, Eddie, it's all settled!' she exclaimed, as she caught both my -hands in hers. I made a move as if I were going to take her in my arms. -She gently pushed me back. 'Don't be quite so familiar, Eddie--can't you -see papa looking at us? Oh, such a storm as we have had here to-day! -Papa ordered me to go away from his home because I wouldn't let him tell -you that I wanted our engagement broken off." - -"'Well, why didn't you take him at his word? you knew where you could -find another home.' - -"'I did, but the good, dear old darling relented before I could pack my -things, and fell to hugging and kissing me, and wouldn't let me go.' - -"'Lottie, Mr. Rockland is really a good man, and I respect him very -much--mainly because he loves you.' - -"'Indeed he is! and my heart was most broken when he ordered me to go -away; but did you wish to have our engagement broken off?' - -"'No, you know I did not! What could have put such an idea as that into -your mind? Mr. Rockland did not tell you I wished it ended, did he?' - -"'He didn't say that you said so, but he said you were willing to cancel -it if I would consent to it.' - -"'Ah, I see now how it is: Mr. Rockland put the case very strong in -favor of his side. That was a good stroke of policy, you see, Lottie; -you didn't believe for a moment that I wanted to have the engagement -canceled?' - -"'No, I did not.' - -"'I declare, Lottie, I never saw you look so pretty before.' - -"'I am truly glad that you think so; it makes me very happy to please -you.' - -"'Ah! how could I be otherwise than well pleased when I know Lottie -loves me? I feel like a new man since I found it out. Will my Lottie -always love me?' - -"'Yes, of course I will; I am so very, very happy when you are with me, -and so miserable when you are away from me. What shall become of poor me -when my Eddie goes away to Philadelphia?' - -"'Let us look forward to the happy day that brings me back to my love. -Let us keep our minds on the bright future, when we shall be always -together.' - -"'I wish I could do that, but I cannot; I shall all the time be thinking -you are ill, or that something has gone wrong with you. I should die if -you were to fall ill among strangers!' - -"'I'll take good care of myself for your sake; I'll be prudent in all -things, and let you know if anything goes wrong; but you must do the -same.' - -"'Let us go in; I see Mr. Rockland waiting for you--he is going to talk -to you about our engagement, and you must be careful not to offend him.' - -"'Fear nothing on that score; I think we will now come to an -understanding entirely satisfactory to all parties concerned.' - -"Mr. Rockland met me on the portico with his cold, placid smile, and -directed me to follow him into the library. He also asked Lottie to go -with us. Pointing to a seat, he requested me to take it; Lottie stood -calmly by my chair, while Mr. Rockland took his usual seat on the -opposite side of the table. - -"'Mr. Demar,' he began, with his austere tone of voice, 'I have had an -interview with Lottie on the subject about which we were speaking a -short while ago.' - -"'So Lottie told me, Mr. Rockland.' - -"'Her views and mine differed somewhat; but we have managed to reconcile -them to some extent; and we may therefore reasonably hope to have all -things amicably settled.' - -"'I am truly glad to hear it, Mr. Rockland.' - -"'Thank you, Edward; are you willing to promise me that the marriage -shall be deferred until the end of two years from this date?' - -"'Indeed, Mr. Rockland, I should like very much to be able to comply -with your request, but why not let the marriage be solemnized when I -return from Philadelphia in the spring?' - -"'Lottie would be too young to marry then.' - -"'Grant papa's request, Eddie,' said Lottie; 'I am very willing to put -it off indefinitely, if you can be with me often.' - -"That settled the question; so it was agreed that Lottie should be my -wife at the end of two years. - -"'Come,' said Lottie, as she took my arm, and looking up at me, her -sweet little mouth puckered up in a comical shape; 'we'll go to the -study now, as everything has been settled between you and papa; I want -to show you some new flowers that I have secured; oh, they are such nice -ones! They flourish better in the fall season than they do in the -spring.' - -"She led me through her flower garden, stopping occasionally to point -out the different plants, giving a graphic description of their nature -and the manner of their culture; and when we came near the summer-house -the old parrot began to chatter: - -"'Ah, ha! Lottie! here we come--here we come!' - -"'Can't he say anything but that, Lottie?' I inquired. - -"'Oh, yes, he can talk a great deal when he takes a notion. Did you know -I had a letter from Viola, Eddie?' - -"'No, have you?' - -"'Yes; let me read it to you; she writes such a nice, smooth hand, and -her letter is so friendly; but here it is: - - "'NEW YORK, AUG. 16. - - "'DEAR LOTTIE--I must first offer an apology to you for neglecting - to answer your last letter. You must not for a moment think that - the delay was caused by a lack of love for you on my part. When - your letter came I had not returned from my boarding school, but as - soon as I came home and found your darling letter I lost no time in - answering it. Oh, Lottie, I am so happy just now that I cannot find - words to tell you as I should like to do. Papa has consented to let - me spend the winter in Memphis, and you may look for me by the last - of September. Oh, isn't that delightful? Won't we have lots of fun? - I often think of you and your heroic little brother--but I ought - not to speak of him as your little brother now, I suppose, because - he must be a man by this time. I have his picture, you know, - Lottie, and oh, how much I do think of it! I keep it next to my - heart all the time. All the gold in California could not buy it - from me. I expect Harry has changed very much since we parted--you - know I was only a little child then, but now I am a great, - overgrown mushroom--and as green as a half-grown gourd. Dear papa - says I am pretty, but you know evidence of that kind is unreliable; - still I confess I should like to know it was true. You may tell - Harry--I suppose I ought to say Mr. Wallingford--that I have not - forgotten him, and I don't think I ever shall. I was so glad to - hear that he was going to make a great lawyer of himself. Mr. - Rockland says, in his letters to papa, that Mr. Wallingford - possesses great talent, and will be sure to distinguish himself - some day. Would you believe it, I shed lots of joyful tears when - papa read the letter to me? I envy you; how happy you must be! how - proud of such a brave, heroic, talented brother! You see, I am well - posted in everything that concerns you and your noble brother. I - often wonder if he ever thinks of the little foolish girl he kept - from being crushed to death by the engine? I wonder if he has - forgotten how he and I went rolling and tumbling down the - embankment together! I was so much delighted at your description of - your flower garden; I know I shall enjoy it very much. You people - of the dear sunny South have great advantages over us in that - respect. I think I should like to live in the South all the time. I - suppose you knew I had a darling little brother--yes, I know you - did, because I remember now that I told you of it in my other - letters. Poor little fellow, he is not a healthy child at all; he - is now nearly five years old, and looks like a mere baby, though - papa says he will come out all right after a while. Did I ever tell - you what his name was? I don't think I did. Well, you see mamma and - papa couldn't agree on a name for him, and, to keep peace in the - family, it was agreed that I should have the honor of selecting his - name. What do you think I did? I named him after your heroic - brother. We call him Wallie. That, you know, is an abbreviation of - Wallingford. He was baptized as "Harry Wallingford Bramlett," and - papa and mamma were both delighted with the good selection I made. - But I must close now, because I fear I have made this letter too - long, anyway. Present my highest regards to your brother, and - accept my best, truest love for yourself, and write soon to - - "'Your true friend, - - "'VIOLA.' - -"'That's a splendid letter, Lottie, for a girl of sixteen to write,' -said I, when it was read through. - -"'She is not quite sixteen yet, either,' said Lottie. - -"'That document conveys the best news, my darling, that I have heard -since you told me you would be mine.' - -"'To what part of it do you refer?' - -"'That wherein she says she is going to spend the winter with you. It -will be a great consolation for me to know, when I am so far from you, -that you will have such a sweet friend for a companion. I was thinking -of the long, dreary winter days and nights that you would be compelled -to pass through all alone, but now how could you be lonely with such a -lively little cricket as Viola?' - -"'I dare say she will prove a great comfort to me, yet she cannot fill -the aching void that will be caused by your absence.' - -"As she said this her large dreamy eyes were glancing up at me, while a -tear trembled in each, and I drew her head against my breast, too happy -to speak. I led her to a seat, letting her fair cheek remain resting on -my heart, while my mind went straying into the future. A thousand -thoughts of various kinds intruded on me--some pleasant, others very -different. What if Mr. Rockland should resort to strategy, during my -absence, to entrap my Lottie into a marriage with Heartsell? What if he -should throw his great intellect, with his vast wealth and influence -into the balance against me? Would my Lottie be able to withstand it? -Would she be able to do battle successfully against such odds? These -unwelcome questions forced themselves upon me, causing a shudder to dart -through my body. Lottie felt the shock, and exclaimed: - -"'What's the matter? why do you tremble so? I declare, your heart made a -violent jump just now, then began to flutter and knock against your -breast; what does it mean?' - -"'I was thinking how I should feel if you were to cease loving me, when -I went away, and should marry Mr. Heartsell!' - -"She started up, looking at me reproachfully: 'How can you talk so; -didn't you know I had rejected Mr. Heartsell's offer?' - -"'Indeed I did not; I was not aware of the fact that he had made it, -though I knew he intended to do so.' - -"'Well, he has done it, and you may be easy now.' - -"'Tell me what he said, and what you said.' - -"'Mr. Heartsell, I think, is a very nice, good man, and worthy of a true -woman's love; but I had no heart for him, because you, like a good old -thief, went and stole it. I felt highly honored by Mr. Heartsell's -partiality, and told him so; but I thought it my duty to tell him the -truth at once, which I did. I told him my hand and heart belonged to -another. Poor fellow! he wept when I told him I loved another, and -could not love him. He said he would not give me up, but would wait -until I should think better of him; and he seemed to think that I would -change my mind and love him after all; but don't you know that I can -never change?' - -"'I can't express my admiration, Lottie, for your extraordinary -prudence; not one girl in a hundred would have taken the proper view in -such an emergency. Of course you did right to tell Mr. Heartsell the -whole truth; most girls under similar circumstances would have evaded -the truth, and left the man a reasonable hope.' - -"'By the by, have you ever mentioned our engagement to brother Harry?' - -"'Oh, yes, I named it to him before I did to any one else.' - -"'And what did he think of it?' - -"'He was glad of it--said it was just what he expected and -desired--congratulated me heartily--said I was a lucky fellow to be the -winner of such a heart--said he knew you loved me, all the time--told me -that if ever I caused you trouble he would kill me--and, to tell you the -truth, Lottie, I believe he would kill any one who would bring trouble -on you.' - -"'Oh, he is such a noble, generous, heroic brother! Viola loves him, and -I hope they will make a match of it.' - -"'Ah, Lottie, that will never happen.' - -"'May I know the reason why you think so?' - -"'Viola is a great heiress, and you know how proud Harry is; no matter -how much he might love her, he would never tell her of it. Do you know -that I think the only fault Harry has is his unprecedented pride? I have -been acquainted with many proud men, but there is something in Harry's -pride that places it beyond anything I ever have witnessed in other -people. No, Lottie, let me advise you not to build your pyramid of hopes -on a foundation of that sort.' - -"'Is Mr. Bramlett very wealthy?' - -"'Mr. Rockland tells me that he is a millionaire, and you know he has -only two children.' - -"'Then I must confess that I don't think Harry would be doing exactly -right were he to seek Viola's hand in marriage. If that's what you refer -to when you speak of his pride, I am fully prepared to indorse it.' - -"The dreadful day for my departure had come at last; the awful moment -in which I was to part from Lottie had come and gone. The parting words -had been uttered--the bitter tears had been shed, the farewell kiss -given; the long, loving embrace was over. I had handed dear Lottie, -fainting, into Mrs. Rockland's arms, and was on my way to Philadelphia." - - - - -CHAPTER XII. - - -"I arrived in New York City in due time, and set about the work which -Doctor Dodson had charged me with. When I reached Philadelphia I found a -long letter from Lottie. Here it is: - - "'DEAR EDDIE--Your letter was received yesterday, and if you knew - how happy it made me you would write me one every day. I have read - it through at least a dozen times, and every dear expression is - engraved on my heart. I beseech you to take good care of yourself, - and you must be sure to tell me if you ever feel the least ill. But - lest I should bore you with so much talk about love matters, I will - tell you something about Viola. She has been with me nearly three - weeks, and is the sweetest, prettiest little cricket that any one - ever looked upon--not so little, however, as you might think, for - she is as tall as I am. She has a most charming disposition--as - gentle as a dove--and can sing, oh, so sweetly! It would make you - weep to hear her play on the guitar, while singing one of her - plaintive songs. She is complete mistress of the piano and guitar. - I had been flattering myself that I was a pretty good musician, but - when I heard Viola play my conceit oozed out. She is in love with - Harry, but just as I expected, he is too proud to let her know how - he loves her. He maintains a dignified stiffness of manner, when - with her, that chills me to the heart and frightens her. I wonder - if this hateful money of Mr. Bramlett's is going to break these two - young, loving hearts? Viola has Harry's picture--wears it in her - bosom all the time; I saw her kissing it the other day and crying - over it, when she thought no one was near. What a darling little - wife she would make for Harry, if he would only ask her! I wish I - had a gold mine, so I could give it to him, and make his fortune - equal to hers. I believe he loves her fervently, and would tell her - so, but for the hateful gulf that Mr. Bramlett's gold has placed - between them. I fear that much sorrow is in store for both of them; - but let us hope for the best. Viola and I are rooming together; - poor old Bob dozes on the hearth in my room all the time since the - weather got too cold for him to stay in his house. He has quit - quarreling with old Roderick, and they have become very good - friends now. The parrot comes up to my room every night, and takes - his snooze in the closet. He has learned to speak several new words - since you went away. It would amuse you to hear him try to say - Philadelphia; but he can't do it--the word is too big for him. I - was trying to teach him to tell where you were living, and when he - failed to say Philadelphia we compromised on New York, because he - can say that as plainly as I can. - - "'Mr. Heartsell has called on me several times since you left. Poor - fellow, he looks so sad! He treats me with such tender - consideration--never mentions the subject; I suppose he has given - up all hope in that direction. I can't help having the very highest - respect for him; but do not become jealous, for I don't love him - the least bit. How could I love any one else when my Eddie has - taken my heart away with him? - - "'I think poor old Bob will die before you come home--he is very - old, you know; I never let him want for anything--how could I, as I - think of the time when we were poor homeless tramps? Do you ever - let your mind wander back to those old days when we were all - tramps? Have you forgotten the cloth shoes you made for me while - you were convalescing at Mrs. Holly's farmhouse? I have got those - old shoes yet; I am preserving them as relics of the happy days of - old. - - "'Papa says that he will have to mortgage his estate to buy postage - stamps if I don't quit writing so many long letters to you. I don't - care if he does--I mean to write a long letter every day. - - "'The autumn weather has been delightful, and you may guess Viola - and I have made good use of it. She is the liveliest girl I ever - saw--always mirthful and happy, except when Harry gets on his high - horse of pride; then a shade of melancholy chases away the jolly - look. Alas! what misery will ensue if Harry does not conquer this - strange, mysterious passion called pride. Poor girl! she does not - know that it is the hateful money that keeps Harry and her so far - apart. Harry is not happy, as he was before Viola came, and I begin - to see a cloud of sorrow rising in the distance which is sure to - burst over their heads, unless something intervenes to prevent it. - Oh, love, love, love! what a wonderful thing thou art! How much - happiness canst thou give when circumstances are favorable, and - what misery when unfavorable! When I think of what exquisite - delight your love has given me I can't realize the fact that the - same kind of passion has caused so much misery to others. I am so - selfish in my love, yet so happy; but then, when I think of the - many long, dreary days that must elapse before I shall see you, I - am in despair. I sometimes imagine that I should like to fall into - a trance, and not wake up till you return. The old clock on the - mantel goes on ticking away deliberately, while an age seems to - intervene between the strokes. Oh, how can I wait so long before I - shall look again in those dear eyes? Your eyes always looked so - tenderly down into mine; I could read your thoughts when gazing in - your eyes. You were always so tender and gentle with me, in the - good old days; when my feet were bleeding from their many wounds, I - remember you lifted me in your arms--when I was unable to walk--and - carried me to the banks of the little brook and bathed my feet so - tenderly! Do you never let your mind recall those happy days? I - call them happy days, though they were not unmixed with - sadness--but those were the days in which you won my heart. Do you - remember the evening when old Bob came to our camp looking so poor - and miserable? What a lucky thing it was he happened to take it - into his head to follow me! But you will be laughing at me when you - read this nonsense. Well, do you know, darling, I don't care how - much you laugh at me? I rather like it, when I know you love me so - well. Viola is looking over my shoulder just now, telling me to - give you her highest regards; and I imagine it makes her sad to - know that my love is returned, while she thinks hers for Harry is - not. Harry says he wishes to be kindly remembered by you; he thinks - you are the best fellow in the world--shows his good sense, don't - it, darling? Well, I suppose when you read this long letter you - will be tired; but I could write all day to you and never tire. I - could write a volume about love, and then not have space sufficient - to describe all I feel for my darling; but I reckon I had better - halt here. Good-by, and don't forget the kisses I have sent in this - letter. Your faithful, loving - - "'LOTTIE.' - -"I often think that men who never loved are not capable of understanding -the wonderful mystery, because they are often heard to speak of it as -simple nonsense--a foolish weakness, only known to weak minds. I have -been told that many a man has lived a long life, and died without ever -having felt the charming influence of true love; if they did, they died -in ignorance of what real happiness was. To say that I read Lottie's -sweet letter a thousand times would, perhaps, be an exaggeration--to say -I only read it once would be short of the mark; I read it a great many -times. But I must hasten on, and not consume your time with too much -talk about my dear Lottie, as I shall have many thrilling events to -describe--events that occurred after I had finished my attendance at the -lectures. I will, however, ask permission to read one of my letters to -Lottie, after which I promise to hasten on to the stirring events which -really constitute the gist of this story. - - "'DEAR LOTTIE--Your highly appreciated letter was here when I - arrived, and were I to exhaust Webster's unabridged, I am sure I - could find no words adequate to describe the pleasure I felt while - perusing it. You inquired if I ever let my mind wander back to the - old days, when we were homeless tramps. Ah, yes, Lottie! my mind - has traveled a thousand times over every path where your dear feet - have trod. I can call to mind every little trifling circumstance - that was in any manner connected with you. I have seen nothing in - the shape of a woman that can begin to compare with my Lottie. - - "'I am stopping at the Girard House, on Chestnut street--have - comfortable quarters on the second floor, fronting the street. That - is one of the most beautiful streets in the city. Every evening it - is crowded with splendid equipages and handsome ladies, but none so - beautiful as my Lottie. Independence Hall is situated on this - street; I spent one whole day looking at the quaint old relics that - are to be seen there. The old bell, whose brazen tongue proclaimed - the birth of a new nation nearly a hundred years ago, is there - still. The heavy old carved chairs that were used by the members of - the Continental Congress may be seen in the very places where they - stood when occupied by those heroic old patriots. A life-size - portrait of George III. hangs on the wall. His youthful features - have no expression that would indicate the tyrant. The old - flint-lock pistols used by Lafayette during the war of independence - are great curiosities in themselves. Washington's camp-chest may be - seen, with the cooking utensils used while commanding the American - army; all put together would scarcely weigh fifty pounds. A common - lieutenant of the present day would tender his resignation, if he - were required to reduce the bulk of his camp equipage to that used - by the Commander-in-Chief in 1776. This is a fast age, you know, - and ideas have changed since the honest days of old. Strange - reflections crowded on my mind as I gazed on those dear old relics. - Where are all those brave old soldiers now? Where are all the - heroic men and beautiful women who inhabited this continent then? - All dead, all gone; perhaps not a living soul can now be found on - the earth who heard the old bell proclaim the notes of liberty to - the people in 1776. - - "'Philadelphia is a beautiful city--so clean, so quiet, so - charming; everything so systematic. I think I should like to live - here, but for the severely cold winters. I visited Girard College - the other day, and would you believe it, Lottie, a man at the gate - asked me if I was a preacher. Now, don't I look like a preacher? - Have you ever imagined that I, in any manner, resembled one? Of - course not, yet he did ask me the strange question. I, of course, - answered promptly, No! and then he allowed me to go in. My - curiosity was roused, and I didn't stop till I learned the reasons - why the question was put to me. Mr. Girard inserted a clause in his - will that no minister of the gospel should ever be permitted to - enter the inclosure. - - "There are many things to amuse and instruct one in this sober old - city, and I mean to give you a more elaborate history of them in my - next letter. I don't think I ever shall make a very great surgeon, - because the dissecting room is a very unpleasant place to me. When - engaged in it I can't for the life of me keep my mind on the - business before me, but, in spite of me, it will go straying off - into the realms of philosophy. The first time I entered the - dissecting room I felt unusually sad; the subject was a young man - of powerful frame, well-shaped limbs, brawny chest and handsome - face, whom I supposed to be about my own age. A feeling of horror - thrilled through my whole frame as I saw the sharp, glittering - steel inserted in his white flesh. I then and there became - convinced that I never should master the science of surgery, if - that was the only way it could be done. When the dead man's brain - and heart were taken out, I took the heart in my left hand and the - brain in the other, seated myself as far away as I could without - leaving the room, and began to philosophize in a most singular - manner. What is this little dark red lump of flesh that I hold in - my left hand? Answer--The human heart, the supposed seat of life, - the little governor that regulates the quantity of blood that each - tiny vein is entitled to as its share. This little lump of flesh - puts all the small pumps in motion that move the red life through - the human body. This little insignificant thing is the great throne - where love holds his court; where all the passions assemble round - to pay homage to the king of love. In what corner of this little - ball does love hold his court? Where is the identical spot? How is - it we can feel it, and not see it? How can so much delicious joy - find room in this little bulk? How can it produce such heavenly - joys, such ecstatic bliss, as I feel in my love for my Lottie? Then - again, how can so small a bulk suffer such untold, indescribable - torture as we endure when we love some beautiful object who returns - scorn for true love? As I held the heart in my hand, I thought of - Shakespeare's wonderful creations of beauty, and asked myself the - question, Was his great heart like this? How could a man possessing - a little heart like this, compose such soul-inspiring poetry? Then - I thought perhaps it was the brain where all those beautiful things - originated, and I turned my attention to it. What was it? Nothing - but a few ounces of soft, fatty substance. Is this the great spring - from whence such brilliant ideas flow? Was the great Bard of Avon's - brain like this? How could such an insignificant mess of fat give - life to such soul-stirring sentiment, such heaven-born inspiration? - Was this little gob of fat all that Napoleon had to depend on to - enable him to overturn kingdoms and to make kings out of peasants? - Did Alexander and Caesar have brains like this? Did Byron's base of - thought depend on such a slender foundation as this? The more - questions I propounded to myself on the subject the more I became - bewildered. Scientists assert that the brain is the dome of - thought; but if it is so, I must say that the dome of thought is a - very insignificant dome. No, it is the soul that dwells in the - head, sitting back on its throne, that directs and moves - everything. It is not dependent on this little lump of fat for its - existence, nor is it in any manner indebted to it for the thoughts - that man produces. The soul sits on a throne in a man's hand, and - issues orders, like a king from his earthly throne; all parts of - the body are moved by orders from the soul; just as great armies - are moved by orders of the king. When the body falls into decay the - soul steps out uninjured, and reports to its Creator for duty. Who - made this incomprehensible thing called a soul? God. Who made----? - Stop right here and seek to know no more; trust everything to that - mysterious Power who created this admirable machine called man. - - "'"What are you doing, Mr. Demar?" inquired the professor; "you - have been looking at those little organs a long time--what have you - discovered?" - - "'"Enough to convince me that man is a poor, helpless, ignorant - thing, unable to tell anything about his own creation." - - "'I then took a sharp knife and began to dissect the heart. I cut - it into a hundred little slices, looking with all the eyes I had to - see where love resided, but my search was in vain. Was my Lottie's - heart like this? Was my own heart like it? If so, why could I find - nothing that would indicate the part where love dwelt? I knew from - the feelings of my own heart that love dwelt there; but with all my - surgery I could not find it. I was so nervous I did not sleep a - wink that night and I think I shall not attempt to pry into the - secrets of nature any more. When I know that my Lottie loves me - dearly, and that I adore her beyond everything on earth, that is - enough for me, and I shall not again attempt to investigate secrets - which God never intended weak mortals to know. I am happy, oh, so - very happy! no matter how or wherefore; I am happy, and that's - sufficient. - - "'I was exceedingly sorry to hear that Harry still clings to his - absurd notions of pride; it will kill all pleasure, destroy all - hopes of happiness, unless he discards it. Why should he reject the - love of such a charming woman, when it would make him the happiest - man in Memphis if he would lay aside his foolish pride? I fully - concur with you in the idea that his conduct is going to produce - unspeakable sorrow. I knew that Viola loved him when she was a mere - child, and she is worthy of any man's love. Use all your powers of - persuasion, my dear Lottie, on him; see if you cannot convince him - of his error. I know he loves you dearly, and has a high opinion of - your judgment, and I trust you may be able to induce him to change - his mind. I am sorry to be compelled, however, to tell you that the - reports you have heard regarding Mr. Bramlett's wealth have not - been at all exaggerated. His estate is estimated at ten to fifteen - hundred thousand dollars. I was invited to dine with him during my - stay in New York. I accepted the invitation, and was delighted with - the entertainment. The dinner party consisted of a dozen invited - guests besides the family--all persons of distinction, except - myself, of course. One ex-Governor, one United States Senator, one - Brigadier-General, and two railway presidents; the others were - newspaper men, and bankers, and two literary ladies. Mrs. Bramlett, - knowing how green I was in such matters, took charge of me at the - start, and piloted me through so skillfully that I was not at all - embarrassed. To describe the grand display of wealth that met my - eyes would be, indeed, a difficult task. Mrs. Bramlett made a great - many inquiries about Harry; so did Mr. Bramlett. They both seem to - think a great deal of him, and, no doubt, would readily consent for - Viola to marry him. Mr. Bramlett is by no means a gold worshiper; - he has made his fortune by energetic work and close attention to - business, is very liberal with his money, and exceedingly popular - with the business men of New York. Mrs. Bramlett is a confirmed - invalid, though she is one of the best little women I ever knew. - But, dear Lottie, I must not undertake to tell everything in one - letter, but will reserve something to be said in my next. Having - kissed this paper a hundred times for you, I now bid my darling - angel good night. Yours, forever and ever, - - "'EDDIE.' - -"I had been in Philadelphia but a short time when the news of Mr. -Bramlett's death reached me--and Lottie informed me, by letter, that -Viola was overwhelmed with grief at the loss of her father, and that she -had immediately started home, accompanied by Harry. I was glad to learn -that Harry had gone home with her, for I still clung to the idea that -Viola would yet be his wife. I was satisfied that she soon would be left -all alone, for her mother's health was wretched, and it was certain she -would not long survive her husband. I received a letter from Harry, soon -after his arrival in New York, and as it has an intimate connection with -this narrative, I think I had better read it now: - - "'Dear Edward--I presume you have heard of the death of Mr. - Bramlett, as sister Lottie promised to give you the information. - His death has cast a cloud over Viola's young life; she loved her - father devotedly, and is plunged in despair at his sudden death. - Misfortunes, it seems, never visit us singly, but most always come - crowding on us in platoons. Mrs. Bramlett is dying now--we don't - think she will last more than twenty-four hours longer. Poor Viola! - I pity her from the bottom of my heart. I am so glad I consented to - accompany her home, and that I can be with her during this awful - affliction! She is the most amiable, charming girl I ever knew; the - sweetest disposition, the gentlest manners--and I believe I might - say the most beautiful, too. I will tell you a great secret, if - you will keep it to yourself--I am desperately in love with - Viola--nay, to tell you the whole truth, I adore her--and my love - is returned without discount; I might say with a good interest; but - alas! I can never marry her, you know. There is an impassable gulf - that separates us. I should despise myself if I thought that I was - a sneaking fortune-hunter. I would look upon myself as a disgraced, - unworthy, mean fellow, and so would everybody else, were I to take - advantage of that poor girl's situation. - - "'Mr. Bramlett made a will placing all his property in the hands of - trustees, to be divided equally between Viola and her brother, - Harry W., both to have control of their respective shares on - arriving at the age of twenty-one years. Mrs. Bramlett was amply - provided for under the will, but she will not live to enjoy the - benefits of her husband's generosity. Stanley Ragland, a - half-brother of Mr. Bramlett's, is named in the will as guardian to - Viola and her brother. Mr. Ragland resides in Memphis--a lawyer, - though I don't think he is engaged in the practice of his - profession now. I am glad to know that Viola is to reside - permanently in Memphis; it will be a consolation to see her now and - then, even if she is to be some other man's wife. I never shall see - another happy moment after the day that Viola is wedded, and, as a - matter of course, she will not remain single long. Memphis will - swarm with unscrupulous fortune-hunters as soon as Viola arrives, - and it becomes known that she is an heiress to a great fortune. I - shall remain here until after Mrs. Bramlett's funeral, for the - purpose of accompanying Viola and her brother to Memphis. As I have - already said, the poor woman cannot possibly survive more than two - days longer. Viola's grief is crushing her young heart, and I think - it best to take her away from here as soon as possible. Her brother - is a handsome, well-disposed boy, and I think I shall like him very - much; he is a bright, lively little fellow, and has become very - much attached to me. I am proud to have such a boy named after me; - that, you know, was done by Viola--which, you perceive, is another - evidence of her affection for me. - - "'I shall be glad to hear from you as soon as I get home, and shall - expect you to write often. Poor Lottie! she hated so much to part - with Viola; they had become true friends--loved each other - fervently; she will be quite lonely until we get home. I have - extended this communication much longer than I intended, and must - apologize to you for it. With many wishes for your good health and - happiness, I am, - - "'Yours most truly, - - "'HARRY WALLINGFORD.' - - - - -CHAPTER XIII. - - -"Three days after Harry's first letter reached me I received another -announcing the death of Mrs. Bramlett, and informing me that he would -start for Memphis, in company with the two orphans, on the following -Monday, with a view of placing them with their guardian. About two -months after Viola had arrived at her new home, with Mr. Ragland's -family, I received another long letter from Harry, the perusal of which -caused me much pain; and, as I think it would assist me on with this -history, I will read it now: - - "'Dear Eddie--It is with a heavy heart that I write this - communication, because things are not going on well here by any - means; and I would not distress you with a history of our troubles, - but I know you must learn of them sooner or later. Viola has - changed very much since she arrived here two months ago. She is by - no means like the same girl she was when she came here last fall. - There is a breach between her and me that grows wider every - day--since she became aware of my determination not to place myself - in a situation where the world would be justified in applying the - dishonorable name of fortune-hunter to me. I was alone with Viola - one day in Lottie's flower garden, happy to be near one I loved so - devotedly. I think I must have lost control of myself--I was so - completely overcome with my passion that I scarcely knew what I was - doing. I think she concluded that I was about to make a declaration - of my love for her, and to make her an offer of marriage. I am sure - I do not know exactly what I did say; but I will try to tell you - the substance of what occurred. She was pinning a rose on my - breast, while her sweet lips were near mine, and I seized her hand - and kissed it. - - "'"Miss Bramlett," said I, "how beautiful you look to-day. Do you - know that I think you are the most charming girl in the world?" - - "'"How should I know your thoughts, Mr. Wallingford, about - anything, when you are so cold and formal with me? You always talk - to me as if I were a mere stranger, whom you had never met before." - - "'"Don't call me Mr. Wallingford, I beseech you; speaking of - coldness, that makes me shiver." - - "'"It is a poor rule that won't work both ways; you made it, and - should not now complain of my adopting it." - - "'"The retort is just, and I have no right to complain; but we are - both getting to be quite formal of late; nevertheless, I may be - permitted to think and speak of your great beauty, I hope, without - offending you." - - "'"Oh, no offense, I assure you, Mr. Wallingford--I am used to - flattery, and it does not make me vain at all." - - "'"No doubt you are often annoyed with compliments, but I was only - speaking the honest truth when I said I thought you were the most - beautiful creature I ever saw." - - "'"Indeed, I am much gratified to know that you don't think me - ugly. I never saw but one gentleman whom I thought was extra - handsome; but, alas! he has a heart as cold as an iceberg, and is - too proud to be happy." - - '"I knew in an instant to whom she alluded, and I felt my heart - begin to melt at once. - - "'"May I know the name of this wonderful paragon?' I inquired, as I - gazed eagerly into her expressive eyes. - - "'"Oh, never mind his name--he is a particular friend of mine, - anyway." - - "'"Is he nothing more than a friend, Miss Bramlett?" - - "'"If he is, he is too proud to say so. Like Achilles, he wraps - himself up with his cloak of selfishness, and smiles at other - people's woes." - - "'I still held her little hand in mine, every now and then pressing - it to my lips. - - "'"Viola, how can you be so cruel, when you know how miserable I - am?" - - "'"I had no idea that you were miserable; pray what has caused it?" - - "'"I love one whose high position places her so far above my humble - sphere that I know she never can be mine." - - "'"We are all equals in the eyes of God, and the accidents of birth - or fortune should make no difference with us--the worth of the man - should be measured according to his deeds." - - "'"No doubt your theory is altogether correct, but you know that - the world takes a different view of it" - - "'"A man who strives to please the world in all things may expect - to please himself in none. For my part, I think the world's a - humbug, and society a tyrant; and the man who worships either will - make himself miserable. I believe it was Mr. Pope, in his 'Essay on - Man,' who said, - - "'"'Honor and shame from no condition rise, - Act well your part, there all the honor lies; - Worth makes the man, and want of it the fellow; - The rest is all but leather and prunella.'" - - "'"Viola, don't you know that I have been loving you devotedly ever - since we first met?" - - "'Her head sank down, and she turned her face from me to hide the - tears that were streaming from her eyes. I was crazy with passion; - my brain was on fire. I forgot my pride, I lost my self-possession; - I was, for the time being, raving mad with love; I took her in my - arms and held her against my heart--her head resting on my - shoulder. I would be willing to suffer a long life of pain for an - hour of such joy! but, alas! it could never be. Suddenly I - recollected what I had done--I saw the folly of it--nay, I began to - see the meanness of it, and my cheeks burned with shame. I felt - like a cowardly sneak; I sprang away from Viola. - - "'"Pardon my presumption, Miss Bramlett; upon my honor, I was - joking; I beg you to forgive and forget me; I did not think of the - impropriety of my conduct. Let us be good friends; that is all I - ask, nothing more. I shall go to California. I--I--could have loved - you, Miss Bramlett, under different circumstances; but, as it is, I - must try to forget you; good-by--let us part as friends." - - "'I took her hand in mine--it was as cold as ice, and her face was - deadly pale; I started to leave her. I had gone about twenty paces - from her, when I heard a groan--such a groan of despair as never - before broke on my ear! It was not loud, but sounded like the knell - of death to me. I hastened back, and found Viola lying on the - ground, apparently dead, her temple stained with blood, that came - from a severe wound which she had received from falling against a - corner of the bench. For a moment I was paralyzed with horror, the - first thought that occurred to my mind being that she had committed - suicide. But Lottie had heard the groan, and came running to - ascertain the cause. She sat down and placed Viola's head on her - lap, and began to wipe the blood from her temple. - - "'"Bring water--quick, Harry!" said Lottie. - - "'I hastened to the house, seized a bucket of water, and was back - in a moment. Lottie sprinkled Viola's face and bathed her temples, - and in a short time signs of returning life were appearing. I was - gratified to find that the wound was not serious, and that all - danger was over. I lifted Viola in my arms and carried her to the - house, having my bosom stained with her precious blood. She did not - open her eyes at all while I was carrying her to the house; but I - saw tears falling rapidly from them. I whispered a few words to - Lottie, by way of directing her what course to pursue, as I placed - Viola on a sofa, and fled like a coward from the premises. I know - you will condemn my conduct, and I know I deserve it; but, as God - in Heaven is my judge, I meant to do nothing wrong. My reason was - overthrown by my intense passion. You have been in love yourself, - and can readily understand how love can steal away one's reason. - Who can love as I love Viola, and then be discreet? Who can retain - his senses when his blood is boiling in his veins and his brain on - fire? I confess my conduct was shameful, disgraceful and cowardly. - I should never have placed myself under the influence of her - charms--I should have kept my love for her a secret, but in her - presence I could not do it. I have sworn a solemn oath that I would - never ask her to marry me while I am penniless and she so rich. I - thought I was right then, and I have never changed my mind. Having - made that resolve, it was criminal in me to act as I did. I think I - shall go to California soon, because I cannot endure the torture - that will be mine if I remain near her. I am foolish enough--call - it vanity, if you please--to think that if I were in California I - might make a fortune in a few years; then I could claim Viola's - hand without feeling degraded in my own estimation. I never, until - lately, cared to be rich, but now I would make any sacrifice, - endure any hardship, to accumulate wealth. - - "'Viola left our house the next morning after the affair in the - garden, and has never been back any more. The occurrence mentioned - happened two weeks ago, and I must say I have never seen such a - change in any one as has come over Viola. The beautiful rosy tint - has left her fair cheeks, and her disposition seems to have - undergone an unaccountable change. Her conduct is causing her - friends great pain and uneasiness. She treats Lottie with a strange - coldness, and passes me with a dignified bow. She has become - perfectly reckless with her money--seems to be determined to get - rid of it; she does not use it in showy dress or costly jewelry, - but is giving it away to the poor as fast as she can. Her guardian - endeavors to restrain her, but she heeds not his counsel or his - commands. She appears only to study the best and fastest way to get - rid of her money. She says she hates the very name of money, and - that she means to give it all to the poor as soon as it comes into - her hands. Mr. Ragland says her income is very great, but that - within two weeks just passed she has given away one whole year's - income, and is borrowing more. Of course she can borrow as much as - she pleases, and seems to be determined to use her credit. What is - to be the result of this strange freak God only knows. I wish you - were here, for she might be influenced by you--she always appeared - to like you. Her guardian is greatly distressed at her conduct; he - says it is inexplicable to him. I fear that something awful is - going to happen. You would not think it possible for any one to - undergo such a radical change as she has. Come home as quickly as - you can; you may be able to do something with her. Lottie is - overwhelmed with grief; we are all in despair--her guardian has - given up all hope! Start immediately. I shall leave for California - as soon as you arrive. My uncle has made a great fortune there; he - offers to aid me if I will come, and I shall accept his offer at - once. I must get away from here at all hazards as soon as possible. - Probably Viola would recover her former gay and lively feelings if - I were away. If her entire fortune were now under her control she - would give it away in a month. She is annoyed with many suitors, - but she gives none of them any encouragement; in fact, they - complain that she does not even treat them respectfully. - - "'Lottie joins me in love to you, and also in the hope that you - will come home soon after this letter reaches you. Dear Lottie is - quite low spirited since Viola has quit visiting us, and nothing - but your presence here can revive her. It is useless to tell you - how much Lottie loves you, because you have known that all the - time. She is a dear, darling sister. God bless her, she will make - you a good wife. - - "'Hoping to see you at home very soon, I am, - - "'Yours truly, - - "'HARRY WALLINGFORD.' - -"Within twenty-four hours after the receipt of that letter I was on my -way home, and although I was being hurried on at the rate of forty miles -an hour, I felt as if I were going at a snail's pace. When I arrived at -home I of course went to see Lottie before talking with any one else. I -found my darling all that heart could wish. She was more beautiful, more -charming in my eyes than ever. The large, dreamy blue eyes were swimming -in tears of joy as I held her to my glad heart, and I saw a look of love -that satisfied me that I was the possessor of a treasure of great value. -I lingered by my darling's side until late at night. Every little -trifling incident was described--the days of old were alluded to and -discussed, while the present and future came in for a full share. -Harry's case was adverted to, and plans suggested by which we hoped to -be able to bring about a reconciliation between Viola and him. Old Bob -was dead, and had been honored with a grave in Lottie's flower garden. -Old Roderick was alive, and in splendid humor for talking when Lottie -and I called to see him at his headquarters. - -"'Ah, ha! here we are, Lottie! Eddie's in New York!' screamed the old -parrot, as he jumped down on Lottie's shoulders. - -"'Ah, ha! here we come, my boy!' exclaimed Dr. Dodson, as he met me at -the door and gathered me by both shoulders, holding me square before -him, and gazing into my face with his kind, keen eyes, first drawing me -close to him, then pushing me back, as if inspecting some article he -intended to purchase. 'Ah, ha! here we are, my boy, all right! You've -come out wonderfully; much taller, much better looking; don't look so -green--more polish--not such a booby now, are you, my boy?' - -"I did not have time to answer his questions; he pitched them in so -thickly and rapidly that I could not have put a word in edge-wise. - -"'Glad to see you home again, my boy! plenty of work to do, lots of -patients on hand; you can dive in, you see, right away. Been to see -Lottie? Yes, of course you have! had to see her before you came to me. -Oh, you sly rascal! had to go to her first, eh? Well, well, well, such -is life, you know! I was a fool once myself, when I was young! We are -all fools when in love! I was in love with Dolly when she was young; -Heaven bless her! I think I am in love with her yet! There, go in, my -boy, and see her; she is crazy to see you. Ah, ha! my boy, here we go!' - -"Then he shoved me in the house, calling at the top of his voice: - -"'Here, Dolly, our old boy has come at last! hug him first, then scold -him roundly for going to see Lottie before coming to see us. Ah, ha! yes -he did, a good-for-nothing rascal! Lottie is making a fool of him! Fact -is, she is making a fool of herself, also! Well, well, old woman, we -were young once, ourselves! you know how it is, yourself!' - -"The next morning I sought an interview with Harry, and was deeply -pained to see the change that had taken place in his appearance. His -face was very pale, his cheeks appeared to be sunken, and his general -appearance indicated great mental anguish. The lively smile that used to -light up his handsome face in the days of old was absent now. He greeted -me kindly, but the tone of his voice made me shiver; it was so -melancholy that it startled me. - -"'How is she now?' I inquired, alluding, of course, to Viola. - -"'Worse all the time--growing more reckless,' said he, with a mournful -shake of the head. 'For Heaven's sake, go see her at once.' - -"'Why not go yourself?' I asked; 'you could have more influence with her -than all the men in the world.' - -"'No, no! I dare not go near her. My senses always forsake me when I am -in her presence; I must go away from Memphis immediately.' - -"'Nonsense! why must you go away? Why not discard this foolish pride, -and marry her and be happy?' - -"'If that is the only advice you have to offer, we will let the subject -drop; my mind is settled on that question, and it must not be mentioned -any more.' - -"'The money is mine,' Viola would reply to Mr. Ragland's remonstrances -regarding the reckless manner in which she was squandering it, 'and why -should I not do with it as I please? Who has any right to say when and -how I shall use it? Who has any right to dictate to me on that subject? -This hateful fortune has been my bane, and I mean to rid myself of it as -soon as possible! Are there not thousands of poor people in this city -who need money? Are there not thousands who toil the live-long day and -then go to bed at night hungry? Yes, yes, you know it! Well, I mean to -give all my money to them, and hire myself out to work as a governess, -if I can; and if I can't do that, I'll wash or sew; nay, I'll serve as -chamber-maid at a hotel, before I'll keep this hateful money! Has it not -already ruined my hopes of happiness forever? Has it not surrounded me -with false friends? Has it not overflowed me with a brigade of brainless -fortune-hunters whose silly twaddle about love makes me sick? This -accursed gold drives true friends from me, and attracts about me a host -of senseless flatterers, whose very presence is hateful to me.' - -"There was no boisterous bluster about her manner--no outburst of -passion--but a quiet, determined expression was indelibly impressed on -her features. It did not require a Solomon to tell me that Harry was -responsible for all this; it was as plain as the sun at noontide. What -should I do next? was the question that naturally presented itself to -me. Should I sit down, fold my hands and quietly wait for the grand -smash-up which would be sure to come unless something was done to -prevent it; or should I put forth all my energies to save two young -hearts from utter ruin? I was deeply impressed with the magnitude of the -situation, yet at a loss to know what course to pursue in order to -change it. Having pondered over the matter until I was half sick and -badly puzzled, in a spirit of desperation I broached the subject to -Viola. - -"'Harry is going to California,' I said to her; 'we are all greatly -distressed about it, and you might prevent it if you would try.' - -"'And pray, Mr. Demar, tell me what I have to do with the movements of -Mr. Wallingford?' - -"'I thought you might not wish him to go,' I said, timidly. - -"'Indeed, Mr. Demar! let me assure you that Mr. Wallingford's plans are -in no respect of interest to me. He may go to Jerusalem--if he thinks it -will promote his happiness--or to California, or to Hindostan, or to the -North Pole, or anywhere else; what is it to me? I am just now engaged in -attending to my own business, and I imagine that Mr. Wallingford is -pursuing the same line of policy; I am sure I wish him success in all -his undertakings.' - -"'Don't you know that pride is drawing both of you apart? Stop, I -beseech you, before it is too late! Send a message to Harry by me--let -me tell him you wish to see him.' - -"'I have no message to send him; why should I wish to see him? Achilles -must occupy his lofty tent and let Greece bleed at every vein. When -Patroclus is dead, then he may condescend to take the field!' - -"As she uttered those words she was pacing the floor rapidly, back and -forth while a strange fire flashed from her pretty eyes. She moved like -a queen, and I saw the signs of intense passion disturbing her bosom. -The truth is, she was hard pressed for courage to keep from exposing her -love for Harry. - -"'Give me that rose you have on your throat,' I said, 'and let me tell -Harry you sent it to him.' - -"'No, no! I might offend this proud Greek! Let him enjoy his god-like -pride! Why should he be disturbed by others' woes? Do you remember the -first lines of the "Iliad"? - - "Achilles' wrath to Greece, the direful spring - Of woes unnumbered, heavenly goddess sing." - -I am no goddess, but I mean to write a song, and sing the proud man's -praise until his great deeds done in the heart-crushing business shall -resound throughout the land. You had better marry Lottie, Mr. Demar, -without delay; she is his sister, you know, and might catch the -inspiration, and learn to despise common people.' - -"'Miss Bramlett, for Heaven's sake don't talk that way! You know how -Lottie loves you--she would go any length to serve you. Harry worships -you, and all will go well if you will only give him a little kind -message.' - -"'I can only repeat what I have already said. I have no message for Mr. -Wallingford.' - -"I left her with heavy feelings weighing on my mind. Time rolled on, we -all rolled on too--or rather drifted on toward our fate. At the end of -six months matters were not improved, but had continued to grow worse. -Lottie was as true to me as the needle to the pole; not a wave of -misunderstanding ever crossed the calm sea of our happiness; all my -spare moments were spent by her side. We were too happy to look into the -dim future, but we drank in the sweet pleasure of the present, little -dreaming of the great cloud of woe that was gathering over our heads, -soon to burst on us with all its fury. Shortly after the -misunderstanding between Harry and Viola he had fallen ill, and for six -weeks his life seemed to be ebbing away slowly; but, thanks to Doctor -Dodson's skill and Lottie's nursing, the vital spark was kept in the -body until nature came to the rescue. His illness caused him to postpone -his trip to California at least until fall, and we were encouraged to -hope that we should be able to get him to abandon the trip entirely. I -still clung to the idea that he and Viola would not drift apart forever. - -"Viola never visited Lottie after the trouble with Harry. I saw her -about four weeks after Harry was taken ill. I was not prepared to look -for or expect such a change as was visible in her appearance; she -presented a perfect picture of despair--her beautiful eyes had a -languid, listless look in them that told plainly how she was suffering. -Was this the beautiful, gay little girl that I had heard Lottie call the -lively little cricket? Was it possible that one could change in that way -in so short a time? I could scarcely believe the evidence of my own -eyes. When I informed her that Harry was very ill, and that we all -thought he was going to die, she started, gazed wildly at me for a -moment, then burst into tears. - -"'I was in hopes I would go first,' she said, 'but I can follow him -soon; there will be no money up there to keep us apart.' - -"When I repeated her very words to him he was deeply affected, which -increased my hopes of a reconciliation. He was greatly changed in many -respects, and I thought the prospects of an understanding were -brightening. The time was near at hand when I was to go to Philadelphia -again to take my last course before receiving my diploma. Mr. Rockland -had at last consented that Lottie and I should be married when I -returned. During the summer Viola contracted a large number of debts, -after having exhausted her cash income. Her guardian was very greatly -annoyed and embarrassed by the demands of the creditors, and was -threatening to resign his office as guardian. The trustees in New York -were complaining of the continuous calls made on them for money, and had -promptly refused to encourage such extravagance. I must, however, do -Viola the justice to say that she did not squander the money where it -would do no good, but was distributing it among the worthy poor people -of the city. I was invited, one day, to go with her on a visit among the -suffering people who were the recipients of her bounty, and, before I -had finished the visit, I had occasion to change the unfavorable opinion -I had formed in regard to her conduct. She went about the matter in a -business-like manner; interrogated a family, ascertained what was needed -to make them comfortable, gave an order on a merchant for the articles, -and passed on to the next family, repeating the same good work there. I -saw large numbers of ragged children clinging to her skirts and pressing -kisses on her hands, while sickly mothers were praying for Heaven's -richest blessings to fall on the dear angel who had kept their children -from starving. As I witnessed those affecting scenes, I was more -inclined to indorse Viola's course than I was to condemn it. - -"The first of October found me again in Philadelphia, hard at work and -full of bright hopes as to the future--reading Lottie's sweet letters of -love, and thinking of the happy day that was soon to make her my wife. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV. - - -"One morning some three months after my arrival in Philadelphia, I was -seated at the breakfast table of the Girard Hotel, when a servant laid a -letter on my plate. I saw from the postmark that it was from Memphis, -and I recognized the handwriting as Harry's; I lost no time, of course, -in opening it. Before I had read it half through I was perfectly -paralyzed with horror, and made an effort to rise from my seat with a -view of going immediately to my room. I staggered like a man -intoxicated, and would have fallen to the floor, but that the steward -caught me and kindly led me from the room. - -"'Your letter brings you bad news, I fear, Mr. Demar! You seem to be -quite overcome; shall I get you a glass of wine, sir?' - -"'No, thank you,' I groaned, rather than spoke; 'help me to my room--I -wish to be alone.' - -"Several of my friends, seeing that something serious had happened, -surrounded me, insisting that I should tell them what the matter was, -but I begged them to leave me, as I wished to be alone. - -"'It is nothing, my friends,' said I, 'in which you can be of any -assistance to me. I have received awful news from home, and shall take -the first train to go there. I implore you leave me alone; I must think, -I must act, and that immediately.' - -"My request was complied with, and the steward kindly assisted me to my -room, and left me alone. My hands trembled so I scarcely could hold the -letter still long enough to finish reading it; and when I read it to -you--which I mean to do--you will not be surprised at the manner in -which its contents shook my nerves. It is true that I had been -anticipating evil, but never had dreamed of such an awful thing as was -described in Harry's letter; my mind was not prepared for such dreadful -news. I turned the paper on which the fatal news was written over and -over; read and re-read the lines, endeavoring to find something that -would raise a doubt as to the handwriting; but no, it was Harry's hand -beyond all question--the awful tidings were too true. I fell on a sofa, -buried my face in my hands, and endeavored to collect my scattered -thoughts, in order that I might take such action as the nature of the -case demanded. How long I remained in that position I am unable to say, -but it was a great while before I could regain composure sufficient to -write. As soon as I could command my nerves I hastily penned the -following note: - - "'DR. VANNESSE: - - "'Dear Sir--I would esteem it a very great favor if you would visit - me at my room at the Girard Hotel without delay, as I wish to - consult you about a matter of the gravest importance. News of a - most distressing character has just reached me from my home in - Memphis, Tennessee, which makes it necessary for me to go there - immediately. I would have gone to your quarters, but the shock - caused by the awful news has almost prostrated me; hence I must - implore you to come to me. - - "'Respectfully, "'EDWARD DEMAR.' - -"I rang the bell; it was answered by a little boy. - -"'Take this note to Doctor Vannesse, at his rooms, over at the -Continental Hotel, as quickly as you can; tell the porter to come up -after my baggage at one o'clock, and have it checked to Memphis; and -tell the clerk to prepare my bill--I wish to settle it,' were the orders -I gave to the bell boy. - -"Then I began to pack my trunks and arrange everything for my journey -southward, while the only consoling thought that came to my relief was -that I should soon see Lottie, at all events. The bell boy had been gone -with my note but a very few moments when Doctor Vannesse came dashing -into my room, his handsome features blazing with excitement. - -"'Demar, what on earth has happened? You look like a corpse! tell me, -quick, I beseech you! It must be something dreadful to make you look so -pale!' - -"'Indeed it is dreadful! nay, it is horrible! I never have heard of such -a thing before, in all the days of my life.' - -"'No doubt, no doubt whatever; but why do you not tell me what it is?' - -"'Be seated, doctor,' said I, 'and you shall know; but first let me ask -you to furnish me the name of the best and most experienced detective -officer in Philadelphia. I want one to go with me to Memphis. We have -splendid officers there, but I am requested to bring one from here, so -that we can have the services of both departments. There is a strange -case to be worked up; great skill and experience will be required, as I -think, and I sent for you to get your advice about the employment of -some one here whose reputation is his recommendation.' - -"'Dabbs, Zip Dabbs is the man you want; if he can't work up your case, -it is not workable. He can pump all the secrets out of a man, while he -makes the fellow think he is receiving, instead of giving, information. -I guess you have heard of Zip Dabbs--everybody knows him by -reputation--he is the very man you want; I'll go with you to see him; it -is doubtful whether you can induce him to go with you so far from his -usual field of action; then it might cost you more than you are willing -to pay--he charges very high for his services.' - -"'I care not for his charges,' was my reply; 'he shall be weighted down -with money, if he wants it; money is no object with us in this case.' - -"'Then I advise you to go and see Zip at once, for he worships money, -and will go with you to the end of the world if you will pay him well. -You have, of course, heard the old maxim, "set a thief to catch a -thief;" well, that applies to Zip Dabbs, with double compound force; he -is well acquainted with the inside walls of many prisons, and has spent -a great part of his life therein; but he has discovered a great secret, -and that is, that he can make more money by putting other men in the -penitentiary than he can by going there himself. He can change from a -well-dressed politician to a dray driver in five minutes; and the change -is so radical that no one can detect him. I have seen him spading a -garden, in an old red flannel shirt, the hottest day of the summer -season, and at night, dressed with exquisite taste, making the most -melodious music on a piano. He is a splendid musician--sings and plays -as well as anybody. He is as industrious as a honey bee, a splendid -piano tuner, and, by this means, often gains admission to high circles -where he wishes to obtain secrets that are locked safely from ordinary -people. He is the most extraordinary man I ever saw; plays political -demagogue to perfection; makes a splendid speech when he sets his head -to the business; can change from a green, bashful back-woods Hoosier to -a polished man of the world in ten minutes. He has reduced the art of -disguising to a perfect science, and can make his way through locks -without keys. I hope you will be able to engage him; he is the very man -you want. But, by the by, old fellow, you have not informed me what has -happened that causes you to want a detective.' - -"'Please let us go and see this man first. I wish to leave on the 2:30 -train this afternoon; he may want time to get ready--we had better see -him first. I can talk with you more at leisure after we have conferred -with Mr. Dabbs. If you will accompany me I shall be under many -obligations, and then I will detail to you the unfortunate intelligence -which has made it necessary for me to employ a sharp detective.' - -"'Ah, yes! yes, you are right, Mr. Demar; I see you understand how to -economize time; that's quite a gift; time, you know, rolls on, whether -we roll or not. It is a great thing to know how to roll on so as never -to be behind time. We can go and find Mr. Dabbs first, and confer with -him; then, while we talk matters over, he can make his arrangements so -as to be ready to go with you.' - -"'Come along then, Demar; we'll go to Dabbs' quarters now. He holds -forth on Chestnut street, just below Independence Hall; you may have -noticed his sign sticking on a shabby panel at the foot of the stairs, -on the right as you go down the street, beyond the hall. Queer man is -Dabbs; you had better let me do the talking, as I know better how to -manage him, perhaps, than a mere stranger would. I hope we shall find -him disengaged, though it would be the merest accident if we did, for he -is nearly always busy; he does more work than all the other detectives -in the city. By the by, here's his headquarters now; shabby quarters, -aren't they? Seems to me if I could coin money as he does, I'd rent more -comfortable rooms. Just look at the dirt on that floor! don't think it -has been swept since the Declaration of Independence. I declare, I can't -see how people can stand so much dirt. Phew! what an infernal stench -comes up through that hole! I must call the attention of the sanitary -board to it; I declare, it is abominable, detestable! But come along, -and let us get away from this place as soon as we can.' - -"'Where is Dabbs?' inquired Doctor Vannesse of a little squint-eyed man -with a very sharp nose, the end of which seemed to be making a desperate -effort to get into his mouth. - -"'Gone out, sir,' was the answer, made in a voice that sounded like the -grunt of a hog. - -"'I guessed he was out, sir, as it is very plain that he is not in!' -said the doctor, angrily. - -"I confess that the man's very looks was an insult, and his voice was -worse than assault and battery. He was smoking a cheap cigar, his -shirt-front all stained with tobacco juice; his little round head was -covered with a profusion of coarse black hair, standing out like -porcupine quills, and I thought he was drunk as soon as I saw him. - -"'When will Dabbs be in?' asked the doctor. - -"'Dunno,' was the grunt. - -"'Where can he be found?' - -"'Dunno.' - -"'What do you know about Dabbs?' - -"'Nuthin'.' - -"'Come along, Demar--that fellow's drunk. Maybe we can find some one on -the next floor who can give us some information.' - -"We had not reached the door when I heard some one behind me call Doctor -Vannesse in a most pleasant voice, and turning round, we discovered the -sharp-nosed man laughing as if he would shake himself to pieces. - -"'Ha, ha, ha! didn't know me, did you, doc? thought I was drunk, too, -ha, ha, ha! Come back and take seats; what can I do for you?' - -"I was filled with astonishment; he was the very man we were looking -for, so completely disguised that Doctor Vannesse, who had seen him a -thousand times, did not recognize him. I never heard a more pleasant -tone of voice, and his manners were those of a well-bred gentleman. - -"'By Jove, Dabbs!' exclaimed the doctor. 'I came very near knocking you -down with a chair; who would have thought it was you? What's up, Dabbs, -that makes you look like old Nick's engineer?' - -"'Some of old Nick's agents have been out on an excursion, but I've got -'em jugged; had just finished up the job five minutes before you came -in. It's a case of poisoning--always very difficult to work up, you -know--but I peeled the peach at last. They had the wrong man arrested, -as is usual in such cases, but I unearthed the guilty one, and he's sure -to get a through ticket.' - -"'Well, Dabbs, Mr. Demar here, who is a friend of mine, has a job on -hand which he wishes you to work up; he wants you to go with him to -Memphis; money is no object in this case--the pay will be liberal. Can -you go?' - -"'I guess so, unless the boss has something on hand, just wait here a -moment--I'll go and see him. Nothing would suit me better than a trip -down in Dixie.' - -"Thus saying, he disappeared through a back door, leaving the doctor and -me alone. - -"'Deuced sharp fellow, I assure you, Demar--works like a beaver, and -hangs on like a badger; never fails to bring the truth to the surface; I -hope you will secure him.' - -"'I shall consider myself lucky, indeed, if I can take him with me to -Memphis. The case he has been telling us about is somewhat similar to -the one I have on hand.' - -"'Ah, indeed! then he will be the better prepared to work it up; by the -way, here he comes now. How is it, Dabbs, can you go?' - -"'Yes, it is all right; when do you wish me to start, Mr. Demar?' - -"'On the 2:30 train this afternoon--Pittsburg line; can you be ready by -that time?' - -"'Oh, yes, I'm always ready; let me know the nature of the case you wish -me to investigate. It may be necessary to send a telegram immediately; -nothing like getting an early start in affairs of this kind; a warm -track is much easier to follow than a cold one. I happen to have an old -partner in Memphis, which I consider quite a lucky thing in this -instance; I'll send a dispatch directing him what to do until I arrive. -Mr. Tadpoddle will be of invaluable service to me, for he has worked in -Memphis, in my line, for many years. Give me your case at once, Mr. -Demar, and then I'll telegraph Mr. Tadpoddle what to do.' - -"'This will lead you into the light of the matter, Mr. Dabbs,' I said, -handing him the letter I had received from Harry. - -"When he had read the letter he handed it back to me, saying: - -"'Bad job, Mr. Demar; these kind of cases are very difficult to manage; -but Tadpoddle and I can do it if it can be done. I have just finished up -a case similar to this one, and I must say that crimes of that kind are -increasing fearfully; and the worst of it is the suspicion, in a -majority of such cases, falls on the wrong man; I trust it will prove so -in this one. If it should, however, turn out that they have arrested the -right one, I must say it is a most horrible affair. I am glad that your -friend Wallingford acted so promptly in having the premises placed in -charge of an officer--it will facilitate our work very much; then it -prevents any smuggling, or putting out of tracks by accomplices, which -is often done by partners in crime. You may go now, Mr. Demar; I'll meet -you at the depot in time for the 2:30 train; I have nothing to do but -pack up my traps, which won't take many minutes.' - -"'Well, Demar,' said Doctor Vannesse, 'let us go to your room now, and -then I will hear a history of this case of yours.' - -"I went by the telegraph office and sent a dispatch to Harry, informing -him that I would start immediately, accompanied by the best detective -officer in the city. 'Guard the premises closely--life and death may -depend on that,' were the closing words of my dispatch. Arriving at my -room, I handed Harry's letter to Doctor Vannesse, and while he was -reading I sat and watched the changes in his countenance wrought by the -dreadful news it contained. - -"'By Jove! Demar, this is most horrible! It beats anything I ever heard -of; do you think she is guilty?' - -"'If she committed the murder she was insane--she never did it while in -her proper mind; she was more like an angel than a murderess. The idea -that she committed murder for money is absurd; she hated money, and was -scattering her fortune promiscuously among the poor and needy. There has -been a strangeness in her conduct for the last eight months which has -greatly puzzled her friends, and it may be possible that her mind was -not right. She had had a misunderstanding with a young gentleman to whom -she was very much attached.' - -"'Ah, yes! I see how it is; she has been laboring under temporary -insanity,' said the doctor; 'but I fear that will not avail her in this -case. The pleas of insanity are becoming so frequent that all courts -view them with suspicion; I most earnestly hope you will be able to -establish her innocence. Write to me, Demar, often, and keep me posted -as to the progress of this case; I shall not be able to discard it from -my mind until I know the final result. Good-by, old fellow, I must leave -you now; success to you. My respects to that charming girl you are -always talking about; I'd give a quarter's salary to see her. If she is -half so pretty as you say she is, it would delight me to look at her; -Lottie, yes, Lottie--that's the name, I believe--by the by, a very -pretty name for a pretty girl; adieu.' - -"When the doctor closed the door behind him as he passed out I began to -arrange my baggage, while Lottie's dear image floated before my mind; -and my heart fluttered with excitement when I thought of the great -pleasure it would afford me to be with her once more. I was at the depot -twenty minutes ahead of time, and impatient and nervous; so much excited -that I could not sit five minutes in one place. I think my pulse must -have counted at least ninety to the minute; I snatched up a newspaper -and tried to read, but couldn't do it; looked at my watch a dozen -times--compared it with the railway clock as often--then began to notice -the crowd of travelers as they came hurrying in, hoping to see Dabbs -among them, but he did not arrive until the conductor cried 'All -aboard!' when I saw him elbowing his way through the crowd. - -"'I was afraid you would be left, Mr. Dabbs,' I said, as he came up. - -"'Never was left in my life, sir; don't think of me at all; I'm one of -those kind of fellows that ain't left; I know the value of time, sir; -have been dispatching instructions to Tadpoddle; he's got 'em before -now--good, we're off.' - -"I found it a great relief to my restless mind to be with Dabbs, for he -was an incessant talker, well posted on general subjects, and appeared -to be willing to impart what he knew without any questions from me. He -gave me an interesting history of many notorious criminals whose dark -deeds had been brought to light by him as a detective officer. I would -interest you with a repetition of them here, but my business is to -describe occurrences more directly connected with my story. I will, -therefore, read you Harry's letter, as I think it will throw more light -on the matter now in hand than anything I could say. Here it is: - - "'DEAR ED--Come home as quickly as you can; we are all in the - deepest distress; a great misfortune has fallen on us, and we need - you here to help us. Poor Lottie is in great sorrow, and your - presence may help to console her. I beseech you not to lose a - moment in coming. Viola is in jail, charged with the murder of her - little brother. Oh, it is horrible! To think that poor girl should - be thrust into a dungeon--like a common murderer--when she is as - innocent as a lamb! the very thought makes the blood run cold in my - veins. My conscience tells me that I am responsible, to some - extent, for this terrible calamity, though not intentionally. The - bare idea that Viola would commit such a foul, cruel murder, is - preposterous! If every man, woman and child in the city of Memphis - were to swear she is guilty, I would believe they were mistaken. - Some awful mystery, some deep-laid scheme of villainy, has mixed - itself up with the whole affair, and I mean to devote my life to - the task of unearthing it. I have registered a solemn vow in Heaven - never to seek rest until the perpetrator of this horrible crime is - brought to justice. That the poor child has been cruelly murdered - by some treacherous, cowardly villain, is a fact beyond all - dispute; but the perpetrator has covered up his tracks so - effectually that I fear we shall have no little difficulty in - catching him. I love Viola; and since this trouble has come upon - her I love her more than ever. I hate to use extravagant language, - but the circumstances will justify it; I pray God to give me - courage, strength and prudence, until I shall have unraveled this - strange mystery. I must confess that the evidence points directly - to Viola as the perpetrator of this unnatural murder; and there is - where the mystery comes in. I happen to know that she loved her - little brother devotedly, and instead of killing him, I believe she - would have given up her own life to save his. She is an angel in - gentleness, as pure as Diana, and I would stake my life, and all my - hopes of salvation, on her innocence; yet many people believe her - guilty. The poor child was murdered by poison, administered in his - medicine. The post-mortem examination developed this fact, so as to - place it beyond question, large quantities of strychnine being - found in the stomach. I was led to hope that the evidence would - establish the fact that the poison had been administered by - mistake; but that hope was extinguished when Doctor Dodson made - his statement. The child had been suffering with chills and fever - for several days, and Doctor Dodson was called in to take charge of - the case; he left five small doses of quinine with Viola, directing - her to administer one dose every two hours, commencing at four - o'clock P. M. The quinine was wrapped in small slips of blue paper, - and the bottle out of which the doctor took it was found setting on - the mantel, where he had placed it when he measured out the - quantity to be given the patient; and after the child was dead two - of the doses of quinine which the doctor had made up were found on - the table by the bedside, which, upon examination, were found to be - unmixed with any poison; that, of course, destroyed the theory that - strychnine had been administered by mistake. Viola says that she - gave the child three doses of the medicine, commencing promptly at - four o'clock, as instructed by the doctor, and that soon after she - gave him the third dose he began to complain of a burning in his - stomach, which continued to grow worse until she became alarmed and - called a servant to go after Doctor Dodson. The servant was gone a - long time, and, when he returned, said that he had been unable to - find the doctor; that he had been called to see a patient, and no - one could tell when he would be back. By this time the child was in - convulsions; Mr. Ragland and his wife were at the theatre, and no - other persons were on the premises except the servants, one of whom - was dispatched with instructions to bring the first physician he - could find, while another was sent to the theatre after Mr. - Ragland. The servant who had been sent for a doctor returned in - about an hour, accompanied by Doctor Plaxico. It was ten minutes - after ten when the doctor arrived, and he found the child in a - dying condition. Mr. Ragland and his wife reached home a few - minutes before the doctor. The child expired at 11.45 P. M. He had - been dead twenty minutes when Doctor Dodson came in, completely - overwhelmed with astonishment at finding his patient dead. Doctor - Plaxico requested Doctor Dodson to grant him a private interview, - and they went into another room, when Doctor Plaxico closed the - door, turned the key in the lock, and made a cautious survey of the - room to assure himself that they were alone; then approaching - Doctor Dodson, he spoke in a low, cautious tone, as if measuring - every word he uttered: - - "'"The poor child has been murdered, as sure as God is on His - throne." - - "'"Merciful Heavens! Doctor Plaxico, don't tell me that!" exclaimed - Doctor Dodson, as he staggered to a sofa. - - "'"I tell you the truth, and nothing but what I know to be truth! - Would to Heaven it were not so, but the evidence is overwhelming. - That boy died from the effects of poison administered to him by - some one in this very house, this very night; I know what I say, - and mean what I assert." - - "'"Stop, Plaxico! stop, I implore you; you don't know what you are - saying; you have been taking over-much wine." - - "'"No, you are wrong there! not a drop have I tasted within the - last twenty-four hours; my brain was never more clear than it is - this moment; and again I tell you the child has been murdered!" - - "'"Don't say _murder_! it takes malice to constitute murder; who - could bear malice against an innocent little boy like him?" - - "'"Does the highwayman bear malice against the poor traveler when - he kills him for his money?" - - "'"But who gets any money by the death of this poor child?" - - "'"The very one who administered the death-dealing drug." - - "'"'Tis untrue! and who utters it is an idiot!" - - "'"Keep calm, Doctor Dodson, I beseech you; I can forgive your - strong language, knowing, as I do, that you will soon be sorry for - having used it; but you will be of my opinion as to this case - before long. We must make an autopsy, and then you will doubtless - be convinced that the child has been dosed to death with poison." - - "'Doctor Dodson leaned back on the sofa, buried his face in his - hands and groaned. After remaining silent for a long time, - endeavoring to collect his thoughts, he said: - - "'"What evidence have you that causes you to conclude the child has - been poisoned?" - - "'"Having seen several persons die from its effects, and seeing the - boy die from it this very night. I knew it was poison as soon as I - arrived, and might have saved him if I had been here an hour - sooner; but it was too late when I came." - - "'"Is that all your evidence?" - - "'"No, no! not by any means; I have found something which I guess - will startle you when you see it; look at that and tell me if you - know what it is?" - - "'"Of course--that is a small phial of strychnine; but what does - that signify; will you please tell me?" - - "'"I found this in a little drawer of a bureau in Miss Bramlett's - room. Her brother died from the effects of poison, and she was - ordered by you to administer quinine to her brother, but she - administered something else. Do I speak sufficiently plain? Do you - understand me? Shall I say anything more by way of explaining what - I mean?" - - "'"Hush, hush! for Heaven's sake, stop! give me time to think. How - many papers of the quinine had been given to the child when you - arrived?" - - "'"Miss Bramlett said that she administered three doses, and that - the last one made her brother sick!" - - "'"Did you find the doses that had not been given to the patient?" - - "'"I found two papers on the table near the bed containing quinine, - and have them here now." - - "'"Have you examined them to see whether they contain quinine or - something else?" - - "'"Yes, their contents is pure, unadulterated quinine." - - "'"You don't mean to say that you think Miss Bramlett has - intentionally killed her brother!" - - "'"But I do mean to say that very thing; who else could have done - it? How could it have been a mistake? Didn't she administer the - medicine? Hasn't the boy died from poison? Doesn't she make a large - fortune by his death? Wasn't she alone with him all the time? What - was she doing with this bottle of strychnine in her bureau? All the - lawyers in Tennessee can't save her neck!" - - "'"Plaxico, you are crazy as a March hare! You don't know what you - are talking about! I knew that girl when she was a mere child--have - known her ever since--and I tell you she is one of the most - amiable, sweet, gentle, pure girls in the world. She doted on her - little brother, and it is absurd to say that she has murdered him. - As for money, she despises it, and has been squandering it by - thousands, among the worthy poor of the city. I think the best - policy for you to pursue is to keep your absurd opinions to - yourself. The poor girl has plenty of sorrow to endure, without - your help to increase it." - - "'Doctor Plaxico began to pace the floor rapidly; after a few - minutes spent in that way he squared himself in front of Doctor - Dodson, and, looking him earnestly in the face for several seconds - in silence, he said: - - "'"Dodson, I have many faults, I know--faults of which I am - heartily ashamed--I have a weakness, when it comes to wine and - other stimulants; but I profess to be an honest, Christian - gentleman--a God-fearing man, if you please--and I cannot get the - consent of my conscience to let this matter drop here. As I am a - living man, I believe that child has been murdered--most cruelly - deprived of his young life by his unnatural, heartless sister! Oh, - sir! my heart grows faint when I think of it. She, whose duty it - was to love and guard that young life, has slipped in instead like - a thief and stolen it. Of all the crimes that ever were committed, - this one appears to me to be the blackest, the most cowardly and - damnable!" - - "'"Is it not possible that you may be mistaken, after all, as to - the cause of the child's death?" - - "'"Not at all; the symptoms were unmistakable and certain." - - "'"What course do you mean to pursue in regard to the case?" - - "'"Notify the coroner, of course, have an inquest, make an autopsy, - lay the evidence before the civil authorities, and then let the law - take its course." - - "'"Be it so, then, and I pray God to give that poor girl strength - to endure this great calamity, for of her purity and innocence I - have no doubt whatever; and you will some day regret the share you - had in bringing this suspicion down on her." - - "'"I never shall regret doing what is my plain duty; though I shall - be more than delighted if it can appear that she is innocent; but I - beg to say that I think you do me injustice when you speak of my - bringing the suspicion down on her. It rather seems to me that the - circumstances are responsible for doing that, and not me." - - "'"One question I forgot to ask--have you said anything to Miss - Bramlett about the phial of strychnine which you say you found in - her bureau drawer?" - - "'"No, I did not; nor have I mentioned it to any one but you. Mr. - and Mrs. Ragland know nothing whatever about my suspicions." - - "'"Wouldn't it be advisable not to mention your suspicions until - after the autopsy?" - - "'"Probably it would; if you advise that course, I shall gladly - concur." - - "'"Be it so, then; let the coroner be notified at once." - - "'I was soundly sleeping in my bed when a messenger from Doctor - Dodson came thundering at my door, demanding admittance. Before I - was fully awake he informed me that the doctor wanted to see me as - soon as I could come to his office. The messenger said that - something serious must have happened, for he never had seen the - doctor looking so nervous and unhappy. As soon as I could dress - myself I hastened to the office. The night was very dark, the - streets swimming in mud, the dim lamps at the corners cast a pale, - sickly light over the pavement, my boot-heels made a loud, lonely - sound as they struck the hard stones, while the messenger walked - quietly behind me. My mind was in a fit condition to anticipate - coming evil. And strange as you may think it, I felt sure that - something awful had happened, and that Viola was in some way mixed - up with it. The messenger had by no means exaggerated in his - description of Doctor Dodson's excitement. I never had seen him in - such a state of agitation as I found him when I reached his office. - He hurriedly gave me the details of what had occurred, in substance - as I have given them to you, and I was astonished at the coolness - with which I listened to the horrible narrative, but I believe I - have become callous, and perhaps it is best for me to be so, as it - will enable me to do the work before me with the deliberation that - is so necessary. Doctor Dodson, Heaven bless him! agrees with me in - the opinion that Viola is innocent, and will aid me in establishing - it before the world. The first thing I did was to inform Lottie of - what had happened, and send her to stay with Viola, in order to - sustain her, as much as possible, under this great affliction. - Lottie is in great distress, but is a perfect little heroine, and - has been with Viola ever since the troubles commenced, - indefatigable in her efforts to comfort and encourage her. The next - step was to see the newspaper managers and induce them not to - mention the matter in the papers. I had a double object in view, in - that respect; in the first place, I wanted to keep Viola's name out - of public print; my next motive was to keep everything as private - as possible, in order to let the detectives have a better chance to - work up the case. Doctor Dodson went to see the coroner--who is a - good friend of his--and that officer agreed that the inquest might - be held privately. Doctors Dodson and Plaxico made a post-mortem - examination, when the evidences of poison were unmistakable. The - inquest was held in Mr. Ragland's house, and only a few witnesses - were examined. The verdict of the jury would have been different, - no doubt, but for the phial of strychnine found in Viola's bureau - drawer, and what is most singular and unaccountable to me, is that - Viola acknowledges she purchased the strychnine, but refuses to - tell for what purpose. That circumstance alone caused the jury to - render a verdict implicating her. Here is the exact wording of the - verdict, after going on with the ordinary formalities and - recitations as to dates, venue, etc.: - - "'"We, the jury, do find that Harry W. Bramlett, whose body now - lies before us, died from the effects of poison administered to him - by Miss Viola Bramlett." - - "'I was present when the verdict was rendered, and I did not faint; - in fact, you would have been surprised to see how calmly I received - the awful news that I knew would consign Viola to the walls of a - dungeon. I could not account for my calmness, unless it was - produced by hopeless despair; yet I am by no means hopeless, for I - tell you, Eddie, as certain as there is a God, Viola is innocent, - and I mean to prove it. She knows something more than she is - willing to tell, but I will yet influence her to tell all. She has - sustained herself remarkably well through the trying ordeal; but - there appears to be a callousness in her manner that frightens me. - She seems to be indifferent as to her fate--says she don't wish to - live, but I hope she will be better as soon as the excitement - passes off. Bring with you one of the most experienced detectives - you can find in Philadelphia; don't mind the cost; I have but - little money myself, but my friends will aid me. Come without a - moment's delay. I have taken the precaution to have the premises - closely guarded, in order to let the detectives have a fair chance - to investigate the case. Everything in the two rooms occupied by - Viola and her brother remains just as it was when the child died, - and I have no doubt that a skillful detective will be able to - unearth something that will explain the whole matter. I think I - could put my finger on the guilty party in ten minutes, but what - good would that do unless I could prove it? If my suspicions prove - to be well founded, I shall raise a whirlwind here that will - startle some people who feel very secure now. I will not breathe my - suspicions to any one until I am able to confirm them. I believe I - am becoming superstitious; for there seems to be an invisible - influence at work upon me. It is the same feeling that told me to - ride on the pilot of the engine when I saved Viola's life. That - same something tells me that I will again save her, and that she - will be my wife. But this letter is too long, anyway, and I will - sign the name of - - "'Yours truly, - - "'HARRY.' - - - - -CHAPTER XV. - - -"When I arrived at Memphis I of course meant to see Lottie before any -one else, but in going to Mrs. Rockland's residence I had to pass -Harry's office. I hurried in to see him a moment, and to inquire about -the dear one I was so anxious to see. - -"'How is Lottie?' were the first words I uttered. - -"'She is well,' said Harry, 'but of course anxious to see you.' - -"'Where will I find her?' - -"'She is at the jail with Viola, where she spends most of the time; the -truth of it is, Lottie has got more sense than all of us put together. -She has exhibited more true courage and prudence in this late trouble -than any one of us. Who is this gentleman with you?' - -"'Oh, yes, I beg pardon, Harry; I forgot to introduce Mr. Dabbs. Mr. -Wallingford, Mr. Dabbs; he belongs to the detective service, and has -come to assist us in this unfortunate business.' - -"'I am glad to see you here, Mr. Dabbs,' said Harry, offering him a -seat; this is a most distressing affair, and I hope you will go to work -at once. As to money, I beg you to understand that it is no object in -this case; you shall have what you want. I hope you will be able to -unravel this most singular mystery.' - -"'I shall endeavor to do so, sir; and I must request you not to let any -one know that you have engaged my services. We must act with great -caution; these kind of cases are often found rather complicated and -difficult to manage. I have an old friend here who has been for many -years engaged in the detective service--perhaps you may know him--Mr. -Tadpoddle?' - -"'No, I am not acquainted with him.' - -"'Well, he's a sharp fellow. I'll go look him up, and we'll commence -business at once. It will be necessary, Mr. Wallingford, for us to meet -occasionally; where shall I find you when I want to communicate with -you?' - -"'Here at my office; you can come in the back way, and enter the inner -room, where no one will disturb us.' - -"'All right, then, you shall hear from me soon; good morning, sir,' and -Mr. Dabbs went out. - -"'What a strange-looking man he is, Eddie!' - -"'Yes, but they say he is the most skillful detective that ever operated -in Philadelphia.' - -"'Well, if that is so, I must say he belies his looks.' - -"'Come, Harry, I must see Lottie; I cannot stop to talk now.' - -"'Wait a moment till I close the office, and I will go with you.' - -"'Don't walk so fast, Ed,' said Harry when we started toward the jail, -'I can't keep up with you; I know you want to see Lottie, but you need -not go like a whirlwind.' - -"I was compelled to slacken my pace, much against my will, for I wanted -to fly to her who was more dear to me than all the world contained. - -"'Have you made any new discoveries about the poisoning since you wrote -me?' - -"'Nothing definite, but we think we will be able to strike a track soon; -there have been strange doings at Mr. Ragland's house.' - -"'How does Viola bear her trouble?' - -"'Ah! Ed, there is the thing that puzzles me; she acts so strangely in -the matter. I can't understand her. She knows something about this -business that she will not tell, though she has promised to explain all -when her mind gets more composed.' - -"'Is your confidence in her innocence still unshaken?' - -"I was truly sorry I had asked the question when Harry's eyes met mine. - -"'How can you ask me such a question when you are so well aware of the -confidence I have in that dear girl? Don't you know how I love her? -Don't you know I would as soon suspect an angel from Heaven as Viola?' - -"I was not surprised at the extravagant language used, because I was in -love myself, and knew how Harry felt. I had not walked more than three -steps on the jail floor when I heard Lottie's well-known voice exclaim: - -"'That's Eddie,--I know his walk!' and in a moment her darling head was -on my shoulder, while her tears of joy fell on my breast. 'Eddie, I am -so glad you have come back to help us out of our great troubles; we have -been looking for you anxiously, and the moment I heard your step I knew -whose it was.' - -"My heart was so full of joy that I could not speak for some moments. - -"'Come, Ed,' said Harry, 'you are making a simpleton of yourself about -Lottie; leave her and come with me; we must go to Viola; how is she -to-day, sister?' - -"'Improving some little, I think, though she can't shed tears. If she -could only have a good hearty cry, and shed some tears, I believe it -would do her a great deal of good. There is a settled look of hopeless -despair on her face that frightens me.' - -"'Does she talk much?' - -"'No; she scarcely ever says a word, except to answer questions. I have -tried every way I could think of to lead her into conversation, but -without success. She eats scarcely enough to sustain life, though she -ate more at breakfast this morning than at any one time since she has -been here.' - -"'Go in, Lottie, and ask her if she will receive a visit from Edward and -me.' - -"Lottie returned in a few moments and informed us that Viola would -receive us. - -"'When I told her that you and Eddie wanted to come in to see her I was -delighted to see her face brighten up, and she spoke so quickly and said -she would be delighted to see you; I think it is a favorable sign; it is -the first time she has manifested the least interest about anything -since she has been here.' - -"I was prepared to see a great change in Viola's appearance, but not for -such a one as it was. Her face was as white as marble, and I never had -seen such a look of anguish as was fixed on her countenance. She rose, -as we entered, and offered me her hand--it was as cold as a lump of ice. - -"'How is your health, Miss Bramlett?' I inquired. - -"'Very good, I thank you,' was the faint reply. - -"I never was so embarrassed in my life, and Harry, poor fellow, stood -like a statue, unable to aid me; he was more confused than I was. -Lottie, however, came to my assistance promptly. - -"'Sit down, Eddie; sit down, brother, and let us talk over old times, -while Viola and I are at work. Here, Viola, hold the hank while I wind -the thread on this ball.' - -"Viola moved her seat so as to face Lottie, and held out her little -white hands to receive the hank. - -"'There, now; Eddie, you sit on this side, so I can look at you while I -work; you have been away so long I have almost forgotten how you look. I -declare, you look much better than you did when you went away; don't you -think he does, Viola?' - -"'Yes,' she replied sadly. - -"I was delighted at Lottie's skill in maneuvering to divert Viola and -lead her into conversation; it was a clever piece of strategy, and, to -some extent, succeeded. The jailer was an old school-mate of Harry's, -and this proved to be a fortunate circumstance, as it enabled us to -secure for Viola a large room, well lighted and ventilated. Harry had -caused the floor to be covered with a costly carpet of the most -exquisite texture, and heavy damask curtains hung over the windows; then -over the damask were hung others of snow-white lace. A bureau, -wash-stand, wardrobe and bedstead of polished rosewood gave the room a -cozy appearance, while a sofa with red silk cushions seemed to invite -the weary body to lie down and rest. On the bureau sat two large china -vases, both filled with choice flowers. One rocking-chair, with soft -velvet cushions, and two common cane bottom chairs constituted the -furniture that Harry had caused to be put in the room. He had even had a -costly curtain hung over the heavy iron door, in order to hide from -Viola's sight everything calculated to remind her that she was a -prisoner. There was nothing to be seen on the inside of the room that -looked like the walls of a prison, but it was more like a sleeping -apartment. Lottie had been no less thoughtful than her brother of -Viola's comfort, for she had brought old Roderick to the jail, and that -chatty bird usually made things lively wherever he went. A pair of -canaries occasionally enlivened the room with a song, from the little -silver-mounted cage that sat on the top of the wardrobe. All these pets -had been brought there by Lottie. - -"'Harry,' said Lottie, 'you come and finish winding this thread while I -go and see about dinner; we are going to have a real old-fashioned -dinner to-day; mind you don't tangle my thread; Viola, as soon as you -get through with that hank you'll find three more in my basket; I want -you to hold them while Harry winds them off; will you, dear?' - -"'Yes, Lottie,' was the soft reply. - -"'Lottie loves Ed! Lottie loves Ed! here we come, Lottie!' screamed old -Roderick, who was peeping down from the top of the wardrobe. - -"'Hush up, you old tattler! you needn't tell all my secrets before -company,' said Lottie; and, taking me by the arm: 'Come, you must go and -help me get dinner; we don't uphold any idleness here.' - -"I divined her object, and followed her from the room, as it was evident -she wanted to leave Harry and Viola alone. - -"'You are the sweetest darling in the whole world, Lottie!' said I; 'you -can think of so many ways to make people comfortable and happy.' - -"'I am truly glad you think so; I am always happy when you are pleased -with me.' - -"'You will always be happy, then, for I am always pleased with you.' - -"'Do you think Harry and Viola will ever make matters up, and be as they -were in the good old days?' - -"'Yes, certainly I do; Harry's pride has undergone considerable -shrinkage since Viola's troubles commenced, and I think he will be glad -to come down from his lofty hobby.' - -"'You must put your wits to work, Eddie, so as to help me bring them to -an understanding. I am going to have dinner served in Viola's room, and -you must assist in keeping up the conversation, and not sit there -looking as if you had a blister-plaster over your mouth, as you did a -while ago, but try to invent something to talk about. Now come along, -and I'll put you to work,' and she led me to the steward's -headquarters. - -"'Mr. Toddleburg,' said Lottie, 'I want you to help me get a good dinner -to-day, to be served in Miss Bramlett's room; will you do it?' - -"'How could anybody refuse to do anything when requested by Miss -Wallingford?' - -"'Thank you, thank you, Mr. Toddleburg; you are very kind.' - -"As Lottie passed on and entered the cook-room, the little man said to -me: - -"'That is the prettiest young lady I ever saw, sir, and she is as good -as she is pretty. I'll do anything to please her.' - -"'Why don't you come along, Eddie? I mean to put you to work; you shall -not be idle here. Take those eggs and break them in that bowl, and beat -them well, while I get some flour and sugar; I am going to teach you how -to make a real nice pudding.' - -"I broke the eggs as she directed, and began to beat them very -awkwardly, while I watched her beautiful form moving about like a fairy, -her sleeves rolled up, exposing to view the prettiest pair of round, -plump, white arms that any man ever saw. By the time I had finished -beating the eggs she was measuring the flour into a tray. - -"'There now,' said I, 'my job is finished, Lottie; I think I have earned -a kiss, and I demand payment.' - -"'I'll have to give it to you, I reckon; I suppose I must be kind to my -old thief, as he has been away so long.' - -"Then she approached me, with her hands covered with flour, and held up -her pretty lips to receive my kiss. - -"'There, now, go and grind some spice; be in a hurry--I shall need it -soon.' - -"I obeyed orders and ground the spice. - -"'Now go and tell the steward to have a small table carried to Viola's -room, and a nice white cloth spread on it; get four plates, four -napkins, four goblets, and everything necessary for four distinguished -guests.' - -"I went to the steward, and he assisted in arranging the dinner table as -Lottie had directed. This was the first time I had helped her to prepare -a dinner since the old days of our tramphood, and it naturally caused my -mind to stray back to those happy hours, making me forget the great -troubles by which we then were surrounded. As soon as I had finished -executing Lottie's orders, I re-appeared in the cook-house, where I -found her very busy with the preparation of the dinner. - -"'How are they getting on, Eddie?' - -"'How is who getting on?' - -"'Why, Harry and Viola, of course.' - -"'Oh, they are getting on splendidly, I judge from the appearance of -things; the hanks were terribly tousled, the balls all scattered about -on the floor, and Viola's cheeks showed a little crimson tinge; in fact, -she blushed perceptibly as I entered the room. Would you not say that -was a favorable omen?' - -"'The very best in the world.' - -"'That was a skillful maneuver, Lottie, to put them to winding yarn; -nothing could have been better.' - -"'I thought so; because if we can get them to talking freely all will -come right.' - -"'They were conversing when I went in, and Viola dropped the yarn on the -floor.' - -"'Ah! if we can just control Harry we shall all be happy once more. If -Viola would only tell what she knows about the death of her brother, -Harry would be able to establish her innocence and take her out of -prison. She, of course, can never be happy while this dreadful suspicion -hangs over her.' - -"'What is it that you think she knows and refuses to tell?' - -"'Oh, don't ask me to tell you what I know. I am somewhat of a detective -myself, and I'll have you know that I can see into a mill-stone as -deeply as anybody. You shall hear from me at the proper time; the -murderer of that poor little boy is not in this jail by a long way.' - -"'What on earth do you mean? Do you know who is the guilty party?' - -"'I would stake my life on it.' - -"'If you know who committed that cruel murder why do you allow this poor -girl to remain in jail?' - -"'Ah! there's the rub; we must be able to make the proof before we flush -the covey.' - -"'Have you mentioned to Harry anything on this subject?' - -"'Not a word; he was so much excited I was afraid he would commit some -foolish blunder and spoil everything.' - -"'Lottie, do you know I think you are the most sensible, prudent girl -that ever lived? I wish Harry had half the prudence you have; he has -plenty of good sense, but he is so impetuous, so proud and unyielding!' - -"'He never was that way until Viola came from New York to spend the -winter with me. He loved her devotedly, and thought it would be -dishonorable to marry her while she was so rich and he so poor. If we -can get them reconciled, and induce him to propose to her, then we shall -soon be able to extricate her from this unpleasant situation. Did you -know I have been afraid that Viola contemplated suicide?' - -"'No; I had no idea of such a thing.' - -"'Well, I have been afraid of it ever since Harry was so ill; and if he -had died, it is my opinion that she would not have survived him an -hour.' - -"'What circumstance led you to believe that?' - -"'Oh, don't be so inquisitive; I am not going to tell you all my -secrets. Go on about your business now; I am done with you until dinner -is served.' - -"I reluctantly obeyed, and returned to Viola's room, where I was -overjoyed to find Harry and her engaged in earnest conversation, in an -undertone. I was a little sorry, however, when I saw that I had -unfortunately interrupted a conversation in which they both seemed to be -deeply interested, and I gathered up a few stray flowers that were -scattered about the bureau top, and immediately left the room--making it -appear that I had merely come in after the flowers. - -"'They are all right,' said I to Lottie, as I entered the cook-room; 'I -surprised them in the midst of an earnest conversation, and they were -both very much flurried; but I hastened to pick up these flowers and -leave the room.' - -"'Did you learn what they were talking about?' - -"'I heard Harry tell one truth, if he never tells another.' - -"'What was it?' - -"'He said, "Viola, I know I have acted the fool; and I pray you to -forgive me!"' - -"'And what did she say in reply?' - -"'I entered the room just then, but I saw from her looks that she was -going to forgive him.' - -"'How unfortunate it was that you happened in at such a moment.' - -"'Well, didn't you order me to go? and don't you know I obeyed with -reluctance?' - -"'Oh, bother your obedience! you are mighty good to obey orders when you -want to; but I suppose I must forgive you, and let you stay here, though -you shall not be idle. Set that pan on the stove there, and fill it with -water; then take the other one off and wipe it dry with a napkin and put -it back; don't spill water on the other things; I think I shall make an -excellent cook of you one of these days.' - -"'You can make anything of me, because you are such a darling teacher.' - -"'I couldn't make a flatterer of you: nature has taken the job off my -hands.' - -"'I wish nature had furnished me with some strong language so I could -tell my Lottie how dearly I love her.' - -"'Look at you now! you are dropping the water in that bowl!' - -"'Oh, I ask pardon--I didn't see it.' - -"We delayed dinner until late in the afternoon in order to afford Harry -and Viola an opportunity to come to an understanding; and we had reason -to believe that what we so much desired had taken place. Lottie and I -brought the dinner in, and when it was ready she managed to seat Viola -and Harry on the same side of the table, and she and I sat at the other. - -"'Now, Viola,' said Lottie, 'I have made you some of your favorite soup; -I know you will like it, and I am sure it will do you good, and shall be -glad if you will try it.' - -"Viola smiled faintly; it was the first thing like a smile that had -lighted up her pale face since her brother's death. - -"'You are very kind, Lottie,' she said, 'and I know I shall like the -soup; I have no appetite, however, but will try some of it to please -you.' - -"'Here are three bottles of home-made wine--real grape juice--take some, -Viola, you'll find it excellent. It is the best appetizer in the -world--the very thing you need,' she continued. - -"Viola took a small glass of the wine and drank it. - -"'What do you think of it?' - -"'It is very good, and I think it will help me to regain my appetite.' - -"We spent a couple of hours pleasantly at dinner; I assisted Lottie in -clearing the table, and then Harry and I took leave of the young ladies, -promising to visit them early next morning. - -"'Well, Harry,' said I, as soon as we were out of the jail, 'how stand -matters between you and Viola?' - -"'Oh, we are all right now, I hope.' - -"'Tell me all about it.' - -"'Ah! Eddie, I have been very foolish, and I mean to make all the -reparation in my power. Poor Viola! I have caused her much grief, but I -thought I was acting right in what I did! She has promised to marry me -when the proof of her innocence can be established.' - -"'Did she tell you for what purpose she had purchased the phial of -strychnine?' - -"'No, she positively refuses to do so; and I consider that very -unfortunate, because that is the strongest point against her. I have by -no means abandoned the hope of yet persuading her to reveal everything -she knows about the matter. Her mind is now in a very unsettled -condition; and whose mind would be otherwise, with so much to endure! -The only wonder is that she has been able to bear it at all.' - -"'When is her case to be tried?' - -"'It is my opinion that she never will be tried; we waived the -preliminary examination which, according to our laws, would have brought -her into a magistrate's court,--and consented to let her be remanded to -jail until the grand jury investigates the case. I took this course to -prevent publicity, and to save Viola the pain of being compelled to -appear at the bar as a common criminal. Of course she will have to be -tried in open court, unless we can untangle the mystery in time to -convince the grand jury of her innocence, which I mean to make a -desperate effort to do. Viola is in possession of secrets connected with -this matter which she refuses to reveal, but I am inclined to hope that -as soon as her mind becomes more composed she will consent to tell me -everything.' - -"'Did you know that Lottie is also in possession of some strange secret -bearing on this case?' - -"'Indeed I did not; pray, what is it?' - -"'She refuses to tell me, but says she will do so at the proper time.' - -"'I declare, there is no accounting for a woman's freaks! If this is not -a proper time to tell what they know, I should like to be informed when -it would be.' - -"'I think you are wrong there. Lottie, you know, is a sensible girl, -possessed of great prudence, and you may rest assured she will aid us at -the right moment. She says she knows who it is that committed the -murder, and that it is a person who never has been suspected.' - -"'Why does she refuse to tell us who it is, then?' - -"'Because the proof is wanting to establish the fact. By the by, Harry, -have you no suspicions on your mind as to who perpetrated the murder?' - -"'I have, but am unable to offer any good reason for it; therefore, I -could not think of naming the person on whom my suspicions rest.' - -"'Then it appears to me that there is but very little difference between -the position you occupy and the one held by Lottie.' - -"'I must say that I cannot see it in that light; for I understand you to -say Lottie informed you that she knew who committed the murder, while I -say I only have a mere suspicion as to the perpetrator.' - -"'Well, it amounts to the same thing, after all, because Lottie, I -guess, does not really know, positively, who is the guilty party; but we -must all get together, some day soon, and have a plain talk and a better -understanding. We must tell each other exactly what we know and what we -think; then put our shoulders to the wheel and see if we can't make -things move in the right direction.' - -"'I agree with you there, Eddie; because if we fail in this business I -am a ruined man.' - -"'We are not going to fail; have no fears on that score. But tell me -how it was that you and Viola happened to make things up.' - -"'Well, I don't mind telling you everything; because you are in love -yourself, you know.' - -"'I should think I did know it.' - -"'Very good, then, I'll tell you all about it. I wouldn't tell it to you -if you were not head and ears in love; because people who don't love -don't understand such things. They sneer at the idea of a true and holy -affection--call it nonsense, and all that; but you know how it is -yourself, don't you?' - -"'Oh, go on! I think I do.' - -"'Well, in the first place, you know my views in regard to unprincipled -fortune-hunters, and that I had registered a solemn vow that I never -would place myself in a position where such an imputation could be laid -upon me. As to that, my mind is unchanged, but circumstances have -materially changed. My uncle, who went to California about the time we -came to Memphis, has made a large fortune, and I have received several -letters from him, and I reckon I had better show you the last one, which -came only ten days ago: here it is: - - "'DEAR HARRY--I received a long letter the other day from Mr. - Rockland, who speaks in the highest praise of you. He said you - would soon be prepared to enter the profession of law with - brilliant prospects--spoke of your moral character as being - first-class, and seems to be very proud of you. The history he gave - of Lottie was such as to increase my curiosity to see her; he - thinks she is far superior to other young ladles, and his praise of - her beauty and gentle manners was most extravagant. You cannot - imagine the pleasure it gave me to hear such a favorable report - from my dear deceased sister's children. I presume you know I am a - bachelor--such is the case, whether you know it or not--and am - living a sad and lonely life here. I have been very fortunate in - the mining business--have accumulated a large fortune; have no - children to inherit it; no brothers or sisters--in fact, no one to - give it to except you and your charming sister. This being the - case, you may easily understand why Mr. Rockland's favorable report - gave me such satisfaction. When one works hard to make a fortune he - don't like to leave it to be squandered by unworthy relatives. It - is a source of much gratification, therefore, to know that I shall - leave mine in the hands of two such worthy children as you and - Lottie. I am getting old now, and would like very much to have you - and Lottie with me, and should have sent for you some time ago, - but it is my intention to wind up my affairs here and return to - Memphis. If I succeed in this, I shall of course expect you and - your charming sister to live with me. Mr. Rockland says that Lottie - is engaged to be married to a very worthy young physician.' - -"'I am much obliged to Mr. Rockland for his good opinion.' - -"'Hold on until I finish the letter.' - - "'I cannot,' the letter continued, 'express the gratitude I feel - toward Mr. Rockland for his kindness to my nephew and niece. I own - a large interest in a very rich mine here, and if I can sell it for - what I think it is worth, I shall soon be ready to make my home - permanently in Memphis. You will present to Mr. Rockland my warmest - thanks; and tell my charming niece that I am looking forward with - anxiety to the time when I shall hold her in my old arms. - - "'Yours most truly, - - "'OLIVER STANLEY.' - -"'Ah! Harry, what a lucky fellow you are!' - -"'Does not the good luck strike you, too? Doesn't Lottie get half? And -don't you get Lottie, and her money, too?' - -"'Oh, bother the money! my Lottie is worth a hundred thousand such gold -mines!' - -"'Yes, but in my case, you see, it is different; I don't care so much -for the money, you know, but it makes honors easy between Viola and me.' - -"'Very good; now, go on and tell me how you succeeded with Viola.' - -"'I shall do so cheerfully; because I like to talk with you about such -things, for you are in a condition to appreciate my narrative. Well, you -see, when Lottie put Viola and me to winding thread, it afforded a topic -of conversation; that was very thoughtful in Lottie, wasn't it?' - -"'I think it was; but go on with your story.' - -"'You see when the thread would get tangled we had to help each other -fix it.' - -"'"Run the ball through here, Mr. Wallingford," said Viola, "no, not -that way, but the other--just here between my hands; there, that's -right; no, I beg pardon, it was all my fault, for you were doing it -right before I spoke; you'll have to run the ball back the same way -between my hands." - -"'Now, Ed, you must understand that while all this was going on I was -not looking at the hank of thread, but was gazing intently at the -beautiful darling before me. As a natural result, instead of untangling -the thread, we kept making it worse. I shall hereafter recommend all -bashful young people to wind yarn when they wish to make love--there's -nothing equal to it, as an entering-wedge to conversation. - -"'"Stop, Viola," said I, as I took hold of her little hand, "you have -got this thread in a desperate fix; let me hold this end on your wrist -while you untangle the other." - -"'This gave me an excuse to hold her hand, which I assure you I did. - -"'"How pale your hand looks, Viola!" I said, as I let the hank fall, and -took her hand with both of mine. - -"'"Yes, my hand is pale, I believe." - -"'"You have a very small hand, too." - -"'"Yes, I believe it is quite small; but we had better finish the work -that Lottie gave us to do." - -"'"No, let us talk a while; we'll have plenty of time to do the work. I -think this is quite a pretty little hand." - -"'"Do you?" - -"'"Yes, indeed I do; and I think the owner of this hand is very pretty, -too." - -"'"I declare, we must finish this thread!" - -"'She then made a grab at the ball and missed it, and it went rolling to -the other side of the room. She went after it,--two of the hanks had -fallen to the floor--and in crossing the room her feet became entangled -in the thread, so that when she picked up the ball and started back she -tripped and fell plump into my arms. Of course I could do no less than -catch her, else she would have fallen to the floor. - -"'"Dear Viola," I exclaimed, "I love you with all my heart! Dare I hope -that you ever will be mine? Speak, darling, I implore you! No man ever -loved as I love you! Give me one little word of encouragement, I beseech -you!" - -"'"Do you believe me innocent of the awful crime of which I am charged?" -she asked. - -"'"Believe you innocent, my loved one? I would as soon suspect an angel -from Heaven as you! Nay, I would risk my soul's salvation on your -innocence! If I had a hundred thousand lives, I'd risk them all on your -honor! If a legion of witnesses were to swear you are guilty, I would -not believe it! Viola, can you forgive the past? Will you allow me to -hope that you ever will love me? I cannot endure this miserable -torture." - -"'"Harry, would you be willing to accept my hand while this dark cloud -of disgrace is hovering over me?" - -"'"Yes, yes, darling! ten thousand times yes!" - -"'She nestled her face into my bosom and burst into tears; then, Ed, I -knew she was mine, and my joy was unutterable. I suppose, however, you -know all about such feelings. When she became composed she promised to -marry me when her innocence should be made manifest to the world. Now -you know all, and can readily appreciate my feelings.' - - - - -CHAPTER XVI. - - -"It was on the morning of the fourth day after my return from -Philadelphia that I went to Harry's office for the purpose of holding a -consultation with him in regard to Miss Bramlett's case. I was anxious -to know what progress had been made by the detectives in their -investigations. I had been devoting all my time to the business, and was -more mystified at the end of four days than I was at the beginning. I -had spent some time in making a survey of the buildings and premises -where the murder had been committed; this I had been advised to do by -Mr. Rockland, who had manifested considerable interest in the case. I -had great confidence in the cool judgment of Mr. Rockland, as well as -unlimited faith in him as a skillful criminal lawyer; and he told me -that a thorough investigation of the house and its contents was a matter -that ought by no means to be neglected; therefore I had undertaken that -job as my part of the work. I had taken great pains to make a correct -diagram of the house and grounds--including the kitchen, servants' -rooms, stables, garden, with all the entrances by which persons could -get into the inclosure. I was very much gratified when I presented my -diagram to Mr. Rockland, for he examined it carefully, and then -observed, 'that the work was satisfactory, and had been very skillfully -executed.' - -"'If I am not very much mistaken, Mr. Demar,' he said, 'you will find -that this map will be of invaluable service to you before this affair is -finally disposed of. If it should turn out, as you seem to think, that -the crime has been the work of some other person, you may expect to find -secret entrances to the grounds--but I regret to say that I fear you -will find no little difficulty in establishing Miss Bramlett's -innocence. I have no hesitation, understand me, in asserting that I have -always regarded Miss Bramlett as a pure, honest young lady; but, judging -from the reports that have reached me in regard to her strange conduct, -I am led to believe that her mind has not been altogether right. If it -comes to the worst, I shall advise the plea of insanity to be filed. I -am well aware of the fact that pleas of that sort are becoming quite -common of late, and that the courts are inclined to view them with -suspicion, yet in this case I have no doubt that the evidence will be so -full as to overcome all doubt. You may depend on me, Mr. Demar, so far -as my humble ability may be concerned, because I deeply sympathize with -this unfortunate young lady; and then her father was my true friend, and -I should be an ungrateful wretch if I did not put forth all my energy -and influence in behalf of his daughter.' - -"It was indeed with a sorrowful heart beating in my bosom that I -separated from Mr. Rockland at the close of the interview just related. -I had watched Miss Bramlett closely during the frequent visits I had -made to the jail, and my observations convinced me that, notwithstanding -her mind was sad and unsettled, she had complete control of her reason. -Then, in the second place, I knew that if we succeeded in proving her -insane, it would be a fatal blow to Harry's happiness. The room in which -young Harry Bramlett died was a small square bedroom on the second -floor, in the south-west corner of Mr. Ragland's house, and adjacent to -the one that had been occupied by Miss Bramlett. There was a partition -door in the wall that separated the two rooms. Miss Bramlett's room was -a larger one than that occupied by her young brother, and had two -windows and one door besides the door that was in the partition wall. -One of the windows was in the front overlooking the street--the other -in the side overlooking a small flower garden that lay on the south side -of the building. The furniture of Miss Bramlett's room, which remained -just as it was when her brother died, consisted of a marble-top bureau, -a small mahogany bedstead, with canopy hung with pink silk, a large -rosewood wardrobe, a marble-top wash-stand, a low sofa with green -cushions, an easy-chair with red plush cushions, a cane bottom -rocking-chair, three large trunks and four common cane bottom chairs. A -life-size portrait of Mr. Bramlett swung by a red twisted cord against -the south wall of the room, while Mrs. Bramlett's picture, in a large -gold frame, hung just above the bed. A photograph of Miss Bramlett and -her little brother, both in the same frame, hung near the partition -door. As I gazed on Miss Bramlett's picture, with one hand clasped in -that of her little brother, I was then and there convinced that she -never had murdered him. Such an expression of purity beamed forth from -the beautiful face as to prove to my mind that no secret thoughts of -murder ever had lurked in her breast. I was informed that not an article -in the rooms had been moved since the night when the little boy died--no -one had been permitted to enter either one of the rooms after the corpse -had been removed, until Mr. Dabbs had arrived. A guard had been placed -at the entrance, with positive orders not to allow any one to enter the -rooms; this had been done at Harry's request. - -"When I arrived at Harry's office I found him alone; but while he and I -were engaged in examining my diagram Dabbs and Tadpoddle came into the -inner room from the back entrance, and informed us that they had -important facts to communicate. This was the first time that I ever had -laid my eyes on Mr. Tadpoddle, and if it had not been for the -seriousness of the business in which we were engaged, I should have -laughed outright as soon as I saw him. The comical expression of his -features--the peculiar shape of his nose, the fantastic style of his -dress, and the singular disproportion which the length of his legs bore -to the size of his body, all combined to produce a ridiculous object. To -undertake to describe him would be a failure. He was neither man, beast, -fowl nor fish, but in some respects resembled all. His right ear was -near the back of his beard. The place where his nose should have been -looked like a toad-stool on a sapling. His left eye was large and very -white, the other small and three-cornered; the little one seemed to be -afraid of the big one--they were continually playing hide and seek with -each other, and at no time were both on duty at the same moment. When -the big one was awake, the little one was asleep. I noticed that when -the big one would retire from duty, the little one would come to the -front cautiously and gaze over to see if the other had certainly gone; -and if any movement was made by the big one, the little one would dart -back into his hole. It was clear to my mind that nature did not intend -to make a man when Tadpoddle was commenced; but the whole concern seemed -to convey the idea that nature intended him for a huge joke. - -"'If you will close that door, Mr. Wallingford,' said Mr. Dabbs, 'so -that we will be free from interruption, I have an important report to -make.' - -"Harry closed the door, and requested him to proceed. - -"'Have you found out who committed the murder?' Harry inquired, as he -fixed his eyes on Mr. Dabbs' face with a look of intense anxiety. - -"'Mr. Wallingford, you have learned the lawyer's habit early, I -perceive--you have commenced a sort of cross-examination before the -examination in chief has been gone through with. You lawyers have a way -of setting your pumps to work on a fellow so as to draw out information -which in some instances ought not to be exposed so soon--but in this -particular case, I trust you will not consider me rude or discourteous -if I decline to be cross-examined. It is our business to examine people, -and not to suffer ourselves to be examined by them; you need not trouble -yourself to put questions to me; I'll furnish you with such information -as I think you ought to have, and withhold such as ought to be -withheld.' - -"Harry bit his lips with vexation. - -"'I suppose, Mr. Dabbs, I ought to submit to such conditions as you may -choose to propose; and I shall do it very cheerfully if it will aid in -unearthing this mystery.' - -"'So far as mystery is concerned, Mr. Wallingford, I must at once -undeceive you; I have as yet encountered no mystery at all--on the -contrary, I think the case unusually plain--don't you, Mr. Tadpoddle?' - -"'Unquestionably, unquestionably, Mr. Dabbs; I never saw a plainer case -in my life--evidence ample to convict; never saw a better chain of -circumstantial evidence; overwhelming, overwhelming, sir--no use to -hesitate; no mistake here. My sister's statement settles the question -beyond doubt. I presume, Mr. Wallingford, you know my sister, Miss -Jemima Tadpoddle?' - -"'No,' said Harry, his face reddening with impatience, 'I am sorry to -say I have not had the honor to know Miss Tadpoddle.' - -"'Indeed, sir! that's unfortunate; I must avail myself of the pleasure -to introduce you to my sister; a most remarkable woman, sir--rather -masculine in her views, but sensible and prudent. We are indebted to her -for our success in this case. The fact is, Mr. Wallingford, I am -indebted to my remarkable sister for my success in life generally. She -would be delighted to know you, and I dare say you would be much pleased -with her. She would be able to advise you in this business, no doubt, as -her judgment may be relied on; but let that pass for the present. What -was it you were about to observe, Mr. Wallingford?' - -"'I was about to ask a question; but then I remembered that you and Mr. -Dabbs had intimated a wish not to be questioned.' - -"'Oh, not at all, sir; you misunderstand us entirely. We don't prohibit -questions--we only decline to be examined like an ordinary witness in -court. Ask as many questions as you please--we'll only answer such as we -choose.' - -"Then Mr. Tadpoddle threw himself back in his chair, put the small eye -on duty, and waited for the question. - -"'If you have any communication to make in regard to the discoveries you -have made, I should like to hear them now!' - -"'Just so, Mr. Wallingford, no doubt you would; and that is what brought -us here to-day. I am well aware of the interest you feel in Miss -Bramlett's case, and so told my remarkable sister, and she also -appreciated the situation very much. By the by, Dabbs, don't you think -we had better tell Mr. Wallingford what my remarkable sister knows about -the case?' - -"'I think we had, Mr. Tadpoddle; but let them be told after the other -facts have been related--nothing like beginning at the right end, you -know. There are two ways to tell anything--one right way, and one wrong -way; always commence a story at the right end, you see. What your sister -knows comes last, in order to make the chain of evidence complete.' - -"'Ah, yes, Dabbs, I perceive now that you are right. Well, you tell Mr. -Wallingford about the other things, and when it comes to my sister's -part, then let me in.' - -"I was losing my self-possession, and felt as if I must do something -rash very soon; I think I should have hurled a lump of coal at Mr. -Tadpoddle's little gourd head, but my attention was diverted to Mr. -Dabbs, who began to take something from his pocket-book. - -"'This little parcel, Mr. Wallingford, is a dose of strychnine similar -to the one that killed Miss Bramlett's little brother. Well, what of -that? is the question that naturally would come up in your mind. You'll -observe, Mr. Wallingford, that I am only drawing an inference as to -ideas, etc., which would be likely to present themselves. Well, what if -that is strychnine? you say. Very good! I reply, The deceased was -murdered with strychnine. Some one administered the poison. Who? ah! -that's the question. I answer without hesitation: Miss Bramlett.' - -"'Tis false!' exclaimed Harry, as he made at the detective with eyes -flashing with rage. 'I'll choke the breath from the villain's lungs who -dares to accuse Miss Bramlett.' - -"I quickly placed myself before Harry, and prevented him from choking -Mr. Dabbs, and endeavored to keep him quiet, though I thought a little -pressure on Dabbs' wind-pipe would have been justifiable. I succeeded in -getting Harry to resume his seat, then requested Mr. Dabbs to proceed. - -"'If Mr. Wallingford is unwilling to hear facts,' said Dabbs, 'we had -better let the interview terminate here. It is our duty, as officers of -the law, to close our eyes to consequences, and bring facts to light. We -can't consider the feelings and wishes of individuals, in our searches -after truth; if we did, we should accomplish nothing. We do not make -evidence, we only bring to light that which is made by circumstances and -concealed by fraud. If the evidence that we have discovered does not -please Mr. Wallingford, we will not thrust it on his hearing, but will -deliver it to the officers of the law, whose duty it is to use it in -punishing the guilty, and protecting the innocent.' - -"'You are right, Mr. Dabbs, and I was wrong,' said Harry, as he leaned -his head down on the window-sill and sighed sadly. 'Tell us the worst at -once.' - -"'Well this dose of strychnine was found in Miss Bramlett's room, -concealed in the pocket of a blue silk dress which belonged to her.' - -"Mr. Dabbs paused, and looked at Tadpoddle. Tadpoddle put the big eye on -duty, while the little one made a precipitate retreat. Harry groaned -like one whose heart was crushed. I wanted to commit some kind of -mischief, but did not exactly know what it was. At length Dabbs spoke -again, after he had sufficiently enjoyed the misery inflicted on us by -the first revelation: - -"'The mere naked fact that Miss Bramlett had a dose of strychnine in one -of her dress pockets does not signify much, but when viewed in -connection with other circumstances, the case is different. To sum up -the ideas, we must be very cautious to sift things so as to separate the -wheat from the chaff; however, we don't always find it prudent even to -throw away the chaff; because it will sometimes show us which way the -wind blows. Now in this case I think we can see which way the wind is -blowing without the use of the chaff. The fact is, the breeze seems to -be all the time blowing in the same direction. We found three small -scraps of blue paper; two upon chemical examination were found to -contain small quantities of quinine, while the other one contained -unmistakable evidence of having been filled with strychnine. We found a -little package of quinine in the fire-place; now it is very plain that -this was emptied out of one of the papers left by Doctor Dodson, and -that the strychnine was put in the same paper instead of the quinine. -That goes to show beyond doubt that the poison was administered -intentionally; but by whom? you would of course be inclined to ask. -Very good; let us proceed to make the inquiry further.' - -"'Now,' said Tadpoddle, 'I think is the time to tell Mr. Wallingford -what valuable evidence has been discovered by my remarkable sister.' - -"Mr. Tadpoddle's little eye then went back to its hole, and the big one -came to the front. - -"'No, not yet, Mr. Tadpoddle,' said Dabbs, as he bit the corner off of a -plug of tobacco and began to chew it with great energy; 'there are other -matters to be mentioned before we disclose your sister's evidence. There -is the secret gate, you must remember; that will furnish a very strong -link in our chain--a link which I consider of great importance. So far, -so good. Now, Mr. Tadpoddle, allow me to call your attention to a -certain letter or note--some people, I believe, would call it a -billet-doux; no matter what they call it--nothing in a name, you know; -at least, Mr. Shakespeare so testified in favor of that idea. Be so kind -as to hand me that billet-doux, Mr. Tadpoddle. I believe I gave it to -you?' - -"Tadpoddle's big eye retired slowly, and the little one came out and -then darted back; then came out again--a game of hide and seek being -commenced between them. The big eye seemed to be hesitating, as if -undecided about the propriety of giving the field to the little one. But -the little one appeared to have scraped up courage, and made a bold -charge to the front, when the large eye gave up the contest at last, and -hid in its den. Tadpoddle seemed to be waiting to know which eye he -would have to depend on, while looking for the note, but as soon as the -matter was settled, he drew from his breast pocket an old pocket-book, -and began to take out a great number of old dirty papers, carefully -scrutinizing each one as he took it out. - -"'Ah, here it is, Mr. Dabbs; by Jove, it's a clincher, ain't it?' - -"Dabbs did not reply to Tadpoddle's question, but turning his attention -to Harry, said: - -"'Mr. Wallingford, you will pardon me, sir, but duty, is duty, you know, -and at the risk of incurring your displeasure, I must perform my duty. -You will doubtless be surprised to learn that Miss Bramlett has been -holding clandestine meetings with a low-down gambler for many months.' - -"Harry would have knocked him down, but I anticipated the movement, and -held him in his seat. - -"'Edward,' said he, 'must I sit here and listen to this? Am I a -contemptible coward? Shall I let them kill that poor girl, and then -blacken her fair name? Is this Harry Wallingford who sits here, quietly -listening to such a foul slander on the name of his affianced bride! -Would you have me to whine and smile and fawn on the base wretch who -utters such language?' - -"'If ever there was a time when it was necessary for you to control your -temper, that time is now. The awful situation in which Miss Bramlett is -placed should convince you that nothing can be done for her unless cool -judgment and common sense shall take the place of passion and rashness. -Mr. Dabbs may be mistaken in his conclusions, and I think he is, yet he -believes he is performing his duty, therefore, I beseech you to hear all -he has to say. Then, after we have heard it all, we will advise with Mr. -Rockland on the subject--I have great confidence in his sound judgment, -and I know his sympathies are with us. Give us a promise, now, Harry, -that you will endeavor to control yourself--you have committed some -great errors, and it behooves you to repair them. You can command your -passion if you will determine to do it.' - -"'Edward,' said he, 'you are right. I have been very indiscreet, and to -some extent inexcusable; I promise to do as you wish. Let Mr. Dabbs -proceed. I'll hear all he has to say.' - -"I then requested Mr. Dabbs to proceed. - -"'I am exceedingly sorry,' said he, 'that Mr. Wallingford should be -disposed to censure me for stating facts, when he must know that the -discovery of these facts did not afford any pleasure to me; I may say I -was pained to find that circumstances were continually pointing to Miss -Bramlett as the guilty one. I had hoped to find evidence of her -innocence, and such a result would have given me ten-fold more pleasure -than anything we could find against her. It is clear to my mind that the -poor young lady has been the victim of some heartless villain--or that -she has been laboring under temporary insanity. Whether or not I am -correct in that opinion it is not my business just now to inquire. That -is a question for the courts and lawyers to settle when she is put on -trial; my business is to show what has been done, and nothing shall -cause me to shrink from the performance of that duty. There is a young -man keeping a gambling hell in this city; a young man of handsome face -and fascinating manners, though a shrewd, sly scoundrel, who had -something to do with this business; and I flatter myself that I shall be -able to expose him before I get through with this affair. I have been -shadowing him--he often gets drunk, and I never failed to manage his -sort. He talks freely when drinking, and I will pump the secret out of -him before I quit. I played poker with him the other night; he beat me -out of forty dollars--the rascal! but I shall let him win, and give him -rope to hang himself with. I'll catch up with the villain yet. His -apartments are furnished like the palace of a king. Where did the money -come from to pay for it? I dare say he wheedled Miss Bramlett out of it. -That unfortunate young girl has been so imprudent as to make frequent -visits to these apartments during the dark hours of night.' - -"'Oh, Heavens! Eddie,' exclaimed Harry, as he seized me by the arm, -'have I got to hear such as this, and say nothing? It's more than -humanity can bear; it will kill me; for Heaven's sake let this interview -terminate--else I shall lose my reason!' - -"'Be quiet, I pray you, Harry,' I said, though I felt the demon rising -in my own breast, and needed all the prudence I could command in order -to keep me from knocking the man down myself. - -"My attempt to soothe and quiet Harry, however, served to aid me in -keeping cool, and after the lapse of a few moments, I directed Mr. Dabbs -to proceed. - -"'I was about to observe, a moment ago, that Miss Bramlett has been -exceedingly imprudent, if not criminal, in her intrigue with Ben -Bowles.' - -"'With whom did you say?' groaned Harry. - -"'Why, with Ben Bowles, that unprincipled gambler.' - -"'He must be the same fellow you knocked on the head at our camp,' I -said to Harry. - -"'I should not be surprised,' he replied. Then turning to Dabbs, I -requested him to give me a description of Bowles. - -"'He is very handsome; has dark-brown hair, very black eyes, is about -five and twenty years old, very tall--I should say not less than six -feet--dresses magnificently, drinks to excess, has a deep bass voice, -and a slight scar on his left temple, close to the eyebrow.' - -"'That is the very man!' said I, as I again requested Mr. Dabbs to go on -with his history. - -"'Well,' he began, 'as I was saying just now, I cannot account for the -strange conduct of Miss Bramlett, except upon the theory that she has -become fascinated with that good-looking scoundrel, and was -contemplating a secret marriage with him; at all events, she has been -frequently seen to enter his apartments through a private door that -opens on an alley in the rear of the house.' - -"'I shall go mad!' said Harry, as his head fell on my shoulder. I could -hear his heart throb and jump against his breast, as if in great -commotion. 'Can this horrible story be true? Can the devil take the -shape of an angel, in order to drag the soul down to hell?' - -"'Hush, hush! Harry, there is some strange mistake connected with the -affair, and I'll risk my life on Viola's honor.' - -"'Thank you, a thousand times, from the very bottom of my heart! but -where is the cowardly villain who originated this damnable falsehood? -Oh, if I could only get my hand on his accursed throat!' - -"'Let us first find out who is working these secret wires,' said I, 'and -then we may be able to contend with the enemy with hopes of success. If -Miss Bramlett ever has visited that place, she has been inveigled into -it by foul and fraudulent means. She was continually searching for -worthy objects of charity, and some false, sneaking scoundrel may have -entrapped her into that house. How easily might she have been induced to -believe that some unfortunate creature was dying in that house for want -of food. I know that she would have gone there, or anywhere else, to -render assistance where suffering humanity needed help. No, if this is -the worst that can be said of Viola, you have reason to rejoice; for you -may rest assured she will be able to explain it satisfactorily.' - -"'I believe you, and shall hear all that can be said.' - -"'No, indeed, Mr. Wallingford,' said Dabbs, 'far be it from me to report -anything in this case except the naked truth. I have no bias for or -against any one, I assure you. It is the duty of one in my position to -be careful to keep his mind clear of prejudice, and to look only to the -detection of crime; and if Miss Bramlett shall be able to offer a -satisfactory explanation of her conduct in this instance, it will be a -source of gratification to me. My mind tells me that this man Bowles had -something to do with the death of young Bramlett; and if he had, I shall -not stop until I can prove it. The fact that Miss Bramlett has -frequently met Bowles under suspicious circumstances has been -ascertained to a certainty; but after all it may, as you have suggested, -be easily explained by her. A lady of Miss Bramlett's tender age, having -but little experience in the wicked ways of the world, would be a lamb -in the power of such a wolf as Bowles. He is frequently out of money; -and when such unprincipled scamps want funds, they would commit murder; -or any other crime to get it. He is extravagant beyond measure, loves -wine and women, keeps four fast trotters at Burton's, bets high at the -gaming table, and occasionally dines his friends extravagantly. Now all -this costs money; and it is my opinion that Miss Bramlett's money has -largely contributed to that establishment. You know that she has within -the last twelve months squandered over ten thousand dollars in cash, -besides incurring debts equal to the cash spent. By her father's will -she had the right to spend the income of her inheritance--but could not -touch the principal. She went through with the income, and, from all -accounts, would have speedily wasted the principal, but the trustees -positively refused to allow it. Her little brother did not draw any of -his income at all; and when he died, his sister, of course, became the -owner of his share, not only of the income, but of the entire estate. -People do not commit murder without a motive. Did Miss Bramlett have a -motive to murder her brother? Of course we answer unhesitatingly, Yes. -What motive? what did she gain by the death of her brother? Answer--Ten -thousand dollars ready cash in hand, and two hundred thousand dollars -added to her inheritance. If that did not constitute a motive, I would -like some one to inform me what would. Bowles was in great stress for -want of money at that time, as I happen to know. The wolf may have used -the lamb as his agent to get the funds he wanted. He wrote a note to -Miss Bramlett in which he implored her to let him have five hundred -dollars. That note was found in her dress pocket. It is the document we -mentioned a moment ago, and here it is: - - "'DEAR V.--Don't fail me to-night. Come at eight o'clock. I will be - alone. I am dying to see you. For Heaven's sake let me have the - five hundred dollars, as I am in a tight place just now. I found - your note under the seat in the summer house. I knew where to look - for it. Of course I pressed it to my lips before I read it. When I - see you we will discuss our plans more fully. If you can accomplish - the business with a brave heart we shall yet be happy. I know that - you have the courage to do it, if you set your mind on it. - Detection would be impossible if you adopt my plan--though we will - talk the matter over when I have you in my arms. - - "'Yours and yours only, - - "'B. B.' - - -"'Catch Mr. Wallingford there--he has fainted!' exclaimed Dabbs, as he -sprang forward and attempted to prevent Harry from falling; but he was -too late--for Harry was lying on the floor before Dabbs got to him. I -was unable to render any assistance, being completely overcome with -horror at hearing the contents of the letter. Most of my hopes of -Viola's innocence vanished when the note was read; Mr. Dabbs lifted -Harry up and laid him on a sofa, while Tadpoddle sprinkled his face with -water and took off his cravat, unbuttoning his collar--then Harry began -to breathe faintly; but such a look of despair as settled on his face I -never beheld there before. I was unable to offer consolation, for I was -in need of it myself--the blood seemed to be freezing in my veins. It -was plain that Bowles' letter referred to the plan which had for its -object the murder of Viola's brother. The bare thought that such was the -fact made my heart stand still. - -"'Have we all been deceived by this beautiful girl? Is she, after all, a -cruel, calculating murderess, and the mistress of a villain? Could it be -possible that one so beautiful possessed the heart of a murderess? Could -it be that she who looked like the very embodiment of purity was the -horrible thing that I blush to think of? Questions of that nature came -pouring in on my mind; and if I had been compelled to answer, I should -have been forced to admit that the evidence was overwhelming against -Viola. It was plain to my mind that it would not do to depend on Harry -any longer--he was more like a raving maniac than anything else. I began -to fear that he would seek a quarrel with Bowles--a thing which above -all others I thought should be avoided, as it would prevent the -detectives from getting at the bottom of the case. If Harry should -attack Bowles I knew that one or the other would be killed; and how to -prevent it was the question uppermost in my mind just then. I knew all -about Harry's ungovernable temper and his lack of fear, and imagined -from his looks that he had resolved on something rash--his face was pale -as death. I at once divined the thoughts that were passing through his -mind, and was endeavoring to invent some plan to prevent a meeting -between him and Bowles, when he addressed me in a tone so low that it -was not much above a whisper: - -"'Eddie, it is all over with me--I am a ruined man; there is but one -course left for me to pursue--Bowles must answer for the ruin he has -wrought. Poor girl! I pity her, and before Heaven I swear to be her -avenger. She is a helpless orphan, and it is my duty to defend her, -notwithstanding she has forfeited all right to my love.' - -"I grew impatient. I was becoming tired of Harry's imprudence, and could -not forget the fact that his selfish pride has caused all this trouble. - -"'I think,' said I, endeavoring to keep down my rising temper, 'that I -heard you say if every man, woman and child in Memphis were to swear -Viola was guilty, you would believe they were mistaken; and now, at the -first intimation of her guilt, without any proof whatever, you are the -very one to condemn her. Is this the confidence you have in your -affianced bride? Indeed, I congratulate Miss Bramlett in the possession -of such a true lover!' - -"'Stop, Edward,' he said, as he rose from his seat and began to walk the -floor, 'I know I have said many foolish things, and committed numerous -blunders in this business, but it can't mend matters for you to be -throwing it up to me. I admit that in some instances my conduct was -inexcusable; but I was trying to repair the damage caused by it--it is -too late now. Nothing that any one could say would have any effect on -me, after what I have heard to-day. My heart has turned to stone, and I -don't think it could feel anything at all. Perhaps it is best that it -should be so. I have a duty to perform now that will require coolness, -and I feel that I could see blood run from the heart of Viola's betrayer -without compunction. I have a double account to settle with him; and it -shall be settled in a manner that will be final.' - -"'If you would listen to the advice of your friends, you never would let -Bowles know that you have obtained a clew to his villainy until you have -secured enough proof to convict him in open court. It is very clear that -if he is the author of that letter, he has been the prime mover in the -murder of Miss Bramlett's brother; and it is also very plain that other -letters have been written--for he mentions the place where letters were -deposited and received. Now, if you make a row you put him on his guard, -and thereby give him a chance to escape; but if you keep quiet and let -Dabbs work on him, I think it would enable us to trap him. Above all -things let us give Dabbs an opportunity to work up the case, so far as -Bowles is concerned. A man must learn to control himself before he can -expect to control other people; and when you make up your mind to act -with your friends, and not against them, I am prepared to proceed -further in this business. If, on the other hand, you mean to seek a -quarrel with Bowles, and destroy all hopes of securing proof of his -guilt, I beg to say that I wash my hands of the whole affair.' - -"'I will promise to wait until Mr. Dabbs shall have a chance to do what -he can; but, remember, I only promise to postpone his punishment.' - -"'Very well; I accept the promise, and we can discuss his punishment at -another time. We must see Lottie at once, and prevail on her to tell -what she knows. I am sure she could furnish us some important -information, if she would. While I am ready to admit that my confidence -in Viola's honor has been somewhat shaken, I must be permitted to say -that I have not lost all hopes; hence my anxiety to know the truth has -been increased very much by what I have just heard.' - -"'Have you anything further to communicate?' said I, addressing Mr. -Dabbs; 'if you have, we beg you to proceed.' - -"'Ah, hem! yes, Mr. Demar,' replied the detective, as he took the last -corner from his plug of tobacco, 'I have something more to say; and, in -the first place, allow me to mention the fact that I heartily indorse -your idea as to Bowles. We must by all means keep him in the dark as to -what we have resurrected against him. He is a sly, shrewd rascal; but -I'll capture him if you don't thwart me. In Mr. Ragland's flower garden -there is a large summer-house made of lattice-work, and all covered over -with vines. It is constructed in an octagonal shape, with wooden -benches, arranged round inside. This house has been the meeting place of -Miss Bramlett and Bowles. Miss Jemima Tadpoddle saw them there one night -at a very late hour. She had called to see Mrs. Ragland one evening, and -was informed by the house-maid that her mistress had gone out to attend -a meeting of some benevolent society, of which she was an active member; -but the maid told Miss Tadpoddle that Mrs. Ragland would be in soon, and -while waiting in the drawing-room for Mrs. Ragland's return, she saw -Miss Bramlett go into the summer-house. Soon after Miss Bramlett went -into the place Bowles came in through a secret entrance at the back of -the garden, and went into the summer-house where Miss Bramlett was -watching for him. After waiting a long time to see Mrs. Ragland, Miss -Tadpoddle left without seeing her; and when she went away Bowles and -Miss Bramlett were still in the summer-house. How long they remained -there she of course did not know. When Miss Tadpoddle gave us this -information we made a thorough examination of the premises, in order to -find the place where Bowles got into the garden. We searched for some -time without any result, but at last we found his entering place; and I -must give him credit for great skill, for the manner in which he had -managed it. The garden was inclosed with a common paling fence of pine -timber, painted white, the palings being about four feet high, sharpened -to a point at the top, and nailed to a horizontal railing. Three of -those palings had been so arranged that they could be taken off and -replaced, so as to leave no signs of having been removed. The nails that -had originally been driven in to hold the palings in their places had -been drawn out, small wooden pins put in their stead--so that when -anyone wished to enter the garden he had nothing to do but to draw out -the wooden pins, take off the palings and walk in; then replace them, -and no one could see that the palings had ever been interfered with. I -don't think we should have made the discovery had it not been for the -signs left on the grass by the feet of the party, who had evidently -entered very often. We found that the ground near the place had been -hardened by continuous tramping on it; and this led us to examine the -palings very closely; the result was we found what I have just -mentioned. We made a very extensive search among the blades of tall -grass that grew in the vicinity of the entrance, and we found an article -which we believe to be a set that has fallen from a finger ring. I -should say that it was of considerable value--as it looks like a genuine -diamond. This little article may enable us to get our grabbers on Mr. -Bowles; because, if it is his, he of course has the ring from which it -has been detached. One thing is certain--Mr. Bowles has not only -received Miss Bramlett at his apartments very often, but he has been -meeting her in the summer-house many a time. I believe this ends what I -had to report to-day. Permit me to take my leave now, and you shall hear -from us again soon.'" - -Queen Mary now expressed a wish that the further hearing of the story -should be postponed, in order that the maskers might have a recess. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII. - - -Ivanhoe and Scottie were seated in the rear of the pilot house, -discussing and dissecting Ingomar's story. - -"What do you think of the story now, sir knight?" inquired Scottie. "Do -you like it or not?" - -"So, so. Some parts I like, and some I don't. There's too much talk of -murder in it." - -"Do you think from what you have heard of the story that Miss Bramlett -committed the murder?" - -"There is no room to doubt it, if we are to judge from the evidence that -has come up against her. If Ingomar can get her out of the scrape -without flatly contradicting himself, he will be entitled to the premium -as the champion storyteller." - -"I agree with you there; because if I were on a jury and such evidence -was brought before me, I should say guilty beyond the possibility of a -doubt." - -"Well, Scottie, give me your opinion of Lottie." - -"Ah, sir knight! that's an overdrawn picture. Angels have long since -quit visiting the earth. I don't think I have heard of any being down in -this world since Jacob had such a scuffle with them." - -"You are wrong there; they have been here frequently since that affair -with Jacob. But let that pass, and tell me what you think of Lottie." - -"She makes a splendid heroine for a story." - -"That may be true; yet it is so pleasant to hear Ingomar talk about her; -did you know that somehow or other an idea has got into this head of -mine?" - -"No, indeed! is that so?" - -"Pshaw! You didn't let me finish the sentence. I was about to remark -that somehow an idea had got into my head that you are just like -Lottie." - -"Oh! you are badly lost now, for I am a plain, simple girl--just like -other girls, only not so pretty; and then I have an awful temper. Oh! -you ought to hear me when I am angry." - -"I am truly glad to hear you say so, for I like a high-tempered woman. -They make things generally stand round so lively--have the servants walk -to a line--keep the floor so clean--set such nice dinners; and then it -is so delightful to have a good, jolly quarrel--get up a great row, shed -a few tears, and then make friends--then kiss. Oh, that's the girl for -me!" - -"You draw one side of the picture very nicely." - -"You can't frighten me with such an insinuation; but you only increase -my anxiety to know more about you. By the by, were you ever in love?" - -"Oh, yes! I was dead in love with a fellow once--he was such a darling! -and to tell you the truth, I love him yet. He had such a black beard, -such black hair, and was so handsome!" - -"My hair is black, and so is my beard." - -"I dare say it is. What if it should turn out that it was you, after -all! Were you ever in love?" - -"Indeed, yes! I loved a pretty girl with dark-brown hair and large gray -eyes; and would have married her but for a very trivial little -circumstance--she wouldn't have me." - -"I suppose she didn't like black hair and a black beard." - -"Well, we didn't marry, anyway." - -"Suppose, sir knight, you entertain me with a history of your love -scrape?" - -"I will, on condition that you will follow suit with your little -episode, when I am through with mine." - -"All right--I'll do it." - -"Mine is a short story, but very affecting--and, if you have tears, -prepare to shed them now." - -"Well, hold on then till I get out my handkerchief. Here it is now--go -on." - -"I was in the city of Jackson, Mississippi, once, attending the -Legislature, of which I was a member." - -"Wait a moment till I catch this tear--I think I feel one in my left -eye." - -"What have I said that could have started a tear?" - -"That you were a member of the Mississippi Legislature--that was the -reason your girl refused to marry you." - -"Well, perhaps it was; though I have repented of that; and have promised -to go and sin no more in that way; but I am digressing. While I was in -Jackson, I was invited by some friends, to join them in a picnic dinner -on the beautiful banks of Pearl river. Many lovely women were with the -party--one in particular; it was a clear case of love at first sight on -my side, and spontaneous indifference on hers. The dinner was -magnificent. My girl unloaded a basket. It made my mouth water to watch -her pretty little white hands lifting out the nice cake, the luscious -jam, the roast turkey, the broiled chicken, the snow-white bread, the -great yellow rolls of butter. I fell in love with her and the contents -of her basket--and felt like devouring the whole concern then and there. -It would have done you good to see the sweet smile she cast on me as she -invited me to take a seat by her side and eat with her. I made up my -mind to make her an offer of marriage at the first opportunity, and I -was very much mortified to learn that three other fellows had determined -to do likewise. All three of them had great advantages over me--they -were not members of the Mississippi Legislature, and I was--I had to -carry too much dead weight. After dinner was over the band began to play -a lively tune, and some one proposed a dance; I made a dash toward my -girl, with the view of asking her to be my partner in the dance. She -smiled sweetly on me, but danced with another fellow. I then took the -pouts and refused to dance at all. While the angry fit was on me I -wandered off down the banks of the river alone--vowing to cripple -somebody before night. When I had fully made up my mind to do it, the -next question was, How could I accomplish it without getting crippled -myself? I could not for the life of me think of any plan that would -enable me to get rid of my rivals without endangering myself; therefore -I was forced to abandon the enterprise altogether. But while I was -rambling along the bank of the river meditating dire destruction, a -young gray squirrel ran across my path, and I caught him and carried him -in triumph to the picnic headquarters. My girl cast on me another one of -her sweet smiles, as she begged me to give her the pretty, darling -little squirrel. I of course forgot my angry fit, and gave it to her; it -was but a moment after I had given it into her hand when she uttered a -loud scream, and let the little squirrel drop on the ground. The entire -party took after the squirrel except me and my girl. I saw the blood -streaming from her hand, where the little animal had bitten her. I took -off her glove and washed the blood from her hand, then tied it up with -my handkerchief. I hid her glove in my bosom, where I have worn it ever -since. Here it is now, with the stain of her dear blood on it! Why, -Scottie, I declare, you are weeping sure enough! What on earth is the -matter?--pray what is it." (She was weeping--the tears running down her -cheeks in a stream.) "Have I said anything to offend you? I did not -intend it, if I did." (It was some time before Scottie became -composed--and Ivanhoe was very much astonished at her weeping so.) "I -believe I have about finished my narrative. I really did love that girl -dearly, but her father did not like me. Now, Scottie, tell me your love -affair." - -"You have knocked the foundation from under my story, for you have told -it yourself--and I must ask you to give me back my glove. It is mine, -and here is the scar made by the bite of the squirrel." - -"Good Heavens! Have I the honor to again meet Miss Kate Darlington?" - -"If you will leave out the honor part, I will answer, Yes! And I have -the pleasure to meet Captain Ralleigh Burk, I presume." - -"You have guessed my name, at any rate--but was it true, Scottie (pardon -me please, but I mean to call you Scottie all the time, for I like it), -that you did love me?" - -"Oh, you must not ask impertinent questions; you know we were joking -when we commenced it." - -"No, I don't! for I never was more in earnest in all my life. I have -kissed this little glove a thousand times; and the dear image of the -Pearl river girl has been indelibly stamped on my heart. It has been two -years since I last saw you, and it has seemed an age to me. I was sure -that you were going to marry that other fellow with the red hair." - -"Oh, no! I detest red hair--and then I never could marry a man unless I -loved him. The fact is, it wouldn't do for me to marry at all, for I -have such a temper." - -"Oh, bother the temper! I am willing to risk it. Laying all jokes aside, -I love you devotedly, and won't you promise to be my wife?" - -"If I lose my temper and break your head with the broom handle, you -won't beat me?" - -"No." - -"If I break up the furniture, while in a passion, you'll go and buy -more?" - -"Yes." - -"Very well, I'll take your case under advisement, and give you an answer -when we get back home, provided you don't conclude to withdraw the -proposition before it is too late." - -"See here, Scottie, this is a matter of too much importance to me to be -made the subject of a joke; I don't believe you mean to wound my -feelings, yet I had rather you would not use so much levity about it. I -loved you at first sight, and meant to ask you then to marry me, but -your father seemed to dislike me so that I was afraid." - -"In the first place, Mr. Burk----" - -"Pshaw! Scottie, don't call me Mr. Burk, but call me Ralleigh." - -"If it pleases you, then be it so. Well, Ralleigh Burk, in the first -place, I am not joking; and in the second place, you were very much -mistaken when you concluded that my father disliked you. He had a -supreme contempt for what he called stern-wheel politicians." - -"Oh, yes, I see; and he set me down in his mind as a stern-wheel -politician." - -"I don't say that, mind you, but he looked upon you as the villagers did -on the old dog Tray, who was found in bad company. You see how it is, -don't you?" - -"I think I do." - -"Well, now, I think my father would forgive you if you could satisfy him -that you had quit politics and gone into some legitimate business." - -"Do you, indeed? how kind that would be of him! but suppose I had not -quit politics, and that I had not gone into any legitimate business--in -fact, suppose it should appear that I have not gone into anything except -debt?" - -"I think it would prevent your going into our family." - -"Then I suppose he would not object to my going head foremost into the -Mississippi river?" - -"Oh, by no means; I think he would rather see you do that than to see -you in the Mississippi Legislature." - -"And may I ask which catastrophe would be most to your liking?" - -"The cold water treatment, by long odds." - -"Thank you. I must say that I admire your candor, but not your -sentiment." - -"Spoken like a man; I glory in your grit. You're on my platform, for I -have sworn never to marry a man unless I loved him." - -"Scottie, you are a little darling, and that's a fact, and I want you to -try to love me if you can; and if you can't, just tell me so, and I'll -either go to the bottom of the river or to the Mississippi Legislature, -and never bother you any more." - -"Hold your head down, so I can whisper something in your ear: I don't -think you will have to drown yourself, or go to the Legislature." - -"No? oh, won't that be jolly! You have removed a mountain from my mind. -Let us go dance a while, else I'll do something foolish." - -"You talk as if you hadn't been doing that all the evening; but you will -excuse me, for I don't wish to dance. I like to gaze out on the bright -water and see the moonbeams dancing on it. I like to feel the soft, -balmy air as it kisses my cheeks. I like to feel the gentle motion of -the boat, and watch the white waves of steam as they go rolling up from -the pipes. It is so sweet to sit here and listen to the soft notes of -the music as it comes stealing up from the saloon and mingling with the -dull sound of the puffing pipes. I love to listen to the regular clatter -of the wheels--they make such pleasant music as they strike the water. -The fact is, I am very happy, and could sit here and dream all night, -without going to sleep. Oh, these wide-awake day dreams; how delightful -they are! I am in one of those dreamy moods now, and wouldn't exchange -that feeling for anything on earth!" - -"All right, Scottie; I think I'll join you in a dream or two; but I am -so happy I cannot be still." - -"But you must be still if you remain here. I have made up my mind to -have a dream, and don't mean to be disturbed. There, now, take a seat -and let us watch the moon till she passes that cloud yonder." - -"Scottie, let the moon alone; it is a fickle planet, anyway, and I am -afraid you will learn its bad habits. If you will do me the honor to -take my arm, we will have a stroll. We can quarrel as well while walking -as we can while sitting here." - -"I suppose I will have to do it, as there is no getting rid of you. But -I want you to tell me if you have made any new discoveries in regard to -the black domino?" - -"Nothing of any consequence; only it is certain that she is watching -Ingomar in such a way as to convince me that she is shadowing him for -some purpose. My spy has been very vigilant, but has encountered many -difficulties. The black domino seems to be suspicious of every one who -approaches her, and positively refuses to be interviewed. When she -retires to her state-room she always locks the door, and don't even let -the chamber-maid enter while she is there. This fact alone is enough to -convince me that she has a secret. The chamber-maid tells me that she -heard the black domino whispering to the old gentleman with the long -beard this morning. She was not close enough to hear all that was said, -but she heard the woman say that she was determined to end this -intolerable suspense very soon. There appeared to be a difference of -opinion between the old man and the black domino, and the chamber-maid -said she thought that they were quarreling--however, as to that she was -not very positive. What do you think it all means, Scottie?" - -"Why do you ask me such a question, when you know I am dying of that -terrible disease so prevalent among our sex, known as curiosity. What -wouldn't I give to know who and what she is? It seems to me that if the -chamber-maid were to try she might find out something." - -"It does look so, but nevertheless she has not done it--that is to say, -she has done comparatively nothing; but we have not abandoned the field -yet, by a great deal." - -"Anything further from the Mississippi detectives yet?" - -"No--only a confirmation of what we have heard heretofore. It is certain -that Ingomar is to be arrested as soon as the boat arrives at Vicksburg. -I regret to tell you that we shall have to part with him then." - -"I hope he will have time to finish his story before he is arrested. The -truth of the matter is, I think it is our duty to tell him all we have -heard anyway." - -"No, no; that would not only be aiding a criminal to escape, but it -would be to some extent criminal on our part. No; let us have nothing -whatever to do with it. But, Scottie, haven't you told the queen already -what you know about Ingomar?" - -"No, not a word. I'll have you to know I am no talebearer. Didn't I -promise you I would keep the secret? Of course I did; and then how dare -you ask me such a question?" - -"I beg pardon; I ought to be pitched overboard; don't you think I -ought?" - -"Certainly I do, and should go about having it done, but it would make -all the fish quite ill." - -"Perhaps it would; but I have no idea of being pitched into the river. I -know I shall have pleasant dreams to-night, while the dear image of some -one will float before my mind." - -Ivanhoe then bade Scottie good-night and retired to his state-room, -while his heart swelled with joy. He had at last found a haven of rest -for his heart, which for two years had been worrying itself about the -beautiful girl from Pearl river. - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII. - - -Immediately after breakfast next morning, Queen Mary and her party -re-assembled at the usual place, where Ingomar was ordered to resume his -narrative. All of the maskers were in their places, eager to hear the -balance of the story; and Ingomar, without loss of time, began as -follows: - -"As soon as Dabbs and Tadpoddle left the office Harry began to pace the -floor rapidly, with his head hanging on his breast, while I could see -from the working of the muscles of his face that he was making a -desperate effort to get his feelings under control. After walking the -floor for some time in silence he abruptly confronted me, and fixed his -eyes on me as if to read my thoughts, then said: - -"'She is guilty, and my career is nearly ended. I cannot survive it, and -to tell you the truth, I do not wish to, for I never shall have -confidence in any woman again. I shall even lose confidence in Lottie.' - -"'Stop, Harry, I pray you; don't talk so; you will be sorry for this one -of these days. Let us not abandon all hopes yet. It is possible that -this is a mistake, after all.' - -"'No, no; I understand your motive, and appreciate it, but it is useless -to dodge the question; Viola is lost--lost forever! Oh, God! have mercy -on this poor girl. But for the sin of the thing, I would kill myself -now, and be rid of this intolerable suffering. There is a burning fire -in my bosom, and I can feel its consuming flames devouring my vitals. -Oh, how I did love that girl! how I worshiped her! So beautiful. So -enchanting! How could one so lovely be so wicked? My doom is sealed--the -blow to me is fatal. I feel it here. Let it come--the sooner the better. -Bowles must die, though. It is a mystery to me why such men should be -tolerated in a city like this, where they can rob and murder men, and -ruin innocent girls with impunity. If a poor wretch whose wife and -children are starving steals a side of bacon to keep the dear ones -alive, he is hurried off to the penitentiary in double-quick time; but -the well-dressed thief who steals his thousands, corrupts youth, ruins -young girls, and dines his friends, is permitted to walk the streets as -the lion of the day. It is not only so in Memphis, but I am told it is -so in many other cities. How such unscrupulous wretches should be -permitted to ply their avocations of robbery among people who make -pretensions to civilization is a puzzle to me. But I mean to have a -settlement with Mr. Bowles. He is the same fellow who, many years ago, -insulted Lottie at our camp, then committed perjury when I was on trial. -I have that little affair scored against him; but that is nothing -compared with the late business.' - -"'Harry, I would advise you not to let Viola know that you think she is -guilty, because if you do she certainly will discard you forever. I am -sure she never would forgive you the second time. You have not -forgotten what trouble you had to get her to pardon your first error; -and you had better be very cautious how you act now. She is as proud and -sensitive as you are, and if you offend her again she never will forgive -you.' - -"'I will, under no circumstances, attempt to conceal my opinions; if she -asks me for the truth, you may be assured she will hear it. I adhere to -the doctrine that honesty is the best policy. I never have told a -deliberate falsehood, and never will.' - -"'Would it not be best, then, for you not to see her until we know more -about the case? for she will be certain to find out what you think, and -then, my word for it, she will discard you.' - -"'Do you think I would care if she did? You don't imagine that I expect -to marry her, do you?' - -"'But suppose you go and tell her you think she is guilty, and then -afterward, when it is too late, you find out that she is innocent--don't -you see what an awkward predicament you then would be in?' - -"'Eddie, please don't try to deceive me. You know she is guilty. Is not -the proof overwhelming? Didn't I cling to the idea of her innocence -until the last prop was knocked away? But I am determined to see her and -demand an explanation. It is but fair to give her a chance. She shall -know what we have heard, and she then must tell what she knows about -it.' - -"'Harry, you will live to regret this step, and I want you to understand -that you take it contrary to my advice and wishes. If you would let the -whole matter rest in the hands of the detectives until the evidence -shall be brought out I think it would be better.' - -"'Let the responsibility rest on me. I must and will see Viola once -more, and then leave her in the hands of Him who knows the secrets of -all hearts. I will go and see her now; meantime you go and talk to Mr. -Rockland, and don't think about me at all. I must now steer my own -canoe. My mind is made up, and no power on earth can change it.' - -"He then abruptly left the office and went toward the jail. I trembled -to see the strange wild look in his eyes as he passed out. Mischief was -brewing, and I could see it as plain as daylight--but how to prevent it -I knew not. I remained in my seat for some time, undecided as to the -best course to be pursued. I knew that I must act promptly, but what or -how to do I could not decide. After Harry had been gone about thirty -minutes, it occurred to me that I ought to go and talk to Lottie and let -her know the bad news we had heard, and persuade her to keep Harry and -Viola apart until something more definite could be ascertained. I knew -that if Harry should see Viola while his mind was in its present -condition, something serious would be sure to transpire. I hastened to -the jail, but was too late to prevent the meeting. Lottie met me at the -entrance, and I saw from her looks that she had suspected something. - -"'Oh, Eddie,' she said, as she held out both hands for me to shake, -'what on earth is the matter with Harry? He came here just now, looking -for all the world just like a ghost. He was as pale as death, and I -thought he was going to fall down and die at my feet. He staggered from -one side of the hall to the other like a drunken man, told me he wished -to be alone with Viola, and requested me to stay out of the room until -he called me. His eyes showed a wild, unsettled expression, such as I -have seen mad men have. What does it mean?' - -"'Lottie, something awful has happened; but I can't stop to tell you -now. We must look after Harry--get him away from here as soon as -possible. Go in; you must persuade him to go home with you.' - -"'Good Heavens! did you hear that groan? That was Viola--come, quick!' - -"I followed her into the room, and at a glance perceived that we had -come too late--the mischief had been done. That Harry was absolutely -crazy for the time being was as plain as could be. Viola was leaning -against the bed-post, pale and trembling, while Harry was passing across -the room like an angry tiger in its cage. Lottie was by Viola's side in -an instant. - -"'What is it?' she inquired, as she took hold of her arm. 'Tell me what -has happened, I beseech you!' - -"'Your gallant brother there I think could tell you better than I -could,' replied Viola, as she drew herself up to her full height. She -looked like a queen who had received an insult from one of her subjects. -Such a look of scorn as she cast upon Harry as she spoke I never had -seen flash from a woman's eyes before. Her cheeks were red with anger, -and her frame seemed to grow taller. 'Yes, Lottie, your gallant brother -can enlighten you as to what has happened.' Then addressing herself to -Harry, she said: 'Why, Mr. Wallingford, didn't you tell your sister how -you sat quietly in your chair and heard those two penitentiary birds say -that I was the mistress of a blackleg gambler, and didn't kill them? You -saved my life when I was a child, and I thought you were a brave hero. -Every story I read where a hero was described I coupled your name with, -and my childish mind pictured you as greater and braver than all of -them. I loved you for your courage; I thought of you by day--I dreamed -about you at night. My love grew as I grew, until my poor heart was full -to overflowing. The followers in Mohammed never had stronger faith in -him than I had in you. Your image floated before my young mind as my -beau ideal of all that was brave, noble, generous and kind. I studied by -day and by night, in order to make myself worthy of such a hero. My love -grew into worship, and if every man, woman and child on earth had told -me you were not a brave, generous hero, I would not have believed it. I -wore your image next to my heart, and no heathen ever worshiped his idol -with half the devotion that I worshiped you. My love was my life--it was -my happiness--it was my religion--it was my all! You told me you loved -me--you took me to your heart and whispered sweet words of love into my -ear--you almost killed me with joy. Then you cast me off and declared -that you were joking, and that you never could think of marrying me. I -was crazed with grief; and as soon as I got so I could bear the awful -affliction, you came and renewed the protestations of love. You offered -excuses for your former conduct. I believed you. You swore in the most -solemn language that you always had loved me. I credited it, and you -asked me to be your wife. I yielded because I loved--nay, the word love -is too weak a term to be used--I worshiped you--I adored you. I thought -my love was returned--I thought you were perfection itself. In view of -all these things, how could you sit and hear my name blackened by a pair -of penitentiary convicts, and not kill them? You heard them say I was -the mistress of a common blackleg gambler, and did not resent it. Is -this the brave hero whose picture I have worn on my heart for ten long -years? How could I have been so blinded as to worship such an object? -And then, to cap the climax, you come here and ask me to explain why I -was in the habit of visiting the apartments of Mr. Bowles continually. -Leave me and my affairs in the hands of God--to Him I will render an -account of my conduct in this business, but to you never! I have no -fears as to my fate. Death to me now would be welcome--why should I wish -to live where no one will befriend me? Let them hang me high as -Haman--let my name be bandied about the streets as the vilest of the -vile. Why should I care, since the only one I loved or cared for thinks -me guilty? Let them hang me first and then throw my body in a felon's -grave. God, who knows the secrets of all hearts, will take care of my -soul. You may go now, Mr. Wallingford; I have no more to say, only to -demand that you desist from any further interference in my affairs. Make -out an account of all expenses you have incurred and present them to my -guardian, and I will see that they are paid. You may go, now, as I wish -to be left alone.' - -"If Harry heard what she had been saying, he paid but little attention -to it; but when she ceased, instead of leaving the room as she had -ordered him to do, he stood like a statue, gazing vacantly before him. - -"'Mr. Wallingford, again I tell you I wish to be left alone.' As she -spoke she pointed toward the door, and her manner was such as to -convince me that it would be better for Harry to leave. Acting upon that -conclusion, I led him from the room, and went with him to his office. He -spoke not, nor did he make any objections to being taken away--in fact, -I didn't think he exactly comprehended what had been said, though he -afterward spoke of it as if it were a painful dream. I had often seen -him under the influence of excitement, but I had never beheld him in -such a state as he was then, and I was afraid to leave him alone, for I -imagined that he would seek Bowles immediately. Mr. Rockland came into -the office soon after we arrived, and I sought a private interview with -him, and in as few words as possible informed him what had happened, and -requested him to try to get Harry home as soon as he could. Mr. Rockland -was deeply moved when he began to realize the situation. He loved Harry -devotedly, and was as much alarmed at his condition as I was; he at once -requested him to accompany him home. Harry followed Mr. Rockland without -objection, and I went back to the jail at once to see Lottie. I wanted -to have a talk with her about the new turn matters were taking, for I -had more confidence in her cool judgment than all the rest. She was the -only one of us who could look at both sides of a case with an impartial -eye. The fact is, she had more sound, practical judgment than Harry and -I put together. Nothing could throw her temper off its guard, and I knew -that I must look to her for help, because Harry was no longer to be -depended on. As soon as I entered the gate in front of the jail, Lottie -came out of Viola's room and beckoned me to her side. - -"'Don't go in there--I wish to have a private chat with you. Viola is -asleep now; I had to send for Doctor Dodson soon after you and Harry -left. The doctor was obliged to give her an opiate before he could get -her to sleep. He fears there is danger of brain fever, but thinks it may -be avoided by proper treatment. Why did you let Harry come here to-day -when you knew what a condition his mind was in?' - -"'I did my very best to keep him away, but he wouldn't listen to me. I -think he is mad. I told him above all things not to tell Viola what he -had heard.' - -"'But what is it you have heard? You must remember that I am totally -ignorant as to the cause of all this trouble.' - -"I then gave her a full statement of the facts as detailed to us by -Dabbs and Tadpoddle. I saw a strange light flash from her beautiful -eyes, and her cheeks flushed instantly with a rush of red blood to them. -Her pretty little mouth was at once drawn down at both corners. - -"'And you and brother Harry swallowed this magnificent story as a child -of five years would the hobgoblin story told by its nurse--that is, you -believed it, of course.' - -"'Lottie, how could we help believing it, when the proof was so plain? -What was Viola doing with Bowles' letter in her dress pocket? What was -she visiting his apartments at the dark hours of night for? Were they -not planning schemes of murder? Does not the letter prove this beyond -all question? What is the use of clinging to an idea that has no -foundation to rest on? If I owned all the money in the world I would -give it to know Viola was not guilty.' - -"'Eddie, I love you too much--I wish I didn't, for I had made up my mind -to give you a real good scolding; but how can I have the heart to abuse -my old booby when I love him so? But let me tell you one thing now, and -be very sure you don't forget it--if ever you hint or insinuate in my -presence again that you think Viola Bramlett is anything but a pure, -honest, virtuous, persecuted orphan girl, I'll make such a rattling -storm in your ears as you never have heard in all the days of your -life.' - -"'If I were to see her murder a brigade, I'd never say so before you.' - -"'Very good; you had better try to remember that, for I tell you, Mr. -Booby, I know her to be innocent; and that is not all, by a long jump--I -know exactly who is guilty. You and Harry imagine yourselves to be -exceedingly clever. You bring penitentiary birds from Philadelphia, and -pay them large rewards to blacken the name of a pure, honest girl. I -declare, you ought to congratulate yourselves on the success of your -enterprise!' - -"'Lottie, for Heaven's sake, if you know who committed that cruel -murder, why do you let Viola remain in jail? Why don't you expose the -guilty one, and let the innocent one go free?' - -"'I shall do that at the proper time. I have got a net set, and the -guilty one is partially entangled in it now; but the time has not yet -come to make the final drag. You and Harry have been on the wrong trail -all the time, and so have your clever detectives.' - -"'Why don't you tell Harry and me all about the case, so we can help -you?' - -"'I mean to make you help me without telling you anything, because I -think it is best to keep my secrets from you; and as to brother Harry, -he never had the starch taken out of him until to-day. His ungovernable -pride has caused all this trouble, but I think he will not ride such a -tall horse any more. He is a dear, noble-hearted brother, but he never -has put the curb on his temper--in fact, he never has tried to control -his passions; and you know as well as I do that no one can be happy who -can't manage his passions.' - -"'Lottie, where did you manage to pick up such a store of good sense; it -sounds like inspiration. I know it can't be my love for you that makes -me think like that--it is simply because it is so.' - -"'Not at all; I am nothing but a simple girl, but I have always tried to -command my mind, and through it control my bad passions, and, to some -extent, have succeeded; that's all there is of it.' - -"'Will you tell me whether Bowles committed the murder or not?' - -"'He did not, though he is as guilty as the one who did, and I will have -the proof on him when the trial comes off. I want the grand jury to find -a bill against Viola, because her name has been stained with the charge, -and these slanderous reports have been whispered about the streets -against her; and she shall be vindicated in open court, and I assure you -her fair name will shine so brightly that no spot will be left on it. -The more I know of her the better I love her, and I know her to be as -pure as the falling snow. She concurs in my views as regards a public -trial, and will not shrink when the time comes. She is a greater heroine -than any one would suppose who is not acquainted with her private -character.' - -"'Who is assisting you to look up the evidence in the case?' - -"'That's one of my secrets which I don't mean to tell you just now; but -it is one who can beat your Philadelphia detective very badly.' - -"'Why not tell Harry that you know Viola to be innocent? Don't you know -the idea that she is guilty is killing him? I am afraid that he will -seek a quarrel with Bowles, and either kill him or get killed himself.' - -"'I did tell him that I knew she was not guilty; and I told you the same -thing, yet both of you were ready to credit the first thing you heard -against her. I would have revealed everything to him, but I could not -depend on his judgment when he is so flustered. I was afraid he would -act too hastily, and thereby overthrow the plans we had set on foot to -entrap the guilty parties. I yet fear that he will commit some rash act -which will frighten the real murderers, and prevent us from securing the -proof necessary to convict. Our uncle has written him to come to -California, and I think we had better get him to go at once. Uncle -Stanley's health has failed, and he wants Harry to go there to help him -wind up his business, so he can come here to live. He urges Harry to -come without delay, and the best thing we can do is to persuade him to -go at once. He could get back in six months, and by that time Viola's -innocence will be established, and then we will all be happy once more. -You had better see Mr. Rockland on the subject, and ask him to aid you -in persuading Harry to go at once. In the first place, it is his duty to -go and help our uncle while he is unable to look after his own business; -and in the next place, it will furnish brother something to employ his -mind and keep it from the subject that is destroying his happiness. If -he stays here he will be sure to do something rash; therefore you must -not lose a moment until you get him started.' - -"'Do you think Viola ever will forgive Harry?' - -"'What a dear old Booby you are! Did you ever hear of a woman's -forsaking a man, when she once loved him truly? It shows how little you -know about a woman's heart. I suppose men judge women by their own -hearts; but let me tell you that the heart of a woman is no more like -that of a man than day is like night. Man's heart is as fickle and -unreliable as the moon, and will change as often; but once let a woman -give her heart away to a man, and he has it always. He may drag her down -to the lowest precincts of misery and degradation, and she will cling to -and love him still. He may beat her--he may starve her--he may disgrace -her; but she will never cease to love him. She will go with him to a -loathsome dungeon--she will follow him to the gallows; and when his neck -is broken by the law, for crimes committed, she will weep over his dead -body, and bury her broken heart in a felon's grave with the unworthy -man she loves. How is it with a man? Let the slightest breath of -suspicion blow upon the woman he loves, and he forsakes her at once.' - -"'Lottie, do you think that anything ever could happen that would make -me forsake you?' - -"'Yes; a hundred things could happen that would make you hate me, though -I think you are the best sample of the lot; and if you should beat and -starve me, I should be fool enough to go on loving you just the same.' - -"'Lottie, darling, if ever I do anything intentionally to cause you -pain, I shall expect Satan to get my unworthy soul and roast it in his -hottest blazes. But candidly tell me, Lottie dear, do you really think -Viola ever will become reconciled with Harry? You know she is as proud -as he is, and I never saw her in such a rage as she was to-day.' - -"'That's all you know about it. Why, sir, in five minutes after Harry -left her she broke completely down--fell on the bed and wept like a -child; if he had come back then, he might have taken her in his arms -with impunity. She would have nestled her head on his bosom and begged -him to forgive her, instead of expecting him to beg her pardon. The -truth of it is she is crazy about him, and would die if he were to -abandon her. She is too good for this wicked world, anyway.' - -"'I must say that they are both very different from other people; they -puzzle and perplex me. Sometimes they are as gentle and submissive as -young lambs; then again they remind me of a tornado, sweeping everything -to destruction as it goes. Sometimes they resemble the smooth, calm -bosom of a lake; then they appear again like the boisterous billows of -the ocean when lashed into fury by the storm.' - -"'True enough, Eddie, but it is because they love each other so much. If -they did not love so strongly they would be less boisterous.' - -"'Why is it that you and I are getting along so smoothly and nicely?' - -"'That is owing to the fact that no trouble has come across our path. -But suppose I were in jail, charged with murder, and you were to tell -me to my face that you thought me guilty--don't you think you would -start a pretty extensive whirlwind?' - -"'If I were to do such a cowardly thing it ought to be a first-class -tornado--one that would blow my worthless carcass out of the world.' - -"'Don't make so many rash remarks; you know it is generally understood -that the course of true love never runs smooth. We may have stormy -weather yet before the voyage is ended; happiness like ours is too great -to last, I'm afraid. But enough of this now--you must go to Harry and -remain with him until you get him off to California; then come back to -me--I wish to send you on a short journey on business of vast moment.' - -"'Tell me where it is you wish me to go, and what you want me to go for, -so that I can have something to think about. It is so pleasant to be -thinking of some way to serve you.' - -"'As soon as we can get Harry started, I shall send you to Vicksburg, -Mississippi, on business connected with Viola's case. You see, as I have -already informed you, I am playing lawyer and detective both. There is -certain evidence at Vicksburg that is essential in this affair, and you -must go there to secure it. I think I may safely trust you thus far.' - -"'You may trust me implicitly in everything, Lottie, darling, and I'll -prove worthy of the trust. But have you any objections to telling me now -the nature of the evidence you expect me to secure?' - -"'There is a certain woman in this city who formerly resided at or near -Vicksburg, whose antecedents I wish to know something about.' - -"'Then you think it was a woman who poisoned young Bramlett?' - -"'What are you talking about? I said nothing of the sort. You must obey -orders and not be so inquisitive--a good soldier, you know, always obeys -orders without inquiring the reason of their issuance.' - -"'Very good! You issue orders and leave the rest to me, and I'll bring -up my part of the job all right. But what is the name of the person -whose history you want?' - -"'She has so many names that you will find the greatest difficulty -arises from that fact, though you must find out her real name, at all -hazards. In order to do this, you must discover who are her parents; and -it may be necessary to go to other places besides Vicksburg before you -accomplish that. She came from Vicksburg to Memphis--how long she had -been residing there I do not know, but suppose you are detective enough -to find out who she is and where she was born and raised. But you must -mind and not let any one know your business, because everything must be -worked secretly. This woman claims to be a native of Mississippi, and -was known by the name of Helen Herndon when she came to this city--that -is, she was traveling under that name while coming here, but she dropped -it and took another when she arrived here. Now, you will probably find -that Helen Herndon is not her real name, but it is very likely that she -has resided in Vicksburg under that name. This will aid you to determine -who she really is. The main point to be gained is to find her parents -and get the full history of her childhood. I suppose her age now is not -over thirty, and she has been here five years. She must have covered up -her tracks well, else you will be able to trace her back to her parents. -You must not let any one know where you are going, nor what your -business is. You must find out where she was educated (and, by the by, -she has been well educated), and learn everything you can about her -school-girl history. I must have some of her manuscript, and this, of -course, you can get, if you can find her parents. You must put on your -studying-cap, and try to be wise.' - -"'I'll try, of course, but do you think I can succeed?' - -"'Doubtful.' - -"'Ha, ha, dearest, you have the right to make sport of me as much as you -please, and I rather think I like it.' - -"I built several magnificent castles as I passed along the street from -the jail to Mr. Rockland's house. I can't say that I absolutely -completed any one of those splendid buildings, because my mind would -become confused when I was about to put on the cornice, or the dome, or -hoist the columns, and I would find that something was lacking to make -the exact finish. A crack in the wall would appear, or a defect in the -foundation, a column would tipple down, the dome would lean over to one -side, turrets were too flat, the windows too short--something was sure -to happen to prevent me from making an absolute finish of my great work. -When I went to Mr. Rockland, I found him in his library, busy, as usual, -with great heaps of papers before him, which he was examining, one by -one. I made known to him the object of my visit, told him Lottie's -views, and requested his advice and assistance to get Harry off to -California as soon as possible. - -"'That is another proof of Lottie's good sense, Mr. Demar. The fact is, -sir, that girl is a mystery, anyway. I can't understand where she -managed to gather up so much good, sound, practical common sense. It is -true she reads a great deal, and has always been very industrious; but, -sir, I believe she is the most talented woman I ever knew. Why, sir, -would you believe it, she has made out many a brief for me, hunted up -the law applicable to the case, and arranged everything as well as I -could do it myself! For instance, look at that brief there, will you? -She did that, and she did it as quickly as any lawyer could have done -it. She copies all my papers, keeps my books and clerks for me -generally. Demar, I don't like to let you have her, at all, and if I -thought you would take her away from me, I should be tempted to break -off the match.' - -"'It pleases me beyond measure to hear you praise Lottie so, for she -deserves it; but I shall never part her from you, if you prefer that we -should stay here. I know that she could not be happy if she thought you -were miserable.' - -"'I am very much obliged to you, Demar, for making that promise, because -I don't see how we could bear to part with our darling. I know I shall -miss her valuable services as my amanuensis.' - -"'It is not my intention, Mr. Rockland, to deprive you of her services, -so long as it may be agreeable to her to aid you. My aim will be to make -her happy, and I dare say she would prefer to continue to help you. I -think that this is the place where she managed to gather so much useful -knowledge of the law, as well as a great store of general information. -She has been with you so much, and heard you expound the law to others -so often, that she has got her mind well stored with its mysteries.' - -"'Probably that is true to some extent, but she possesses an -extraordinary mind. Mr. Demar, you have been quite lucky to win the -heart of such a woman, indeed you have, sir. You have achieved a great -victory. She is a valuable prize, I assure you.' - -"'I am sensible of the fact, sir, and shall endeavor to make her life a -happy one. I feel thankful to Providence for bestowing such a blessing -on me, humble and unworthy as I am; but if a life of devotion to her can -make her happy, she shall certainly be so.' - -"'Enough of this, Mr. Demar; I could talk about Lottie all day, but we -must not neglect other business. You were about to mention some newly -discovered evidence that had been brought to light in Miss Bramlett's -case. I shall be glad to hear anything in her favor.' - -"'I am very sorry to be compelled to say that this newly found evidence -is anything but favorable to her--to the contrary, if it is true, it -establishes her guilt beyond doubt.' - -"'Poor girl, I am distressed to hear it! but let me know all at once.' - -"I then proceeded to tell him everything that had been related to Harry -and me by Dabbs and Tadpoddle. - -"'That proof will convict her beyond question, unless it can be -overthrown by other proof, and it would have to be unquestionable -evidence to do that. We shall be driven to the plea of insanity--this is -the _dernier ressort_, and is rather a shaky foundation to build hopes -upon. It is most unfortunate that Harry should have fallen in love with -Miss Bramlett; poor fellow, it is a heavy blow to him, and I agree with -you as to the propriety of getting him off to California as soon as -possible. It is truly his duty to go to his uncle without delay, and I -shall mention the subject to him as soon as his mind gets composed. He -is in an unsettled condition just now.' - -"'Do you think he will go, Mr. Rockland?' - -"'Oh, yes, he will do anything I request him to. He has been a kind, -obedient son to me, and my wishes have always been law with him. Ah, me! -I love the dear boy, and it is causing me great pain to see him -suffering so. He seems to be perfectly reckless since Miss Bramlett's -troubles began--neglects his duties, stares wildly at space for hours at -a time in silence, eats scarcely anything and is as pale as a ghost. His -mother is in despair about it, and a general gloom pervades the -premises. Something must be done, and that without delay. He shall start -to California next Monday. That will rouse him and take his mind off of -this painful subject.' - -"Having finished my business with Mr. Rockland, I went back to the jail -to report progress to Lottie. - - - - -CHAPTER XIX. - - -"Monday had come and gone, and Harry was on his way to California. Viola -was quite ill, Lottie in distress, and my mind by no means free of -trouble. - -"'Here we come, Eddie, my boy,' said Doctor Dodson, as he came bustling -into the drug-store one morning soon after breakfast. 'Ah, ha! my boy, -things are all wrong, all wrong, sir. That's always the case; one thing -goes wrong, everything must follow suit, you know--ah, ha! don't you see -how it is, my boy? Miss Bramlett, poor thing, very ill--threatened with -brain fever--killing herself with grief about Wallingford--Lottie -wearing herself out with continual watching--breaking her heart about -other people's troubles--don't sleep enough--eats not enough to support -life in a snow-bird. Ah, ha! my boy, don't you see how it is? Then, to -cap the climax of errors, here's Dabbs and Tadpoddle nosing round and -stirring up slander, and those two hateful old maids are retailing it -out where they think it will do the most harm. Ah, ha! my boy, do you -know those two detestable old hags? No, of course you don't; I allude to -Miss Jemima Tadpoddle and Jerusha Clattermouth. Ah, ha! Eddie, my boy, -old Nick ought to have them both. Clatter, clatter go their tongues all -day, slandering everybody and everything. They both have been to the -jail, pretending to feel an interest in Miss Bramlett, and they have -well-nigh killed the poor girl with their infernal tongues. Ah, ha! -Eddie, my boy, don't you see how it is? I wish their tongues were cut -out and nailed on the jail door, as a warning to meddlesome -gossips--that's what I wish. Ah, ha! Eddie, my boy, Miss Tadpoddle is -ill. Thank Heaven! I hope the town will have a little breathing spell -while she is sick. The hateful hag has sent for me to visit her -professionally. Ah, ha! my boy, I mean to send you in my place. She is -the very sort for a young quack to practice on. No harm done if he kills -her, don't you see? Get yourself ready to go, my boy--give her something -to silence her tongue, if you can. You'll find a charming patient, my -boy. Clattermouth is sure to be there--they are always together--birds -of a feather--you know how it is yourself. Ah, ha! Eddie, my boy, be off -now--stuff her full of medicine--pour in the calomel till you salivate -her--that's as nigh salvation as she will ever get. Go, my boy; cram her -with emetics, then shovel in your purgatives. Don't kill her, but -prostrate her--stop her devilish tongue. Ah, ha! my boy, don't you see? -Go, go!' - -"Of course I went, and when I entered Mr. Tadpoddle's house I was -immediately ushered into Miss Jemima's room. I stood in the door a -moment, while my eyes were busy taking a survey of the room and its -contents. Miss Jemima Tadpoddle was propped up in bed with a dozen -pillows, while Miss Jerusha Clattermouth was bathing her temples with -eau-de-Cologne, and the sick woman's mother was holding a smelling -bottle to her nose. It is my deliberate opinion that if Shakespeare had -seen those three women before he wrote 'Macbeth,' he would have made a -better job of it, especially in the witch department. - -"A feeling of disgust crept through me as I approached the bed where she -was, and it cost me an effort to conceal my feelings. Her neck was not -quite so long as that of a sandhill crane, but I can honestly say it was -the longest neck I ever saw under a woman's head, and it appeared to be -entirely constructed of little round cords. Her skin was as white as -snow, and if she had any veins in her body, they were not visible to the -naked eye. - -"Miss Clattermouth was by no means like Miss Tadpoddle--in fact, I never -saw two people less alike than they were. Miss Clattermouth was a -little, dark-skinned woman, with a pug nose, a very small mouth, no -teeth, either natural or artificial, and the thin lips appeared to be at -a loss to know what to do with themselves. The mouth was entirely too -small for the lips, hence they were forced to double themselves up, or -rather to roll into little folds, so as to have more room. - -"As soon as I was able to get in a word, I inquired of Miss Tadpoddle -the nature of her complaint. - -"'Oh, doctor! I am so glad you came to see me. I declare, I thought I -should die before you got here. You don't know how delighted I am to see -you. I never exaggerate. I despise exaggeration--it is my character to -despise it. I never flatter--it is my character to hate flattery. You -may rely on anything I say, doctor, for I never use extravagant -language--it is my character not to use it. I feel so much better since -you came--your cheerful smile has almost cured me. I'm sure I soon shall -get well. The pleasure it gives me to look at your happy face is much -better than medicine. Sit down near me, where I can see you plainly. -Feel my pulse. It is much more regular than when you came. I have heard -so much about you, Doctor Demar. They told me you were handsome, though -they didn't do you justice; but I never flatter--it is my character not -to flatter--yet I never saw such expressive eyes as yours. My brother -told me about them. But never mind me; you know a woman must talk. Oh! -you look so strong and healthy; how I envy you! You are so tall and -handsome! Pardon my enthusiasm, I beg you, but I mean what I say. You -wish to know what is the matter with me? Yes, of course you do. Well, I -mean to tell you. Oh! I have suffered ten thousand deaths since -yesterday. Such torture no poor mortal ever suffered before. How I -survived it is a mystery--but I must try to describe my sufferings. I -never expected to see another day. I had a horrible pain in the back of -my head; both temples ached and throbbed all day and all night. My back -felt as if it was broken in the middle--my teeth were all aching at -once; a kind of smothering about my heart, with darting pains -continually going like a knife through my breast. My stomach seemed to -be on fire, while my extremities were freezing. My throat was perfectly -raw, and the skin has all peeled off my tongue. Every bone in my body -seemed mashed into powder. My eyeballs felt as if they were going to -jump out of my head. I had the ear-ache in both ears; a most horrid -retching about the stomach. I had neuralgia in my left jaw, and a -burning sensation in my nostrils, and to tell you the truth, I was quite -unlike myself. Do, pray, give me something to relieve me. I'll die, I -know I will, if you don't hurry.' - -"That interesting female then fell back on the mountain of pillows, -closed her eyes and heaved a deep sigh, like one who was about to bid -the world a final farewell. I want it to be distinctly understood that I -did not intend to commit murder, but I had the necessary malice in me. -Miss Tadpoddle had maligned Miss Bramlett, and she had slandered -everybody else in Memphis. She had offended Lottie by her malicious -reports concerning Viola. I was angry because Lottie was displeased, and -here is the soliloquy that I had with myself on that occasion, as nigh -as I can remember it: - -"'Very well, my charming Miss Tadpoddle; I have got you in my power now, -and I guess I'll get even with you before I quit you. You want medicine, -do you? Very good--you shall have it with a vengeance; I'll keep your -tongue silent for a week or two, if there is any virtue in blisters. -I'll physic you until you are satisfied!' - -"This was the first patient I ever had, and I meant to test the -qualities of my drugs. I had brought my case of medicines with me, and -was prepared, not only to prescribe, but to administer the drugs. I -covered her up with blisters; I gave her an emetic; I put red-hot bricks -to her feet; I cupped her temples--the fact is, I made a prescription -for each separate pain of which she complained; and with the aid of Miss -Clattermouth, I managed to have it all administered. Then I sat down and -waited for the result. - -"'Old lady,' I observed to myself mentally, 'I guess you'll remain quiet -for a few days, now. You won't trouble Miss Bramlett soon, at all -events. Your tongue won't wag quite so glibly as it has been in the -habit of doing. You'll wake up directly, if I am not mistaken.' - -"Well, sure enough, she did wake up, and it was no halfway business, -either--it was what you call a wide-awake sensation. The mustard began -to heat her up, the emetic commenced business, the hot bricks got up -steam--in fact, the skirmish commenced all along the line; but when the -pill brigade made the charge, the engagement became general--the contest -was hot and loud, and the drugs won the victory, and Miss Tadpoddle was -saved--so completely cured that she never has been very ill since. My -reputation as a first-class physician was then permanently established, -because Miss Tadpoddle's tongue was a better advertising medium than the -New York Herald. She was president of the Tramp Reform Association; then -she was a working member of many other benevolent associations. She made -it her daily business to speak of my vigorous style of practice. I was -certainly well prepared to treat any disease, because the experiments I -had made on Miss Tadpoddle had enabled me to test the qualities of all -the drugs known to the profession. - -"It was somewhere about ten days after my treatment of Miss Tadpoddle's -case when she again sent for me. I found her in bed--and when I say in -bed, I mean it. She was not propped up with pillows, as she was when I -first visited her, but she was flat on the bed. The truth is, I had so -completely taken the starch out of her that she couldn't sit up. - -"'How do you feel this morning, Miss Tadpoddle?' I inquired, pretending -to be interested about her case. - -"'Oh, I am so weak, doctor; but for that, I would be very well. I did -not send for you with a view of taking more medicine--no, no, indeed! I -don't think I ever shall need any more as long as I live. I merely -wished to speak with you about Miss Bramlett's case. I presume that my -brother has told you of the valuable assistance I have rendered him? -Very well; I have something more to say to you on that subject. I fear -you will find that Miss Bramlett is a very bad woman. I confess I never -had much faith in her at first. She was too proud, too cold-hearted--made -too much display with her money. She was parading the streets -continually, pretending to be assisting the poor, but evidently trying -to create a sensation. One day I met her at the Widow Spratt's house, -and would you believe it, sir, she was dressed within an inch of her -life! She had on a blue silk dress, with real lace trimmings--and, by -the by, that was the identical dress she wore that night when I saw her -go into Ben Bowles' apartments, through the private entrance that opens -from the alley. But I am going too fast.--I was telling you about -meeting Miss Bramlett at Widow Spratt's. Well, sir, she was sitting on a -low truckle-bed, feeding the baby with condensed milk. It was the -dirtiest, sickliest-looking thing I ever laid eyes on; and the other -five children were cramming themselves with cold bread and turkey that -Miss Bramlett had given them; and they were covered with dirty rags, -just like the baby. Mrs. Spratt is the poorest manager I ever saw. Her -children are half naked and starved. I was really vexed at Miss Bramlett -for throwing away her money on such worthless people. Old Spratt was -always drunk, and wouldn't work. He fell overboard from a steam-boat and -was drowned; it was a great pity he didn't die ten years ago. His -children are lazy, good-for-nothing brats, and ought to starve. Miss -Bramlett has been supporting the whole family since old Spratt died. -Mrs. Spratt, she lies in bed the live-long day, pretending to be sick, -but it is pure laziness; and if Miss Bramlett would let her alone, she -would have to get up and work, or starve. Well, there are many other -families in this city depending on Miss Bramlett's money for support. -It's a scandal and a shame that such laziness should be encouraged. Let -'em work, or starve, is my motto. I asked Mrs. Spratt to subscribe -something to our Tramp Reform Association, and she wouldn't give a cent. -I begged Miss Bramlett to help us, and she turned up her nose and -absolutely sneered in my face--a hateful hussy! but I ought not to talk -so, because I never bear malice against my neighbors; it is my character -not to nurse ill-will--"Forgive those who trespass against us," is my -motto--this is what our Saviour taught us. There is Lottie Wallingford, -who thinks the world and all of Miss Bramlett. I wonder how she will -feel when she sees her friend hung for murder? Her brother was engaged -to be married to Miss Bramlett when the murder was committed; but they -say he has run away to California and left his affianced bride here to -be hung, while he goes to get his uncle's great fortune. Of course that -will make honors easy--he loses his sweetheart, but wins a fortune. That -ought to console him, at any rate. They say you are taking on about -Lottie Wallingford. Doctor, she would no doubt make you a good wife, if -she wasn't so much like old Rockland--always talking about books and -book-learning. She knows too much; I don't like so much genius. I like -business. It is my character to despise poetry. I hate these dreamy, -sentimental women who can memorize a whole book and then repeat it in -public. I hate these silly women who sing nothing but sentimental songs. -They are always talking about sweet flowers, sweet poetry, sweet birds, -sweet scenery, sweet music--everything is sweet with them. I hate sweet -things; it is my character to hate sweet things. She and Miss Bramlett -have converted the jail into a picture gallery, concert hall and book -library. For my part, I don't see how the jailer puts up with such -doings. The idea that a murderess in jail, awaiting her trial, should be -painting pictures, reading poetry and playing the guitar surpasses my -comprehension. She had better be reading her Bible or prayer-book, and -making preparations to meet her God, for she is certain to be hung. I -know enough myself to hang her, and I mean to tell it. I saw her with my -own eyes when she went into the apartments of that gambler, at the dark -hour of night. You see I had my suspicions about her, anyway, and when I -saw her meet Bowles in the garden that night I concluded that some -deviltry was going on, and determined to watch her. I have the advantage -you see, doctor, over other women--it is no trouble for me to disguise -myself. I am very tall, you perceive, and my brother's clothes fit me to -a T. I made it my business to waylay Mr. Ragland's premises every night -until I succeeded in accomplishing my object. One night about eight -o'clock I saw Miss Bramlett go out of the house by the back way and walk -cautiously toward the rear side of the garden. I was concealed among the -shrubbery, and saw her coming directly toward the spot where I was. She, -however, turned to the left, passing within ten paces of me. She -appeared to be looking for some one, for she stopped near me and waited -for several minutes; then she turned square off to the right and entered -the summer-house by the back door. I think she stayed in the -summer-house about ten minutes; at any rate, she remained in it until I -began to grow restless, and was thinking of trying to slip around to -the front door, so as to enable me to see whether or not she was alone. -I noticed that she had her face covered with a veil, but I knew her by -the dress and shawl she wore--the same she had on the time I met her at -the Widow Spratt's. When she came out of the summer-house, she went in -the direction of the carriage-house, which you know is east of the -former, and about forty yards from it. She passed on without halting, -until she reached the extreme back part of the garden. She paused and -looked around in every direction, as if trying to ascertain whether or -not any one was watching her. But she did not see me; I was too sharp to -be caught that way. I am not one of those sap-heads that you have heard -so much about. In fact, I hate sap-headed women--it is my character to -hate 'em; and as to sap-headed men, they ought not to be permitted to -live. But here I am again straggling off from the subject. I beg you to -excuse me, doctor; you know I am quite weak yet--indeed I am. It is -astonishing to me that I am able to utter a word. Your medicine cured my -complaints, it is true, but left me completely prostrated. I don't think -I ever shall need any more drugs. But I declare, I must quit wandering -off that way. I wouldn't do it, I know, but I am afraid the strong -medicine has, to some extent, weakened my mind. Everything seems like a -dream. Do you ever dream, doctor? No? Ah, then, you don't appreciate -them. Where one's dreams are pleasant, one enjoys the sensation very -much; but when the stomach's out of order, one is sure to have -unpleasant dreams. Oh! I had such a nice dream last night! I thought -that I was--but what do you care about my dreams? I suppose you want me -to finish my narrative about Miss Bramlett's movements.' - -"'Miss Tadpoddle,' said I, 'you must, by all means, take another dose of -medicine; the color of your skin is not as good as it should be, and I -don't like the looks of your tongue.' - -"If I could have induced her to take another dose of my drugs then, she -would have remembered it to her dying day. - -"'No, no, doctor, please hush talking about your hateful drugs and let -me go on with my story. It makes one feel so nervous to have to wait -and wait for anything which ought to be told without stopping. There is -Miss Clattermouth--oh, it would do you good to hear her relate a story. -She can talk all day and never make a hobble. You ought to hear her -deliver one of her lectures on the rights of women. She is our champion -on that question, and you must not fail to hear her lecture next time. -She is the business manager of our Tramp Reform Association, and is one -of our best financial agents. You ought to join our Tramp Reform -Association, doctor. We have achieved wonders in that society. We have -reformed as many as a dozen tramps during the last year.' - -"'In what way did you reform them, Miss Tadpoddle?' I inquired. - -"'Oh, we furnish them board and lodgings for a month, by way of trial, -and give them a good suit of clothes. Miss Clattermouth lectures them -twice a week, and I give them Bible lessons three times a week. If, at -the end of a month, one shows evidences of repentance and reformation, -we then furnish him with another suit of clothes, a Testament, five -dollars in cash and a certificate of good behavior, and discharge him -with our blessing.' - -"'If he doesn't furnish the necessary evidence at the end of the first -month, what course do you pursue then?' - -"'We keep him another month, and if he proves incorrigible, we dismiss -him without our certificate or blessing.' - -"'The punishment, I must say, Miss Tadpoddle, is indeed very severe. -What is to be the fate of the poor tramp who is thus turned loose on the -cold charities of the world with no certificate and without your -blessing? May I inquire what percentage prove incorrigible and are -driven out without the certificate and blessing?' - -"'I should say about ninety per cent. It is a source of regret to know -that so many prove unworthy, yet it is a consolation to us to save as -much as ten per cent. of the unfortunate class.' - -"'If I understand you correctly, any one can secure two months' board -and lodging by representing himself as a tramp.' - -"'Oh, no, by no means; we always appoint a committee to investigate -each applicant and ascertain whether or not he is really a tramp. We -have to be very strict in that respect, because we have detected several -of our own citizens in the attempt to palm themselves off on us as -tramps. You see the rules of our association don't allow us to receive -any citizen of the State, but we only take in those unfortunate men who -are known as tramps. But enough about that subject. I must finish -telling you about Miss Bramlett. I fear I shall fatigue myself too much, -anyway, being so very feeble, as you are aware. By the by, doctor, do -you remember where I was when we got off of the subject?' - -"'I believe you were telling me about seeing Miss Bramlett go to the -extreme back part of the garden, one starlight night, and that she had -on a heavy veil.' - -"'Yes, yes, I remember now. I saw Miss Bramlett. Her movements were so -mysterious that I became very much excited and curious to know what she -was up to. When she got to the back part of the garden I, of course, -expected to see her turn and go back to the house, but not so, as you -shall hear as we proceed. It never had occurred to me that she was going -to pay a clandestine visit at such an hour as that; but you may imagine -how great was my astonishment when I saw her removing the palings from -the fence. My brother is a most remarkable man. He is like me in one -respect--he never exaggerates--that is his character. He is just like -me--I hate exaggeration. Well, as I was about to observe--what was it I -was going to say? Oh, yes, I remember now. I was on the eve of telling -you how Miss Bramlett's mysterious conduct excited my curiosity. -Curiosity is characteristic of our sex, you know, and I confess to a -weakness on that score. You see I will tell the truth though the Heavens -fall. I hate falsehood--it is my character to despise it. Honesty is the -best policy--you remember the saying; by the by, it is an excellent -motto. But I must be brief, for I begin to feel quite fatigued now--one -in my feeble condition ought not to talk much, though when I am strong -and well I don't mind talking; it does not tire me at all--but it is -different with me now. Just listen to me now; here I am again talking -nonsense, instead of letting you know what I saw with my own eyes. Miss -Bramlett disappeared through the palings exactly as a ghost would have -done. Don't understand me to say or hint that I am a believer in -ghosts--no, I never thought of such a thing. Anyway, she went through, -and for a moment I lost sight of her, but I was not to be outdone in -that way. I hastened to the spot where I had seen her last, but could -see nothing of her. I lost no time in leaping over the palings. I -suppose you are astonished to hear me say so, but it is no exaggeration, -I assure you. Very well, then; I did leap over the palings. Then I was -in the street, all right. You see I am very tall, not much short of six -feet, and if I do say it myself, I am very active, for a young girl. But -let that pass, for I know it does not interest you. Miss Bramlett was -walking rapidly down the street when I got over the palings, some fifty -or sixty yards from me. I soon shortened the distance between us, being -careful to avoid the faint light from the lamp on the opposite side of -the street. The lamp-posts were very far apart, and the streets were -deserted. The lamps appeared quite feeble, and the light did not -interfere with my movements. When Miss Bramlett reached the next block -she disappeared round the corner, and I was afraid she had escaped me -entirely; but I hastened to the corner, and was delighted to see her -within twenty paces of me. The first alley she reached she turned into -and again disappeared, but I soon caught sight of her again, and kept -close behind her until she came to the private entrance of Ben Bowles' -gambling hell. She stood before it a moment, then went in, and the door -closed behind her. Now, Doctor Demar, what do you think of such doings -as that? Can't you see that she is a very wicked woman? It is no use to -say that she is innocent--for I tell you she is guilty, and ought to be -hung. All the lawyers in the world can't save her neck. Oh, it makes the -cold chills run up my back to think of that girl's wickedness!' - -"'Miss Clattermouth made me promise not to talk much, and I must keep my -promise--it is my character to keep my word. I despise people who -disregard the advice of friends. Miss Clattermouth has been a true -friend to me--indeed, she has! I admire such friends. Did you ever see -the darling poodle she gave me? Oh, he is such a sweet little fellow! I -must show him to you by all means. I think he is asleep under the sofa -there. I hate to disturb him, though--because he always frets so when -his naps are broken; but I guess he has got his nap nearly out by this -time. Here, Tottie! here, Tottie! Come along and let the doctor see -you.' The individual alluded to came crawling out from under the sofa. I -suppose he would have weighed at least eight ounces avoirdupois. He was -covered with wool as white as snow. 'Come along, darling; don't be -bashful; let the doctor see you.' - -"He started toward the bed where his mistress was, but came to a broom -handle that unfortunately had been left on the floor,--he couldn't jump -over it, and didn't have sense enough to go round it; but he began to -scream with great vigor, and I had to help him over it. I sat him on the -bed by his mistress, and I am not ashamed to say that I gave him such a -squeeze that he was unable to yell any more for some time. - -"'Oh, doctor, ain't he a sweet little darling? How could I help loving -Miss Clattermouth, when she gave me such a nice present? But I suppose -you don't love dogs, and would prefer to hear what further I have to say -about Miss Bramlett. Very well, you shall hear it. I got quite impatient -while I was waiting to see her come out of Bowles' den; but I made up my -mind to see the end of it, and when I make up my mind to do anything, it -is as good as done. I never give up an undertaking, once I resolve to go -into it--it is my character never to back down. I hate people who -undertake anything and don't do it. I am one of those hanging-on sort -that don't do things by halves. I cling on like a badger--I believe that -is the name of the little animal that has such a reputation for hanging -on with so much tenacity; anyway, I am that kind of a woman. The weather -was quite cold that night, and I suffered very much from it, but I -didn't mind that at all. I think I should have stood my ground if it had -rained lumps of ice as big as my head. - -"'Well, as I was about to observe, I suffered from the cold weather, but -I was rewarded at last, for I saw Miss Bramlett come out of the house by -the same door through which she had entered; though she was not alone -this time--Bowles was with her. I cannot state exactly how long she had -remained inside of the house, but if I was on my oath in a court-house, -I should say it was not a minute less than three hours. When she came -out of the house, she was leaning on Bowles' arm, and they were -conversing in an under-tone. I could not hear all that was said, because -I was compelled to remain some distance from them, so as to keep them -from seeing me; but I heard enough (Heaven knows!) to hang Miss Bramlett -as high as Haman. I don't exactly remember how high it was that Haman -was hung, though it was about fifty cubits. Now that must have been a -pretty lofty gallows! A cubit is either eighteen inches or eighteen -feet--I don't remember which. I like that way of executing -criminals--hang 'em high, so everybody can see 'em. I hope Viola -Bramlett will be hung where we can all see the fun. But I was about to -tell you what she said to Bowles. She was leaning on his arm, with her -mouth close to his ear. You know Bowles, of course. Yes, I am glad you -do--he is such a nice gentleman, so handsome, dresses so exquisite--then -he is so liberal with his money! He aids us in all our benevolent -enterprises. Oh, he is such a darling, clever gentleman! What a pity it -is that such a handsome gentleman should be led astray by that scheming -hypocrite, Viola Bramlett! It is very clear that she had him completely -under her thumb; and I am afraid he has been duped by her beauty and her -hypocritical smiles. I heard her calling him "my dear, darling Ben" at -least half a dozen times. Just think of that, will you? I declare, it -makes me sick to think of it. She was evidently talking to him about the -murder of her brother, for I heard her ask Bowles if he thought there -was any danger of detection. I also heard her ask him if a doctor could -tell when any one had died from poison, and how much strychnine it would -take to produce death. Oh, doctor, it made the blood freeze in my veins -to hear her discussing the murder of her brother. But, mind you, I had -no idea then that she intended to murder her own brother. I followed her -and Bowles back to Mr. Ragland's residence. They halted at the end of -the garden, and talked, for a long time, in an under-tone; at last -Bowles took her in his arms and kissed her. Then she went into the -house, while he retraced his steps to his head-quarters. I immediately -returned home and jotted down in my diary the things I had seen, just -as I have related them to you. Now, how can the lawyers keep that wicked -woman from hanging? I should like you to tell me if you can.' - -"You may imagine what my feelings were when Miss Tadpoddle had finished -her remarkable story; but I shall not try to describe them. That Viola -Bramlett was lost, beyond all question, seemed to be a fixed fact, and -that it would nearly kill Lottie I knew full well. I tried to argue Miss -Bramlett's case to myself so as to bring her out unstained; but the -proof rose, like huge Olympus, before me. Everything seemed to point -unmistakably to her as the guilty party; and if she was guilty at all, -it was clear that she had sunk so far down in the pit of infamy as to -render it necessary for me to separate her and Lottie. - - - - -CHAPTER XX. - - -"Time was gliding on unusually slow--it always does when we want it to -go fast, and never fails to gallop when we want it to walk. A fortnight -had stolen by since my last interview with the interesting Miss -Tadpoddle. Dabbs and Tadpoddle were still working like beavers, but -accomplishing nothing that anybody wanted them to do. Everything they -did seemed to add new links to the strong chain of evidence against Miss -Bramlett. Public sentiment, which at first had been strong in favor of -her innocence, had undergone a radical change, and was now as strong -against her as it had been in her favor. I hate public sentiment--I -detest it, for it is a heartless tyrant, anyway, as often wrong as -right, and always on extremes. Miss Tadpoddle and Miss Clattermouth -were, to a great extent, responsible for the sudden change in public -sentiment. Their busy tongues had never been idle for a moment. - -"'I declare,' said Miss Clattermouth, 'the meanest thing Miss Bramlett -did was to attempt to involve Mr. Bowles in her scheme of murder. He is -a thoughtless, jolly, good-hearted young man, unsuspicious by nature, -and the very kind of a man to be deceived by such a honey-tongued hussy -as Viola Bramlett.' - -"'Indeed,' observed Miss Tadpoddle, 'I agree with you there. He is one -of those confiding, unsuspicious sort of men, easily played on by such -an adventuress. My brother was inclined to censure him but you know the -simplicity of the good soul--he does not draw the proper distinctions in -such cases. He is one of the best officers in the secret service, but he -owes most of his success to my judgment. I often make the rounds with -him, and as to Miss Bramlett's case, I think I may say without -exaggeration (for I never exaggerate) that but for my valuable aid, he -never would have secured the proof necessary to convict her. And then, -he was inclined to think that Mr. Bowles was as much to blame as Miss -Bramlett; but I defended Bowles--I thought it was my duty to do it. I -convinced him that it was his duty to let Bowles alone. The truth is, he -was about to have him arrested, but I made him consent to use Mr. Bowles -as a witness against Miss Bramlett, as I thought his evidence would be -indispensable on the trial.' - -"'Oh! I am so delighted to hear it,' replied Miss Clattermouth; 'do you -know, Jemima, that I think you are the dearest creature on earth? How -could we manage our affairs without you? Bowles is a dear, good -fellow--a little wild, I admit, but all young men, you know, must sow -their crop of wild oats. I mean to tell him how you have been serving -him. He comes to see me quite often, and he should know what a good -friend he has in you. I am sure he will make a liberal donation to our -Tramp Reform Association as soon as he is advised of your friendly -intercession in his behalf. He handles lots of money, and we must get -him to take an interest in our affairs.' - -"'Yes, I dare say he will make us a liberal donation if you will explain -the case to him. If Viola Bramlett was fool enough to give her money to -him, that's no reason why we should not have a share of it. We will get -the inns on Bowles, and if we are wise we will make good use of our -advantage, but I shall depend on your cleverness to manage the money -matter. By the way, what do you think of Charlotte Wallingford?' - -"'She is very pretty, and possesses good talent, but is ruining her -character by her friendship for Viola Bramlett. She has no right to -thrust herself among respectable people after staying in jail with that -unnatural and cruel murderess. She pretends to think that Miss Bramlett -is innocent, and for my part, she is welcome to her opinion, if it will -do her any good, though she will get a lofty fall when the trial comes -off. I am told that they have made a concert room of the jail, and are -continually thumping away on an old guitar, and singing sentimental -songs. I hate such romantic, pretty doll-babies, anyway, and I know it -would make me sick to witness their doings.' - -"'But, speaking of Lottie Wallingford, I don't think she ever will marry -Ed Demar. He thinks she loves him, but it is my opinion that she is -merely playing with him. I can't believe she loves anybody but herself. -She likes to be different from other women. That is the reason she -sticks to Viola Bramlett--it is because everybody else has forsaken her. -She imagines it will create quite a sensation. She likes to make herself -conspicuous, talks with lawyers and politicians, makes a display of -learning, holds herself above our Tramp Reform Association, quotes -poetry, plays the guitar, and sings lovesick songs. Oh, I despise such -women! It is my character to hate 'em. No, no! she ain't going to marry -Ed Demar--he is too sober and practical to fill her bill. She will set -her cap for a poet or a politician, or some such worthless trash. Demar -knows Viola Bramlett is guilty, and would leave her to her fate but for -Charlotte Wallingford; he has been tied to her apron string. As for her, -I expect if the whole truth were known, she is no better than Viola -Bramlett.' - -"For me to tell all the tales of slimy slander that were put in -circulation by Miss Tadpoddle and her friends, would occupy too much -time and would bore my audience. Suffice it to say that Lottie's -spotless name came out unscathed. It was impossible to keep her in -ignorance of the reports that were being circulated by those malicious -old hags, though I had done my best to do it. They always managed -somehow to let the parties slandered know of the fact. At any rate, such -was the case in this instance; but to my utter astonishment, Lottie -seemed to be unmoved by it. No evidence of anger or annoyance was -exhibited by her, and she smiled derisively, remarking that if it -afforded Miss Tadpoddle pleasure to wag her tongue she had no objections -to urge against it. - -"One bright, sunny evening, when the atmosphere was soft and -invigorating,--I think it was about three weeks after Harry had started -for California--I was strolling alone in Doctor Dodson's flower garden, -busily occupied in castle building. I did not like the state of affairs, -and I wanted to steal away and be alone, so as to sum up things and see -if I could make a sure guess as to the future. The painful situation in -which Lottie was placed was a source of great uneasiness to me, and I -began to think it was my duty to extricate her if possible. I had -mentioned the subject to Mr. Rockland, and he promised to endeavor to -persuade Lottie to cease her sojourn at the jail, for he agreed with me -that the proof fixed Viola's guilt beyond question. But when he -mentioned the subject to Lottie she peremptorily refused to abandon Miss -Bramlett, vowing that she was innocent, and that she never would forsake -her. I had another interview with Dabbs and Tadpoddle, who had -discovered a new batch of evidence that appeared to settle the question -as to Viola's guilt so completely that it was useless to make any -further fight in her behalf. The truth is, I had lost all hopes at last, -and the main question to be considered now was how to get Lottie away -from the jail. I was well aware of the fact that I was treading on -dangerous ground when I ventured to talk to her about Viola's guilt. I -took a seat on a low wooden bench in the arbor, and gave the rein to my -thoughts. They strayed back to my boyhood days, when I was tramping -along the road with Lottie by my side; then they dashed off to -California and endeavored to interview Harry. My fancy next snatched up -Lottie's lovely image and placed it before me--then my heart grew light. -I tried to fasten my thoughts on that dear image, but couldn't do it; -for in spite of me, they would wander off to unpleasant subjects. A -dozen little birds gave me a serenade with their delightful melody, as -they perched among the vines over the top of the arbor, and I tried to -induce my mind to interview the sweet little songsters, but it refused. -The fact was, my thoughts seemed bent on mischief, that is to say they -appeared to be determined to make me miserable, because instead of -dwelling on Lottie and the birds, they went off after Miss Tadpoddle and -Miss Clattermouth and came lugging them back to my arbor. - -"I began to watch the sun as it was going down among the trees on the -Arkansas side of the river, looking like a huge ball of fire, and my -thoughts must have gone down with the sun, for I stretched myself out on -the bench and soon was sound asleep. I dreamed that I was in Heaven, and -that a beautiful angel, who had been there long before my arrival, met -me at the outer gate, and announced herself as the guide, who had been -sent out to escort me in, and to show me the charming beauties of the -place. She conducted me along the main street for some distance, where -solid blocks of gold constituted the pavement; then she led me through a -beautiful landscape thickly studded with green trees, whose foliage gave -forth the most delicious perfume. After wandering through those -delightful groves for some time, she brought me to the banks of a -beautiful river, whose bosom was covered with little boats, gliding over -the smooth surface of the water. Each boat contained a band of angels -who were singing hymns of praise to the great King of Heaven. My guide -conducted me to a lovely spot near the banks of the beautiful river, and -instructed me to take a seat on a bench of gold, that was furnished with -cushions of exquisite pattern. The spot was covered with strange-looking -flowers, whose perfume filled all the air with a sweet scent. My guide -then informed me that there was an angel in Heaven who had been watching -and waiting for me a long while; that she had been besieging the great -Throne with her prayers in my behalf; and she told me to keep my seat -and wait a short time, and she would inform the angel of my arrival. She -then spread out her golden wings and flew to the northern part of -Heaven; then as soon as she disappeared, I was seized with a drowsy -feeling, and I lay down on the soft cushions, and soon was asleep. After -a while I thought that the flowers overhead began to fall gently down on -me. I felt them softly touching my cheek. My guide returned, accompanied -by another angel. Oh, she was the most charming creature that I had ever -seen! Her beautiful form was robed in spotless white, with long waves of -golden hair flowing unconfined about her shoulders. Her large blue eyes -gazed down on me, while tears of joy trembled in them. I thought she -touched my cheek with the beautiful feathers at the tip of her wing. I -shouted for joy and woke myself, and Lottie was standing over me -tickling my nose with her handkerchief. There stood the angel exactly as -I had seen her in Heaven, only she was dressed in blue silk instead of -white, and minus the wings. - -"'Get up, old sluggard,' she said, 'you have slept long enough; I have -been waiting over an hour for you to wake, but I think you would have -slept here all night if I had not tickled your nose with my -handkerchief.' - -"'Oh, Lottie, I have had such a delicious dream; I have been in Heaven; -I cannot realize the fact that I am on earth; you were there, too; you -were an angel with wings so white and beautiful!' - -"'I hope your dream will come true, when old Time shall settle accounts -with us.' - -"'So do I; and I think my dream is a good omen. Sit down, and let me -take a good look at you. You appear so fresh and beautiful this -evening.' - -"'I notice that you have not forsaken your old inclinations to flatter -me.' - -"'No, it is no flattery, I assure you. Pardon me, but I must be -permitted to give expression to my happiness in some way, else I could -not endure it.' - -"She took a seat by my side, while her beautiful eyes looked up into my -face; a joyful tear trembled on the long lashes. - -"'How is it, darling,' I at last inquired, as I pressed her hand to my -lips, 'that you are looking so fresh and bright, when you have been -constantly in attendance at the jail? I was afraid it would make you -ill.' - -"'The performance of a duty always gives me health and happiness, no -matter how much the labor is.' - -"'How is Miss Bramlett to-day?' - -"'She is quite well physically; but in great mental distress.' - -"'I suppose that is caused by the discovery of the new batch of evidence -that was lately made against her.' - -"'What are you talking about? Don't you know that she is grieving -herself to death about Harry?' - -"'Indeed, no; and I cannot understand why she should think of him, after -having driven him from her presence.' - -"'That only goes to show how little you know about a woman's heart; -Viola Bramlett is not thinking of her own situation, but her mind is all -the time on Harry.' - -"'Don't you think it is high time she was worried a little about her own -condition? The date is near at hand when the grand jury will assemble; -and it is certain that they will find a bill, then she will be compelled -to stand her trial.' - -"'Indeed, I am glad to know that the day is near at hand when we shall -get rid of this business.' - -"'Do you think Miss Bramlett will be ready for the trial when the time -arrives?' - -"'Oh, yes; I see no reason why she should not; everything has been -arranged except what I was telling you about Helen Herndon, and that I -shall intrust to you.' - -"'Do you think it worth while to send me to Vicksburg on a wild goose -chase?' - -"'Don't talk that way--you must go at once; I have got some information -about her, but not quite all I want. You will find Helen Herndon's -mother lives near the city of Vicksburg, and you must go there for the -information which I want.' - -"'I'll go anywhere or do anything to please you, but don't give me -anything to do that will keep me away very long.' - -"'Oh, no; I could not do that; but you can soon get back, and then we -are ready for the trial.' - -"'Are you as hopeful now, Lottie, as to the result of the trial, as you -were at first?' - -"'To be candid with you, I must confess that I am not. That Philadelphia -detective has managed to excite public sentiment against Viola; it was -very unfortunate that Harry should have employed him. He may be a good -officer, but he had his mind satisfied that Viola was guilty, and he -could not divest himself of it; he was so blinded by his prejudice that -he could not see any evidence except such as would operate against her. -Some people in this city will be greatly surprised when the trial comes -off: things will come to light that will startle some who are now -dreaming in fancied safety.' - -"'Does Miss Bramlett know about this late discovery of evidence that was -made by Dabbs?' - -"'She knows nothing about anything of a disagreeable nature that my -prudence could keep from her. I did my best to stop all those floating -rumors from reaching her ears, but in spite of all my efforts, Miss -Tadpoddle and Miss Clattermouth will occasionally come to the jail and -spout venom worse than that snake which bit me on the wrist; but it was -very gratifying to me to see that Viola treated it with scorn. She would -be happy if she were reconciled with Harry.' - -"'Lottie, when I was in Heaven a while ago, I did not see any angels -that in any respect resembled Miss Tadpoddle--though my guide did not -take me to the gossiping department.' - -"'Stop, Eddie! don't use levity now, please--the occasion demands -serious thought; let Miss Tadpoddle and her friend, Miss Clattermouth, -enjoy their tattling proclivities--they are more to be pitied than -condemned. The truth is, I am really sorry for them, because they never -knew the pleasures of true love. No one ever gazed down on either of -those poor old maids with such a look of love as is now bent on me. We -should let the mantle of charity conceal their faults, and look more -closely after our own. For my part, I am sincerely sorry for people who -have none to love them. What a lonely, unhappy existence must theirs -be!' - -"'Lottie, I do honestly believe you have the best heart that ever -throbbed in woman's breast.' - -"'You never were more mistaken in all your life, because I have no heart -at all--a naughty old thief slipped in and stole it.' - -"'It was only a swap, and you got the worst of the bargain; but such as -it is it belongs to you--no one can dispute your title. But really I -would give anything for your charitable disposition; I don't think I -ever heard you speak ill of any one.' - -"'As to that, I have endeavored to do to others as I would have them do -to me. I think it is a good rule not to speak at all about our -neighbors unless we can say something in their favor. We all have -faults, and we are not so apt to discover our own as we are to detect -those of others. Miss Clattermouth and her friend, Miss Tadpoddle, -really believe that Viola is a murderess; they think that they are -discharging nothing more than a plain duty when they try to convince -other people that it is true. But let us change the subject--we must -discuss our plans for the future. When can you start for Vicksburg?' - -"'To-morrow morning, if you wish it; you are my commander-in-chief now, -and you will find me always obedient.' - -"'Thank you; make it to-morrow then.' - -"'Let me understand exactly what I am going for.' - -"'A few miles from the city of Vicksburg you will find a widow lady -residing on a farm--her name is Fanny Totten. This lady had a daughter -named Victoria, who eloped with a man of disreputable character many -years ago. Now you must find out the name of the man with whom she -eloped, and get some one who was acquainted with Victoria Totten to come -to Memphis to testify to her identity. You must take plenty of funds -with you to defray all expenses; I want you, if possible, to secure one -of her pictures and bring it to me; also procure some of her -manuscript--anything which will enable an expert to identify her -handwriting. You will have to be very cautious or you will arouse the -suspicion of Miss Totten's friends. This woman has been traveling under -various names, and you must commence at her mother's house and trace her -to every place where she has been since she left her mother's roof. I -don't think you will find any difficulty in that respect, for she has -not covered up her tracks quite as well as she might have done.' - -"'Is she the one you think committed the murder?' - -"'Ask me no questions and I'll tell you no falsehoods. Do what I bid you -and wait for the result.' - -"'Lottie, you are a real lawyer, and I hope you will clear your client; -but the evidence against Viola rises higher and higher every day, and it -will be an up-hill business.' - -"'I dare say you are right in regard to the up-hill part, but as to my -being a lawyer, I make no pretensions in that line--I merely wish to -serve my friend; but let that pass, and tell me what is this new -evidence which you say has been resurrected.' - -"'Have you not heard it?' - -"'Not from a source entitled to much credit. I want to hear it from -you.' - -"'Another witness--a respectable gentleman--will swear that he met Miss -Bramlett at Ben Bowles' private apartment late at night about ten days -before her brother was murdered.' - -"'The man who swears that will commit perjury, and shall be punished for -it.' - -"'I must be permitted to remind you that Miss Tadpoddle will also swear -that Viola was there.' - -"'I never shall believe she will swear it until I hear her do it with my -own ears.' - -"'She told me she would, and you may depend on her doing it; and the -worst of it is, she will swear that she heard Miss Bramlett ask Bowles -how much strychnine it would take to produce death. Oh, Lottie, what -will be your fate if Viola should be found guilty? It makes me tremble -to think of the awful consequences of such an unfortunate event--it -would ruin all of us.' - -"'Eddie, don't be alarmed; remember the old adage, "Sufficient unto the -day is the evil thereof." It will be time enough to lament the -catastrophe when it occurs.' - -"'True enough, but I should like to see the man who never dreaded -approaching evil.' - -"'You must learn a little more philosophy, master a little more -patience, and don't give credit to all you hear; but come--you must take -me back to the jail. I promised Viola I would return before nine; and -she would be disappointed if I failed.' - -"I escorted her to the jail, and took my leave to return home and spend -the night in sweet dreams about Lottie. What she could want with the -private history of Miss Totten was a question that puzzled me. Who was -Miss Totten? Who was assisting Lottie in secret was another problem I -could not solve. It was evident to my mind that she was working in -conjunction with some one behind the scenes. I was inclined to be angry -because I had not been told everything. Why should they not confide in -me? Wasn't I as anxious to see Miss Bramlett's innocence established as -any one could be? Before I reached home I had worked myself into a -towering passion, and had resolved to demand an explanation as soon as I -should return from Vicksburg. Doctor Dodson met me at the front hall -door, and I knew as soon as my eyes met his that he had something to say -to me of importance. - -"'Ah, ha! here we come, my boy! glad to see you--walk in. I have -something to say to you, my boy--trouble brewing. Ah, ha! real trouble -ahead--something must be done--no time to swap horses now, my boy. -Lottie's reputation is in danger--she must be saved--no wishy-washy work -now. That dear girl is infatuated with Miss Bramlett; she must leave the -jail at once, else she is a ruined woman. See to it, my boy--you are the -man to do it--don't you see? Ah, ha! you are the one to take her away -from the jail. All sorts of scandalous tales afloat about Miss Bramlett; -investigation says they are too true. Society will condemn Lottie; her -name has already been mentioned unfavorably. Ah, ha! my boy, somebody -will be killed before this business is ended.' - -"'Show me the villain who has dared breathe a word of suspicion on the -fair name of my Lottie!' - -"'Hush, hush! my boy, that's not the way to talk; let us take the proper -steps to save her--she must not be permitted to associate with Miss -Bramlett another day. I can't see what Rockland means by allowing her to -stay in jail with that unfortunate woman.' - -"'Mr. Rockland has done his best to induce Lottie to return home, but -she positively refused to do it. I have been pleading with her also, but -it does no good; she vows never to forsake Viola until she gets out of -the trouble.' - -"'Pshaw! Ed, it is nonsense to talk about getting Miss Bramlett out of -the scrape; she has fallen into a pit of infamy so deep that no power on -earth can lift her out of it. Ah, ha! don't you see it, my boy? She has -not only committed a most cruel murder, but she has been guilty of other -detestable crimes which I would blush to name. While I pity the poor -girl, I am unwilling to see Lottie ruined by a foolish friendship for -her. Society will not draw the proper distinctions in such cases. At -first I did not believe Miss Bramlett guilty, but after full -investigation I was forced to change my opinion--all the lawyers in -Memphis cannot clear her. Ragland is very much to blame for this state -of affairs; he has not done his duty as guardian to his brother's -daughter. Ah, ha! my boy, don't you see? The fact of the business is, -Ragland is no account--drinks and gambles all the time, instead of -looking after his business. I can't understand what induced Bramlett to -name Ragland as the guardian of his children. Anyway, I suppose he was -ignorant of his bad habits. Mrs. Ragland is worse than her husband: -thinks of nothing but self, dresses like an empress, and spends her time -at theatres, balls and on the streets, instead of looking after her -household affairs. How could anything be expected of Miss Bramlett when -left, as she was, a young, giddy girl, in the hands of such people as -Ragland and his wife? That's the reason I pity the poor girl more than I -condemn her. I mean to petition the Governor to pardon her; he will do -it without hesitation; he was here the other day, and was introduced to -Lottie. I heard him say she was the most charming woman he ever had met; -he was delighted with her music, and says she possesses the brightest -mind of any woman he ever saw. The Governor is a great friend of -Rockland, and we shall have no difficulty in procuring a pardon for Miss -Bramlett. Ah, ha! Eddie, my boy, don't you see, poor thing, she must be -pardoned; no use to try to clear her by a jury--proof too strong. You -might as well try to storm Gibraltar with pop-guns as to get an -acquittal in court. But above all other considerations, we must separate -Lottie from Miss Bramlett.' - -"'I don't believe it can be done,' was my reply. 'I think Lottie never -will leave Viola while she is in prison; but if you will accompany me to -the jail early in the morning we will try what can be done. I am going -to start for Vicksburg on the 10:30 train to-morrow, and if we see -Lottie it must be early.' - -"'All right, my boy; we will see her in the morning. She must come away -from that jail; but good-night; see if you can't stir up a sensible -dream to-night that will show you how to manage Lottie in the morning.' - -"We were at the jail by seven o'clock on the following morning, for the -purpose of trying to induce Lottie to go back to her home. Doctor Dodson -stated the object of our visit, at the same time telling Lottie how her -reputation was being injured by her association with Miss Bramlett. - -"I saw her fair cheeks turn as red as blood, and knew she was angry, -though no one would have thought so from her language. She cast an -appealing glance at me; I could read her thoughts as plain as print. - -"'Doctor Dodson,' said Lottie, as she laid her hand on his shoulder and -looked up into his face, 'would it be charitable, would it be Christian -duty, to forsake a friend merely because that friend had been forsaken -by the world? It seems to me that that would be the very time when a -true friend would stick closer. Now, my dear doctor, you know how much I -respect you; you are well aware of the fact that no one has a higher -regard for your opinions than I have; nay, you know how much Eddie and I -love you--it would make me miserable indeed if I were to incur your -displeasure; I believe that when you have looked at both sides of the -case with an impartial eye you'll not be angry with me for refusing to -forsake my unfortunate friend in this dark hour of her troubles. You say -that my reputation has already suffered injury by my association with -Viola Bramlett. I regret very much to hear it. I am sorry indeed that my -reputation is so feeble as to be crippled by such puny assaults. I have -been flattering myself with the idea that an honest woman's reputation -could withstand all such assaults and come out unscathed. But if it is -true that my character has been damaged by my friendship for Miss -Bramlett, it would not repair the damage for me to forsake her now. I -must be permitted to have my own way in this matter, and at no distant -day you will rejoice with me for having done so.' - -"I saw tears trembling in Lottie's eyes as she looked up imploringly -into Doctor Dodson's face. - -"'By Jove, child, you shall have your own way!' said the doctor, as he -pressed a kiss on her brow; 'you shall do as you like, and I shall cram -this fist down the throat of any scamp who dares to speak a word against -you. I admire your fidelity to your friend, my child. Ah, ha! that I -do. Miss Bramlett was fortunate in securing such a friend; what does -anybody want with a friend except when he is in trouble? Ah, ha! don't -you see, Eddie, my boy? We'll go back now. Let Lottie alone; she has got -more sense than both of us. Ah, ha! can't you see how it is yourself? Go -along and do exactly what she tells you to do. She is pilot of this -boat, Eddie, ah, ha! you see it, don't you?' - -"I started to Vicksburg at 10:30, and was absent from home a little over -three weeks. I, however, succeeded in securing all the information that -Lottie wanted, though I had to make a trip to New Orleans before I found -it. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI. - - -"There is nothing I detest more than I do a mystery of any sort. -Notwithstanding my abhorrence of it, I now found myself, by some -unaccountable cause, entangled in a most singular and inexplicable web -of mystery. The more I struggled to extricate myself from it the lower -down did I plunge, until despite my efforts I found myself inundated and -helpless. - -"One evening, after I had performed a very hard day's work at the -drug-store, I hurried home to seek that rest which the excessive labor -of the day caused me to need. It was some time after dark when I lifted -the latch of the gate which stood in front of Doctor Dodson's handsome -residence and began to walk leisurely along the gravel road leading -toward the house. The night was unusually dark, the sky being totally -obscured by innumerable black, angry clouds, while ever and anon the -sound of distant thunder announced the approaching storm, and an -occasional flash of lightning would every now and then cast a bright -light around me. I halted a few paces from the gate, leaned against one -of the tall poplar trees that stood near the edge of the road, and took -off my hat, to let the cool fresh breeze fan my fevered brow. My head -was aching severely, my cheeks were hot, and the blood in my veins -seemed to be boiling; I concluded that a few moments spent in the open -air would relieve me. Soon after I had halted I thought I heard the -sound of footsteps approaching the spot where I stood. I knew it was not -Doctor Dodson, for he had left town early in the morning to visit a -patient in the country, informing me that he would not be home until -next day. I became convinced that the grounds had been invaded by some -one--perhaps a thief who was waiting for an opportunity to rob the -house. I tried to peer through the darkness, hoping to see the intruder, -but I was straining my eyes in vain, for I could not distinguish any -object at a distance of ten feet, except when the space was momentarily -lighted up by the flashes of electricity that often blazed among the -clouds. Sometimes I would imagine that I had been deceived; but my -doubts were finally set at rest when I distinctly saw the form of a man -as he dodged behind a tree just as a bright streak of lightning blazed -for a second about me. - -"'Who are you, and what do you want here at this late hour?' I demanded -in a loud tone. - -"'Fly for your life, Ed--your hiding-place is discovered; you have no -time to spare--the officers are after you--large rewards have been -offered for your capture, dead or alive--get away as soon as you can!' - -"Those words were uttered in a suppressed tone, while the speaker still -remained concealed behind the tree, only exposing his head to my view, -which I could plainly see every time the lightning would flash. - -"'Who are you?' - -"'Hush! Ed, for Heaven's sake don't talk so loud, else we will be -discovered, for I saw the detective tracking you last night. They will -hang you if they catch you! fly immediately, or it will be too -late--think of your pretty darling, and for her sake escape while you -can.' - -"'Leave these premises this instant, you drunken vagabond!' I angrily -exclaimed, 'else I will call a policeman and have you sent to the -station-house.' - -"'Hush! I tell you, Ed, this is no time to crack jokes--it is a question -of life or death; and if you are determined to throw away your life, you -cannot say that I failed to do my duty--I have given you fair warning. -You need not be afraid to trust me, for I would die for you if -necessary--you may depend on me to fetch your darling to you in any -part of the world.' - -"I at last arrived at the conclusion that I was in the presence of an -escaped lunatic, and that it would be good policy to keep at a -respectful distance from him. An unusually bright flash of lightning now -played for several seconds among a heavy bank of dark clouds that were -hanging very low overhead, spreading a brilliant light over the space -around me, which enabled me to get a plain view of the features of this -mysterious intruder. The face was that of a young man--rather pale, but -very handsome, and I could see that he was well dressed in a -close-fitting suit of black cloth, and in the bright light I noticed a -heavy watch chain glittering on his vest. Again I inquired of the man -his name, and as it was the third time I had made the same demand, I -accompanied the inquiry with a threat that I would instantly call a -policeman if he refused to give me a definite answer. - -'"Ed, are you crazy!" exclaimed the strange intruder; 'you know well -enough who I am; I have encountered serious risk in making my way here -in order to warn you of the approaching danger; fly to-night, else you -are lost beyond question.' - -"'Why should I fly--who seeks my life? I have injured nobody; if you -know of any reason why I should leave my home, say so in plain terms.' - -"'Good-by, Ed,' exclaimed the stranger, as he moved toward the gate; 'my -conscience is clear, for I have faithfully discharged my duty, though I -may lose my life by the act. They told me you were half mad, but I am -now satisfied you are completely so--remember my warning, ere it is too -late.' - -"By the time he had uttered the last word he passed through the gate, -and I could distinctly hear the heels of his boots striking on the brick -pavement as he hurried down the street. I called to him to stop and give -an explanation; whether he heard me or not I do not know, for he did not -answer or halt. I sank down on the turf, buried my face in my hands, and -endeavored to call to mind all the events that had transpired around me -during that past week. 'What have I done to offend any one?' was the -first question I propounded to myself; 'is it possible that I have -unwittingly injured any person? have I at any time been deprived of my -reason? have I been insane, and while in that condition committed some -enormous crime?' - -"I remained seated on the turf at least an hour, and perhaps would have -stayed longer, but I was aroused from my reverie by the heavy drops of -rain that began to fall on my head. I then rose and went to the house, -when I was met at the front door by my adopted mother, who had been -watching for me a long time. - -"'Come into my room, Edward,' she said, as she took hold of my arm and -pressed her lips on my cheek; 'we will take tea there to-night--it is -ready, and we have been waiting for you over an hour.' - -"I knew by the tone of her voice that something serious was weighing on -her mind, and I could tell by the inquiring glance which she frequently -cast on me that she wanted to have a talk with me. She rang the bell, -and when the servant came to answer it she ordered tea to be served in -her room, which she always did when she had any important communications -to make to me. I noticed that she kept her large, expressive gray eyes -intently fixed on me with a strange look of inquiry. Notwithstanding the -facility with which I had been able to divine her thoughts at all times, -I was greatly puzzled, as well as embarrassed, on that occasion, by the -strangeness of her look. I took a stand in front of a large mirror that -hung on the wall, in order to see if there was anything unusual in my -personal appearance that caused my mother to stare at me so strangely. -While I was looking in the mirror, I noticed that my mother still had -her eyes riveted on me, and that she had her hands firmly clasped above -her head, which she always did when in trouble. As soon as I turned -round she suddenly dropped her hands, took a seat at the little table -and commenced pouring out my tea--and I could see that her hand trembled -so that she could not hold the cup. She filled the cup as it sat on the -table, and when she attempted to pass it to me she let it fall on the -floor, breaking it into fragments. - -"'Edward,' she whispered in a tone tremulous from emotion, 'you will -have to pour out the tea yourself, for my nerves are somewhat unstrung -this evening.' - -"I proceeded to help myself in silence, being so much embarrassed by my -mother's strange conduct that I was afraid to venture to make a remark. - -"Supper over, the servants cleared the table, and my mother took her -seat in a large, cushioned arm-chair, and in order to conceal my -excitement, I sat down on a low seat and rested my head in her lap. I -never before had been so long in her presence without speaking, and the -silence was becoming oppressive and painful. When my head fell on her -lap, she began to smooth back my hair with her hand, and I felt a tear -drop on my cheek that had fallen from her eye. - -"'What is it, mother? what has occurred to distress you so?' - -"'Edward, have you ever committed any crime that would subject you to -the penalties of the law?' - -"If a powder magazine had exploded beneath my feet, and tossed me onto -the top of a house across the street, it could not have given me a -greater shock than that question did. - -"'Oh, Edward, my dear son, tell me what has happened? What have you done -to cause a reward to be offered for your arrest? I beseech you to tell -me everything, and then I will know how to advise you!' - -"'Mother, am I in my proper senses, or am I mad? give me a direct answer -to those questions.' - -"'Don't trifle with your mother that way, my son; I implore you to -remember that this is no occasion for levity.' - -"'I never was in deeper earnest than I am now, mother, therefore I -repeat my question: "Have I gone crazy, or not? have you noticed -anything in my conduct, or in my appearance, that would indicate the -loss of reason--have I ever been a somnambulist--did you ever know of my -leaving the premises after going to bed--have I ever been subject to -fits of insanity, or fits of any sort?" Now, mother dear, I earnestly -request you to answer each and all of those questions, because my mind -is greatly troubled about it.' - -"'Edward, I am afraid that you are not very well to-night, for I am sure -you never talked so strangely before. It is hard for me to believe that -you could seriously propound such absurd questions to me; but to gratify -you, I will give you a candid reply: To every one of those foolish -questions I unhesitatingly answer, No; and I will go further, and say -that I do not believe the State of Tennessee contains a man who -possesses a mind more evenly balanced than yours.' - -"'Very well, my dear mother; tell me why you asked me such a strange -question?' - -"'Just before dark, I was walking through the flower garden, inspecting -some work that I had ordered the gardener to do, and when I reached the -extreme back part, near the fence, I saw a strange woman on the outside -who was beckoning to me. She was elegantly dressed, and heavily veiled, -so I did not get a chance to see her face. I was considerably frightened -at first, because the singularity of her conduct led me to believe that -she was crazy, and I started toward the house, when she called my name -in a voice I thought I had heard before. I then stopped, and hesitated -for a moment, when she said she had an important communication to make -which involved the life of some one who was very dear to me. I drew near -the spot where she stood, when she made the following statement: "Tell -Edward that his place of concealment has been discovered, a large reward -having been offered for his capture, and that the law officers are after -him. When you deliver this message to Edward he will understand it, and -you may tell him that his darling shall be cared for, and conveyed to -him as soon as he reaches a place of safety." She then abruptly left me -before I had time to ask her name; in fact, I was so completely shocked -by the statement she had made that I did not utter a word. Now, Edward, -my dear son, tell me what it all means.' - -"'My darling mother, as God is my judge, I declare that it is as much of -a mystery to me as it is to you; but of one thing you may rest -assured--I never have knowingly committed a crime of any sort that would -cause me to conceal myself anywhere. I believe that a combination has -been formed against me by some secret enemies, the object of which is to -estrange Lottie from me, and to secure her for Heartsell. I do not think -they ever will be able to shake Lottie's confidence in me, but there is -danger of their winning Mr. Rockland to their side. No, mother dear, you -never shall have cause to blush on account of any conduct of mine!' - -"'God bless my noble boy!' she exclaimed, as she again pressed me to -her bosom; 'I believe you, and if you will trust Him who guides the -storm, He will carry you through this trouble unscathed.' - -"I did not tell my mother about the strange interview I had with the -mysterious man on the lawn, as I did not want to increase her troubles. -I remained with her until eleven o'clock, then went to my sleeping room, -where I was surprised to find a letter lying on my dressing table. I -seized the envelope, and with a trembling hand tore it open and read as -follows: - - "'DEAR ED--Fly for your life--you are discovered. A large reward is - offered for your capture. Delay is fatal. - - "'Yours truly, - - "TOM.' - -"I had scarcely finished reading the letter when a little negro boy--a -servant belonging to the household--came in and handed me a note. - -"'Here, boss,' he exclaimed, as he shoved the paper in my face, 'dar is -de letter what de lady axed me to fetch to you.' - -"'What lady are you talking about?' - -"'How you 'spect dis nigger to tell de lady's name 'cept he knowed it?' - -"'When and where did you see the lady who gave you this letter?' - -"'I was gwine to de drug-store to fetch missus some 'scription for dat -sick nigger what had de ager, and de lady cotch me by de arm and told me -to give de letter into your own hand; den she give dis nigger a whole -dollar and went off.' - -"'What street were you in when you met the lady?' - -"'Squeal street, close to de church.' - -"'Beal street you mean.' - -"'Yes, boss, dat am hit.' - -"'Very well, you may go now.' - -"As soon as the little negro left the room I proceeded to open the -letter and, lo and behold! here was another document exactly like the -one that I had found on my table, except the handwriting, the last one -being a very neat, fine hand, while the first one was written in a bold, -uneven hand: - - "'Fly for your life--you are discovered. A large reward is offered - for your capture. Delay is fatal.' - -"This letter had no name signed to it, and no date--it was written on -gilt-edged note-paper, and richly perfumed. My hands trembled so -violently that I could scarcely hold the letter still enough to read it; -and when I did manage to peruse it my vexation surpassed all previous -bounds, and I fell back on the sofa and groaned in despair. I remained -thus, buried deep in my melancholy reflections, until after -midnight--then went to bed, but not to sleep. The old clock on the -mantel was ticking regularly, and at every stroke of the pendulum it -seemed to say: 'Fly for your life! Fly for your life!' It must have been -near daylight when I fell into a troubled slumber, from which I was -awakened by the breakfast bell at eight o'clock. My temples were -throbbing--my eyes felt like balls of fire, while my blood was feverish. -I plunged into a large tank of cold water in the bath-room, which served -to cool the fever in my blood. - -"Hastily arranging my toilet, I met my mother at the breakfast table -with a cheerful smile, which cost me a considerable effort to keep up. -She made many anxious inquiries about my health and the manner in which -I had rested during the night, all of which I answered truthfully, as -far as I could without increasing her anxiety. I took a cup of strong -coffee, kissed my mother, and hurried to the drug-store, when a little -boy came briskly in and handed me another letter, and darted out at the -door before I had time to interrogate him as to who had sent it. I of -course supposed it was another one of those detestable notes advising me -to 'fly for life,' and being disgusted with documents of that sort, I -moved toward the fire, intending to consign the letter to the flames -unopened; but glancing at the superscription, I was delighted to -discover that it was from Lottie. The contents of the note caused a -thrill of delicious joy to dart through my heart. It was like a cold, -bubbling spring gushing up in the middle of an African desert before a -perishing traveler. - - "DEAR EDWARD--This is to inform you that I am going to spend the - day in my flower garden, for the purpose of superintending the - transplanting of some of my flowers, and if it will not interfere - with your professional duties, I should be delighted to have the - benefit of your advice and assistance. Mother and Mrs. Dodson have - very kindly consented to spend the day with Viola, which enables me - to look after my flowers; they, you know, have been sadly neglected - of late. - - "'LOTTIE.' - -"When I arrived I found Lottie busily engaged in arranging a fresh bed -where she was preparing to plant some tube-roses. - -"'I am so glad you have come, Edward!' she exclaimed, as she came to -meet me; 'you may make up your mind to do a good day's work here--just -see how the weeds are choking my pretty jasmines yonder! and there are -my geraniums all dying for lack of attention! I declare, it is too bad, -and I must give Uncle Zack a good scolding for neglecting my flowers.' - -"Notwithstanding her declarations about the lack of attention which her -garden had been subjected to, I was filled with delicious pleasure at -the beautiful prospect before me. The air was loaded with ravishing -odors arising from different kinds of fragrant flowers. A new fountain, -with a bronze statue of Diana standing in the center, had been lately -put up near the summer-house. The goddess held her bow and arrow in her -hand, while a jet of sparkling water came gushing out from the end of -the arrow, and fell into a large marble basin at her feet. A marble -Cupid stood on the south side of the basin, holding a gilded dart -pointed toward a statue of Venus, as she appears rising up out of the -water. Innumerable green turfy walks meandered about among the charming -flowers, while hundreds of beautiful vases in china and gold, red, blue -and green, lined each side, filled with all kinds of sweet-scented -plants. I was so completely intoxicated by the charming sweetness with -which the murmuring breeze was impregnated by fragrant flowers, that I -could scarcely keep from giving expression to my delightful feelings in -shouts of joy. As I stood gazing intently at Lottie as she moved about -among the flowers like a beautiful fairy, I lifted up my soul in humble -thanks to God, for giving me the heart of such a noble woman. - -"'Why do you stand there all the day idle, Eddie, when there is so much -work to do? why do you not come and help me transplant these flowers?' - -"Those questions had the effect of rousing me from my delightful -reverie, and I went to work in good earnest and did not stop until the -perspiration began to stream from my brow. - -"'There now, Edward, the job is complete, and we will rest under the -shade of the magnolias--I am going to give you a nice picnic dinner -to-day, to compensate you for assisting me.' - -"Then addressing Uncle Zack she said: - -"'Tell Burley to prepare a good dinner for two, and that we will dine in -the magnolia grove to-day; send us a small table here, and tell her to -be in a hurry, for industrious people are always hungry. - -"'Now, Edward, here is a nice seat for you, and here is one for me,--now -we will rest from our labors and have a cozy chat about old times, -unless you have got something new to talk about.' Then for the first -time since my arrival at the garden, the memory of the mysterious -warnings I had received rose up like Banquo's ghost before me. 'What is -the matter with you, Edward; are you not well? I declare, your face is -very pale!' - -"'I must have exerted myself a little too much while working among the -flowers. I guess a little rest in this delightful shade will soon effect -a cure.' - -"'See here, Edward,' she exclaimed, as she fixed her beautiful eyes on -me, 'you are attempting to do that which you ought to know you cannot -accomplish.' - -"'How is that?' - -"'You are endeavoring to deceive me, which it is high time you were -learning you cannot do. If you do not immediately proceed to inform me -what has happened to distress you, I shall at once conclude that your -professions of love for me are nothing more than sounding brass and -tinkling cymbals. I knew as soon as I laid my eyes on you this morning -that your mind was disturbed about something; and then I must remind you -of the fact that I am a first-class mind-reader, and if you refuse to -disgorge, I shall at once make a revelation that will startle you.' - -"I began to dodge the question by an attempt to change the subject, but -she gently placed her hand over my mouth. - -"'Not another word shall you utter until you make up your mind to tell -me the whole truth--I have a presentiment that our bright sky is about -to be obscured by lowering clouds--an invisible influence has been -working on my mind, whispering ominous tales of approaching misfortunes. -Our smooth sea is soon to be ruffled, and it is high time for us to set -about trimming our sails so as to be ready for the storm which I fear is -soon to burst upon us.' - -"I proceeded to give her a minute history of the mysterious -communications which had so disturbed and annoyed me. I noticed that the -charming color of the rose that beautified her cheeks gradually -disappeared as I imparted the mysterious news to her, and her hand -slightly trembled as she attempted to arrange a bouquet from a quantity -of flowers which she had gathered. 'Now, Lottie, what do you think it -all means?' - -"'I will answer you in real Yankee fashion. Do you know of any person -who bears malice or ill-will toward you?' - -"'No.' - -"'Have you had any misunderstanding or quarrel with any man lately?' - -"'No.' - -"'Have you had any legal entanglements which could cause any one to -dislike you?' - -"'No.' - -"'Then it is a joke that some mischievous person is endeavoring to -practice on you in order to have a laugh among his friends at your -expense. Let us put our trust in God, and pray to Him for help, and all -will be well--let us remember the instructions given by our great -Redeemer in regard to prayer. He said: "When thou prayest enter into thy -closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in -secret, and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." -Now, Edward, I have faith in that precious promise, and if we will pray -earnestly in secret, we will come out unscathed in the end--will you do -it? - -"'Yes, I promise you I will, Heaven being my helper.' - -"'Very good; then let our unknown adversaries do their worst, we will -triumph at last.' - -"'Lottie, you are a real philosopher, and I would give any consideration -to be like you.' - -"'Perhaps I am; but I see our dinner coming now, and if you have no -objections, we will pay our respects to it, for I am very hungry. Take -your seat on the other side of the table, and help me to a plate of -soup.' - -"'Lottie, I have a serious question to ask you, and I want you to -reflect well and then give me a candid answer; for something tells me -that some great misfortune is going to overtake me.' - -"'Let me help your plate to a slice of this venison--it looks very -tempting; there, now, be so good as to pass the salad over this way; -what were you about to say just now?' - -"I could plainly see that she was making an effort to conceal her -dreadful apprehensions by keeping up a conversation about one thing -while her thoughts were on another. - -"'I was about to propound a very serious question to you, but I guess I -had better wait until you finish your dinner, as it is very plain that I -shall not have your attention sooner.' - -"'Please hand me the oysters, and then go ahead with your question; and -mind you do not turn it into a philosophical lecture.' - -"'Lottie, have you unlimited confidence in my honor?' - -"'Are you fond of stewed squirrel; try some of it--I think it is very -nice; as to confidence, I would swear by you if it were not sinful. You -know the good book forbids us to swear by anything--hold your goblet -over here and let me give you some milk--I think your honor is -first-class--won't you have a piece of chicken--as to your integrity, it -is good, middling--any other questions you wish to ask?' - -"'See here, Lottie, this may be the last dinner that you and I ever will -eat together; in fact, I am afraid that it will, and we must have a -serious talk before we part.' - -"The goblet which she attempted to hand to me fell on the table and -broke into fragments. - -"'There now, Edward, see what I have done--and you are responsible for -it, because you have frightened me with your evil prophecies.' - -"'I am truly sorry that I have been so unfortunate as to disturb your -equanimity, but we had better discuss this matter now. I am impressed -with the belief that a deep-laid scheme is on foot, originated and -worked by some unknown enemy of mine, the object of which is to create a -breach between you and me. If, therefore, you hear any evil reports -about me, I want you to make a solemn promise that you will grant me an -opportunity to put in my defense before you venture to condemn me.' - -"'Edward, I have a notion to give you a downright good scolding--do you -think any earthly power could shake my confidence in you? I would sooner -distrust myself.' - -"'Thank you, Lottie, and if ever I give you just cause to withdraw your -confidence from me, may Providence forsake me, Heaven disown me, and the -world despise me!' - -"'I have no apprehensions on that score; I think I am acquainted with -the nobility of your soul--at all events, I am not afraid to risk my -destiny on the accuracy of my judgment.' - -"'Lottie, if it is sinful to worship any mortal being, then I plead -guilty; but while I worship you, it has a tendency to increase my -thankfulness to God.' - -"'Edward, love me as much as you please, but do not forget your -obligations to the great Creator--honor and love Him above all things. -There is no real happiness on earth save that which is sanctioned and -purified through God's holy will. But come, we have rested long -enough--let us go to work, else we will not have time to finish before -night.' - -"Lottie kept me very busy until the sun went down, and then taking me by -the arm, she led me to a rustic bench in the magnolia grove. - -"'Now, sir, you may sit down and rest, while I arrange this bouquet for -you; I think you have done a very good day's work.' - -"'Yes, and I demand my wages--in the first place, here is a beautiful -lock of golden hair that has strayed off from its companions; and as it -looks so lonesome wandering about by itself, I shall take the liberty to -cut it off and put it my bosom.' - -"'Take it if you wish, and as many more as you want; but how are you -going to cut it?' - -"I clipped off the pretty straggler with my pocket-knife, and hid it in -my bosom, then held her to my heart for a moment, and hurried home, with -a soul surcharged with indescribable happiness." - -Just as Ingomar finished the sentence, one of the seedy men walked -forward, confronting the queen, bowed very low, and taking from his -breast pocket a large paper with a huge red seal and a blue ribbon -attached to it, gave a grunt and a slight cough, and addressed her as -follows: - -"I humbly crave your Majesty's pardon, as I fear that I shall be so -unfortunate as to interfere with your amusements. The fact is, madame, I -am under the necessity of performing an unpleasant duty, but it must be -discharged. We officers of the law are very frequently called upon to -perform services, in the name of the State, of an unpleasant nature. We -have postponed this matter as long as the character of the case will -justify. Myself and Mr. Peniwinkle are peace officers, regularly -commissioned. We have the honor to hold in our possession a -proclamation, or, more properly speaking, a requisition, from the -Governor of Mississippi on the Governor of Tennessee, demanding the -delivery to us of the body of one escaped murderer. Our papers, as you -may see, are all properly authenticated, as the law directs. His -Excellency the Governor of Tennessee, has issued his warrant, and we -here offer to show it." - -Then turning to Ingomar, who appeared perfectly composed, he said: - -"Mr. Ingomar, or Demar, or whoever you are, we arrest you in the name of -the State of Mississippi, under a warrant we have here now. You will -consider yourself as our prisoner." - -Then taking a pair of handcuffs from his pocket, he made a move as if to -fasten them on Ingomar's wrists. - -"Look to the queen," cried Scottie; "she is falling!" - -Ingomar caught her in time to prevent the fall, and carried her down to -her state-room. He then returned to the deck, where the officers were, -and addressed them: - -"Now, sir, I am ready to settle this little matter with you. In the -first place, you will oblige me by tossing those handcuffs into the -river; and you had better be quick about it, else I shall put you in -along with them." - -The officer was a very small man. Ingomar looked like a huge Colossus as -his tall, handsome person towered above the little officer, who began to -tremble with fear as he cast an imploring look up into his face. - -"My dear sir," began the officer in a tremulous voice, "you don't mean -to defy the law, I hope? We are nothing but humble representatives of -the law, modestly attempting to discharge a simple duty." - -"Will you throw those handcuffs into the river? or would you prefer to -go in yourself? I give you two seconds to decide." - -The little man threw the irons into the river instantly. - -"Now, sir," said Ingomar, "you may consider me your prisoner, if you -wish it, and I will accompany you anywhere you may want me to go; but if -you have any more irons about you, I advise you to send them after the -others without delay." - -Mr. Peniwinkle then took another pair of handcuffs from his pocket and -tossed them overboard. - -"Now, gentlemen, you may take seats here, if you like, and listen to the -remainder of a little story which I have been relating for the amusement -of my friends. I can finish it by the time we reach Vicksburg; then I -will be pleased to go with you to Jackson, Mississippi, to answer any -demands which the law may require of me." - -Then turning to Ivanhoe, he said: - -"Be so kind as to go down and escort the queen up, and inform her that -her friends are anxiously awaiting her presence, so that our amusements -may be resumed." - -Ivanhoe returned in a few moments, with the queen leaning on his arm. -She was weeping bitterly, and it was plain to see that the shock had -considerably shaken her nerves. Ivanhoe handed her to a seat, when -Ingomar said: - -"I am exceedingly sorry that your Majesty should have been disturbed by -what has just occurred; but I beg to assure you that there is no cause -for alarm on the part of my good friends whatever. This affair for -which I am now under arrest is by no means new to me, and I don't feel -in the least annoyed by it. The only cause of regret is that your -Majesty should have been troubled by it; but it need not interrupt the -thread of my little story, which I am now ready to take up, as soon as -you may signify your pleasure." - -The queen was so much distressed by the occurrence just related that she -was unable to utter a word. Tears were still falling rapidly from her -eyes, while her hand trembled as she made a sign to Ingomar to proceed. - - - - -CHAPTER XXII. - - -The arrest of Ingomar had the effect to cast a gloom over the entire -party, who were beginning to feel deeply interested in his history. All -were seated in a circle round the queen, waiting in silence to hear what -was to be said next. The queen was making a desperate effort to conceal -her emotions, but without effect. The two officers sat staring at each -other, evidently very much embarrassed, while Ingomar was the only one -who appeared calm and unconcerned. The mysterious lady in the black -domino was leaning on the arm of the old gentleman with the long white -beard. She seemed to be anxiously watching the two officers and Ingomar, -while she stood near the corner of the pilot house, about thirty feet -from where the queen and her party were seated. The strange conduct of -the lady in the black domino had excited the curiosity of every -passenger on the boat, and when Ingomar was arrested under a charge of -willful murder it was hard to tell which feeling had the upper hand, -curiosity or indignation. If Ingomar had intimated a wish to have the -two officers put ashore in a canebrake it would have been done; in fact, -Ivanhoe made a proposition to that effect, but Ingomar wouldn't hear to -it. - -"No, my friends, it is my wish that these two officers should be treated -with the utmost courtesy; they are only executing the process which the -law has placed in their hands; but I would beg to admonish them that -handcuffs are not made for gentlemen. The law considers all men -innocent until their guilt is established; and, as I have already -stated, this case is by no means unfamiliar to me. It is really a part -of the little story which I have been telling; and I promise to tell you -all about it before I am done. I guess I can easily conclude the -narrative by the time we shall reach Vicksburg; but I must relate -circumstances and incidents in the order in which they introduced -themselves into my story. About three weeks after I had departed from -Vicksburg (where I had gone, as I have heretofore stated, to hunt up -certain facts which Lottie thought were necessary,) the grand jury -returned into the criminal court a true bill against Viola Bramlett, -charging her with willful murder, and the day for the trial was agreed -on. Mr. Rockland had made the necessary arrangements with the -attorney-general, who was quite a young man, but possessed a high order -of intellect. He was a good lawyer, but differed from other prosecuting -attorneys in one respect. Nearly all State attorneys imagine that it is -their duty to prosecute with a vengeance every unfortunate creature -against whom a bill may be found. But attorney-general Quillet was ever -ready to enter a _nolle prosequi_ when the proof justified it. I was -overwhelmed with astonishment one morning to see Harry Wallingford come -walking into my office, looking like a corpse. His beard was long and -uneven; the hair on his head tangled and unsightly; his clothes were -soiled and hung loosely about his body; and his face had no signs of -blood in it; his eyes were sunk deep in their sockets, and had a wild, -restless stare about them. He held out his thin, bony hand as he dropped -into a chair, like one who was very tired. - -"'What on earth caused you to return so soon, Harry?' I inquired. - -"'My uncle was dead when I reached California, and had willed all his -property to his business partner. The will had been presented, proved -and probated before I arrived; consequently I had nothing to detain me, -so I set out for home; and here I am, as poor as Lazarus, broken down in -mind and body, and desperate enough to commit suicide if it was not -cowardly to do it. Tell me the news, Ed; though mind you, I am not -prepared for good news--I could not bear it; but if you have anything -very unpleasant, please let me hear it.' - -"'I beg you will not talk that way--you horrify me. I have no bad -news--at least, nothing worse than you have already heard. The day for -the trial is fixed, and Lottie is still hopeful; but you know she is by -nature sanguine. So far as my own views are concerned, I am frank to say -that I am not at all hopeful. When I talk to Lottie she inspires me with -hope; but when I talk with Dabbs and Tadpoddle, they extinguish all. -They have both been required to enter into recognizance for their -appearance as witnesses against Viola. Mr. Rockland and Doctor Dodson -have determined to enter a plea of insanity; and then if she is not -acquitted, they are confident that they can induce the Governor to grant -a pardon. The Governor was here a few weeks ago and spent the night with -Mr. Rockland. When Lottie was introduced to him he was perfectly -fascinated with her; and she very adroitly managed to induce the -Governor to go with her to the jail next morning. She succeeded in -persuading him to be introduced to Miss Bramlett, and he expressed great -solicitude for her--praised Lottie very much, and when he left he -intimated a wish to see Miss Bramlett come out of her troubles -unscathed. I have no doubt that he will pardon Viola if she is found -guilty. But, by the by, Harry, how came your uncle to will all his money -to his partner, after having promised to give it to you?' - -"'Indeed, I don't know; the fact is, I have quit trying to investigate -the causes of things of late. I was not at all surprised when I was told -that such a will had been made. The will was made several years ago; and -it is possible that my uncle may have contemplated the making of another -one in my favor; but his death was very sudden, and wholly unexpected. -He had been in declining health, but his condition was considered by no -means critical; he was seized with paralysis, and was totally -unconscious until death ensued. His fortune was a very large one, -supposed to be several hundred thousands, consisting of cash, mining and -bank stocks. The will was witnessed by three reputable men, and there -was no ground to doubt its proper execution. I took the advice of able -lawyers--had them to investigate the case--and they told me that it -would be folly to attempt to overthrow the will.' - -"'What a pity it was you did not start there when your uncle first wrote -requesting you to come!' - -"'What a pity it was that such a wretch as I was ever born!' - -"'Harry, don't talk so; let us hope for brighter days.' - -"'Hope and I have long since parted company, and Misfortune rules the -roost with me now. The goddess of fortune is supposed to be blind, but -that is a grand mistake, else how could she throw her darts with such -unerring aim at my poor carcass?' - -"'Harry, you have met with many disappointments, I admit, but you know -the sun always shines brighter after a storm; and I believe if you will -put your trust in God, do your duty with a brave heart, and command your -passions, you will secure happiness yet.' - -"'Don't lecture me, Ed--I can't bear it; I have committed many errors, I -confess, but it is too late to mend the matter now. The truth is, I am -nothing but a walking bulk of errors anyway, and the sooner I die, the -better it will be for the living.' - -"'Dear Harry, you distress me beyond measure by talking so; it shows a -lack of courage--a disposition to shrink from trouble when it comes.' - -"'No doubt you think so; it is very easy to philosophize about other -people's troubles; but let the whirlwind sweep away all your hopes of -happiness and dash you down to the very lowest pit of despair, then you -would talk differently. You love Lottie, I know.' - -"'Ah, Harry, I adore her, I worship her--she is the light of my -existence--the delight of my soul--my very heart's idol--my angel, my -Heaven, my all!' - -"'Very well; suppose she were to betray you, and sink into a slough of -infamy as deep as that in which Viola has sunk--could you then lecture -so eloquently on patience and hope?' - -"'I beseech you not to talk that way; it sounds like a sacrilege to me. -You don't state a supposable case. My Lottie is as pure as an angel in -Heaven.' - -"'So I was foolish enough to think about Viola. I had as much faith in -her as you have in Lottie. I loved her as well as it is possible for you -to love my sister. I believe God has sent this awful curse upon me for -worshiping one of his creatures instead of Him. Don't talk to me about -the honesty of women. How could you expect me to have faith in them, -since Viola's fall? Ed, I am not a murderer at heart, but that damnable -villain, Bowles, must be punished. If he will fight me, he shall have a -fair chance; if not, he must take the consequences. You know he first -insulted Lottie, and I knocked him down with a stick for it. He then -swore he would have revenge, if he took a life-time to get it. And when -he found out that I loved Viola, he began to invent schemes to ruin her, -and you know the result, alas! too well. He is a shrewd, calculating, -cold-hearted villain, and I dare say no girl left like Viola, -unprotected, could withstand his devilish plans. I will do Viola the -justice to say that I still think she was virtuous; but what can a poor -orphan girl do when such a cruel villain as Bowles arrays his plans for -her destruction? Druggists will compound medicines for money that will -steal away the thinking faculties of the brain, and when that is done, -the victory is easily won. How is it that our laws will allow such a -villain to march in triumph over the ruined hopes of honest men? But -enough of this, Ed. I'll settle with Mr. Bowles.' - -"'Harry, you certainly don't mean to challenge him, do you?' - -"'That is exactly what I mean to do; and if he refuses to fight, then I -shall punish him as he deserves.' - -"'Are you willing to violate the laws of the land? Are you not aware of -the fact that it is made murder by our laws to kill a man in a duel?' - -"'A curse on the law that protects the villain who destroys the -confiding, innocent orphan girl, as Bowles has destroyed poor Viola! A -double curse on the law that protects such a sneaking, cowardly villain. -No, Ed, it is no use to discuss this matter, because my mind is made -up.' - -"'Don't you know that the code of honor, as some men call it, is no -longer considered the code of honor?' - -"'I know that Henry Clay fought his duel with John Randolph, of -Roanoke. I know that Commodore Barron killed Commodore Decatur in a -duel. General Jackson killed Dixon in a duel. Prentiss wounded Foote in -a duel. General Sam Houston shot General White in a duel. I know that -General Albert Sidney Johnson shot his man in a duel. Aaron Burr killed -Alexander Hamilton in a duel. I know that Chambers killed Lake in a -duel. The world did not condemn these men for fighting duels, and why -should it single me out as an especial object for condemnation?' - -"'Well, Harry, you can't deny making me a solemn promise that you would -not seek a quarrel with Bowles until after Viola's trial.' - -"'I believe I did make such a promise; but I trust you will release me -from it, as things have changed so greatly since it was made.' - -"'No, you must wait until after the trial, and then I will withdraw all -objections to your management of Bowles.' - -"'On one condition, I will renew the promise.' - -"'What's that?' - -"'You are to agree not to interfere with me and my plans for a -settlement with Bowles after Viola's trial is over.' - -"'I make the promise on those terms. Now you had better go home, change -your dress and seek rest, for you appear greatly wearied.' - -"He left my office then with an unsteady step, and I did not see him any -more that day. Another source of trouble now began to lower in my -pathway. Coming from an unexpected direction, so far as it affected me -individually, it was greater than any I had ever before experienced. -Trouble divested of mystery may be endured, but when it takes us by -surprise, and we feel the blow, but know not who dealt it, it is -somewhat hard to bear. Such was the blow that fell on me. I could feel -it, but couldn't see it. An impenetrable cloud of mystery began to -gather around me, mixing itself up with all matters in which I was -interested. Something near two hundred yards east of Mr. Rockland's -residence, and on the same side of the street, was a small, two-story -brick dwelling-house, situated in the middle of a small inclosure, -containing, I suppose, about a quarter of an acre of ground. The plot of -land was inclosed with pine plank, not over three and a half feet high. -That part of the lot which lay in front of the house, constituting the -front yard, was thickly set with short, untrimmed shrubbery, while the -other had been used as a vegetable garden. There were only four rooms in -the house, two in the lower and two in the upper story, and a narrow -hall separated the two lower rooms; a pair of steep stairs commenced on -the lower floor near the door and ended on the back side of the house, -on the upper floor. The building itself stood in a low, flat place, -surrounded with rising ground on all sides, and particularly in the -rear, where a tall bluff rose up fully as high as the top of the house. -The low, marshy ground where the building was located, and the unsightly -surroundings, rendered it very undesirable as a residence; I suppose it -was owing to this fact that it was most of the time unoccupied. There -were no locks to the doors, and the house had for a long time been -uninhabited, save by some lonely tramp who now and then sought a night's -lodging in it. - -"'I have thought it expedient to give a minute description of this -dismal old house, because it has somewhat to do with my history. About -the time Harry returned from California, a rumor began to circulate -among the negroes (who are by nature very superstitious) to the effect -that the house was haunted by ghostly visitors every night. Of course -this story was not believed by any except very ignorant persons; but the -matter began to attract some attention, nevertheless, because those who -did not believe in ghosts were of the opinion that perhaps the house was -being used by thieves and counterfeiters. At any rate, it was very -certain that one of the upper rooms was occupied every night by some -one, for a dim light was often seen gliding about the apartment. This -mysterious circumstance was the usual topic of conversation among Mr. -Rockland's servants. The coachman was an old, gray-headed negro named -Zack. He was as full of superstitions as he could be crammed, and he -vowed that he had seen a ghost, all robed in white, with long, black -hair streaming down her back, and a face as white as snow. One evening I -met Harry in the street, not very far from the mysterious house; he cast -on me an inquiring look, and spoke as if irritated about something. - -"'What woman is that who is staying in that old brick house?' - -"'How should I know?' - -"'I don't ask you how you know, but I demand a sensible answer.' - -"I was thunderstruck by his manner, for it was evident that he was very -much enraged about something. - -"'Why do you not make me an answer?' he again demanded, his voice still -rising with anger. - -"'Really, Harry, upon my word of honor I don't know,' I replied mildly. - -"'I don't believe you, sir,' he exclaimed as he stamped his foot on the -ground. 'Be cautious how you attempt to deceive me--I am not in the -humor to be fooled with by anybody now.' - -"'Harry, I implore you, tell me what you mean?' - -"'Don't you be uneasy about what I mean; you shall know to your sorrow -ere long, or my name is not Harry Wallingford. I am not such a simpleton -as you have imagined, as you'll find out one of these days. I am not a -coward, nor am I a bully, but under certain circumstances I would kill a -man. I am heartily sick of these sentimental hypocrites who pretend to -be a man's friend when before his face, but sneak round and stab him in -the dark!' - -"'Harry, are you mad?' - -"'No; but I would to Heaven I were; then I could not see and know of the -corruption and villainy that boils and bubbles up on every hand. We are -in the very middle of a deep sea of treachery and corruption. I thought -I had one honest friend; but alas! it was all a mistake, no one will do -to trust; they are all hypocrites!' - -"'Harry, you do me grievous wrong to say that; for I swear by everything -I hold sacred that never have I, either by word, thought or deed, -intentionally injured you. I call upon you in the name of our old -friendship--I ask you as a man of honor--I pray you in the name of dear -Lottie, whom we both love--I ask in the name of our dead mother--nay, I -ask in the name of God, for an explanation of this unmerited insult -which you have thrust upon me!' - -"'I warn you now, sir, that I will not permit you to speak of my dear -sister Lottie. She is not for such as you, and the sooner you realize -the fact the better it will be for you. It shall be my business to -protect her; and you may be sure I am able and willing to do it. If ever -I see you in my sister's company again, you will hear it thunder louder -than you ever heard it before. I give you fair notice now; and if you -value your life, let me advise you not to forget what I am saying. I -know you are ready with an explanation, but your oily tongue won't save -you in this instance.' - -"'Harry, do you mean what you say? Don't you know that it would kill me -to give Lottie up? You would not have our engagement broken off, would -you?' - -"'It seems that you are rather dull of comprehension to-day. I thought -my language was exceedingly plain. Didn't I tell you that my sister was -not for your sort? How could I use language less ambiguous?' - -"My ire was now roused to the highest pitch, and I made a desperate -struggle to smooth it down. To some extent I succeeded, but not -entirely. - -"'I never will surrender my claims to Lottie--never, never! If all the -black imps from the infernal regions, with Satan at their head, were -here to oppose me, I would not yield my just claim to her hand!' - -"'I am truly glad to hear you talk with so much spirit and -determination, because I was afraid that you were cowardly. I know how -to manage a brave man, but a coward puzzles me; therefore, we'll see -whether you marry my sister or not. There are honest gentlemen in this -city, worthy in all respects, who love her, and, when I want her to -marry, she can find a husband who won't betray her.' - -"'In Heaven's name, what have I done?' - -"'I have no more business with you just now, sir. You will oblige me by -going about yours, if you have any; if, however, you have no business, -you had better go, anyway, as I am done with you for the present.' - -"Harry waved his hand haughtily for me to leave, and I thought I had to -oblige him. I never had seen him in such a terrible passion before. Of -all the troubles that I had ever encountered, this was by long odds, the -greatest. To think that Harry Wallingford, the only brother of my -betrothed bride, was becoming my deadly enemy, caused my heart almost -to die within my breast. Hadn't we been bosom friends from early -boyhood? Hadn't we endured our sorrows together, and enjoyed our -triumphs jointly? Wouldn't I risk my life, and everything else, to serve -him? What had I done to justify the application of such insults to me? -As I walked toward my office I felt more depressed than I ever had felt -before. Something whispered in my mind a horrible tale of woes to come. -I knew that some sneaking villain had been at work, but as to who he was -or what he had done, I was totally ignorant. I thought it best to go and -see Lottie at once. I then turned my steps in the direction of Mr. -Rockland's residence, hoping to have an interview with Lottie before she -saw her brother, but I was too late. Harry had been with her for over an -hour before I arrived, and I did not know what communications he had -made to her until a long time afterward. If I had been advised in that -respect, an ocean of trouble might have been avoided. Lottie met me at -the front gate and led me into her flower garden. The moment my eyes -looked upon her I discovered that something serious had occurred. It was -plain to be seen she had been weeping. - -"'For Heaven's sake, Eddie,' she whispered, as she took my arm, 'don't -go into the house! Harry is there, and in such a passion as I never -witnessed before, and I pray Heaven I never shall again. What on earth -have you done to offend him?' - -"'Nothing whatever, that I am aware of. I met him in the street a short -while ago, and he abused me terribly, swore that I never should marry -his sister, and threatened to kill me if ever he saw me in your company -again.' - -"'Oh, Eddie, go quickly; yonder he comes now; he is crazy with poison; -keep out of his way until he is in a condition to listen to reason!' - -"I would have obeyed Lottie by leaving at once, but it was too late; for -Harry was within twenty paces of us before she saw him. He was walking -rapidly toward me, while his eyes glared with anger. - -"'I suspected you would disregard the warning I gave you, though I had -no idea you would have the boldness to do it so soon; but this is as -good a chance to settle the matter as one could wish. Take that for your -impudence, you hypocritical sneak!' - -"And before the words were uttered, he slapped me on the mouth with his -open hand. I raised my arm to strike him, but Lottie caught me: - -"'Don't strike him, Eddie; he don't know what he is doing!' - -"My arm fell harmless by my side; and if he had given me a dozen blows -then, I could not have resented it. How could I have the heart to strike -my darling's brother when her eloquent tongue was pleading his case? If -it had been any other man, I should have pounded him half to death, but -he was Lottie's only brother, and she loved him, and that was enough. I -resolved then and there that I never would hurt him, no matter what he -might do. I could have tied him without an effort, because he was a mere -skeleton, anyway. - -"'Oh, brother, has it come to this?' exclaimed Lottie, as she stood -trembling and weeping between us. 'How could you have the heart to -strike our Eddie? How could you be so cruel as to strike those lips that -have uttered so many kind words to you? Have you forgotten the fact that -I owe my life to those lips which are now smarting from your cruel -blow?' - -"'Lottie,' screamed Harry, as he seized her by the arm and dashed her -back roughly against the wall of the summer-house, 'don't you know that -Ed Demar is a deceitful coward who has betrayed you?' - -"'No, no! ten thousand times no!' replied the dear girl, as the tears -streamed down her cheeks. 'If God ever created an honest man, it is my -Eddie! Don't I know him? Haven't I been with him through sorrow and -through joy; and don't I know his honest heart? No, brother Harry, no -one can shake my confidence in him--nothing ever shall make me doubt -him!' - -"'I tell you, sister, you must and shall cease to receive visits from -that deceitful wretch; when I tell you he is a traitor to you, I only -say that which I know of my own knowledge, I only inform you of what I -beheld with my own eyes. This is no hearsay evidence; this is no report -of a detective; but it is a fact I beheld myself.' - -"'Dear brother, I beg you to hush; you are laboring under some -unaccountable delusion; your trouble has been so great that it has -clouded your judgment. You know that no sister ever loved a dear brother -as I love you. I am sure that you would not tell a willful falsehood -under any circumstances; but I implore you to let this matter drop for -the present. Wait until you have time for reflection. It is so easy to -commit irreparable errors--so easy to do things that cannot be undone. -Listen to your devoted sister, won't you?' - -"'If you will drive that cowardly sneak from my sight I promise you to -let the matter drop for the present; but if he remains here another -moment, I cannot answer for the consequences.' - -"'Please leave us now, Eddie,' said Lottie, as she laid her hand on my -arm, and cast on me an imploring look. Leave him with me until I can -pacify him, and then I will send for you, when he will hear an -explanation. You have not betrayed me, have you, Eddie?' - -"'Before high Heaven, I answer, No!' - -"'I believe you, and will always trust you.' - -"'What are you whispering to that hypocrite for? Why don't you order him -to leave here as I have directed? You had better not tax my patience too -far!' - -"I thought it best to leave him with Lottie, hoping that she would be -able to keep him quiet until his better judgment should come to his -assistance. As I made my way toward my office, I began to ponder over -what had occurred, and you may be sure that my thoughts were anything -but pleasant. My cheeks burned with indignation when I thought of the -blow I had received, and I felt my self-respect leaving me. I began to -feel that I had acted cowardly in submitting to such treatment. Who but -an arrant coward would have quietly taken such an insult from mortal -man? Then on the other hand, I argued the case thus: How could I strike -the brother of Lottie, when I know how dearly she loves him? Did she not -beg me not to return the blow? How could I do anything against her wish? -Then I thought of his feeble health, and the great troubles he had -endured, and finally satisfied myself that I had acted right in not -punishing him. But the mystery in which the whole affair was clothed -puzzled and perplexed me; and the more I discussed the matter in my -mind, the greater grew my curiosity. Could it be possible that Harry was -laboring under a mental hallucination? or was some enemy of mine at work -to undermine me? Could it be that Mr. Heartsell was at work in secret to -turn Lottie against me, in order to secure the prize himself? Those -questions, and a thousand others of a similar character, came trooping -across my mind, until my brain seemed to be on fire. The course that -Lottie had pursued had the effect to counterbalance the influence that -the other circumstances were producing. She refused to distrust me, and -I believed that they never would be able to shake her confidence in me. -I felt that I could endure any amount of misery so long as she was my -friend and remained true to me. - -"I must now tell you of an event that had transpired on the night before -the rupture between Harry and myself--a thing about which I was not -informed until a long time after it happened. It was not until after the -great mischief had been done that I was advised of its cause. If I had -been informed at the proper time, irreparable misfortunes could have -been prevented. But perhaps I had better proceed to tell what it was -that had enraged Harry against me. Early on the morning of the day -previous to that on which he had insulted and struck me, Mr. Heartsell -called to see him, stating that he had some private communications to -make to him. They went into the summer-house and took seats on the -wooden bench--the very spot where Lottie first promised to be my wife. - -"'Mr. Wallingford,' began Mr. Heartsell, as soon as they were seated, -'the communication which I propose to make will not be pleasant for you -to hear, yet I honestly believe it is my duty to tell you. Of course you -are aware of the relations heretofore existing between myself and your -charming sister. I loved her very devotedly, and, as you know, asked her -to marry me, but she declined, very candidly informing me that she loved -Doctor Demar. The frank manner in which she answered my offer of -marriage, and the courteous manner in which she treated me, rather -increased my affection for her. To be more plain, I still love your -sister, and would make any sacrifice to secure her happiness. I had -reconciled myself to my fate, and was willing to bear my disappointment -with becoming fortitude so long as I had reason to hope that your sister -would be happy. But when I became convinced that she was about to marry -a man who was unworthy of her--a man who (to say the least) is a -hypocritical scoundrel, I determined to make known to you what I had -discovered. Edward Demar is either married to another woman, or he is -living with her unlawfully.' - -"'Mr. Heartsell, I would not believe such a story if you were to bring a -dozen men to swear it! I have known Ed Demar from boyhood to this day, -and if he is not an honest man, I must confess that there are none.' - -"'I did not expect you to believe it, for, to be candid with you, I -would not have believed it myself had I not seen it with my own eyes. I -can readily understand the fact that such confidence as you have placed -in Demar is very hard to shake, but you can see for yourself, if you -think enough of your sister's happiness to induce you to do it.' - -"'How do you mean that I may see for myself?' - -"'Ed Demar brought a beautiful woman with him from Philadelphia, and as -I have already told you, she is either his wife or his mistress--I don't -know which. He has her hidden in that old brick house, just over yonder, -in that flat. She has lately been moved in that house; he had her -concealed in another part of the city, but he has lately moved her to -that old building. I think they are making arrangements to elope, as I -have overheard some of their conversations. He is to visit her to-night -at ten o'clock; and if you wish to satisfy yourself as to the truth of -my statements, I will go with you to a spot where you can see with your -own eyes.' - -"'Heartsell,' said Harry, as he rose from his seat, his eyes flashing -with anger, 'if you have slandered Demar, I will take your life--and if -he has betrayed my sister, I'll kill him!' - -"'Very good; you may take my life and welcome, if you find my statement -false. Will you go with me to-night, so as to make the test as to who is -to be killed?' - -"'Yes, I will; but I despise to play the spy or eavesdropper.' - -"'So do I--so does any gentleman; but how can you catch a traitor -without doing it?' - -"'True, true! but where shall we meet?' - -"'Here, at this very spot; meet me here at 9:30, and you shall be -convinced. By the by, let us compare our time, so as to make no -mistake.' - -"After the two watches were compared and set with each other, Heartsell -took his leave, while Harry sat immovable and silent, with a mind full -of gloomy thoughts: Could it be true that Edward Demar was the -treacherous hypocrite Heartsell represented him to be? His heart -fluttered with emotions of anger when he thought of the effect such a -blow would have on Lottie. Harry loved Lottie with all his heart, and -woe to the man who dared to betray her. Harry was at the rendezvous -promptly, and had only been there a few moments when he saw Heartsell -approaching. - -"'How long have you been here, Wallingford?' inquired Heartsell as he -approached. - -"'Only a moment,' was the whispered reply. - -"'Speak low, Heartsell, my sister is in the garden, and I don't want her -to know anything about this business.' - -"'Alas, Wallingford, she will hear it soon enough, Heaven knows!' - -"'Yes, and it will be a fearful blow to her, indeed; for she loves Demar -devotedly; but I cannot believe he is the treacherous scoundrel you -think he is.' - -"'I did not believe it either until I was forced to; but come, it is -time we were going.' - -"'I feel ashamed of myself, Heartsell.' - -"'Why?' - -"'Because this is the first time I ever did anything on the sly; I think -we are engaged in a very small business.' - -"'If you love your sister, how can you consider it a small business to -take steps to rescue her from the clutches of an unworthy villain?' - -"'Of course not, but these steps ought to be taken openly and not in the -dark.' - -"'True enough; but don't they always employ detectives to catch the -thief?' - -"'Yes; the best detectives are the shrewdest thieves.' - -"While this conversation was progressing, Harry and his companion were -walking quietly toward the gloomy old house--their arms locked in each -other. The moon was struggling through the clouds that were moving -briskly from the south toward the north, every now and then coming out -between them and spreading a temporary light over the earth. - -"'This is a most favorable night for our business, Wallingford,' -observed Heartsell, as the moon darted out between the two dark clouds, -lighting up the road nearly as bright as day. - -"'Why so?' - -"'Because we will be able to see all we wish.' - -"'What do you mean? You talk is if it would afford you pleasure to -witness the downfall of Demar.' - -"'Pshaw! Wallingford, you don't know me; I merely meant to say that it -was a favorable night to detect this rascal in his treachery. I assure -you I should be gratified to find it all a mistake.' - -"'It seems to me impossible for it to be anything else but a mistake; -and I feel my cheeks burning with shame--I feel degraded at the -underhanded, sneaking course we are pursuing.' - -"'I don't doubt it; I can readily understand the reason--you thought -your friend Demar was honest, and that his pretended love for your -sister was all reality; but wait a while, and see if you don't change -your opinion of him. By the way, here we are--that is the house. We had -better turn off to the right, and take up our position back of the -building. By standing on the bluff there we can observe what transpires -within, for there are several glasses broken out of the rear windows, -and this will enable us to get a full view of the interior. Come this -way, Wallingford; we'll hide ourselves behind this tree, where we will -be on a level with the second story, and in hearing distance of the -room. By the way, there she is now, watching for him; speak very low, -else she will hear us; she is remarkably pretty; don't you think so?' - -"'Yes, but she looks as pale as death, and appears to be very sad.' - -"'Ah, yes, poor lady, I dare say she has cause to be sad; no doubt she -has been betrayed by that scoundrel, and is now beginning to realize her -situation. See! she is preparing supper for some one.' - -"'Hush, Heartsell, I hear footsteps coming this way--listen, don't you -hear them?' - -"'Yes, and, by the way, that is he, now; stand close behind this tree, -or he will see us, for he is coming directly toward us. A plague on the -moon! I wish it would get behind that cloud--I fear he will see us. -Look! she is coming down to meet him. He is getting over the fence at -the corner yonder, and will pass within ten feet of us. Now take a good -look at his face as he comes along this way, and tell me who he is.' - -"'That is Ed Demar, beyond all doubt.' - -"'Of course it is; but see, he has stopped, and seems to be watching for -some one. Now he is moving this way again. Hark! what noise was that?' - -"'He made it with his cane by tapping on the plank fence. I dare say it -was a signal to notify the woman of his arrival, for she is going out to -meet him.' - -"'Look, Wallingford, he has taken her in his arms! How does that suit -you for a husband for your sister?' - -"'I'll kill him, if they hang me as high as Haman for it!' - -"'Dear Eddie,' exclaimed the woman as she threw herself into the man's -arms, 'what made you stay away so long? I have been lonesome and -miserable; I cannot endure this suspense much longer--it is killing me. -When will you take me away from this horrible place, darling?' - -"'Within two or three days at farthest, my dear,' was the reply, as he -pressed her again to his heart. - -"'What would your sister think of this hypocritical scoundrel if she -knew what he was?' - -"'Don't mention my sister's name in connection with the double-faced -traitor; she shall not be annoyed with him any more, you may depend on -that; but hark! he is speaking to her; let us listen.' - -"'Has any one been here to-day, Mollie?' said the man as he led her into -the house. - -"'No one has been in the house, but I saw a man standing on the bluff -there yesterday, and thought from his conduct he was watching the -premises.' - -"'I dare say he was, because I begin to suspect that we are watched; and -this makes me the more anxious to get away from here.' - -"'Come in, dear; I know you are hungry, and I have prepared you a nice -supper with my own hands. I have made you a cup of strong tea, and -broiled you a mutton-chop.' - -"'You are very thoughtful, Mollie, and I consider myself eminently -blessed by your love--I feel that I am unworthy of such good fortune. I -don't think I could endure my troubles but for the sustaining influence -of your love and encouragement.' - -"'Oh, Eddie, if we could escape to some distant land where no one would -know us--where we could feel safe, how happy we should be!' - -"'Yes, darling, and that is precisely what I mean to do soon; I would do -it now, but there is an unfortunate little affair that detains me here, -though I will get it off my hands speedily.' - -"As soon as the man had dispatched his supper the woman removed the -dishes and returned to where her lover sat, and began to play with his -long, shaggy hair. It was evident from her conduct that she loved him -devotedly, for she ever and anon bent over and stamped a kiss on his -lips, while her long, black hair fell unconfined about his face. - -"'Let us leave this place, Heartsell,' whispered Harry; 'I shall die -with disgust; I cannot command my feelings much longer. Oh, what a shame -it is to see what I have beheld to-night! I have often seen my sister -kiss that rascal's lips and shower a thousand endearing expressions on -him. He made her believe he loved her, and I have heard him swear by -everything sacred that he never cared for any other woman. I don't -believe it would be wrong to shoot him down like a dog, though I mean to -give him a chance for his life. He or I must leave the world, and that -very soon. Heartsell, Lottie must know of this affair.' - -"'Yes, I think it best to tell her everything. Poor girl! it will nearly -kill her; I deeply sympathize with her, and would freely lay down my -life to secure her happiness.' - -"'You shall marry her if you want her, because you have saved her. I -think she will be guided by my wishes when she finds how she has been -deceived in that man.' - -"'Wallingford, if she would love me as she has loved that unworthy -scoundrel I would be the happiest man on earth.' - -"'She can't fail to love you when she learns how you have worked to save -her; but come, we must go now; we can discuss that matter at another -time.' - -"'Wait a moment; they are drawing the curtains down--there, they have -put out the light.' - -"Heartsell and Harry remained by the tree until after midnight; darkness -and silence pervaded the premises, and it was certain that the parties -had retired, when they turned and walked back to Mr. Rockland's. - -"'Good-night, Wallingford,' said Heartsell, 'I'll see you again early in -the morning.' - -"'Good night, Heartsell, don't fail to come early.' - -"Harry went to his room, but found it useless to try to sleep; therefore -he spent the night in arranging his plans for the morrow. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII. - - -"I was in my office early the next morning after I had the difficulty -with Harry. I had passed a sleepless night--a miserable, wretched night, -and was nervous and irritable when I arrived there. I had not been at -the office five minutes when a little negro boy came hurriedly in and -handed me a letter. I saw in an instant it was from Lottie; I broke the -envelope and read it eagerly: - - "'DEAR EDDIE--For Heaven's sake, keep out of Harry's way to-day! He - is crazy with passion--refuses to listen to reason. I have never - known him to exhibit such ungovernable rage before. He makes the - most horrible charges against you, and swears he will kill you. - What on earth does it all mean? Poor boy! he did not sleep a wink - last night, but walked the floor all the time, muttering curses - against you. There is some awful secret at the bottom of it - all--some strange mystery. I fear some scheming enemy of yours has - been planning your destruction. By all means avoid a meeting with - Harry until the matter can be investigated. I was on my knees the - live-long night, praying for you and my poor brother. My reliance - is on God, and let me beg you to trust in Him, too. He will clear - the dark clouds from our sky, if we put our faith in Him. Harry is - so different from what he used to be--so completely metamorphosed. - He used to be so gentle, so kind, always grieving for others' - troubles, never thinking of himself--so devoted to you--so loving - to me; but, alas! what is he now? All passion--terrible - passion--gloomy, irritable, suspicious, jealous and querulous; and, - poor boy, I am afraid he is losing his reason. I thought I was - brave--I imagined no misfortune could overcome me, but this blow - has been too heavy for me; this awful suspense is more than I can - bear. If you see stains on this sheet of paper, you know what made - them. My eyes have not been dry since the sad occurrences of - yesterday. They have been trying to make me believe my darling is - untrue to me, but they never can do that--I am not a bit jealous--I - think I know all the goodness of his noble heart, and I never shall - believe that he would deceive me. But I must close now, for my time - is limited. Again I beseech you not to meet Harry to-day. Your - true, faithful - - "'LOTTIE.' - -"I had scarcely finished reading Lottie's letter when Mr. Heartsell -walked into the office and, without speaking, handed me a note from -Harry. If a bolt of thunder had knocked the roof off of the house over -my head, it would have startled me less than the contents of the note; -but I have it here now, and will read it to you, - - - "'DOCTOR EDWARD DEMAR: - - "'SIR--Circumstances not necessary for me to mention have rendered - it expedient for me to inform you that you and I can no longer live - in the same city. I will go further, and inform you that the time - has come when you must answer for your dishonorable conduct. If you - have any sense of honor left, you will readily accord to me the - only satisfaction that I require. To be plain, I DEMAND that you - name a time and place, without the limits of the State, when and - where we can settle the matters of difference between us. My - friend, Heartsell, is authorized to arrange preliminaries with you, - or any friend you may choose to represent you. - - "'Respectfully, - - "'H. WALLINGFORD.' - - -"'Mr. Heartsell,' said I endeavoring to keep control of my feelings, 'am -I to understand this as a challenge to fight a duel?' - -"'The language used is very plain, sir, and such was the intention of my -friend when he wrote it.' - -"'But I am opposed to the barbarous practice of dueling. The laws of the -land prohibit it, public sentiment condemns it, and if I were not -opposed to dueling, I could not fight Harry Wallingford. I would not -hurt him for everything in the world; and why should he wish to take my -life? I never injured him--I love his sister--she is my betrothed bride; -and I would as soon think of killing myself as him.' - -"'That, sir, is a matter with which I have nothing to do; but you are -mistaken when you say that public sentiment condemns the code of honor. -I think the very reverse of that is true; because it is considered -disgraceful to back down when challenged. The man who refuses to fight -when challenged is branded as a coward, and honorable men shun him as -such. Did public sentiment condemn Henry Clay, S. S. Prentiss, Albert S. -Johnson, General Jackson and a thousand others I might name?' - -"'Yes, but public sentiment has undergone a great change since then; and -our laws did not prohibit dueling then either.' - -"'Doctor Demar, can you name any one who has ever been punished for -fighting a duel?' - -"'I am sorry to be compelled to answer in the negative.' - -"'I dare say you will admit that the reason is owing to public -sentiment; but to the point--what answer do you wish me to convey to my -friend Wallingford?' - -"'Give me one hour to consider on the matter, and to take the advice of -my friends.' - -"'Certainly; but it will be considered dishonorable to mention the -matter to more than one friend; and were you to do so, it might cause -the civil authorities to get hold of the affair, which you know would -serve to widen the breach between you and my friend Wallingford.' - -"'Mr. Heartsell, do you know what has caused Harry Wallingford to become -offended with me?' - -"'Oh, yes, Doctor Demar; your little secret is out, and you must face -the music.' - -"'What do you mean by my little secret being out?' - -"'Pshaw! Demar, don't undertake to brass it out that way, but never -mind, I'll call again at the end of an hour and get your answer. By the -way, Demar, you had better accept the challenge, as that might be the -shortest road to an adjustment of this business; because if you refuse -to meet Wallingford on the field, he will force you to fight him on the -streets. If you consent to meet him, a few rounds may satisfy him, when -the matter could be settled; but if you decline, I dread to think of the -consequences. You know his fiery temper as well as I do; he is very rash -and inconsiderate, and is very much enraged against you. Think of these -things when you are considering the proper answer to be sent. For the -present, good-morning; I'll call again for your answer.' - -"For full ten minutes I sat silently gazing at space, and pondering over -the situation, perfectly at a loss as to what course would be best for -me to pursue. One thing I had made up my mind that I never would, under -any consideration, draw one drop of Harry Wallingford's blood. I never -would point a loaded pistol at his body--I would as soon think of -shooting out my own brains as his. But I knew that something must be -done, and that without delay. Who should I go to for advice was the next -question to be considered. I first thought of Doctor Dodson; but he was -getting old, and was by nature very excitable; I decided that it was -best not to mention the matter to him. At last I concluded to submit the -matter to General Calloway, a personal friend who had done many acts of -kindness for me during my boyhood. I knew he was brave and noble-hearted -and had often succeeded in settling affairs of honor without letting the -parties resort to arms. General Calloway was a man whose opinions were -respected by the community, and he was personally popular with every one -who knew him; I was sure that if any one could bring about a -reconciliation between Harry and me, he was the man to do it. So I went -directly to his quarters and stated the case to him and requested him to -assist me. - -"'Let it be understood at the start, general,' said I, 'that I will, -under no circumstances, shoot at Harry Wallingford; but if you think it -best for me to stand up and let him shoot me, I will do it. No man knows -whether he is a coward or not until he is tried; but I am vain enough to -believe that I can stand up and let him shoot at me, if the matter -cannot be adjusted without it.' - -"'What is the cause of the trouble between you and Wallingford?' the -general inquired. - -"'I have not the most remote idea; and the strangest part of the matter -is, they refuse to tell me. If I have given cause for offense, I am -ignorant of it; but Wallingford is so overmastered with passion that he -will not listen to one who demands any explanation.' - -"'Very well, Demar,' said the general, 'leave the matter in my hands, -and I'll settle it without resort to arms. Meantime you go across the -State line into Mississippi, and take lodgings near Horn Lake, on the -line of the Mississippi and Tennessee railroad. You had better go down -there this evening, and I will answer Wallingford's note, in which I -shall promise him a meeting to-morrow morning at ten o'clock. I have -always found it much easier to bring about an amicable settlement of -such cases on the field than in the city; and I never yet have failed to -secure an adjustment, where either one of the parties desired it. But -when both parties mount their high horses, then we encounter trouble. We -will make Mr. Wallingford listen to reason; we will first demand of him -a full statement of the grievances of which he complains, and then we -will know how to start about making a settlement. Sit down a moment; -I'll write the answer to be sent.' - -"'I took a seat until General Galloway wrote the following: - - "'HARRY WALLINGFORD: - - "'DEAR SIR--Your note of this date, demanding of me the designation - of a time and place without the limits of this State, for the - purpose of discussing certain matters of difference between us, was - handed to me by Mr. Heartsell. I have the honor, in reply, to name - Horn Lake, Mississippi, as the place, and ten o'clock to-morrow - morning as the time; which, I hope, will suit your convenience. Any - other preliminaries which you may desire to have arranged may be - done on the part of my friend, General Calloway. - - "'Very respectfully, - - "'EDWARD DEMAR.' - -"'Now, Demar, you go to the livery stable, get a horse and buggy, and go -to Horn Lake to-night. Don't lodge in the town, nor don't let any one -know your business; in fact, you had better conceal yourself in the -country near the village. I will come down early in the morning, when I -feel confident we shall have no difficulty in securing a reconciliation -between you and Wallingford.' - -"As soon as I reached my office I wrote a long letter to Lottie; and -when it was finished I sealed and directed it to her, then gave it to -our drug-store clerk, and ordered him to give it to Lottie at eight -o'clock on the next evening--provided I did not return by that time. - -"'Mr. Todd,' said I, as I handed the letter to him, 'I am going on a -short journey, and hope to be back to-morrow evening. If, however, I do -not return by eight o'clock, you will deliver this letter to Miss -Wallingford with your own hands. You will, under no circumstances, trust -it out of your possession, but carry it to her yourself.' - -"He stared at me in a suspicious manner for several seconds, and then -said: - -"'Doctor, if any one inquires for you what answer shall I make?' - -"'Oh, anything you choose, as to that. I suppose no one will care to -know where I have gone, so they are told when I will return.' - -"I then went toward the livery stable, intending to hire a conveyance to -take me to Horn Lake, but met one of the railroad employes, who told me -that a freight train was going out soon, and I hastened to the depot in -time to jump on it as it was moving out. When the train stopped at Horn -Lake I stepped off and immediately started to walk rapidly southward. I -obtained lodgings for the night at a farm-house about a mile from the -village, intending to meet General Calloway, early next morning, -according to previous agreement. But Providence had in store for me a -different fate, as you shall shortly know. - -"It was nearly night when I arrived at the farm-house, and after resting -a few moments I took a stroll through a patch of timbered land that lay -near the house. I felt that I wanted to be alone, in order to have a -reckoning with myself, and to sum up probabilities in regard to the -future. I wandered along through the woods, not thinking where I was -going or anything about the objects by which I was surrounded, until I -found myself on the shore of a beautiful lake. Seating myself at the -root of a tree, I took Lottie's picture from my bosom, covered it with -kisses and bedewed it with my bitter tears. As I held the darling -picture before my tearful eyes, the question whether or not I should -ever see her again presented itself to my mind. Would I be forced to -fight the duel with Harry on the morrow? Would I be killed and carried -back a corpse? These unwelcome queries intruded themselves unbidden on -my mind. I will not admit that I was a coward, yet I did not want to die -then--I had too much to live for. The scenery by which I was surrounded -was surpassingly charming; the smooth, quiet bosom of the lake spread -its shining surface before me, and as the slanting rays of the departing -sun danced on the still waters, a thousand streaks of variegated lights -were reflected against the wall of trees that lined the shore. My eyes -were dazzled by the bright beauty of the scene. Large flocks of wild -ducks lazily swam about on the calm surface of the water, frequently -coming within a rod of where I sat, while thousands of beautiful -silver-colored fishes came in droves and began to poke their heads up to -the top of the water near me. Great numbers of sweet-singing birds -collected on the trees above me, and filled all the air around with a -delicious melody. All nature seemed to be making an effort to show me -the beauties of the world that I was about to leave forever. She -appeared to be arrayed in her richest costume, and soliciting me not to -leave her. Why will man be so cruel to his fellow man as to try to push -him out of such a beautiful world? Why can we not live as brothers and -enjoy the charms of nature, instead of striving to destroy each other? -What a happy world would this be if every man would live by the golden -rule, 'Do unto others as you would have others do unto you!' -Penitentiaries and jails would be unknown; locks and keys would be -unnecessary; implements of war would not be manufactured; forts and -arsenals would not be built; poorhouses and poverty would be unknown; -police officers would be unnecessary, and court-houses would be -converted into school-houses; happiness would take the place of misery, -plenty would change places with want, and all the world rejoice in the -unending millennium. With my mind full of such reflections, I felt -humbled in my own estimation, and dropped on my knees, and, for the -first time in my life, prayed aloud to God for help in this hour of -great trouble. I prayed long and fervently, and whether God answered -that prayer or not I shall not undertake to say just now, but leave my -kind friends to determine that for themselves after my little story is -ended. - -"It was some time after dark when I returned to the house and found -supper waiting for me; but I declined to eat any--I excused myself, and -requested to be shown to a private room. A clean-looking bed stood in -one corner, a wash-stand, bureau, and two chairs, constituted the -furniture. There were two windows--one in the east side, the other in -the south--both covered with clean, snow-white curtains, nicely looped -up from the middle. A mocking-bird sat on a tree near the south window, -and seemed to be exerting himself to amuse me. I like mocking-birds; but -this one was hoarse, and singing out of tune; a half dozen cats were -holding a meeting on top of the smoke-house. I might have enjoyed the -concert under more favorable circumstances, but the state of my nervous -system was such as to deprive me of the pleasure. I needed sleep, and -knew that it was my duty to endeavor to get it, so as to enable me to -master the situation in which I was placed. The events that were to -transpire on the next day were fraught with no little significance, so -far as they might result to myself. I threw off my clothes and stretched -myself on the bed, first extinguishing the light, and tried to keep my -thoughts away from the cat show; but that was a failure. I stood it as -long as any man could have done, and would have submitted to the torture -perhaps longer, but for my nervousness. I threw a glass tumbler with -unerring precision--one cat went to his long home, and the concert -closed. But alas! I soon made the discovery that I had jumped out of -the frying-pan into the fire. The caterwauling melody was sweet music -compared with the noise made by the frogs in a pond hard by. I am -willing to admit that I had always been of the opinion that a -congregation of cats could make the most soul-scraping noise that ever -was heard; but that night I had cause to change my opinion--I award the -premium to the frog; he can beat a cat to death and give him an hour's -start; a cat has to stop occasionally to fill his lungs--but not so with -the frog; he seems to be all the time full of wind; at all events, no -man ever heard a frog stop for breath when once he made up his mind not -to do it. The frog pond was not more than fifty yards from my window. I -don't know exactly how many there were in that pond, though it must have -been very densely populated, judging from the great noise they made. If -frogs were worth a dollar a head, I am confident that there were enough -in that pond to pay the national debt, not counting the old ones that -had retired from business. I lay and listened to the frogs until my eyes -began to feel heavy; and just as I was about to fall asleep in spite of -the frog convention, a mosquito concluded to make his supper off of my -nose. Sometimes I would actually get into a comfortable doze, when he -would light and begin to put his pumps to work and wake me. I would -drive him away, but he would not take the hint. In order to get rid of -him, I offered a fair compromise: I was willing that he might pump as -much blood out of my feet as he could chamber, and taking them from -under the cover, I held them out to him; but he rejected my liberal -offer with scorn, and seemed to have made up his mind to fight it out on -the nose line; the result was, after a half hour's contest I killed him, -and then I soon fell asleep. It was but natural to suppose that my -slumbers would be disturbed by unpleasant dreams. How could anything -else be expected, harassed as my mind was with such unpleasant -reflections? I dreamed of war, blood, duels, and a thousand other things -too tedious to mention; but I must tell you of two of my dreams: I first -fancied that I was a young tadpole, swimming about in the pond among the -frogs. I was very proud of my beautiful tail, and imagined that all the -frogs were dying with envy because they had lost theirs. It never had -occurred to me that at no distant day I should lose my tail, and be -reduced to an equality with the frogs. I was dashing about among the -frogs, and switching my tail in their faces in a very rude manner. The -fact is, I was tantalizing them for being out of fashion. I had the -misfortune to incur the displeasure of a celebrated frog who was famous -for his courage, and who possessed an ungovernable temper. I trust that -my friends will not be disposed to censure me for describing such a -ridiculous dream, but I am telling exactly what did occur, and not what -ought to have occurred. In the first place, it will be well to remember -the circumstances by which I was surrounded. I was about to be forced -into a duel with a man against whom I bore no ill-will, and whom I was -determined not to hurt. Then I was full of perplexity, because I did not -know the cause which had induced him to challenge me. While my mind was -completely unsettled by these unpleasant reflections, I was trying to -steal a little sleep, in order that I might be in a condition to wrestle -with the situation on the next day. Then it was a natural consequence -that I should dream of duels, Tom-cats, and frogs, especially when it is -remembered that the cats and frogs had conspired to keep me awake, and -when in spite of them I did fall asleep. - -"But let me go on with my strange dream. When I had been so -inconsiderate as to flirt my tail against the nose of the high-tempered -frog, I discovered, when it was too late, that I had involved myself in -a serious difficulty; and hoping to escape the consequences, I sought -refuge behind an old rotten log that lay in the edge of the pond. I was -very much alarmed when I saw a large number of frogs collecting round -the one whose nose I had so imprudently slapped with my tail. A little -timid tadpole swam up close to me, and very meekly informed me that I -was in great danger, as I had insulted the most important frog in the -pond. I was very much disturbed by this information, and was preparing -an apology to be sent when I received a message from the insulted frog. -To the best of my recollection it was, in substance, as follows: - -"'General Frog presents his compliments to Colonel Tadpole, and begs to -say that while bathing in his own precinct a gross insult was offered -him by Colonel Tadpole, who wantonly flirted his tail in General Frog's -face. General Frog, therefore, has the honor to request Colonel Tadpole -to designate a time and place when and where such satisfaction can be -had as is recognized by the code. General Frog designates the bearer of -this message as his friend, who is authorized to arrange preliminaries.' - -"I am free to confess that I was completely paralyzed with fear when I -received this message, and would have made an honorable apology, but the -bearer refused to listen to reason. He demanded blood, and swore that if -I refused to fight I was a dead Tadpole certain. I was about to faint -from sheer cowardice when a bold young Tadpole whispered in my ear: - -"'Put on a bold front,' said he; 'General Frog is a humbug and a bully. -Accept his challenge, make him fight with sticks six inches long and a -half inch in diameter; let the sticks be sharpened at one end. A frog -always has his mouth open, and you can run your stick down his throat -and kill him while he is trying to get a fair lick at your head.' - -"I acted on this advice, and being the challenged party, had the right -to choose the weapon. Quite a commotion was caused when it became known -that a duel was to be fought between General Frog and Colonel Tadpole. - -"The weapons were prepared, the space in the water was measured, and -ominous silence pervaded the pond (a thing that had never happened -before); we were placed eighteen inches apart, and when we were ordered -to take our places, I could see plainly that public sentiment was -against me among the frogs, but every tadpole in the pond was on my -side. When the word was given, I made a dash forward and plunged my -stick down General Frog's throat, taking him completely by surprise. The -general's friends carried him off the field, but he was a dead frog; and -when it was announced that the great General Frog was dead, such a -heart-rending wail as rent the air then never had been heard in the frog -kingdom before. - -"The unusual noise awoke me, and I was glad to find it was all a dream, -and that I was not really a tadpole. I got up, lighted the candle, -kissed Lottie's picture a dozen times, looked at my watch and found that -I had only slept an hour. After pacing the floor for half an hour, I -again threw myself on the bed, and soon was dreaming again. While the -second dream was not so full of nonsense as the first one, it was -pregnant with unpleasantness. It was what I call a business-like -dream--short and to the point. I thought Wallingford and I had failed to -reach a reconciliation, and that General Calloway announced to me that I -must fight. We fought with pistols at ten paces, and I was killed at the -first fire. I suffered all the agonies of death, and as soon as my soul -left the body his Satanic Majesty stood ready to take me into custody. I -remember exactly how he looked; he had his aid-de-camp with him. They -had handcuffs and chains to fasten my limbs. They took me down through a -long space of exceeding darkness, when all at once my eyes were blinded -by the bright flames that broke on my view. I started up and awoke, and -saw two rough-looking men standing over me--while one held a candle, the -other had a pair of handcuffs in his hand. - -"'Get up, sir, and put on your clothes as soon as you can--we want you -to go with us.' - -"I did as I was ordered, asking no questions. The first thing that -occurred to me was that the civil authority had ordered my arrest, so as -to prevent the duel; and to be candid, I was very glad of it. Anything -to prevent the duel suited me, for I hated the idea of being shot at -merely to gratify a foolish whim of Harry Wallingford. When I finished -my toilet, one of the men locked the handcuffs on my wrists, and then -commanded me to follow them. Under any other circumstances, I dare say I -should have knocked a man down who attempted to manacle me; but I was -willing to submit to any indignity and endure any inconvenience that -would prevent the duel. I followed the officers submissively and -silently, being satisfied that my imprisonment would be only temporary. -I would be set at liberty as soon as my friends could arrange to make a -bond. The officers put me in a buggy and began to drive rapidly toward -Hernando. We arrived there a short time before daybreak, when I was -placed on a train and was soon moving rapidly toward Grenada. I was -unable to account for this. Why should I be carried out of the country -where I had violated the law? A suspicion now began to rise in my mind -that it was not the duel which had caused my arrest, and I ventured to -ask one of the officers the cause of it. Instead of giving me a civil -answer, he broke into a hoarse laugh. - -"'Ha, ha, ha! Tom, just listen to this rascal, will you? He wants to -know the cause of his arrest. Now ain't that brassy?' - -"'See here, old fellow,' said the other officer, addressing himself to -me, 'that's too thin; now you just sit down there and keep mighty -quiet--none of your palaver with me! I've had much to do with your sort -lately; they always play ignorant.' - -"'Am I arrested for attempting to fight a duel?' I ventured to inquire. - -"'For what did you say?' demanded the officer, apparently very much -surprised. - -"'I thought I was arrested for attempting to fight a duel,' I replied. - -"'Ha, ha, ha! Tom, that fellow is going to try the insane dodge. But -look here, old fellow, that game's played out. Your cake is all dough; -you are gone up the spout this time certain. It's a pity, though, to -hang such a good-looking chap as you, but I reckon it'll have to be -done. I guess you won't get another chance to escape; they'll iron you -down good this time.' - -"My ire was roused as well as my curiosity, and I indignantly demanded -to know the cause of my arrest, and where I was being carried. - -"'Come, sir,' said one of the men, 'none of your airs here now. If you -know what's good for you, I guess you'll keep your mouth shut, unless -you can talk with a little more sense.' - -"I leaned back in my seat, and tried to collect my scattered thoughts; -but I was so confused that I scarcely could tell whether I was dreaming -or not. It was very plain, however, that the duel had nothing to do with -my arrest; but what was the cause, was the all-absorbing question now to -be settled. They spoke of hanging; what on earth could it mean? They -talked about escapes and irons, etc., etc. What had I to do with all -this? - -"The train rattled on; the lamp cast a faint light through the coach, as -the gray streaks of dawn began to steal through the windows. One -officer coiled himself up on a seat just in front of me, and began to -snore so loud that it could be heard above the rattle of the train. The -other one sat by my side with a navy six in his belt, keeping guard -while his companion slept. Every now and then he took a drink of whisky -from a flask which he carried in his pocket. The train did not stop -until we reached Grenada. I was then directed to follow the officers to -the hotel dining-room for breakfast. I drank a cup of coffee, but could -not eat; my head was aching as if it would burst, and I had a burning -fever. We waited at Grenada two hours, when the south-bound train on the -Mississippi Central Railroad arrived. I was conducted aboard, and again -found myself flying on at the rate of fifty miles an hour. It was late -in the evening when I was taken off the train, at a small wayside -station, and conducted to a stage-coach that was ready to start toward -the east. Myself and the two officers were the only passengers. The -driver popped his whip, and we began to move on. Where am I going, and -what is to be my fate? was my mental question. What will General -Galloway think of me when I fail to make my appearance at Horn Lake? He -will think I have fled from mere cowardice. What will Lottie think when -they tell her that I have sneaked off and hidden myself to avoid a -fight? My letter will be handed to her at eight o'clock this evening, -and they will tell her that I have run away. My mental sufferings were -very great, while my physical torture continued to increase. The fever -was burning me with excessive violence, and I knew that I was going to -be seriously ill. My companions were both in a beastly state of -intoxication, one of them stretched on the floor of the coach, while the -other nodded and snored by my side. The driver was so drunk that he -could scarcely keep his seat, and when I begged him to stop and get me a -drink of water, he replied with an oath that he 'had no time to fool -away.' The road was rough and hilly, and the horses would go up the rise -at a snail gallop and then go down at full speed, jolting and tossing me -about like a foot-ball. My sufferings were indescribable. It was after -midnight when the coach halted in front of a large brick building in -the village of P----, and I was ordered to get out. I made an effort to -obey, but was so ill that I could not rise from my seat. - -"You will have to assist me, gentlemen" said I, "for I am very ill.' - -"None of your shamming now' growled one of the drunken brutes. 'That's -too thin--it's too soon to begin that game; out with you, and be quick -about it, too!' - -"I am really very ill, sir; and without help I am not able to stand -alone.' - -"Come along with you, then,--I believe you are trying to play the same -old dodge; but we'll fix you this time so you won't get away." - -As he muttered these words he dragged me from the coach and led me into -the house, which proved to be the county jail. They carried me up a pair -of stairs and placed me in a dungeon, closed the door, and left me in -total darkness. I sank down on the floor completely exhausted, and -almost crazed with misery. The blood in my veins seemed to be boiling -hot, while the fever continued to increase. My stomach felt as if it -were on fire, and I was nearly famished for water. I began to crawl -about the floor, hoping to find water; for I had called as loud as I -could several times, begging for some to be brought, but no one had -answered my cries. After searching about in the dark for some time, I -found a stone jug of water that was very warm, but it was better than -none. During the search for the water I found a little bundle of straw -in one corner of the room, with a blanket spread over it. Throwing -myself down on it, I groaned in despair. No mental torture could be -greater than I suffered then; the mysterious manner of my arrest, the -knowledge that I was on the eve of a dangerous spell of fever, the -disgrace that would attach to my name, the opinion that General Calloway -would have of me, the sorrow that would fall on my darling Lottie, all -combined to drive me down to the lowest depths of despair. While all -this mental anguish was conspiring to drive me mad, the burning fever -was scorching and parching my blood. I well knew from the symptoms that -I was seriously threatened with brain fever; I rolled and tossed myself -about on the straw until I felt my brain grow dizzy. My mind commenced -to wander; I cried aloud for help, but none came. With Lottie's sweet -name on my lips, her picture in my hand, I fell into a state of -unconsciousness. When I regained consciousness I was a mere skeleton, -unable to lift my head from my pillow, and it was a long time after my -reason returned before I could remember where I was, or what had -happened. A little negro boy came to the door and shoved a dish of -provisions through the bars of iron, then placed a pitcher of water -where I could reach it, and was turning away, when I called to him in a -voice so feeble that I was astonished at the sound of it. He heard me, -however, and returned to the door, and inquired what I wanted. - -"'How long have I been here?' I whispered. - -"'You bin dar dis trip free weeks; but de udder time, afore you 'scaped, -you was dar two mont's zackly,' - -"'You are mistaken, my boy,' said I, 'because I never saw this place -until this time.' - -"'Oh, yes, boss, you's forgot it; you's bin mighty sick dis time; but -tudder time you broke de jail and 'scaped. Dis time you bin so sick--you -cryin' all de time--you talk heep of foolishness--you keep sayin' -Lottie! Lottie! sweet Lottie! all de time when you was sick. You crazy! -De doctor sez you gwine to die, den dey won't hab de fun of hangin' -you.' - -"'What are they going to hang me for?' - -"'Oh, yo knows what for; what yo ax dis chap for, when yo knows all -about it? Didn't yo kill mas' Jack Clanton for nuffin'? But yo is gwine -to die shoah, den ob course dey won't hang you.' - -"'Do they think I am the man who killed Mr. Clanton?' - -"'Of course dey knows it sho' nuff--dey seed yo do it.' - -"'But I tell you I never saw Mr. Clanton in my life, and I never saw the -jail until I was brought here three weeks ago.' - -"'Oh, boss, yo is crazy yit. Don't dis chap know ye? Didn't dis nigger -tend yo all de time? Didn't yo try to bribe dis nigger to fetch de file? -I 'spect when ye gits better you'll 'member all 'bout it.' - -"Then he went away whistling 'Dixie,' doubtless believing me still out -of my senses, and to tell the truth, I was inclined to that opinion -myself. It seemed to me to be absolutely certain that I had either gone -raving mad myself, or that I had fallen into the hands of a gang of -maniacs; but the most plausible argument was in favor of the idea that -my mind was wandering. My disease had run its course, and I was free -from physical sufferings, except excessive weakness and a general -prostration. All the hair had been shaved from my head, and my temples -had been scarified all over. The room or dungeon in which I was confined -was quite small--not over ten feet square. All the light and air came -through a small, square, grated window, about twelve inches wide. -However, during the day-time the wooden shutter of the door was left -open, which served to aid in ventilating the room; but at night it was -closed. Heavy iron bars crossed each other thickly in the door; and a -small space was open near the floor through which the little negro -usually passed the dishes that contained my food. A short while after -the negro boy had left me, a man came and unlocked the door and entered -the dungeon, carefully closing it when he had got inside. - -"'Well, old fellow,' said the visitor, as he took a seat near me and -felt my pulse, 'how do you come on this morning?' - -"'Better, I think,' was my reply, 'though I hardly know the nature of my -disease. One thing is plain--I am quite feeble--my strength is all -gone.' - -"'Ah, yes, no doubt you feel very weak; quite natural you should, after -such an attack of brain fever. I thought you were going to make a die of -it, in spite of my humble efforts to save you; but thanks to a vigorous -constitution, which you very fortunately possessed, I have been able to -pull you through. You will be all right again in a few days. I have -ordered you some beef tea, which you must use freely, and by to-morrow I -dare say you will be able to take more solid food. Let me look at your -tongue. Ah, that's all right. You won't leave us yet a while.' - -"'Doctor,' said I, 'will you be so kind as to inform me if you know why -I am imprisoned in this horrible dungeon?' - -"'Come, come, my dear fellow! you had better not talk about that -unpleasant affair until you get more strength. By no means let your mind -run on that subject. By the by, Debar, what lady is this you have been -raving about all the time? Lottie! Lottie! Yes, I think that was the -name. If you called her name once, you called it fifty thousand times -within the last three weeks. The fact is, you talked as if she were -present with you all the time.' - -"'She is a charming girl who resides in Memphis, Tennessee, and my -betrothed bride.' - -"'Ha! ha! I say, your betrothed bride; but come, come, Debar, you had -better keep quiet, I reckon; for I see your mind is not exactly right -yet.' - -"'Why do you call me Debar? That is not my name. I am a physician by -profession. My name is Edward Demar, and I never saw this jail until the -night I came here three weeks ago.' - -"'Pshaw! Debar; I had been hoping that your mind was entirely restored, -but I am sorry to find myself disappointed in that hope. Is this the -picture of the young lady you call Lottie?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'She must be exceedingly beautiful indeed. That is the sweetest face I -ever saw. You have been holding that picture in your hand, and kissing -it frequently, while your reason was partially, if not totally, -dethroned.' - -"'Oh, sir, if you knew how I worship that dear girl, you would not be -surprised at my devotion to her picture!' - -"'I don't think your wife would like to hear you talk that way.' - -"'What in Heaven's name do you mean? I have no wife--nor ever did.' - -"'Look here, Debar, you are either out of your senses, or shamming; for -I know a lady who loves you devotedly, and she is your wife, too, and a -very true, worthy one at that--a thousand times too good for such a -scapegrace as you.' - -"'I tell you my name is not Debar; and I swear I have not been married. -I never loved but one woman in my life, and that is Lottie Wallingford, -of Memphis.' - -"'Ha! ha! ha! Now this is really interesting--indeed it is! You don't -know your own name! Can't remember your pretty wife! Never was here -before! Ha! ha! ha! well! well! well! I have often known criminals to -try the insane dodge, but I never knew one to deny his own name and -repudiate his own wife before. But good-morning, old fellow, I am to -blame for letting you talk so much anyway; you just keep very quiet, and -drink as much of the beef tea as you can. I will call again in the -morning; by that time I guess you will remember your name; and I'll send -a messenger after your wife, as I have been told she has got back home. -She has been absent a long time; that is the reason she has not called -to see you, I suppose. By-by, Debar.' - -"Doctor Lamberton was quite a young man, and from our short acquaintance -I had formed rather a favorable opinion of him. He was very kind to me, -and I learned that he had been unremitting in his attentions to me -during my long and serious illness. Doubtless I would have died but for -his kindness. When I was left alone, my thoughts went to work more -vigorously than they ever had done before. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV. - - -"After Doctor Lamberton departed I closed my eyes and tried to sum up in -my mind all that had occurred since I left Memphis, in order to see if I -could make anything tangible out of it. The hours dragged slowly along, -a faint light struggled through the small aperture misnamed window, a -little mouse stole in and began to nibble at the crumbs of bread on the -floor, while I watched him intently. It was a relief to me to see any -living thing, no matter what it was; it had the effect of keeping my -mind from painful subjects. When the little mouse would finish his -repast and leave me alone, I would lie on my filthy straw bed and watch -his hole for hours at a time, hoping he would come again to keep me -company. A large spider had set his net in one corner of the window, in -order to capture unsuspecting flies that were constantly coming in and -out through the opening. His net was an ingenious piece of workmanship, -and it took him several days to finish it; he could throw his fine-spun -thread with as much accuracy as a Mexican Greaser could throw his -lariat. After he had completed his net, he built a little neat residence -for himself near it, so he could sit and look through his window and -watch his trap. I noticed that in selecting the location for his -residence, he was very particular to place it so that it would not be -seen by any insect coming in through the window; he erected his -apartments inside, and a little in the rear of the corner of the -window-sill, while his net was stretched across it. The web was woven so -very fine that it was scarcely visible to the naked eye, and many a bold -fly lost his life by being caught in its meshes. Sometimes a vigorous -contest would take place, when a fly would make a desperate struggle to -free himself; but I noticed that the victim seldom came off victorious. -One memorable battle between the spider and a large bumblebee I think -worthy to be described. As soon as the bumblebee got one of his legs -entangled in the net he commenced to work vigorously to loosen it. The -spider came out and took up his position within two inches of the -captive, and began to throw his lariat at his leg. The heroic efforts of -the bumblebee excited my sympathy, and I would have gone to his rescue -if I had been able, but I was helpless. I could only lie still and give -him my good wishes. After a while the spider managed to get one leg of -his intended victim securely fastened, and I was sorry to think that the -poor bumblebee's fate was to be death; but not so: I was struck with -admiration when I saw the brave fellow amputating his own leg by using -his teeth. The spider, however, seemed to realize the situation, for -while the bumblebee was engaged in amputating the leg he began to hurl -his lariat at another, and by the time the amputation was done one more -limb was tied fast; but the bumblebee seemed determined to regain his -liberty at any cost, so he fell to and took off the other leg, and did -it so quickly that the spider did not have time to fasten another, and -the gallant hero was free, minus two of his legs. As soon as the -bumblebee regained his liberty, instead of retreating, as I expected he -would do, he quietly seated himself on the window-sill and watched the -spider's hall, as if he were not satisfied with the result of the fight. -After a while, however, he disappeared, and I let my sympathies go with -him. The spider's net was completely destroyed, and I was glad of it, -but he set about rebuilding it, which cost him three days' incessant -labor. The little mouse, the spider, and dear Lottie's picture were my -only companions during the long, lonesome days of my captivity. I would -lie on my back for many hours at a time, with my eyes riveted on -Lottie's picture, and ask myself a thousand questions: What is Lottie -doing at this moment? I wonder if she is thinking of me! Have they made -her believe that I ran away of my own accord? Perhaps they have -persuaded her to give me up, as one unworthy of her love. Maybe they -have induced her to marry Heartsell!' - -"'Heaven have mercy on me!' I groaned in despair. If I had known then -what was going on at home, I dare say my anguish would have been greater -still; but I presume it was better as it was, for I might have died if -any additional troubles had been thrust upon me, I think that the heroic -struggle I had witnessed on the part of the gallant bumblebee to win his -freedom had a good effect on me. I became convinced that a man of -courage and strength could accomplish anything that was necessary, and I -then and there resolved that I would imitate the brave example set by -the heroic insect as soon as I recuperated my strength, I would make an -effort to regain my liberty, an effort that should break down and -trample over all opposition. I would not yield like a base coward, but -would be free, or lose my life in the attempt to accomplish that end. - -"It was four days after I had regained consciousness before I was able -to sit up in my bed. Doctor Lamberton visited me once a day, usually -coming early in the morning, and chatted with me a few moments, gave his -instructions and retired. Then I would be left alone for the remainder -of the day, except when some one would come to bring me food and drink. -Then I would divide my time between the mouse, the spider and Lottie's -picture, giving most of my attention, though, to the image of my -darling. It was so dark in my cell that I could not read, even if I had -had anything in the shape of a book; and then since the fever had left -my brain it seemed to be lingering in my eyes, and made them sore and -quite sensitive. The doctor brought me a pair of green glasses to -protect my eyes, and told me to wear them all the time, as my eyes were -in very great danger. My recovery was exceedingly slow. - -"As soon as I thought my strength would justify it I wrote a long letter -to Lottie, giving in detail all the circumstance that had combined to -prevent my return to Memphis. I requested her to see Doctor Dodson, -inform him of my situation, and ask him to come to my assistance without -a moment's delay. I also requested her to go and see General Calloway -and explain to him the cause of my absence from Horn Lake on the day -appointed. I informed her of my illness, but did not tell her how -serious it had been. I told her the simple truth when I said that her -dear picture had been my chief source of happiness during the long, -weary days of my solitary confinement. My letter closed thus: - -"'Always trust me, dear Lottie, no matter what you hear about me. I am -now, have ever been, and always will be, as true to you as the needle is -to the pole.' - -"'I sealed and delivered that letter to the negro boy, who promised to -mail it, but I don't think he did it, for no such letter ever was -received by Lottie. I waited and hoped for Doctor Dodson to come to my -assistance; but, alas! I waited and hoped in vain. As soon as I was able -to take a little exercise by walking about the room that small comfort -was denied me, for a rough blacksmith came in one day and riveted a -heavy chain on my ankle, then fastened the other end to a beam in the -floor. - -"'There now,' he exclaimed, when he had finished the job, 'I guess -that'll keep you this time! By the way, Debar, how did you manage to get -those tools?' - -"'What tools are you talking about?' - -"'Why, of course the tools you used in cutting out when you were in here -before.' - -"'I never was here before; and my name is not Debar, either.' - -"'Oh! ah! I see how it is--the insane dodge this time. But look here, -old fel', that's too thin--I should advise you to invent something -better.' - -"I was glad when the uncouth blacksmith took his leave, but sorry to -know that he would make another witness to identify me as the real -Debar. - -"One morning, while I was endeavoring to amuse myself by watching the -strange maneuvers of the spider as he was weaving a new wing to his -net, the jailer made his appearance at the door, and began to unlock the -inner shutter. He was a rough, drunken brute, who scarcely ever came -about me, and when he did, he refused to answer any of my questions; I -learned afterward that the rough treatment I had been subjected to was -owing to the fact that he thought me the man who had made the escape -some time previous. When he had finished unlocking the door a lady came -rushing into the room and threw her arms round my neck, exclaiming, as -she burst into tears: - -"'Oh, Eddie, why did you let them catch you again? I thought you were -safe in Mexico by this time!' - -"The jailer had immediately slammed the door to and locked it, leaving -us alone. I was paralyzed with astonishment, and unable to utter a word -for several seconds. As soon, however, as I recovered my -self-possession, I pushed her away rather roughly. - -"'Madame,' I exclaimed indignantly, 'you are laboring under a grave -mistake. I am not your husband--have not been married--and I never saw -you in my life until this moment!' - -"She drew back, gazed at me for a moment in a bewildered way, then -uttering a most pitiful wail, fell fainting on the floor. I threw some -water in her face, and did all I could to revive her, and was gratified -to see signs of recovery. She was a very beautiful woman, though her -face was quite pale. Her long, black hair came loose and fell in great -masses on the floor. Directly she was able to rise, and I saw that she -was very much embarrassed. She again fixed her eye intently on me, and -appeared to be undecided as to what should be said. - -"'I hope you will pardon me, sir, but you are very like my husband; and -then they told me that he was re-arrested, and in this room. I should -have known you were not my husband if I had met you in the light, but -when I entered this dark cell I could scarcely see my hand before me. I -declare, I never have seen two persons so much alike, though you are a -little taller than he, I think; and there is a difference in the voice, -and perhaps a slight difference in the color of the hair, yours being a -shade darker than my husband's. I am truly sorry, sir, to know that you -have been compelled to suffer so for a crime you did not commit, but I -rejoice to find that my dear husband has not been retaken. He is -innocent, but was unable to prove his innocence. Public sentiment ran -high against him, and he was forced to save his life by flight.' - -"'My dear madame,' said I, 'you will not hesitate a moment, I hope, in -informing the sheriff that he is holding the wrong man in custody. I -have suffered indescribable torture since my detention here, and I fear -that serious consequences have resulted from my imprisonment.' - -"'Indeed, sir, you shall not remain here another day if anything I can -say or do will secure your release. I will go immediately to the proper -officers and tell them of the great mistake they have made.' - -"She then called the jailer and requested to be allowed to come out." - -"Stop a moment, Dr. Demar," said Mr. Peniwinkle, rising with his hat in -his hand, and bowing low before him and Queen Mary, "I cannot wait any -longer; I most humbly beg your pardon for the indignity that we have -unwittingly offered you. We have been following you for the last ten -days, believing you to be Edward Debar--but I now see what an -unfortunate mistake we have made. While we have been watching you, we -have let the real criminal get away. We had traced Debar to Memphis, and -found where he had his wife concealed, and have been thrown off his -track by the great resemblance you bear to him. Indeed, the resemblance -must be very striking to have misled us so. We have committed a most -unlucky blunder, and have lost our reward. The real criminal has -escaped, and we have been so unfortunate as to offer you an unpardonable -insult." - -"Not at all, Mr. Peniwinkle," Ingomar replied; "you only did what you -considered right. You thought you were performing your duty as an -officer, and I rather feel inclined to applaud, instead of censuring -you. It seems that other officers have fallen into the same error. Be -seated, Mr. Peniwinkle, and let the matter drop; I would most willingly -grant pardon, but where no wrong has been committed, of course there is -nothing to pardon." - -Mr. Peniwinkle resumed his seat, and Ingomar went on with his story. - -"I must now tell you what was transpiring at Memphis while I was in -jail, all of which was afterward related to me by eye-witnesses. General -Calloway was at Horn Lake very early on the morning that I had promised -to meet him there; so were Harry and his friend Heartsell. Ten o'clock, -the hour when we had all agreed to meet, arrived, and every one was at -his post but me. After waiting for me until eleven o'clock, Harry became -impatient, and intimated to Heartsell that it was his opinion that I had -fled. - -"'Yes,' replied Heartsell, 'and I'll bet my last cent he has carried -that woman off with him.' - -"'Let him go and welcome,' said Harry; 'but I should have been glad to -have had one shot at the villain's carcass before he went.' - -"General Calloway made inquiries of all the citizens of the little -village, hoping to hear from me, but no one had seen me. I of course had -managed to get out of the village quietly without being noticed by any -of the residents, as that was in accordance with General Calloway's -instructions, and I suppose that the two officers who had arrested me -had not told any one their business; hence I had been carried off -without any one knowing anything about it. When twelve o'clock came, and -still no tidings of my whereabouts had been obtained, General Calloway -became restless and suspicious. Heartsell approached the general and -said: - -"'I suppose it is unnecessary for us to wait here any longer. The time -agreed on has passed by two hours ago. I think your friend Demar has -concluded that "discretion is the better part of valor;" in plain terms, -I think he has run away.' - -"'I cannot believe he has done such a cowardly act as that,' replied -General Calloway; 'some serious accident, I fear, has happened to him. -He took the freight train at Memphis, and he may have got hurt on the -railroad. It is my duty to have this matter thoroughly investigated, and -I mean to do it. I have always believed Demar to be a brave, honorable -young man, and I shall not condemn him without positive proof. Of course -you and your friend Wallingford had better return to Memphis, while I -shall take the necessary steps to ascertain the cause of Demar's -mysterious disappearance.' - -"Harry and Heartsell returned to their homes. As they were leisurely -riding back in their carriage, it was agreed that Heartsell should renew -his suit for Lottie's hand, and that Harry was to throw the weight of -his influence with his sister to induce her to accept him. Those two -rash young men were just like thousands of others who are ignorant as to -the material composing a true woman's heart. They imagined that Lottie -Wallingford would transfer her heart, with all its pure love, to Mr. -Heartsell, and gladly consent to become his wife. But they were building -a magnificent castle on a sandy foundation. They had a sad lesson to -learn, which it would be well for all men to know. A woman's heart -cannot be traded off and bartered round like a bolt of calico or a bale -of cotton, but when it is given to a man, it is his! he may bruise it, -he may break it, but he cannot transfer it at will. A man's heart is a -negotiable instrument, transferable at will; but not so with a woman's. -I perhaps should not say that all men's hearts are negotiable, for I -know there are exceptions to that rule, but it will apply in a majority -of instances. - -"It was night when Heartsell and Wallingford arrived at Memphis, and the -first thing they did was to go immediately to the old brick house to -ascertain whether the woman was gone or not. They found the building -empty. They entered and examined the rooms, and after satisfying -themselves that the woman was gone, they departed. - -"'Well, Wallingford,' observed Heartsell, as they walked toward Mr. -Rockland's house, 'you see I was right after all; she was undoubtedly -Demar's wife, and they have fled together.' - -"'Yes, that is true, and I am glad we are rid of them. Demar was a -greater rascal than I ever thought he was.' - -"'My dear fellow,' replied Heartsell, 'I never had any faith in him from -the start. I always thought he was a consummate hypocrite. He assumed a -pious dignity that I know was all a sham. Wasn't it fortunate for your -sister that I happened to watch his movements?' - -"'Indeed it was, Heartsell; she owes you a big debt, and I dare say if -love can pay it she will be glad to liquidate the obligation.' - -"'Ah! you have cause to be proud of your charming sister. Do you know -that I think she is the most talented woman I ever knew?' - -"'My sister is a very sensible girl.' - -"'Indeed she is, Wallingford, and she has an angel's disposition. She is -too good for me, but if pure love and devotion can make her happy, be -assured she should never know sorrow.' - -"'You have heard of men counting the chickens before they were hatched, -haven't you, Heartsell?' - -"'Of course I have; but what has that to do with this matter?' - -"'Suppose Lottie don't choose to see things from our standpoint? Suppose -she should still put her faith in Demar?' - -"'Oh! that's not a supposable case; how could she cling to him when she -learns his true character?' - -"'Well, you have my good wishes in this new enterprise, and if I can -assist you, command me; but here we are at the gate--will you walk in -and take tea with me?' - -"'No, not to-night, Wallingford; I'll go home now; but where can I see -you early in the morning?' - -"'At my office.' - -"'Very well, I'll call early. Good-night, and pleasant dreams to you.' - -"When Heartsell parted with Wallingford he sauntered toward his home -whistling 'Mollie Darling' while visions of triumph floated gaily before -his imagination. Since the dreaded enemy had ingloriously fled, he -thought as the victor he was entitled to the spoils; in other words, he -imagined that since Demar's flight, Lottie would be glad to throw -herself into his arms. He was vain enough to believe that she would be -ready to thank him for the great service he had rendered and ask his -pardon for having once rejected his suit. - -"When Wallingford arrived at home he went immediately to his sleeping -room to change his toilet before the supper bell rang. Lighting the gas -and looking at his watch, he found it only lacked five minutes to eight; -he hurriedly began to arrange his dress. Ten minutes had elapsed after -he entered the room when he was startled by a loud scream that went -ringing through the house; he ran rapidly to Lottie's boudoir. - -"'What is the matter, mother?' exclaimed Wallingford, as he appeared at -the door where he saw Lottie lying insensible on a sofa, and Mrs. -Rockland standing in the middle of the room wringing her hands, -apparently wild with terror. 'Speak, mother! what in Heaven's name has -happened?' - -"'Some terrible news must have been brought in that letter, for she -still holds it crumpled up in her hand. Doctor Demar's clerk delivered -it to her a few moments ago, and when she began to read it she turned -deadly pale, then screamed and fainted.' - -"'Demar has eloped with another woman, and she has just now found it -out!' - -"'Merciful Providence! my son, is that true?' - -"'It is certainly so; and I trust she will at once discard the hateful -villain's memory from her mind.' - -"While this conversation was going on Mrs. Rockland was kneeling by the -sofa, bathing Lottie's pale face with eau-de-Cologne, and in a few -moments evidence of returning consciousness appeared. I had explained -everything in the letter, telling Lottie that if I did not return by -eight o'clock she might know that I was killed, because I would -communicate further news if wounded. It might appear to be an -unpardonable imprudence on my part to write such a letter, but it must -be remembered that I did not intend her to receive it unless I was -killed. I had written my will, bequeathing my little estate to her, -which was also inclosed in the letter. Lottie was not one of the sort of -hysterical women who faint every time they see a worm or a spider, but -she was brave, sensible, self-reliant and strong, both mentally and -physically. But notwithstanding all her courage and self-possession, she -was instantly overpowered by the contents of the letter. As soon as she -was able to sit up, Harry attempted to take hold of her hand, when she -drew back with a convulsive shudder, at the same time uttering a -suppressed scream. Then she cast on her brother such a gaze as to chill -the blood in his veins--it was a mixture of horror, scorn, contempt and -pity. - -"'Touch me not, I beg you; that hand is red with a hero's blood, and -Cain's mark is on your brow. You have murdered the noblest, the kindest, -the best man that ever called you friend! Oh! my unhappy, rash, -inconsiderate brother, pray on your knees until the "crack of doom" and -maybe God will pardon you. How could you be so cruel as to shed the -blood of a noble big heart whose every throb was in friendship for you? -Had you lost sight of the fact that I owed my life to the poor victim -whose blood you wantonly shed? How could you face our mother in Heaven, -with Eddie's blood dripping from your murderous hand? If you were to -touch me with that bloody hand of yours, it would kill me in five -minutes. Did you hate Edward because he was noble, generous and good? -Did you envy his gentle disposition, his even temper and greatness of -soul? Oh! blessed Redeemer, have mercy on my unfortunate, rash brother, -forgive this awful crime and humble his haughty soul.' - -"'Lottie, I swear by the heavens and all the saints that never have I -shed one drop of Ed Demar's blood; he is a hypocritical villain who has -betrayed and deceived you; he has eloped with another woman.' - -"'Harry, don't slander the dead, I beseech you; that would aggravate the -awful crime you have committed. Shame! shame on you! Why not kill me -quickly as you did Edward, instead of torturing me to death? Why not -shed my blood while your hand is in? I have no desire to live any longer -in this wicked, cruel world. Why should such as I be permitted to live -in the world, when you have hurled my Eddie into a bloody grave? Why not -kill me, too?' - -"'Sister Lottie, I most solemnly declare by everything sacred that I -have not seen Edward Demar since he left the city yesterday; it is true -I challenged him, and he agreed to meet me at Horn Lake to-day at ten -o'clock, but instead of keeping his appointment, he has run away with a -woman that he brought from Philadelphia.' - -"'Edward told me in his letter that you had forced him into a duel, and -that he would be here by eight o'clock if he was not killed; and in -that letter was his will leaving his estate to me--how then can you tell -me he has run away? You and Heartsell have killed him, and in order to -conceal your crime you have invented this falsehood! You may go dig my -grave, for there is a sweet spirit calling me to Heaven, and I shall -soon go to meet the noblest soul that was ever dismissed from the body -by the red hand of murder." - -"'I will bring Mr. Heartsell here, sister, who will tell you what I say -is true.' - -"'Do not mention that man's name in my presence, for he is more guilty -than you, because he has made a dupe of you to destroy Edward. I have -tried Edward Demar in adversity, as well as prosperity, and if a legion -of such men as Heartsell were to tell me he had proved false, I would -not believe it!' - -"Lottie then broke completely down, and would have fallen to the floor, -but Mrs. Rockland caught her in time to prevent it. - -"'You may put me to bed, mother, I cannot fight it off any longer; I -thought I was very strong and brave, but this blow is too much for me. -All will soon be over with me, my dear good mother--I feel it very -plainly; and when I am dead, I want you to have me buried by the side of -Eddie, if his body is ever found. They killed him for loving me, and the -blow has killed me, too; poor Viola! tell her I shall expect to meet her -in Heaven, where wicked people cannot molest or make us afraid.' - -"Mrs. Rockland then attempted to lead Lottie to her bedroom, but was -unable to do it, for she fell completely helpless on her mother's bosom. -Harry then stepped forward and attempted to take his sister in his arms, -when she began to tremble violently, uttering a loud scream. - -"'Oh, mother, please do not let him touch me with those bloody hands; -make him go away!' - -"Then she hid her face on her mother's bosom, while horrible convulsions -shook her body. - -"'Look there, mother,' she exclaimed, as she glared with dilated eyes at -her brother, 'do you see that bloody stain on his brow? That is blood -from poor Edward's heart; drive the cruel murderer away!' - -"'Leave us for the present, my son,' whispered Mrs. Rockland, 'she is -going mad, I do believe!' - -"Harry rushed from the room, frantic with grief, and tortured by an -accusing conscience, and began to pace hurriedly through the garden, -while a horrible fear that he had really driven his sister mad seized -upon him. - -Mrs. Rockland called in the servants, who assisted her to carry Lottie -to her bedroom; then a messenger was sent after Doctor Dodson, who -arrived at nine o'clock. When he entered the room he found the patient -in a state of total unconsciousness, and a burning fever had set in, -while the eyes had a wild, lusterless appearance. Every now and then her -body would tremble violently for a moment, and be seized with severe -convulsions, lasting from ten to fifteen seconds; then the nerves would -relax, and she would remain quiet until another trembling fit would come -on. The convulsions continued until after midnight, and when they -ceased, the doctor was compelled to resort to strong stimulants in order -to revive his patient. The kind-hearted old physician was too well -posted in regard to the science of his profession, and the mysterious -influence which the mind exercises over the nerves, not to know that -Lottie's illness was the result of mental distress. - -"'Ah, ha! here we come, madame,' he exclaimed, as soon as he became -convinced that his patient was not going to be tortured by any more -convulsions. 'What has happened to Lottie? Ah, ha! yes, what has -happened?' - -"Mrs. Rockland, with tremulous voice, proceeded to give a detailed -history of everything that had occurred, while tears streamed from her -eyes. - -"'Ah, ha! I see how it is. Oh, that rash boy! I wonder if he has been so -cruel as to hurt Edward?' - -"He called on Heaven to witness the truth of his assertion that he had -never drawn one drop of Edward's blood; declared that he had not seen -him since day before yesterday. I believe he told the truth, for, with -all his faults, he would not tell a lie; never has that rash boy uttered -a falsehood in my presence, nor has he ever in any manner attempted to -deceive me. He affirms that Edward has eloped with a woman that he -brought from Philadelphia.' - -"'Ah, ha! that is a pretty story indeed! I say, eloped with another -woman! ah, ha! when he was heels over head in love with Lottie? Now if -Harry Wallingford can snatch the sun from its fiery chariot as it spans -the sky and put it in his pocket, and convert light into darkness, then -may he expect to make me believe that my boy is a villain. Ah, ha! don't -you see? My noble boy was the very soul of honor, the paragon of men, -the embodiment of truth, and a stranger to deception. Ah, ha! you see -how it is yourself, my dear madame; some intriguing villain is at the -bottom of this business, and a horrible suspicion tells me that Harry -has been led into a trap. Ah, ha! yes, he has suffered himself to be -used as a tool by some scheming rascal who wanted to get rid of my boy! -It is Heartsell or Bowles, perhaps both. Ah, ha! don't you see? I will -ransack the globe, and plow every sea, and skim every ocean, but I will -find my brave, noble boy! If they have killed him, they had better get -on the other side of the world without delay, else I will increase the -population of hell with their souls. Ah, ha! don't you see?' - -"'How is my sister now, doctor?' said Harry, as he met the old physician -on the veranda at two o'clock. - -"'Bad enough. Ah, ha! bad enough, my boy; brain fever--serious -attack--dangerous disease--life in great peril; bad business -this--another bright angel added to the Heavenly band. Ah, ha! don't you -see how it is, my boy? The world loses, Heaven wins; bright young life -foolishly extinguished; had rather die myself; will save her if -possible, but don't believe it possible. You hear people talk about -broken hearts, ah, ha? that is a mistake--hearts never break; the brain -may be broken; then the soul becomes alarmed and deserts the body. -Lottie's brain is injured--that affects the nerves; ah, ha! don't you -see? Then convulsions ensue, which worries the circulation, and a -general collapse of the whole system follows; final result, death or -insanity. Ah, ha! yes, death winds up the show in a majority of such -cases. Poor girl! she loved Edward very dearly, and he was devoted to -her.' - -"'In that respect,' replied Harry, 'I am sorry to inform you that you -are very much mistaken; Edward Demar did not love my sister. The fact -that he was a double-faced hypocrite and faithless traitor has been -proved beyond the possibility of a doubt. I was foolish enough to -believe he was an honorable man who loved my sister truly, but he has -betrayed her and eloped with another woman.' - -"'Ah, ha! look up there, my boy,' exclaimed the doctor, as he pointed -heavenward; 'do you see that bright star yonder, just to the left of the -moon?' - -"'Yes, certainly I do; but what of that?' - -"'Do you notice how near it appears to the branches of that elm tree? it -seems to be within three feet of that large limb; ah, ha! do you see it, -my boy?' - -"'Yes, very true; it looks as if it were fastened among the branches of -that tree.' - -"'Ah, ha! yes, very good, my boy; will you be so kind as to step up on -top of that tree, pluck that beautiful bright star from its place in the -sky, and bring it to me?' - -"Harry began to stare at the doctor with feelings of anger and -astonishment. - -"'This is no time to crack jokes, Doctor Dodson, and I am grieved to be -compelled to remind you of it.' - -"'Joking, ah, ha! who is joking? I never was in deeper earnest in my -life; why do you refuse to do such a trifling favor for me? I want a -pretty planet snatched from the heavens, and you will not do it for me.' - -"'Doctor, I confess your language astonishes me; I have ever had a high -regard for your opinion, and would make any sacrifice to serve you, but -when you ask me to do absurd impossibilities, you can hardly expect a -serious answer.' - -"'Ah, ha! you tell me that you cannot snatch that star from the sky, yet -you try to make me believe that Edward Demar has eloped with another -woman. Whenever I see you take that planet in your hand and lay it down -at my feet, then you may try to convince me that my boy was dishonest. -Ah, ha! yes, you see how it is yourself, don't you? Did you ever hear -of a certain monkey who raked the chestnuts out of the fire with the paw -of an unsuspecting cat? Ah, ha! yes, of course you have; very good, -then, you are the unsuspecting cat, and Heartsell is the monkey, and he -has been using your paw to rake out his chestnuts. Ah, ha! to be plain, -that man wanted to marry your sister; she loved my boy, and therefore -Heartsell wants him out of the way; he uses you as his tool to remove -his rival; ah, ha! don't you see? Heartsell has practiced a fraud of -some sort on you, deceived you, cheated you, and in all probability -ruined you, and killed your sister. Ah, ha! don't you see?' - -"'Doctor Dodson,' replied Wallingford, 'I know my faults are numerous; I -confess that my unfortunate temper often gets the advantage of my -judgment; I may have acted too rashly in this affair, but it was my duty -to guard my dear sisters honor; and when I tell you that she has been -deceived by Ed Demar, I only tell you that which I know positively. With -my own eyes I saw him in the arms of another woman; that woman has -disappeared, so has Demar; and that he has fled with her is a fact -beyond controversy.' - -"At that moment Mrs. Rockland came to the door and requested the doctor -to go in to his patient, informing him that she was again in -convulsions. - -"Harry hurried out of the house and bared his burning brow to the -falling dew, while he beat his breast with his clinched fist, hoping to -still the gnawing conscience that was torturing his restless soul. All -through the night he continued to wander in the garden, half mad with -grief, muttering to himself, while the hot blood in his veins seemed to -be collecting in his fevered cheeks and heated brow. At early dawn he -went in search of Heartsell, and found him sound asleep in his bedroom. - -"'Get up, Heartsell,' he said, as he hurried in, 'I must speak with -you.' - -"'What's up now, old fellow; something serious, I guess, else you would -not be out so early.' - -"'Ah, Heartsell, I never have passed such a night; I did not go to bed -at all. My poor sister is dangerously ill; she thinks that we have -murdered Demar, and the doctor is afraid she will die.' - -"'Indeed, Wallingford, that is awful news! Why should she think that we -have killed Demar?' - -"'He wrote her a letter telling her all about the contemplated duel, -left it with his clerk, to be delivered in the event of his not getting -back by eight o'clock. In that letter he told her that if he was not -killed, he would be at home at eight, and because he did not come, she -concludes that we have killed him. Now, why should he write such a -letter if he intended to run away?' - -"'I must confess that it is very strange.' - -"'Has it ever occurred to you that some accident might have happened to -him, and that he did not absent himself willingly?' - -"'No; I never had dreamed of such a thing.' - -"'I am afraid we have been too hasty in this business. I love my darling -sister as I do my life, and I begin to repent of my rashness in this -matter. She refused to let me touch her, shrank from me as if I were a -savage wild beast ready to tear her to pieces, cast upon me such a -strange, wild look as caused the blood to freeze in my veins, and spoke -of my hands being stained with Ed Demar's blood. Then all at once she -broke down, and when the doctor came he said that she was threatened -with brain fever, and before midnight she was unconscious.' - -"'That is very unfortunate, Wallingford, and as soon as she regains -consciousness, I'll go to see her and tell her that you did not hurt -Demar; she certainly will believe me.' - -"'If you take my advice, you will not let my sister see you, until you -can prove Demar to be alive and unhurt. The manner in which she spoke of -you was anything but complimentary, I can tell you. She regards you as -the cause of all the trouble, accuses you of influencing me; and the -truth is, Heartsell, you did persuade me into it. We have been rash and -hasty in this matter, and I begin to repent of the part I have played in -it. I wish I could be like other men, but my unfortunate temper won't -let me. Most people think before they act, but I act first and then do -the thinking when it is too late. A most horrible suspicion is crawling -over me. I begin to think after all that Demar has not run away. He owns -a half-interest in a drug-store here with ten thousand dollars; he made -no disposition of it except to will his interest to my sister in the -event of his death. He left a sealed paper with his clerk to be -delivered to Lottie, and it turns out to be a will. Now, if he had been -married to the other woman, why should he will his property to my -sister?' - -"'Indeed, that does look a little strange; but what can we do to clear -up the mystery?' - -"'Put detectives to work to find out what has become of Demar. Has it -ever occurred to you that the woman might have been some relative of -Demar?' - -"'No; I have never dreamed of such a thing; but why should he elope with -her if she was a relation?' - -"'I don't believe he went away with her, because he took a freight train -and started to Horn Lake. I believe he intended to keep his appointment -with us, but met with an accident--perhaps has been murdered.' - -"'Wallingford, your language puzzles me; give me time to think.' - -"'Yes, it is very proper we should both do a little serious thinking. It -is a pity we didn't do that before. Instead of acting so rashly, we -should have demanded an explanation of Demar, and afforded him an -opportunity to make it. I can see now the great error we committed. He -might have been able to explain it all to our satisfaction, but we did -not give him a chance.' - -"When Harry left Heartsell, his affection for that gentleman was -considerably decreased. - -"Time continued to drag along very slowly, or at any rate it seemed so -to Harry Wallingford. Lottie's life appeared to be gradually but surely -drawing to a close. Her beautiful golden hair had commenced to come out, -while the flesh appeared to shrink away. The color had fled from her -cheeks, and her eyes gazed listlessly at the ceiling. She would lie -immovable from day to day, never complaining, never uttering a word, -except occasionally to whisper the name of Eddie. When her reason -resumed its throne, she continued to ask for Eddie, and on being told -that he never had been heard from, the tears would flow slowly down her -cheeks. - -"'They have killed Eddie; he is in Heaven, though, and I am going to -see him soon. Give me my darling's picture, mother.' - -"When it was given to her she pressed it to her pale lips. - -"'You loved my poor unfortunate brother, and never would do him wrong; -yet they killed you.' - -"Such language was usually uttered in a low, dove-like tone, and she -would continue for hours at a time conversing to the picture. When Harry -would enter the room she would turn her face to the wall and shiver, as -if she were very cold. When he spoke to her she would hold the corner of -a quilt over her ear, as if his voice gave her pain. The doctor finally -advised him not to visit his sister until the state of her mind should -change. - -"'She thinks you have killed Eddie,' said Doctor Dodson to Harry, 'and -so long as she clings to that idea, I think it best for you not to let -her see you. Poor girl! she can't last much longer. There is only one -remedy that could save her life, and I fear we shall not be able to get -that in time.' - -"'What is that, doctor?' exclaimed Harry, as a new hope began to rise in -his breast. - -"'If Eddie could be found, she would be all right in a week, but if not, -she will be in Heaven before that time.' - -"'Oh, merciful Providence! what shall we do? Doctor Dodson, you are not -going to let my darling die, are you?' - -"'Ah, ha! my dear boy, we must bow submissively to the will of God. A -physician may patch up the machinery, but he can't make a human heart. -That poor girl's heart is desperately wounded, and nothing on earth can -cure it except a look at Eddie Demar. Present him before your sister -alive and in good health, and I warrant a cure; fail to do it, and you -may go dig her grave!' - -"'Oh, doctor, this is horrible; it will kill me, too, if she dies, -believing I have murdered Eddie! Can't you quiet her mind with opiates -until her physical strength returns?' - -"'Ah, ha! my boy, that's all you know about it; I have given her as much -of that sort of medicine as her system will bear, and I tell you again, -you had better find my boy, and that without delay, unless you expect to -see your sister die. Ah, ha! when that poor girl dies, this world will -lose one of its brightest jewels, and Heaven will receive one of the -brightest angels that ever went there. Poor Viola will lose her best -friend, and we will be left to mourn over crushed hopes. I should like -to know what sad fate has overtaken my poor boy. He was the light of my -life and the joy of my house. Ah, ha! indeed he was! Some foul play -somewhere; ah, ha! my boy; mind you, though, I don't mean to scold you, -Harry; ah, ha! you see I couldn't have the heart to do it. Heaven knows -you have enough to bear anyway.' - -"'Yes,' replied Harry, 'it is all my fault, but I thought I was acting -for the best.' - -"'No doubt you did, ah, ha! my boy, but it has turned out to be a bad -job. We are all ruined unless Eddie can be found.' - -"'I'll find him, if he is on the globe, doctor!' exclaimed Wallingford, -as he hastened from the room." - -"We will take a recess now," said the queen, as she rose from her seat -and took Ingomar's arm. - - - - -CHAPTER XXV. - - -Ivanhoe and Miss Darlington (nicknamed Scottie) were as usual engaged in -an earnest conversation, the topic being a mixture of sentiment and -gossip. - -"Now, sir knight," observed Miss Darlington, as she led him to a seat, -"if you feel inclined to engage in a game of gossip on the old -threadbare topic, we will stop here, where we will be free from spies or -intruders. The fact of the business is, I believe, that another day of -such intolerable suspense will unsettle my mind." - -"Perhaps I can furnish you a little scrap of information that will -afford temporary relief." - -"Tell it then without preliminaries." - -"Have you noticed a little, pale-faced lad gliding about like a -half-grown ghost?" - -"Indeed I have, and there is a peculiar expression on his countenance -that attracted my attention; but what about him?" - -"He is the black domino's courier, spy, agent, pilot, general -superintendent, or something of that sort." - -"By the by, I see that same little ghostly lad yonder leaning over the -banisters, just beyond the pilot house." - -"Yes, that is he; I happen to know that he is serving the lady in the -black domino in some of her mysterious schemes. Knowing, as I did, how -much it would relieve you to obtain any clew that would unravel the -unpleasant mystery by which we are surrounded, I took the liberty to -play the spy myself. If I have been guilty of a mean thing (and to be -candid, I think I have), you will have to answer for the sin of it, for -I was prompted to it by my anxiety to gratify the curiosity of some one -who was very dear to me." - -"Indeed I am very grateful; but pray tell me what you have discovered?" - -"I heard a conversation between the little, pale-faced boy and the lady -in the black domino." - -"Well, what did it amount to?" - -"The lad pointed toward Napoleon, and said, 'There is your man.' - -"'How do you know that is he?' inquired the black domino impatiently. - -"'I have seen him from where I was hidden under the bed in his -state-room!' replied the lad promptly; 'and,' continued the little -fellow, 'I can assure you, madame, beyond all question, he is the very -man you are after.' - -"'What is the number of his state-room?' inquired the black domino. - -"Then the boy made an answer which I did not distinctly hear, as they -both began to converse in a low, hurried tone. There is a stack of -mattresses on the larboard side, and I was leaning against it, and they -were on the other side. After a long, whispered conversation, they began -to talk a little louder, and then I heard the boy say: - -"'I have found out all you wish to know about Napoleon, and you had -better act promptly.' - -"'No, not yet,' replied the black domino, 'my plans are not ripe yet; -but you must keep your eye on him until I am ready.' - -"'You may depend on me to do that,' replied the lad; 'he never shall -leave this boat without your consent.' - -"'You are a splendid detective, and shall be abundantly rewarded for -your faithful services.' - -"'I have already been rewarded,' said the boy, 'ten times more than I -deserve. I would do anything to please you!' - -"'I thank my little friend, and mean to show my gratitude in a tangible -shape one of these days. I am going to purchase a nice cottage for your -mother if I ever get enough money.' - -"'You are too kind, miss; you have done more for me than I deserve; but -I will serve you as long as I live. I hope you will succeed in bringing -that bad man to punishment for his wicked crimes.' - -"They then went away and I heard nothing more." - -"It seems she is shadowing Napoleon." - -"Yes, that is certain." - -"What does it all mean?" - -"Ah! that is the question I should like to have explained." - -"Have you ever mentioned the subject to the little boy?" - -"No." - -"Call him here and let us endeavor to pump the secret out of him." - -"Come here a moment, little man, if you please." - -The lad promptly approached and fixed his large, restless eyes on -Ivanhoe with a look of inquiry. - -"What is your name, my little friend?" - -"Spratt, sir." - -"Where do you reside?" - -"I have no home at present, sir." - -"Did you get on board this boat at Memphis?" - -"No, sir." - -"Where did you get on?" - -"At Friar's Point, sir." - -"Where are you going to get off?" - -"I do not know what point I shall stop at--that depends on -circumstances." - -"What circumstances?" - -"If you will excuse me, sir, I had rather not tell that." - -"Oh, certainly, my little friend, you need not tell anything unless it -suits you. Do you know the lady in the black domino?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"Would you object to tell me who she is?" - -"I could not do it without her consent; I think she does not want her -name known just now." - -"I will give you this twenty-dollar bill if you will tell me her name." - -"I beg you will excuse me, sir." - -"I will give you a hundred dollars if you will tell me who she is." - -"I could not do it, sir, if you were to offer me a thousand dollars!" - -"Does she reside in Memphis?" - -"No, sir." - -"Where does she reside, then?" - -"I had rather not tell you that, sir." - -"Do you know the man who personates Napoleon?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"Will you tell me who he is?" - -"That is also a secret which I am not at liberty to reveal." - -"Can you tell me whether or not he got on this boat at Memphis?" - -"I could tell you, sir, but I must not talk about him. You will soon -know all about it." - -"What right had you to go into that gentleman's state-room and conceal -yourself under his bed?" - -"How did you know I did that, sir?" - -"I heard you tell the lady in the black domino about it." - -"I hope, sir, you did not play the eavesdropper?" - -"No; but you and the lady talked about the matter where I could not help -hearing it." - -"I hope, sir, that you will not say anything about what you heard, -because if you do you will be sorry for it when you know what caused me -to go into his room." - -"You have been watching Napoleon by the lady's directions--is that not -the way of it?" - -"Since you have made the discovery, it is useless for me to deny it; -but, sir, I beg you to say nothing about it." - -"How long do you want me to keep the secret?" - -"But a very short time, sir. That man who represents the emperor is a -very grand villain, and if you were to reveal what you know, it might -upset all the plans we have been arranging to capture him." - -"Why not capture him now?" - -"The lady in the black domino is waiting for something to happen which I -am not permitted to tell." - -"Very well, my little friend, I promise you I will not reveal your -secret." - -"I am very much obliged to you, sir, and you shall know all about the -matter very soon. I will go now, sir, if you have nothing more to say to -me." - -As the little fellow bowed politely and moved away, Scottie heaved a -sigh and said: - -"Heigh ho! was anybody ever so inundated with mystery as we are?" - -"If they were, I should pity them." - -"I must say that is a very polite, manly little fellow; and that head of -his is full of brains." - -"Yes, and he has been playing a very deep game, if I am not very much -mistaken." - -"What in Heaven's name does it all mean?" - -"I would give my bottom dollar to be able to answer the question." - -"Let us try and pump the secret out of Brazzleman--I dare say he knows -all about it." - -"I have been trying to get him to tell me who the lady is, but he -positively refuses to do it--in fact, I do not believe he, or the -captain either, knows who she is." - -"Look yonder, will you--that mysterious woman has been watching us all -the time. She is going to that boy to find out what we have been saying -to him. I declare, this is really provoking; and I am not willing to -submit to it any longer!" - -"Can you suggest any plan to get rid of the nonsense?" - -"Suppose we complain to Captain Quitman?" - -"I should not like to do that, after making a promise to the lad to keep -his secret." - -"How would it do to cross-examine Napoleon on the subject?" - -"That would be the most imprudent step we could take, for it appears -that the black domino has got him spotted. I think we should not say -anything to any one about what we know until something more is -developed." - -"See yonder; she is leading that boy to her state-room. Mischief is -brewing, and a culmination will be reached soon." - -"Well, let matters jog along; come down and dance a set--I hear the -music." - -"I have no objection--in fact, I am glad you proposed it, as I think the -dance will take my mind from this unpleasant subject. I have often heard -of people suffering with curiosity, but never till now did I know how -one could be so much excited." - -Ivanhoe then led Scottie down to the saloon, and soon was gliding round -in a lively waltz with her fair cheek resting on his shoulder. George -was looking supremely happy, as he waltzed with the queen of Sheba. A -dozen other couples were enjoying themselves, while keeping time to the -splendid music. - -"Come," said Ivanhoe, as soon as the waltz was ended, "let us go back on -deck, as I have thought of something else to tell you." - -"I hope you are not going to harp on the same string?" - -"That is exactly what I am going to do; but I have something new to tell -you. Just a moment before we began to waltz, George told me that the -whole secret was divulged." - -"What secret?" - -"The mystery about the black domino." - -"Well, what does it amount to?" - -"She is a confidence woman--a female pickpocket--an expert thief, and -that lad is her pal." - -"Now, I do not believe a word of that story, for she has been weeping -frequently. Confidence women do not shed tears--pickpockets do not act -like that woman." - -"I shall venture no opinion, so far as I am concerned. George says that -she has stolen a large sum of money from Napoleon, and that the boy -helped her do it." - -"If that is true, why do they not arrest her at once?" - -"They have not got sufficient proof to justify that course yet, though -they think they will be able to do it very soon." - -"If I live a hundred years, I never will wear another mask, or associate -with others who do. I am very sure that we would have enjoyed our -excursion much better if we had not appeared in mask." - -"I agree with you there--these masquerades are only suited to furnish -opportunities for thieves to ply their trades." - -"As soon as Ingomar finishes his story (and I hope he will not stop a -moment until he is through with it), we will put an end to this -nonsense." - -"I will go and request the queen to re-assemble her party at once, so -that we may hear the remainder of the tale without further delay." - -"I wish you would." - -Ivanhoe then went to look for the queen, who issued her orders for the -party to meet immediately. A majority of the passengers came up with -Ingomar and the queen, as they were becoming deeply interested in the -story. The maskers all being seated, the queen directed Ingomar to -resume. - -"I was very much disappointed when Mrs. Debar returned to my cell and -informed me that the civil authorities refused to believe her when she -informed them that I was not her husband--they thought it was a ruse -invented by her to get her husband out of prison; but she was kind -enough to bring a lawyer to see me on the subject. Mr. Deediddle was a -middle-aged man, with a very red nose and a ponderous stomach, evidently -a devout worshiper of Bacchus. I don't think I ever before saw such a -red nose on a man's face. He was a perfect talking machine; and I was -rather distrustful of him, but he assured me that there would be no -difficulty in securing my release. - -"'Fact is, Mr. Demar, I'm an old hand at the pump--no cure no pay, is my -motto,' said Mr. Deediddle, as he wiped the perspiration from his brow -with a red handkerchief of enormous size. 'Fact, Mr. Demar, I have -walked in the legal harness for twenty years; what I don't know about -law ain't printed yet. Fact, Mr. Demar--never lost half a dozen cases in -my life. Fact, sir, and when you get me on a _Habeas Corpus_, I can beat -the inventor of the writ. Ah, sir, that's a glorious writ. Fact, sir, -it's the paladium of liberty--it's the Alpha and Omega of American -freedom. Fact, sir, I'll pry you out of this horrible place, sir, with -this great lever of the law--this center pole of the prisoner's castle -of hope. Fact is, Judge Flaxback always yields to me--he is very fond of -whist, and I always let him win, then he returns the favor when making -decisions. Fact, sir, he never decides against me--he always stops with -me during court--he loves good wine--I always keep the very best. Fact, -sir, I keep him full; but business is business, you know, Mr. Demar--no -cure no pay. I believe I told you that was my motto--yes, sure enough I -did; but a retainer, you know, is always customary--a small -retainer--say fifty dollars. Fact is, Mr. Demar, business is business, -you know.' - -"I gave him fifty dollars as quickly as I could, and would have given -him double that sum, if he had demanded it. - -"'For Heaven's sake, Mr. Deediddle,' said I, 'get me out of this -miserable place, and you shall be well paid.' - -"'Fact is, sir, you shall be out before to-morrow night. Judge Flaxback -is to be in town this very day, and I'll have a _Habeas Corpus_ served -on the sheriff immediately.' - -"I was glad when he went away; it was but a short while before he -returned, accompanied by the circuit court clerk, who came to administer -the oath, that I had to make in order to procure the writ. I made the -oath, and again was left alone, when bright rays of hope began to steal -in on me. I laid myself down on my hard bed, and began to gaze at -Lottie's picture; my mind was so intensely fixed on the dear image that -I did not hear the jailer when he opened the door. - -"'Thanks be to Heaven, Eddie, I have found you at last!' exclaimed Harry -Wallingford, as he sank down by my side and burst into tears. 'I am the -vilest wretch that ever disgraced the face of this green earth. I have -spread misery and ruin around all who loved me. I have broken Lottie's -heart, and she is dying. Doctor Dodson says she cannot live three days -longer. Why was I ever created? I dare not ask you to forgive me! If -remorse could kill, I would have been dead long ago--there is a flaming -fire consuming my vitals--yet it will not kill me. Lottie will die with -a curse on her lips against me, for she believes I have murdered you, -and it will be too late to undeceive her, for she is failing fast. I -have killed the sweetest sister that mortal man ever had. Eddie, I would -give the world, if it was all mine, to recall the past--if I could only -atone for the crimes that I have committed. Poor Viola has been tried -and convicted, while Lottie was too ill to know anything about it. They -have kept the awful news from her, but she soon will leave this wicked -world.' - -"He then sank helplessly on the floor and groaned aloud. I could only -stare at the unhappy boy whose rashness had caused all this misery. I -felt no enmity toward him. I pitied him from the very bottom of my -heart. I remembered how he had loved Viola, and how he must have -suffered on her account. Then I thought of his love for Lottie, and knew -that the errors he had committed were caused by his love for his sister. -As soon as I could sufficiently command my feelings to enable me to -talk, I began to do what I could to console him. - -"'There is no reason why you should feel remorse at all; grief comes -natural under such circumstances; remorse is the pain produced by a -consciousness of guilt; guilt cannot exist where there has been no -willful intent. The mistakes you have committed were errors of judgment, -not of the heart. It is the intent that constitutes the crime. You were -prompted to act by love for your sister, and I feel more inclined to -approve than to condemn you. I have always loved you--I love you yet; -and if Lottie could live, we would all be happy again. Rise up, I pray -you; let us forget the past, and work together to repair the errors -committed. I promise you that, so far as my feelings are concerned, no -ill-will ever shall find lodgment in my poor heart against you.' - -"'Eddie, you are different from all other men. Your heart is more noble, -more generous and more forgiving than others', it is a knowledge of that -fact that makes my conscience condemn me. You should have cut my -unworthy head off when I gave you that insulting blow. If you knew how -my conscience gnaws and burns me for that mean, despicable act, you -would indeed pity me!' - -"'You should not feel so about that, because you thought I had betrayed -your sister, and it is a brother's duty to protect the honor of his -sister. The truth is, I think under the same circumstances I should -have acted as you did. From what I heard, Mr. Debar resembles me so much -that it requires close inspection to tell one from the other. Now, you -saw Debar with his wife in Memphis, and mistook him for me. You -naturally concluded that I had deceived and betrayed your sister. -Believing that to be so, you determined to punish her betrayer. Harry, I -admire you for it; don't ask me to forgive you, for there is nothing to -be forgiven.' - -"'Yes, but for my rashness, coupled with my unpleasant temper, all the -trouble might have been avoided. You could have explained everything, -but I did not give you a chance. There is where I committed the -unpardonable error that has ruined all of us.' - -"'I hope that things are not so bad as you seem to think. We must act -now, and that promptly. A dispatch must be sent to Doctor Dodson without -delay; and if you will go and procure a messenger to take it to the -nearest telegraph office, I will write the dispatch while you are -getting the messenger ready. See that he is well mounted, on a good -horse, for he must make at least eight miles per hour; it is twenty-four -miles from here to the nearest telegraph office. Tell the messenger that -he shall have as much money as he wants, if he will make speed. Go -quickly--make the necessary arrangements while I write the dispatch.' - -"He hurried from the jail instantly, while I penned the following -message: - - "'DOCTOR DODSON--Tell dear Lottie I am well and safe; will be home - day after to-morrow. Harry is with me, and everything is explained. - A man resembling me very much killed Clanton; he was imprisoned to - await his trial--he escaped--I was arrested and detained, under a - mistaken belief that I was the criminal. It is a mere mistake of - personal identity. The real criminal was in Memphis. Harry saw him - there with his wife, and thought it was I--hence his enmity toward - me. It was all a mistake; everything is now understood. I will be - released to-morrow on habeas corpus. Save dear Lottie's life. Tell - her to live for my sake. Send me a dispatch every ten minutes till - I come.' - -"By the time the dispatch was ready Harry returned, accompanied by an -intelligent looking lad about eighteen years old, who promised to be at -the telegraph office with the dispatch inside of three hours. I handed -him fifty dollars, and directed him to wait at the office for an answer. - -"'Leave your horse at the station, and procure a fresh one, and when the -answer comes, bring it to me immediately. I shall want you to carry -another dispatch as soon as you bring the answer to this one. I will pay -all the expenses and remunerate you to your entire satisfaction; then I -will give you as a present this fine gold watch.' - -"The lad's bright black eyes fairly blazed with delight as I held up the -pretty prize before him. - -"'You may trust me, sir; I'll deliver this dispatch in two hours and a -half from this moment.' - -"Before the last word was out of his mouth, he was half way down-stairs, -and two seconds afterward I heard the clatter of his horse's hoofs as he -dashed down the road. I stood and listened until the sound grew faint, -then died away. - -"'Eddie,' said Harry, 'if God only would let dear Lottie live, I would -spend the remainder of my life on my knees, pouring out earnest thanks -to Him. I would discard pride and self-love, and endeavor to control -this unfortunate temper of mine, and devote my days to His service.' - -"'I am so glad to hear you talk that way; maybe God will think of your -good resolve, and reward it by saving her life. Somehow, I have a hope -that we shall hear favorable news when our messenger returns--I cannot -think that I am never again to behold those beautiful blue eyes; I can't -realize it. The ways of Providence are full of mystery, but we know they -are ever just; and knowing this to be so induces me to cling to the hope -that our Lottie will be spared. It is my candid opinion that if she had -been well Viola would have been cleared, because she was in possession -of strange facts, in connection with the case, which would have produced -a different verdict.' - -"'Ah! my poor sister may have believed in Viola's innocence, in fact, I -know she did; but that belief was founded on friendship instead of -facts. No, the proof was full and complete, and Mr. Rockland told me -that during his thirty years' practice he had never known the guilt of a -prisoner so fully established. You no doubt imagine that you have -suffered much, but your cause of sorrow is very slight when compared -with mine. If poor Lottie dies, the loss will be as much mine as yours; -for you cannot love her more than I do; and when she leaves us she will -go direct to Heaven, where you can go to meet her. But how different is -it with Viola; I loved her as well as you loved Lottie; no man ever -loved a woman more devotedly than I loved her. I might have borne to see -her die, if she was as well prepared to meet God as Lottie is; but when -I know that she is forever lost to me, and perhaps her soul is lost, -too, I feel and know that I cannot bear it!' - -"'The pardoning power of God is unlimited; Christ did not die for -righteous people alone, but to redeem sinners; and if you will have -faith in Him, and serve Him with all your heart, you may be permitted to -meet Viola in Heaven after all. But here comes Mr. Deediddle to talk -about the _habeas corpus_. Let us hear what he has to communicate.' - -"Mr. Deediddle came blustering in, and it was with some difficulty that -he squeezed his ponderous body through the small door of my cell. - -"'Ah! confound such small doors!' he muttered, as he began to brush the -dust off his coat with his red bandana. 'I can't see why people make -such small doors, anyway. Well, Demar, I dropped in merely to let you -know that we are all right--Judge Flaxback has made the habeas corpus -returnable at nine o'clock to-morrow morning; he is to spend the night -with me. Fact, sir, here's his note accepting my invitation. I'll wine -him, dine him, and card him to-night. I'll play whist with him all -night, and let him win; that will settle our case all right; fact, sir, -trust me to manage his sort.' - -"'But, Mr. Deediddle, I would prefer that no underhand means should be -used in my case. I can prove my identity beyond all doubt.' - -"'Oh! no doubt you can, Mr. Demar, but what good will proof do when the -mind of the court is against you. Fact, sir, you had better let me -manage the case in my own way. Fact is, I am an old hand at the pump; -been in harness over a quarter of a century; I am the man to pry you -out--wine and whist are the great levers to pry with before Flaxback. -Fact is, he can't get round 'em.' - -"Mr. Deediddle rattled away for nearly an hour, and I was glad when he -took his departure. He had been gone but a few minutes when Mrs. Debar -came in. Harry gazed at her in great astonishment for several seconds, -then said: - -"'Eddie, this is the lady I saw in Memphis, in that old brick house, and -I thought I saw you there with her.' - -"'It was my husband, sir, and not Mr. Demar. We were stopping in an old -dilapidated brick house; my husband was waiting for some money to be -sent to him. He made his escape from this jail and went to Memphis; I -followed him, and one night we fled, as we learned that detectives were -following us. I have just received a letter from my husband; he is in -Matamoras, Mexico, and I am going to meet him as soon as Mr. Demar is -released.' - -"'I see through it all now--you and your husband left Memphis on the -very night when Demar was arrested at Horn Lake; this unlucky -coincidence led me to believe that he had eloped with you, and had been -false to my sister. Acting on this belief, I have committed an -unpardonable blunder, and caused my sister's death and ruined all my -friends.' - -"As Mrs. Debar wiped the fast falling tears from her eyes, she said: 'I -am truly sorry to hear of your misfortunes, but hope things are not so -serious as you seem to think. I, too, have had my share of trouble; my -poor husband has been compelled to exile himself from his country when -he was innocent. I love him, and I mean to go where he goes; I will -share his sorrows, and do my best to make him happy. It is true that my -husband killed Mr. Clanton, but he did it in self-defense, and would -have been able to prove it, but unfortunately, the only witness who saw -the whole transaction died soon after the killing.' - -"Mrs. Debar now went away, leaving me alone with Harry. She promised to -be present on the next morning at the trial, to give her evidence, which -would, of course, be greatly in my favor. - -"It was after night, and just six hours from the time my messenger had -started with my dispatch, when he came dashing into my cell with an -answer. He had made the round trip, a distance of forty-eight miles, in -six hours. He informed me that he had to wait at the office just one -hour for the answer, so he had done the traveling in five hours. - -"My hand trembled when I took the dispatch from the messenger, and well -it might, for I knew that little paper would tell a tale that would seal -my fate. It would tell me whether or not those charming blue eyes were -ever again to gaze on me. It would decide whether or not I was ever to -clasp dear Lottie to my heart again. I hesitated, and looked at Harry, -but saw no encouragement there. He was as pale as death, and trembling -from head to foot, and seemed to have ceased to breathe. - -"'Eddie,' he gasped, 'you may be prepared to hear the very worst, for -her case was hopeless when I left home. That telegram will either tell -you she is dead, or that she is dying.' - -"'Heaven have mercy!' I exclaimed, as I glanced over the contents of the -dispatch. My worst fears were realized--my darling was dying. - -"It is useless for me to try to describe how I felt when I read the -fatal news. No one can understand or appreciate it even if I could -select words to tell how great was my misery. It was over half an hour -before either of us spoke, and there is no telling when the silence -would have been broken, had it not been for the messenger. - -"'Will you wish to send another dispatch?' inquired the lad, who had -been silently witnessing this painful scene. 'If you do, sir, I can be -ready to go again as soon as I can eat a bite and procure a fresh -horse.' - -"'I shall want to send another dispatch at daylight in the morning.' - -"My audience will readily understand what cause for grief I had when the -dispatch is read. Here it is, - - "'DEAR EDDIE--The welcome news of your safety received, would to - Heaven it had come a week sooner--it would have saved our dear - Lottie's life; but, alas! It came too late. Put your trust in God, - my unfortunate boy, and bear your great sorrow as becomes a brave - man. Lottie cannot possibly live more than forty-eight hours - longer. She is sinking very fast. Her mind is perfectly clear, and - when your dispatch was read to her she smiled sweetly as her eyes - brightened up, then closing them, the tears began to stream from - them. She pressed your picture to her lips, and said: - - "'"Poor Eddie, how glad I would be to see him before I die! Then I - wish to see brother Harry, so he can forgive the wrong I have done - him. I thought he had killed Eddie, and refused to believe him when - he denied it." - - "'She talks of you and Harry all the time. I wish it were so that - you could get here before she dies. You might do it, if you get - released in time for the up-train to-morrow evening. I will send - another dispatch early in the morning. - - "'DODSON.' - -"I had sent up so many silent but earnest prayers to God, in which I had -implored and begged Him to let my dear Lottie live, that I was loth to -believe He would take her from me. I could not realize the fact that her -beautiful young person was to be consigned to the grave. When I had seen -her last she was the very picture of health and life, her fair cheeks -all aglow with vivacity, her large expressive eyes filled with evidences -of hope, and her elastic step indicating strength and vigor. Now how was -I to realize the fact that all this strength, health and vigor were -gone, while that fair form was struggling in the very arms of death? The -fact is, I was so bewildered with grief that I was unable to think -correctly on the subject. - -"Harry spent the night in my cell, and I can assert truthfully that he -was more completely subdued by his deep grief than he ever had been -before. I think that a great change was wrought in him on that occasion, -which has since proved of no little benefit to him. His indomitable -pride was partially cured, and his haughty spirit completely humbled; he -threw himself prostrate on the floor, calling aloud to God for help. He -did not rise from the floor during the night, though he never closed his -eyes in sleep; sometimes he would remain silent for several -minutes--perhaps he was praying; then again he would seem to be -convulsed with his great sorrow. I paced the floor in silence, for I was -sunk so deep in despair that I was scarcely able to command my voice. My -heart yearned for freedom; my mind flew to Memphis and looked at my -darling as she was wrestling with death. - -"The first gray streaks of approaching dawn that came stealing through -my small window were indeed a welcome sight to me. As soon as it was -light enough to enable me to see to write, I penned a message to be -immediately sent to Doctor Dodson. The messenger was promptly on hand at -six o'clock, ready with a fresh horse to start with my dispatch, and -long before the sun began to peep over the eastern hills he was dashing -with great speed toward the telegraph office. He would be back with -fresh news by eleven o'clock, by which time I had reason to believe I -would be restored to liberty, and then I would fly to my darling. After -the messenger was gone I instructed Harry to go out to the village and -secure two of the best horses that could be found, and to have them -ready saddled and hitched in the court-house yard, in order that we -might be off instantly after the trial should be over. I knew that the -trial would not consume much time, as the proof would be ample and -unquestionable, and I thought maybe we might be able to start by ten -o'clock. - -"The rough blacksmith who had riveted the irons on my leg was employed -the evening before the trial to cut them off, and I was enabled to -secure a little exercise. In his rough, uncouth manner, the blacksmith -apologized for the unkindness he had shown toward me when fastening the -manacles on my limbs. As I was not in a mood to cherish ill-will, I -accepted the blunt apology and extended my hand to the honest mechanic, -who seized and gave it a hearty shake. - -"'Never saw two peas more alike than you and Debar! No wonder the -officer took you for Debar; I was ready to swear that you were the -identical man. It's lucky they found out the blunder, ain't it? They -might have hung you by mistake; that would have been rather awkward, -wouldn't it?' - -"I made no answer to this strange inquiry, for I was thinking about -other things. - -"Harry returned soon, and informed me that he had been so fortunate as -to secure two splendid young horses, whose owner had informed him that -they could take us to the station in two hours and a half, without any -danger of hurting them. My dungeon door was now thrown open, and all -restraint on my movements withdrawn. - -"'I thought you were the same scamp who broke jail and left me with the -bag to hold,' said the jailer. 'Everybody was down on me for letting -Debar get away when I couldn't help it--some rascal furnished him with -tools, and I knew nothing about it until he was gone; therefore, when -they brought you here I thought you were the same man, and I didn't care -to be kind to the man who had acted so badly as Debar. You are the very -image of Debar, and then your name sounds so much like his. I can detect -a slight difference in the color of your hair and that of Debar; then he -had a small scar on his forehead, just above the left eye. It was very -slight, and quite small, not over half an inch long. I have his -photograph here, and if you will look close you can see the scar very -plain.' - -"I looked at the picture, and sure enough the scar could be plainly -seen. This circumstance of itself would justify Judge Flaxback in -ordering my release; in fact, the trial would be a mere form to be -complied with, as everybody now admitted that a mistake had been -committed. The villagers discussed it on the street corners, and laughed -over it, cracking their jokes, little dreaming of the awful consequences -that had resulted to me by the mistake. I dare say that a vastly -different feeling would have permeated the breasts of those people if -they could have witnessed the dying agonies of poor Lottie Wallingford. -If they had known how my heart was broken by the sad mistake, they would -not have been laughing and joking about the matter as if it were a very -funny coincidence. I could not eat my breakfast--my appetite was gone, -but I drank a cup of warm tea, which the jailer's wife was kind enough -to bring to me. She seemed to sympathize with me when she found out how -deeply I had been wronged. I looked at my watch every five minutes; I -was full of impatience. It seemed that nine o'clock would never -come--but nevertheless it did come at last. The town clock began to -strike, when the jailer said it was time to go." - - - - -CHAPTER XXVI. - - -During the short recess the queen had agreed to allow, which was granted -at the request of the Barbarian Chief, the excursionists assembled in -various little groups on different parts of the boat, while most of -them were discussing the merits of Ingomar's story. George and the Duke -of Wellington were seated apart from the other passengers, deeply -interested in an animated discussion--the subject being the eccentric -movements of the black domino and the unusual sadness of the queen. - -"My lord," observed the king, "did you notice that the queen fainted -when those two men arrested Demar?" - -"Of course I did! and that is not all--the lady in the black domino -fainted, too, when the Barbarian Chief was arrested." - -"Now, I would like very much to know who this Barbarian Chief is, and -why both of those women should manage to faint about him. I have never -been so fortunate as to have as much as one woman care enough about me -to faint for me." - -"As to that, I am decidedly of the opinion that you have lost nothing on -that score; but, between you and me, there is something mysterious -connected with that woman in the black domino. So far as the queen is -concerned, I imagine that she is one of those good-hearted, sympathetic -women, the kind who have more tears than talent--a sort of Niobe." - -"Look at that man yonder leaning against the corner of the Texas, and -see if you can discover anything singular about him." - -"Why, that is Henry of Navarre; of course there is nothing strange about -him. Why do you ask the question?" - -"He is not the man who wore that uniform when we started from Memphis." - -"Why do you conclude that he is not the one who personated Navarre at -the ball?" - -"He is not quite so tall, but has a more dignified carriage; and then he -does not mingle with us, or participate in any of our amusements, as the -real Navarre did. The original Napoleon has also slipped out of his -costume, and a counterfeit has slipped in; and the strangest part of the -mystery is that no one knows what has become of the parties who -originally personated Navarre and Napoleon. Now if this is done in order -to enable those men to play a little joke on the ladies, there is no -harm in it, but I suspect that some sort of mischief is afloat. I guess -it will appear in the wind-up that these two men, and the black domino, -are in some way interested in each other; and you may be sure, if they -are, that it will produce mischief." - -"The truth is, we are all engaged in playing a farce, and I am heartily -ashamed of my part of it--it reminds me of Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About -Nothing.'" - -"I cannot by any means indorse that idea, for I have been very much -interested in Ingomar's story." - -"It is too tedious. Give me something lively--something to make me -laugh--such as 'Bill Arp,' or 'Artemus Ward,' 'Don Quixote,' or 'Mark -Twain.'" - -"I prefer love stories. I like to read about women who prefer death to a -loveless marriage, and men who are always getting into scrapes in -attempting to protect virtue." - -"I guess, then, you like the 'Bride of Lammermoor' and the 'Talisman'?" - -"Yes, and all the other thrilling novels written by Sir Walter Scott." - -Don Quixote now came up and joined the king and duke in the -conversation, which soon drifted back to the lady in the black domino. - -"By the by," exclaimed Don Quixote, "I think that mysterious woman is -about to stir up a row between Napoleon and Navarre. The cauldron is -boiling and bubbling furiously, and blood is on the face of the moon." - -"How do you know that blood is on the moon, when that planet is on the -other side of the globe?" - -"Of course you understand I was speaking metaphorically as to that; but -really, I should not be at all surprised to hear of a requisition being -made for pistols and coffins for two. To be more explicit, I think a -duel is on the tapis." - -"Now, sir knight," said the duke, "if you are in possession of any news -that will in any manner relieve our minds about that strange woman, I -earnestly beg you to let us hear it at once; for you know what a deluge -of curiosity she has manufactured on this boat." - -"I am very sorry to be unable to furnish any information on that point -of a reliable nature--all is conjecture as far as the black domino is -concerned; she has had a long interview with the captain. I happened to -hear enough of the conversation to convince me that Navarre and -Napoleon were the parties discussed; then the captain appeared to be -angry, and I distinctly heard him mutter an oath or two, after he parted -with the black domino. Colonel Confed informed me that a duel was likely -to be fought, and that the lady in the black domino was at the bottom of -it, but he refused to mention the names of the parties to the quarrel; -though I am convinced from what I have heard that Navarre and Napoleon -are to be the combatants." - -"I guess it will turn out to be a tempest in a teapot, or a mouse born -of a mountain," replied the duke, as he handed the king and Don Quixote -a fresh cigar; "I wish," continued the duke, "that Colonel Confed and -General Camphollower would cease their continual clamor about politics; -they have bored every man on this boat half to death, and each one seems -to imagine that the fate of the nation depends on his opinions." - -"They have succeeded in bridging the bloody chasm; but they have split -on the state rights question; they have generously consented that the -war shall be considered at an end." - -"Now, that indeed was very kind of them, for I dislike to hear people -continually harping on the war; but let that pass, and we will go back -to the subject. Did you tell the captain that Napoleon and Navarre were -interlopers, intruders, counterfeits, wolves in sheep's clothing?" - -"How could I impart information that I did not possess myself? What do -you mean by intruders, interlopers, etc., etc.?" - -Then the duke imparted to Don Quixote the grounds of his suspicion. - -"They are not the same men who personated Navarre and Napoleon at the -ball; I would risk anything on the truth of my assertion; and they are -both spotting the black domino." - -"If that is true," replied Don Quixote, "it is our duty to mention it to -the captain without delay; and, gentlemen, I further suggest that we -combine our wits, and, if possible, prevent any hostile meeting, if such -is contemplated by any of our excursionists. In the first place, I am -opposed to the barbarous practice of dueling upon principle; then it is -prohibited by the laws of the land, and positively contrary to God's -holy ordinances. In addition to all these objections, we must remember -that a duel might put an end to all of our innocent amusements; -therefore I wish to know whether you will co-operate with me in the -effort to prevent it?" - -"We certainly think your views very correct, and will gladly join you in -your peaceful mission; but I am of the opinion that it is a false -alarm." - -It required some ten or fifteen minutes to collect the entire party, for -they were scattered about the boat, deeply interested in conversation. -Nearly every one of the maskers had been discussing the mysterious woman -in the black domino. At length the queen ascended her throne, and, after -a moment's pause, ordered Ingomar to proceed. - -"When I was conducted into the court-room by the deputy sheriff, his -Honor, Judge Flaxback, occupied the judicial bench; fixing his little -round eyes on me, he surveyed me like a snake endeavoring to charm a -bird. A large crowd of village idlers had assembled in the house, -attracted there, no doubt, by the peculiarity of the case. Flaxback -reminded me of an Egyptian mummy that I had seen in a museum. He was a -little dried-up specimen of decaying humanity, exhibiting in his person -and dress unmistakable evidence of dissipation and dilapidation. His -nose had evidently been broken with a heavy blow of some sort, for an -ugly scar was apparent running horizontally across his face, while his -nostrils flared outward, presenting rather an ugly appearance. He rested -his chin on a plank in front of his seat, and continued to gaze at me -with a lazy, half-asleep sort of a stare that caused my cheeks to burn -with indignation. Every man in the room had his eyes riveted on me, -staring with open mouth as children do at an elephant, while Flaxback -seemed to be waiting for the inspection to be completed before -proceeding with the case. When a drop of blood starts from such a man's -heart, with a view of making a journey to his extremities to furnish a -little life to them, it bids a long adieu to its home, knowing that the -chances are ten to one in favor of its freezing to death on the way. I -sat and impatiently watched the strange looking judge, wondering why he -did not proceed to dispose of my case. He continued to eye me for full -thirty seconds, and then in a voice sounding like that made with a file -when being need to sharpen a handsaw, he ordered the clerk to read the -sheriff's return on the writ of _habeas corpus_. - -"'No return made, sir,' said the clerk, as he began to grab -promiscuously about, snatching up every paper in sight, and looking as -if he were hunting for a small hole to crawl into. - -"'Where's the sheriff?' demanded the judge, in a voice which was -evidently meant to be loud and threatening, but which really did not -amount to a respectable whine. - -"'Fact is, may it please your Honor,' said Mr. Deediddle, 'the sheriff -has just stepped over to Mr. Dick Sninkle's saloon to get a glass of -_water_.' - -"A smile might have been seen on the faces of a majority of the -spectators--they all knew that water did not agree with the sheriff. The -officer soon made his appearance, and the judge asked him why he had -neglected to return the writ. - -"'The writ commanded me to bring the body of Edward Demar before the -court, and here he is; what else could I do?' - -"'Mr. Clerk,' said Flaxback, 'enter a fine of ten dollars against Mr. -Postholder, for failing to return the writ, and unless the return is -instantly made, the fine will be doubled.' - -"The sheriff was so badly confused that he did not know what he was -about; he cast an imploring look at the clerk, made a dash at a pile of -papers on the clerk's desk, then looked up at the ceiling, like an old -duck listening for thunder when her puddle had gone dry. - -"While all this nonsense was being exhibited, I was sitting there -suffering indescribable torture; every moment of time seemed to be worth -a mint of money to me, yet it was being wasted by those people as if it -were valueless. There is no telling when the farce would have ended, but -for Harry's thoughtfulness. He took the writ, and in three minutes wrote -out the return and requested the sheriff to sign it, which he was very -glad to do; he would have signed his own death warrant then without -objection. Mr. Deediddle now made a raid to the front, and began to -address the court. - -"'Fact is, your Honor, it is unnecessary to enter into an investigation -of the circumstances connected with the murder of Mr. Clanton, as this -is purely a question of personal identity. If the prisoner at the bar -is not Edward Debar, why of course he will be discharged--fact, -sir--fact.' - -"The district attorney consented that the investigation might be -confined to the question of personal identity. - -"'Swear your witness, Mr. Clerk,' growled the judge. - -"The clerk began to hunt for the Bible. - -"'Why don't you swear your witnesses, Mr. Clerk?' screamed the judge -impatiently. - -"The clerk became more confused; he grabbed up a book which he thought -was the Bible, but when he found out that it was Mark Twain's 'Innocents -Abroad,' he let it fall on the floor, and began to grab at everything in -the shape of a book. - -"'If you don't swear these witnesses, Mr. Clerk, I'll send you to jail!' -screamed Flaxback. - -"By this time the clerk could have been passed off as a first-class -maniac; his actions were frightful; he threw out both hands in every -direction, and at last snatched up George's Digest, and swore the -witnesses on it before he discovered his mistake. - -"'Mrs. Debar was put on the stand first. She testified to the fact that -while I was very much like her husband, I was not the man. The district -attorney put her through a rigid cross-examination--not because he -thought she was swearing falsely, but he had a suspicion that she had -aided her husband in making his escape. - -"'Mrs. Debar,' said the district attorney, 'didn't you smuggle the tools -into the jail to enable your husband to effect his escape?' - -"Harry sprang to his feet in a moment, his eyes flashing with anger; I -trembled, because I was afraid he was going to commit some imprudent act -that might detain us, when I was so anxious to be flying toward Lottie; -but I had cause to change my mind very soon, for he made a modest, but -eloquent, appeal to the court in behalf of the unfortunate wife, who was -in tears. - -"'I appeal to this honorable court,' said he, 'to protect this -unfortunate lady; her condition is such as to entitle her to the -sympathies of all good men. The law does not require her to answer -questions that would tend to criminate her; and even if the law did not -protect her, the dictates of common humanity should be a sufficient -motive to induce the honorable attorney for the State to withdraw such a -question. We must remember that we have been taught to admire the -devotion which a wife feels for her husband. A true wife will not -forsake her husband when misfortunes overtake him; but the greater his -troubles are the closer she will cling to him; and it should prompt -every true gentleman to respect the noble sentiment of love that induces -her to do it.' - -"When Harry took his seat a murmur of approval was heard among the -spectators, and the district attorney said: - -"'I fully indorse the sentiments so eloquently expressed by my young -friend, and will therefore not press the question further; I will also -say to the court that I am fully satisfied that Mr. Demar has been -unjustly imprisoned. I was well acquainted with Edward Debar; and I -hesitate not to say that I never saw two men so much alike as he and Mr. -Demar; though if they were both present I think a considerable -difference might be detected. Debar had a slight scar over his left eye, -which alone would be sufficient to distinguish him from the prisoner now -at the bar. I therefore give my consent, if the court please, that Mr. -Demar may be discharged.' - -"'Let the prisoner be discharged, Mr. Sheriff,' growled the judge, as he -ordered the officer to adjourn court, and the great farce was ended. - -"No doubt the judge and all of his officers imagined that they had done -for me a very great favor in releasing me, for which it was my duty to -feel grateful. Now, I am in favor of a faithful enforcement of the laws; -but the law is often used by unworthy men as a means of oppression. -Judicial murder has been committed in the State where I was so unjustly -punished by imprisonment. The case of young Boynton, mentioned by Mr. -Wharton in his treatise on criminal law, might be cited in proof of -this. That poor boy was hung by the neck until he was dead for a crime -he did not commit. He was a mere lad, only eighteen. He was charged with -the murder of Mr. Ellis; and when he was led out by the sheriff to be -executed, he began to scream and beg the spectators to save him, -declaring before God that he was innocent. He leaped from the scaffold -into the arms of the assembled multitude, imploring them to protect -him. Poor boy! he was put to death, and before his body had mingled, -with the dust the real murderer died, and on his death-bed confessed -that he had murdered Mr. Ellis, and that young Boynton was innocent. -This scene was enacted in a county adjoining the one where I had been so -unjustly held as a prisoner. Who shall be able to repair the injury so -wrongfully inflicted on me? Who will ever know the extent of the wrong? - -"Three minutes had scarcely elapsed after my release, when Harry and I -were mounted on our high-mettled steeds, and dashing down the road at a -rapid speed. I knew that if we got to the station in time to meet the -north-bound train, we would have to press our horses to their utmost -powers. Our steeds were young, vigorous and full of good mettle, and -needed no whip or spur to urge them on. - -"'Let them go as fast as you like,' said the owner of the noble animals, -as he handed me the reins; 'they have excellent bottom, and will carry -you as swift as the wind.' - -"We had much uneven ground to pass over, many tall hills to climb and -innumerable gullies to leap, but we never halted--on, on we dashed. - -"We had placed ten miles of ground between us and the village of P---- -when I saw the courier coming at a gallop to meet me; his horse was -foaming with perspiration, convincing me that he had been hard pressed. -The lad dashed up, and handed me a dispatch. - -"'I had to wait two hours at the office before the answer came,' said -the boy, as he placed the envelope in my hand. - -"This time I was prepared for the awful news; hence I did not feel such -a shock as I had felt when the other dispatch was handed to me, though -the news was worse than that contained in the first telegram. But you -would probably understand matters better by hearing the telegram read; -it is from Doctor Dodson, who remained with Lottie all the time: - - "'DEAR EDDIE--Your second message was received. I deeply regret - that I have nothing but the worst news to communicate--our darling - Lottie is slowly but surely passing away. She may possibly live - twenty-four hours longer, though I think she will die to-night. I - would be so glad if you and Harry could get here before she dies, - because she expresses such great anxiety to see you. She says she - does not feel a particle of pain. God seems to be merciful in that - respect Her mind remains perfectly clear, and she converses - rationally, but most of her conversation is about you and Harry. I - believe if she could see you it would greatly relieve her mind, and - that then she would pass away without a struggle. If you could - reach home to-night you might see her before she dies. May God, in - His great mercy, give you courage and strength to bear this great - loss with becoming fortitude! DODSON.' - -"As soon as I finished reading this telegram I handed it to Harry, then -told the messenger to go to the village and remain till morning, so as -to give his horse the necessary rest, and the next day to go back to the -station and get our horses and deliver them to the owner. I presented -him my fine gold watch, as a reward for his faithful services, then -dashed away as fast as my gallant steed could carry me. - -"When we were within five miles of the station Harry looked at his watch -and observed: - -"'If we get to the station in time for the up-train we will have a close -race indeed; we have only twenty minutes to make the five miles.' - -"I did not believe that I was doing wrong on that occasion when I urged -my noble horse forward to the very top of his speed. I knew it would -distress and press him both for us to make it in time, yet I believed he -could do it without endangering his life. My conclusions were correct; -for we did dismount at the station as the train dashed into the streets -of the little town. We gave our horses in charge of the livery stable -keeper, and stepped on the platform just as the train began to move. - -"I wish I could convey to my audience a correct idea of my feelings when -I began to hope I would reach home in time to see Lottie before death -claimed her. I hastily wrote a dispatch with my pencil, intending to -have it sent forward from the next office, notifying Doctor Dodson that -we were on the train and would reach home that night. Here is the -identical telegram--I have been careful to preserve them: - - "'DEAR DOCTOR--We are aboard the train, and will be home to-night. - For Heaven's sake don't let my darling die before we come! Send an - answer so it will meet us at Grenada. We are due there at eight - o'clock. Tell Lottie that we are begging God to spare her dear - life. Cheer her up with hope; I can't bear the thought of losing my - darling!' - -"This dispatch was handed to the operator at the first office we -reached, who promised to forward it without delay. Then I dropped down -on my seat and spent every moment in earnest prayer. - -"It was fifteen minutes past eight when the train arrived at Grenada, -and I believe that city is just one hundred miles from Memphis. That is -the place where the Mississippi and Tennessee Railroad connects with the -New Orleans, St. Louis and Chicago Railroad, and we would have to take -the Mississippi and Tennessee road to go to Memphis. As soon as the -train halted I hastened to the telegraph office to inquire for news, as -I was expecting an answer to my last message. I was well acquainted with -the young man who had charge of the office at Grenada--he had formerly -resided in Memphis. He was about my own age, and we had been bosom -friends for many years. I rushed into his presence and hurriedly -inquired if there was a dispatch in the office for me. - -"'Take a seat, Demar,' said the operator, 'you look very ill; can I do -anything for you?' - -"'Any telegram here for me?' I exclaimed, disregarding his kind offer. - -"'Yes,' he hesitatingly answered, 'but you had better take a seat and -compose yourself before you read it. The news it brings is very bad, -though I infer that you have been expecting it.' - -"The objects in the room seemed to be running round, a blindness began -to close over my eyes, and I felt a smothering sensation in my throat -and lungs. The operator very fortunately happened to think of a bottle -of spirits of camphor that he had bought from the drug-store that -day--he seized it and sprinkled my face and moistened my beard with the -liquid, which I believe prevented me from fainting. After a few minutes -had elapsed I requested him to give me the dispatch. - -"'You may give it to me now,' I said, 'because I am prepared for the -very worst.' - -"He handed the envelope to me and I read the following words: - - "'MY DEAR BOY--Trust in God--He alone can comfort you now--our - darling is dying. Death began to lay his cold hands on her dear - body at four o'clock. She may linger four or five hours longer, but - I think all will be over before that time. She expressed so much - anxiety to see Viola that the sheriff very kindly consented to - bring her here, and when they met it was the most affecting scene I - ever witnessed. I fear we committed an error in allowing Viola to - come, because as soon as the sheriff started away with his prisoner - Lottie became worse, and is still rapidly failing. But how could I - have the heart to refuse to let her see Viola, when she insisted so - earnestly to have her sent for? Lottie leaves many messages of love - with us to be delivered to you when you come, provided you do not - arrive in time to receive them from her own lips. - - "'I beseech you, my dear boy, to bow submissively to the will of - God--and remember you can meet Lottie in Heaven if you try. You - will also understand that you are not the only one who grieves for - this great affliction. - - DODSON.' - -"'When does the train start for Memphis?' - -"'Seven o'clock in the morning,' replied the agent. - -"'Alas! that would be too late; all will be over before then,' was my -reply. - -"'I believe,' said the agent, 'that under the circumstances the -superintendent would let you have an extra train for a reasonable -compensation. I will ask him by telegraph, if you wish it.' - -'"You are very kind, sir, and I thank you; please make the request -without delay. Tell the superintendent that money is no object--the -value of the engine and coach is offered, and will be promptly paid if -required. I beg you, sir, not to lose a moment. If you only knew how -precious time is to me now, you would be in a hurry!' - -"While I was urging the agent to send the message, the clicking of the -instrument under his thumb and finger indicated the fact that the -electric fluid was dashing the request into the office at Memphis. The -dispatch was gone in three minutes. A short conversation was then -commenced between the superintendent at Memphis and the agent at -Grenada. As the clicking of the instrument carried the words to the ear -of the operator, he conveyed them to my ear by word of mouth. - -"'Is number seven there?' inquired the superintendent. - -"'Yes,' was the operator's reply. - -"'Is she in good running order?' - -"'I will ascertain in a moment.' - -"'Go ask Mr. Steelbrim to come here quickly,' said the operator to a -little negro who was dozing near the door. - -"The little fellow rose up, shook himself, rubbed his eyes with his -sleeve, gaped, and staggered up against the wall and said: - -"'Sir!' - -"The order was quickly repeated, and the boy walked leisurely away. It -was but a few minutes until a little dark-haired man, with long black -whiskers and large expressive eyes, entered the office. His garments -were covered with grease and smut, and his hands were thrust deep down -in his pockets, and a don't-care sort of expression was visible on his -face. - -"'Is number seven in good running order, Mr. Steelbrim?' inquired the -operator. - -"'Apple-pie, hunkadory, O. K.--no mistake. Never nothing wrong with that -old gal when under my command, you bet!' was replied by the greasy -little man as he limped across the floor, for his left leg was shorter -by two inches than the other. - -"'How long before you can heat her up and be ready to make a quick run -to Memphis, Mr. Steelbrim?' - -"'Do it in less than no time, sir; the old gal's pretty hot now--just -began to cool her off. She hain't been in more'n ten minits; but what's -up?' - -"'An extra train to Memphis; a quick run--very important--no time to be -lost--get ready immediately; take one coach and back down here, and the -orders will be ready.' - -"'Good! The old gal can make the run in two hours, if she has a clean -road and no bigger load than one coach. Glad to make the run--wanted to -go to Memphis anyhow--sweetheart there--want to see her--was going to -ask for leave anyway--ten minits we'll be off like a greased streak of -lightnin'!' - -"The greasy little man moved away as if he meant business. - -"'Number seven is in good order--Mr. Steelbrim anxious to make the run,' -said the operator to the superintendent by wire. - -"'Start him at 8:50 with one coach. Let him make the run in 2:30 if he -can. Order track to be cleared. Tell number four to take side track at -Sardis. Number seven will only stop two minutes at Sardis for -orders--two minutes at Hernando for same purpose--no other stop to be -made.' - -"As the operator repeated this order to me hope, which I thought had -died within me, began to revive. A glimmering hope it was indeed, yet it -was a live hope that I should once more gaze on those pretty blue eyes -before death set his cold seal on them forever. I hurriedly wrote the -following message, which the operator sent to Dr. Dodson: - - "'Will leave here by special train at 8:50, and arrive at depot at - 11:20; have carriage at depot. Tell Lottie we are coming. For - Heaven's sake keep her alive till we come! Answer this at Sardis. - Don't fail nor lose time. Will send another telegram from Sardis.' - -"By the time this dispatch had been forwarded, Mr. Steelbrim had moved -his engine onto the main track, and began to back down to the depot. - -"'All right, cap; the old gal's a-pantin' to be off. Steam one-forty and -a-risin'. What's the orders?' - -"The operator read the orders carefully; then handed the paper to Mr. -Steelbrim. - -"'Good! All aboard!' cried the greasy little man, as he leaped on the -cab and seized the throttle-lever. - -"'Pile on the coal, Jim; keep her a-bilin'; time's up in three minits; -old gal's a-champin' her bits; but I'm the chap that'll hold her on the -rail and let her fly directly!' - -"Harry and I stepped aboard and took seats opposite each other in -silence. A dim lamp struggled for life in one corner of the coach, while -a pale light cast a gloomy appearance over the seats. - -"'Time's up!' exclaimed Mr. Steelbrim, as he gave the lever a backward -pull, and the engine dashed rapidly away." - - - - -CHAPTER XXVII. - - -Miss Kate Darlington was the only daughter of Thaddeus Darlington, a -real down-eastern Yankee, who had imbibed all those unreasonable -prejudices prevailing in the New England States against all citizens of -the South. He had been sent South by the government to look after some -defaulting revenue collectors, and after discharging that duty, he -concluded to locate in Jackson, Mississippi. His daughter, Kate, had -received a polished education, but she had been petted and flattered -until she was pretty well spoiled. Her disposition was gentle and kind -when things went smoothly, but she had a temper which often got the -upper hand, and then she usually made matters rather unpleasant. - -After the maskers had dispersed Miss Darlington stole away from the -crowd, and took a seat behind the ladies' cabin, in order to have what -she called a day dream. A sentiment of a mysterious nature had of late -been disturbing her mind--a strange feeling not altogether painful, and -not entirely pleasant. A kind of joyful pain--a happy sorrow--a pleasant -fear. - -"What is the matter with me?" was the question she asked herself. "What -sort of a pain is this that is mixed with delicious pleasure? How -strange that such joy can be concealed under such misery!" - -While she was thus soliloquizing the image of a man would every now and -then pass across the path of her imagination. She could see the image -plainer when her eyes were shut than with them open; and despite her -efforts to drive it away, it would keep thrusting itself before her, -sometimes in one shape, then in another, but always with the same -look--the same form; that shape was the exact counterpart of the gallant -sir knight of Ivanhoe. - -"Yes, it is so; I am captured at last--it is love; heigh ho! there is no -use to struggle any longer. What will dear papa say when he finds that I -have fallen in love with a real double and twisted rebel--a man who -fought through four years of bloody war against the union--a downright -traitor, who brags of the part he played in the rebel army? Ah, me! how -strange it is that I should fall in love with such a man! But didn't -Juliet fall in love with a son of her father's bitterest enemy? Yes; -but, alas! what a tragic ending did that love produce! Something tells -me that this love will end in sorrow. But stop a moment; why should papa -be Ralleigh's enemy? Why should I not love Captain Burk? He fought for -his country--he fought in self-defense--he battled for his life--his -liberty--his home--his mother and his sisters. He would have been less -than a man if he had refused to fight--it would have been cowardly. No, -he was right and I honor him for it; I love Captain Burk; papa will love -him when he knows him better. I ought to be proud that such a man as -Captain Burk has honored me with his love. I am proud of it. I will -reciprocate his love; and, if papa is willing, I will be the wife of -what my people have misnamed a traitor. Ah, me! there is the rub. Papa -will raise a great row when he knows how I love a rebel." - -Scottie then took out her handkerchief and wiped away the tears that -were stealing down her cheeks. - -"A gentleman is looking for you, miss," said a chamber-maid who came -through the back door and approached her. - -"Who is it?" - -"I believe they call him Divinghoe or Hivanhoe, or some such outlandish -name." - -"Where is he?" - -"He is in the front part of the saloon; he sent me to hunt you." - -"Very well; you may tell him where I am, if you wish." - -But a moment elapsed before Ivanhoe was by Scottie's side. - -"I have been looking all over the boat for you, Scottie. What induced -you to hide from me?" - -"I did not hide from you particularly, but I felt sad and wanted to be -alone." - -"I hope you will not be so cruel as to drive me away, when you know how -it pleases me to be by your side!" - -"Oh, no! I have had my little day dream, and am glad you came." - -"Thank you; can we have a little chat here without being interrupted?" - -"Yes, I guess so; take a seat." - -"I have made another wonderful discovery." - -"What is it?" - -"We have got a counterfeit emperor aboard of this boat." - -"What do you mean?" - -"The real Napoleon has slipped out of his costume, and a counterfeit has -slipped in. To be plain, a stranger got aboard somewhere, and is dressed -in Napoleon's costume; and the real Napoleon has vamoosed the ranch--run -away, disappeared, melted into thin air, fell overboard, become extinct, -or something of the sort; anyway, the original emperor is not -comeatible. Now, Scottie, I should like to know what you think of such -doings?" - -"I will tell you in short what I think: We are all struggling in a sea -of nonsense; and I am heartily ashamed of my part of it. I wish I were -at my father's house--that I do; and if things don't change pretty soon -I shall set my sails in that direction. Napoleon is not the only one who -has been playing tricks on this boat. Captain Quitman ought not to -permit such doings." - -"How did you get possession of the information?" - -"I had had many conversations with the original Navarre; one subject in -particular had been frequently discussed between us. A while ago I -walked up and took Navarre's arm and began to talk about the special -subject. He was startled when I took his arm; and I could feel his body -trembling. After I had gone on talking for about five minutes he gave a -grunt like a wild hog and abruptly walked away, leaving me thunderstruck -with astonishment; I then discovered that he was not the real Navarre." - -"Now, Scottie, if I had been present when that scamp had the impudence -to grunt at you, I think I should have broken his head with my cane." - -"I am very glad, then, you were not present, because I am on Grant's -platform--Let us have peace." - -"Peace is a very good thing in its proper place; but I feel very much -inclined to get up a row here. I think I shall commit some sort of -mischief if these things don't change very soon. The fact is, we may -look out for squalls--some sort of deviltry is brewing aboard of this -boat certain." - -"I am of that opinion, myself; but I think we had better have nothing to -do with it." - -"That woman in the black domino keeps me on the rack all the time; and I -would not be at all surprised if it should turn out that she is at the -bottom of all this mysterious game." - -"Suppose we change the subject and let the black domino and her -co-conspirators work out their own schemes." - -"Very good. What shall we talk about?" - -"Oh, anything for a change." - -"What book is that you hold in your hand?" - -"Paradise Lost." - -"I would rather see Paradise found; but how do you like Milton?" - -"Too much imagination and not enough sentiment. Such extravagant ideas! -Just think of his description of the war in Heaven. He says they plucked -up great mountains by the roots and threw them at each other's heads. -Now I think that is a little too extravagant." - -"If you like sentiment, you admire Tom Moore." - -"Ah! you are right as to that. Give me Moore and Burns above all others. -I often steal away when at home and weep over the sweet sentimental -songs of those favorite poets." - -"Shakespeare is my poet. Speaking of sentiment, it gushes up on every -page, and streams from every line. Rosalind, Imogene, Juliet, Romeo, -Orlando and Hamlet--all are made to utter the most soul-stirring, -heart-melting sentiment. But enough about poetry; take my arm and let us -go on deck and enjoy the scenery." - -As soon as they reached the upper deck, George III. came up with a look -of mystery on his countenance. - -"Good morning. I was wanting to speak a few words with you. Perhaps you -have heard of my great mishap?" - -"No! what is it?" - -"My watch was stolen from my pocket within the last thirty minutes." - -"Ah, ha!" exclaimed Scottie, "I told you so. The whirlwind has started, -and a tornado will wind up the scene." - -"Have you any idea who was the thief?" - -"Yes; but my suspicions may not be well founded." - -"May I know whom you suspect?" inquired Ivanhoe. - -"Yes, provided you will promise not to mention it to any one." - -"Good! I promise, of course." - -"So do I," said Scottie. - -"My suspicions point to that man who appears in Napoleon's dress and -mask; though he is a newcomer." - -"Why not make the charge boldly, and demand the right to make a search -for the watch?" said Ivanhoe. - -"Let us wait and watch him, for he is bent on mischief, and we will -catch him in the act of picking some man's pocket." - -"I beg pardon, gentlemen," said an old man with long, white whiskers, as -he bowed very low to Ivanhoe and George III. He was the same gentleman -who had been so often seen with the lady in the black domino leaning on -his arm. "I have a communication to make which I consider of some -importance. The fact is, matters are becoming somewhat complicated on -this boat; and if I might be so bold as to offer advice, I should say -that it is high time for all these young people to lay aside their -masks. Wolves have managed to get into the flock; and mischief will be -done if matters go on in this way much longer. A lady aboard of this -boat, whose name I am not at liberty to mention, has made a startling -disclosure to me, which portends some dire mischief. The fact is, I am -constrained to believe, from what she told, that murder is -contemplated." - -"May we know the particulars?" - -"Of course, yes; that is the very matter I wish to communicate. If you -will be so good as to request Ingomar to join us, I would be much -obliged, as I think he ought to hear what I have to say." - -Ivanhoe went after Ingomar, and soon returned accompanied by him. - -"The young lady to whose sagacity I am indebted for the important -information which I am about to communicate has a history--yes, a very -strange history, full of queer incidents such as you see in novels. The -young lady to whom I refer is the one in the black domino. You have -often seen her leaning on my arm, gentlemen. She is a most elegant young -lady, of remarkable beauty and superior intellect, whose protector I -have the honor to be at this time. A combination of sad -circumstances--unfortunate events, I might say--have clouded her young -life. You may perhaps have noticed that she has not participated in any -of the amusements in which the young people have been indulging on this -boat. If I were at liberty to reveal the secrets of her unhappy life, I -could unfold a most distressing story; but that is a sealed book, so far -as we are concerned. You have probably noticed a disposition on the part -of this young lady to wander about alone, seeking solitude, where she -could give free vent to her grief, and let her tears flow unnoticed by -the unsympathizing crowd. Well, I did not approve of this course, but -was unable to prevent it; and perhaps, after all, it was fortunate that -I did not stop it, for it was during one of these solitary rambles that -the information which I am going to communicate was obtained. She had -concealed herself on the larboard side of the boat just in front of the -wheel-house, and behind a stack of furniture, where she could meditate -alone, when two men came out and stood on the other side and held a -consultation in very low tones. She could not hear every word that was -said, but what she did hear was of a most startling character. As soon -as the two men stepped into the saloon the young lady came and -immediately imparted to me what she had heard. To say I was surprised -would not convey the full meaning of what I felt. The fact is, I was -shocked, startled, paralyzed with astonishment! Yes, gentlemen, it is -most wonderful--I might say diabolical. I can repeat, word for word, all -that the young lady heard, which I mean to do. It was unfortunate, -however, that she did not see the two men--that is, she did not get a -full view of them; but she saw the head and shoulders of one of the men -as he passed through the door, and she thinks she knows who he is; but -for fear that she might be mistaken as to that, she requested me not to -mention the name of the man she suspects, which request I, of course, -must respect. Now here is the conversation verbatim, as it was related -to me by this unfortunate young lady: - -"'He is the man, beyond question,' said the first speaker. - -"'Yes, that's certain,' replied number two. - -"'He has lots of greenbacks,' says number one. - -"'We must have his money and his life, too. We must first get his money, -and then settle the other matter.' - -"'Do you know how much money he has?' - -"'No; but it is way up in the thousands--and I think I may say tens of -thousands.' - -"'Good; That's lucky; but have you matured any plan to crib the game?' - -"'Yes.' - -"Then they began to talk in a whisper, and the young lady could not hear -all that was said; but ever and anon she could catch a word such as -'Throttle him--chuck him overboard--dead men keep secrets--revenge--old -grudge--he ruined me--money good--revenge better--could steal his -money--but rather have his life.' Then they whispered for a long time in -tones so low that the young lady could not hear what was said. Now, -gentlemen, I guess you will indorse me when I say it is diabolical. Who -is to be the victim? who is to be chucked overboard? That is the -question, gentlemen. It may be you, or you, or you, or it may be me. -What's to be done? That's the question I put; shall we sit still and -wait for the catastrophe; or shall we go to work and prevent it?" - -"I can answer for one," said Scottie, in a tone of firmness, as she rose -from her seat: "I shall leave this boat as soon as we reach Vicksburg, -and make my way to my father's house at Jackson, Mississippi; I wash my -hands of this nonsense." - -"If Scottie leaves the boat at Vicksburg," observed Ivanhoe, "I am -inclined to the opinion that another passenger will feel it his duty to -fall back, too." - -"I'll fight it out on this line if it takes all summer," said George -III. as he walked round, describing a circle of fifteen feet. "The man -who chucks me overboard shall go along with me; and who robs me of my -purse, only cheats himself, and does not make me poor, indeed; because -that has already been done long, long ago." - -"A man would be an expert pickpocket indeed who could steal a purse from -me," said Ivanhoe; "I have had no use for an article of that sort for -many years; Scottie can testify truly." - -"I don't suppose you have had any use for a purse since Confederate -money went down," replied Scottie. - -"I think we had better consult Captain Quitman about this matter," -suggested Ingomar. - -"Certainly, sir, I agree with you there," observed the old gentleman -with the white whiskers, "and if you will wait a moment I will bring him -here." - -Captain Quitman soon appeared accompanied by the old gentleman. - -"Well," said the captain, "what's the question to be discussed?" - -The old man related, in a rambling manner, what the young lady in the -black domino had heard. When he had finished the narrative, he began to -stroke his long white whiskers with his left hand. - -"What do you think of that, sir? Yes, yes, that's the question, Captain -Quitman; what do you think of that, sir?" - -"Gammon, sir! all gammon!" muttered the captain, as he lighted a fresh -cigar and began to puff the smoke in clouds above the old gentleman's -head. - -"Gammon! gammon! zounds! sir, do you apply that epithet to the young -lady who has the honor to be under my protection--I mean the young lady -whom I have the honor to protect?" The old gentleman locked his hands -under the tail of his coat, and began to prance around at a rapid rate. -"Gammon! I think you said gammon, sir! What in the deuce do you mean by -gammon, sir? Do you know the meaning of the word, sir? I ask you that, -sir. Do you know, sir, that gammon and humbug mean the same thing? Why, -didn't you say the young lady was a humbug, sir, in plain terms! Answer -me that, sir. I'll have you understand, sir, that this young lady is no -humbug; she is not gammon either, sir. If you call this unhappy young -lady a humbug, sir, you shall answer for it; yes, answer for it. Is that -plain enough for you, sir?" - -"I beg pardon, sir," said Captain Quitman, politely; "you have entirely -misunderstood me, my good friend; I had no allusion to the young lady -when I made the remark, I assure you. I am convinced that the young lady -heard just what she stated; but I was inclined to think that the -conversation she heard was gammon, or humbug, if you please; I infer -that the conversation alluded to something that had occurred, not to a -plan for future execution." - -"You did not mean to apply the word gammon to the young lady then?" - -"Certainly not! certainly not! I had no thought of such a thing." - -"Then, sir, there's my hand--I forgive you, sir, with all my heart. I am -a peaceable man--fact is, sir, I never get excited. I am slow to anger; -I love peace, but despise the word gammon. I don't think such an odious -word should ever be used. I had an uncle once who committed suicide -under circumstances of the most distressing character. My uncle was a -very handsome young man--everybody said he resembled me. He was a very -sensitive, melancholy man; had a fashion of looking on the dark side of -everything; the fact is, my uncle was an unhappy young man. He fell in -love with a beautiful young widow, and for a long time he tried to -muster up courage to ask her to marry him; but it was postponed from -month to month, until another man entered the lists to contend for the -fair prize. At first the beautiful widow was rather favorably inclined -toward my uncle. Time went on--my uncle went on, too; so did the -beautiful widow. After so long a time, my uncle at last, in a fit of -desperation, asked the beautiful widow to marry him. What do you think -was her reply, sir? Why, sir, she looked him full in the face and -sneeringly said, 'Gammon!' The next morning my uncle's remains were -found in a briar patch with a bullet hole through his head; and on a -sheet of paper, which he held clinched in his fist, appeared the odious -word--gammon, in large letters made in red ink. Now, sir, you will -readily understand why I was displeased when you used that word just -now." - -"Ah, sir, I again most humbly ask your pardon--I certainly did not mean -to use the word as in any way applicable to you or the young lady." - -"Again, sir, I offer you my hand; but I fear you do not attach as much -importance to what the young lady heard as you should; in fact, sir, I -think you are mistaken when you conclude that the conversation referred -to something which had transpired at some previous time." - -"I am inclined to agree with this gentleman's views," observed George -III., "because part of the conversation evidently referred to some one -on this boat who was to be the victim. By the by, had you heard that my -watch was snatched from my pocket but an hour ago?" - -"Ha! is that so?" exclaimed Captain Quitman, who for the first time -began to look serious. "This, indeed, is news to me--it must be looked -into; whom do you suspect?" - -"The man wearing the mask and uniform of Napoleon. There are three men -on this boat wearing costumes that were worn by other men when we left -Memphis." - -"I must confess that this information surprises me; this conduct looks -suspicious; something must be done." - -"I think all masks should at once be discarded," observed the old -gentleman; "and I had advised that course before you came up." - -"No! no!" said Captain Quitman, "that would prevent us from catching the -thieves. I think I can suggest a better plan; in fact, I believe we can -manage to capture the rascals, if my plan is adopted. We will employ -some one to watch the three suspicious men; meantime don't mention this -matter to any one; just let me manage the case. I'll place guards on all -parts of the boat, both day and night, with instructions to keep an eye -on those three men. Let the amusements proceed as if nothing had -happened--mention the matter to no one, and I'll vouch for the result. I -have a man on board who was in the detective service many years. I'll -put him on their tracks. Your watch shall be found, if the matter is -left to me; if not, you shall be paid for it." - -"Your plan, sir, is evidently the best under the circumstances," said -Ingomar, "because if we unmask now that would enable the thieves to -evade detection. Let the young lady in the black domino understand that -she is not to tell any one about what she heard." - -"Do you remember the number of your watch?" inquired Captain Quitman, -addressing George III. - -"No." - -"What is its value?" - -"I don't know." - -"Where did you purchase it?" - -"I--I, that is, I ah, hem! I didn't buy it at all, sir." - -"Ah! a present then, I suppose, from some dear friend?" - -"No." - -"You inherited it from deceased relations?" - -"No." - -"Then how in the deuce did you come by it?" - -"I borrowed it from a friend." - -"Ha! ha! ha!" laughed the jolly old captain, "that makes the loss a more -serious one; but never mind, you shall have your watch again soon, or -cash enough to satisfy your friend." - -"But suppose those suspicious individuals should try to leave the boat," -said the old gentleman with the white whiskers. - -"I shall instruct the guards to arrest them, and compel them to unmask -and submit to a search, whenever they attempt to leave the boat." - -Ingomar and Captain Quitman then walked away, followed by the old -gentleman with the white whiskers. - -"Well, Scottie, I'll give you a nickel for your thoughts." - -"Keep your nickel; and you had better not seek to know my thoughts just -now, for they are not of a very pleasant nature. However, one idea has -found its way into my scanty brain, which I have no objection to your -knowing." - -"Let me have it, pray; any little idea of yours would be acceptable to -me." - -"The black domino is a humbug, and her guardian is an old fool; there -now, you have got at least one idea; do what you please with it." - -"Yes, and a very bright little idea it is, too; something of the same -sort has been knocking for admission at the back door of my brain-pan -for some time." - -"Ah, indeed! I hope it did not knock very hard." - -"Scottie, dear, don't cut so deep, pray." - -"Don't call me 'Scottie, dear,' if you please; I am tired of it. It is -time for the queen's party to re-assemble, and I want Ingomar to hurry -through with his story, because when that is done the masks must all be -laid aside." - -"Take my arm, Scottie." - -"No, no, that's not the style now; you take mine." - -"Good enough; anything to get you in a good humor." - -"I smell tobacco, and something else; I believe it is gin." - -"Ha, hem! I dare say you smell tobacco, but as to gin, I expect you are -mistaken; it's brandy." - -"Well, either is bad enough, and I despise both." - - - - -CHAPTER XXVIII. - - -A great change was perceptible among the merry maskers when they had -re-assembled in obedience to the orders of the queen. The different -members of the party dropped in one at a time, taking their seats in -silence. One circumstance happened which created some little excitement -and no little curiosity. Henry of Navarre, who had kept away from the -party up to this time, came forward and, bowing very low to the queen, -asked permission to join the party to hear the story. As Navarre made -his request she gave a sudden start, as if the sound of the voice had -frightened her; and a perceptible tremor was discernible in her tone as -she requested him to be seated. Napoleon, instead of taking his seat -near the queen, took up his position by the corner of the pilot house, -some distance from the spot occupied by the other maskers. One of the -party called to him and requested him to take his place. He shook his -head, but made no reply; and the queen commanded Ingomar to proceed. - -"My good friends, I am now about to reach that part of my story which -gives me more pain than pleasure to relate; in fact, I may venture to -say that it will be all pain and no pleasure. I would gladly skip over a -portion of the story, but that would leave a gap which would show an -unfinished job. There is one circumstance, in this connection, which I -consider it to be my duty to mention. During all my sufferings there was -a sustaining influence that held me up--an invisible, indescribable -presence all the time with me that kept me from dying with despair. That -most potent influence was secured by humble, devout, sincere, secret -prayer, coupled with an unswerving determination to discharge my whole -duty under all circumstances. This strange influence seemed to surround -me on all occasions; and it enabled me to keep my head above the huge -waves of trouble that were dashing against me with great fury. To be -plain, I put my trust in God; and He did not forsake me. Some people -would be disposed to sneer at sentiments of this character. In fact, I -have often heard such sentiments ridiculed; and I have as often known -men to change from the one extreme to the other. I knew a young man in -Memphis, a few years ago, who had occasion to change his views. The -change was brought about in a most singular manner. The young man was -assisting some workmen to cover a very tall house, situated on Shelby -street. A conversation had been going on for some time among the -laborers, on the questions connected with the future state. The young -man seemed to be the leader in the conversation. - -"'I don't believe that God answers prayers,' said he; 'I don't believe -He pays any attention to the concerns of men; I never prayed in my life, -and I am healthy and happy. I think it is simple in a man to ask God for -anything. He knows what we want; and if He wishes us to have it He will -give it to us without our asking.' - -"As he uttered the last word his feet slipped from under him and he fell -at full length on his back. The north side of the roof was covered with -a white frost, which caused the young man's feet to slip. The building -was three stories high; and from the ground to the eaves was nearly -forty feet. The young man was standing near the top of the roof, and as -he uttered the sentence, he stepped over on the north side to get a -hammer that he had left there, when he fell flat on his back; his body -darted toward the edge of the roof like a lump of ice gliding down the -mountain side. At the very brink of the roof, a nail caught in his -clothes and stopped him. His legs were hanging over the edge while his -body lay back on the shingles. The ground near the foundation of the -house was covered with innumerable large stones, with hundreds of sharp -corners and edges, which every one knew would cause the young man's -death, if he fell on them. There the man's body swung forty feet above -the ground--only held by a little number four nail. The slightest -movement might send his soul across the dark river. I have heard many -people pray, but such a prayer as that young man uttered then and there -I have never heard before or since. The most solemn promises of -reformation were made, the most earnest appeals to God for help. A -ladder was quickly brought from an adjoining hook and ladder company's -quarters, and the young man was saved. If any of my friends have a -desire to know the name of this young man, go to all the churches in -Memphis and hear all the Christians pray--then select the one that prays -longest and loudest--that's he. - -"But I crave your pardon, my friends, for this digression, and will -return to my story. We left Grenada at 8.50 sharp. The night was -unusually dark; heavy clouds overspread the horizon and a steady patter -of rain-drops could be heard falling against the windows of the coach. -Harry and myself were the only occupants, and the train consisted of the -engine, tender, and a single car in which we rode. Occasionally I would -hoist the sash of the window in order to let the cold damp atmosphere -cool my burning cheeks--for I felt as if my blood were boiling hot. As -the head-light of the engine cast its bright rays on the trees along the -road, I could see that we were dashing on with lightning speed. I -occupied a seat on the left side of the coach, while Harry sat on the -right, and immediately opposite the one where I was. When the windows -were all down, there was an overpowering feeling of suffocation that was -unbearable; and when they were up, the wind came dashing in accompanied -by streams of rain. I would close the window and endure the oppressive -closeness as long as I could; then hoist the sash again, letting the -wind and rain pour in until my face would be cooled. I had borrowed -Harry's watch, and sat with it open in my hand, counting every second of -time, which seemed to linger unusually long. A mental question kept -presenting itself to my mind: Will I ever see Lottie again? Will she be -dead before I get there? What is to be my fate in the future? Can I -consent to drag out a long, miserable existence, after my darling has -gone to Heaven? I made a solemn vow to God that I would not rebel -against His will, but that I would humbly submit to, and bear without -complaint, such punishment as He, in His great wisdom, might send upon -me. I earnestly begged for Lottie's life. No one ever prayed more -humbly and sincerely than I did on that occasion; and I believe Harry -did the same--though he sat silently in his seat, apparently buried in -his own sad thoughts. Sometimes he would turn his face toward me and -point to the watch which I held in my hand--this I understood to be an -inquiry as to the time. The only answer I made was to hold the watch -close to his eyes. He would glare at it, then lean back in his seat, -without uttering a word. - -"Every now and then the wind would dash in through the window, -scattering the falling rain over my face, causing the lamp to flare up -and spatter; then for an instant the feeble light would flicker and -struggle as if in the last agonies of dissolution. After an unusual gust -had dashed in, bringing with it a copious shower of rain, I was -compelled to close the window to prevent the lamp from being totally -extinguished. As soon as I had excluded the air, the same feeling of -suffocation that had annoyed me so often came upon me with redoubled -severity. I could not get enough air into my lungs notwithstanding I was -struggling to do so. I felt as I suppose one feels when dying; in fact, -I do not believe that the actual pains of dissolution could have -increased my sufferings. - -"Harry made a sign signifying a wish to know the time. I managed to hold -the face of the watch so he could see it. - -"'9.20,' he whispered, as he leaned back in his seat and closed his -eyes. The lamp now began to sing and sputter, spitting the oil up -through the chimney, making a dozen different sounds. It would dart a -bright blaze nearly to the top of the chimney, then sink down so low -that no light could be seen. It would whine like a young child, then -sing; at times it would sputter--then pop, pop, pop, like the cracking -of a small whip; anon it would whistle--and blaze up, casting a dazzling -light all over the seats--then drop back to its usual dim dimensions. -After it had performed a dozen such strange freaks, it gave one long -shriek and suddenly expired. We were left in total darkness; a darkness -as black as blindness itself. A ton's weight seemed to be pressing on my -breast; I felt that my last moment had come. I sank down on the seat -without the strength to hold up my head; I was in a swoon. The first -sensation I experienced, after my reason returned, was that of the most -delicious pleasure. The strangest, but most exquisite, feeling of -happiness seemed to steal over me; the most mysterious influence -appeared to surround me. The smothering sensation was gone, and a -delightful absence of pain was in its stead, and at once the coach -seemed to be filled with the most delicious perfume, such as I had so -often enjoyed while with Lottie in her flower garden. 'What does it -mean?' I asked myself. 'How could the coach be filled with such -delightful odor when all the windows were closed?' - -"'Harry, what in Heaven's good name does this mean?' I at last managed -to ask. - -"'Hush, Ed,' he whispered, 'some one is in this coach--it is a lady; I -felt her skirts brush past my knees!' - -"'Lottie!' I exclaimed, as I sprang to my feet. - -"'What do you mean?' whispered Harry, as he caught me by the arm, while -he was trembling like one in an ague fit. - -"'Lottie, darling, is it you?' I gasped, while Harry still held me by -the arm. - -"'Are you mad?' he exclaimed, as he closed his fingers about my arm. -'Why do you call Lottie? Don't you know she is dying in Memphis?' - -"'She was here this very moment; I felt her skirt brush my knee, and I -believe she called my name,' I replied. - -"'Nonsense! I think there's a lady in this coach--she passed me a moment -ago. I distinctly felt her skirts brush against my knees as she went -down the aisle.' - -"'Upon my honor, I thought I heard Lottie call my name.' - -"'Pshaw! Edward, of course that is all imagination, and I beg you not to -talk so. I suspect that some one is trying to steal a ride; I am sure -there is some one in this coach besides you and me. Try to calm -yourself; what makes you tremble that way?' - -"'It is yourself who is trembling; let go my arm--you are hurting it! I -declare, you are shaking as if you had an ague fit!' - -"'Yes, and your hand is as cold as ice.' - -"'Hark! what was that? did you hear anything?' - -"'No, but as I live I felt some one brush past me.' - -"'So did I; and it was a female, beyond all doubt, for I felt her skirts -touch me as she passed, just as I did a moment ago.' - -"'Yes, and I distinctly felt something tickle my left cheek; it was the -same feeling I had so often experienced when Lottie was near me, and a -stray lock of hair would touch my face.' - -"'I declare, this is the strangest mystery that I ever heard of! Give me -a match and let me relight the lamp, so we can see who it is.' - -"'I have not got a match--you will have to go and request the fireman to -come and light it. Pray do so at once, for this darkness is -distressing.' - -"As soon as Harry went out to bring the fireman, I again felt something -softly passing across my cheek. I threw out my arms, expecting to catch -the living body of some person; but not so--I caught nothing. As I -turned round I felt the same touch on my right cheek. It might have been -imagination, but I thought I again heard Lottie calling my name. The -truth is, I was so much overcome with excitement that I scarcely knew -what was going on around me. Harry was out but a few moments, returning -accompanied by the fireman, who immediately lighted the lamp. We -procured a lantern and began to search for the mysterious passenger. We -carefully examined every seat, looking under each bench, but could find -nobody. We went out and examined the rear platform, thinking that -probably some one might be stealing a ride, but nothing of the sort was -to be seen. I became perfectly convinced that no one was concealed -either in or outside of the coach. I was overwhelmed with astonishment -at the singular mystery. When I told Harry what had occurred during the -time he was gone after the fireman, informing him that I thought I heard -Lottie's voice distinctly call my name, he fixed his eyes upon my face, -and gazed steadily for a moment, as if to satisfy himself that I had not -gone mad. - -"'Ed,' said he, 'your mind has been taxed too heavily of late; I think -it is quite unsettled. I do not believe you ever were inclined to be -superstitious.' - -"'No,' said I, 'superstition has never been classed among my many -faults; but on this occasion I must confess that I am unable to tell -exactly what I do think. It may be as you say, that sorrow has to some -extent unsettled my mind; but nevertheless I am sure I heard some one -call my name, with a voice I could recognize among ten thousand. My -telegram will be answered; the answer will meet us at Sardis; it will -bring news of Lottie's death; it will tell us that she died at 9:20; you -will remember that was the exact time when the coach was filled with the -delicious fragrance. That was the very moment when the lamp died, and -then it was that we felt the skirts of a lady's dress brush past us. -Harry, our darling is dead, and as sure as we live her sweet spirit was -with us here in this coach.' - -"'Oh, Edward, don't talk that way, I beseech you! I declare, you -frighten me. You are as pale as a ghost; sit down and try to be calm. -You will regret this language when you get over the excitement.' - -"I leaned back on the seat, closed my eyes, and endeavored to analyze -the mysterious occurrences that had just happened; but the more I -thought of the matter the more unsettled became my mind, and I began to -try to fix my thoughts on other objects, but all seemed confusion and -mystery. Harry settled himself down on the cushion and leaned his head -on the back of the seat, closed his eyes and silently communed with his -own thoughts. Not another word was uttered by either of us until the -train drew up in front of the hotel at Sardis. A considerable crowd of -people began to collect about the spot, having been somewhat surprised, -no doubt, at the arrival of a train at that unusual time. Every now and -then a man's head would be thrust in at the door--then suddenly -withdrawn. It was but a few seconds after the train had halted when Mr. -Steelbrim poked his head in at the door, and, holding an envelope in his -hand, said: - -"'A telegram for Edward Demar.' - -"My hands trembled so that I could scarcely open the envelope; but at -length I did, and read as follows: - - - "'MEMPHIS, 9.30 P. M. - - "'My Dear Boy--Trust In God. He will sustain you. All is over. - Lottie died at 9.20. Her last words were love messages to you. She - expired with your picture in her hand, while it was moist with her - kisses. Don't let this awful blow crush you. Remember that you can - go to her, if she cannot come to you. Rely on Him who alone can - give you comfort now. Her last moments were free from pain, and she - was not alarmed at the approach of death. Her mind was clear to the - last. We know her pure soul is now in Heaven. God grant, my dear - boy, that we may meet our darling there. The funeral will take - place at 4 P. M. on to-morrow evening. A carriage will meet you at - the depot. - - "'DODSON.' - -"'It is just as I told you, Harry,' I said, as I handed him the dispatch -and fell back on my seat. I did not faint; I did not even groan, because -I was prepared for the awful blow. I felt as if some strong man held my -throat in an iron grip, and that the breath was being choked out of me. -I pushed the sash up and let the wind and rain pour in on my hot brow, -while I was struggling to fill my lungs. As soon as Harry finished -reading the dispatch he let it fall to the floor, and his body went down -with it. I saw him fall, but I was unable to go to his assistance; in -fact, I never thought of offering aid; I was thinking of my own grief. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIX. - - -"Being so completely prostrated by the great mountain of grief that -pressed heavily on my sad heart, I failed to notice the condition of -Harry Wallingford, whose upturned face had put on a death-like -expression. It was after several minutes had elapsed that I happened to -look at him; I was considerably frightened when I beheld the ghost-like -features. I ascertained, upon examination, that he had fainted; and also -discovered a stream of blood flowing from his left temple, that came -from an ugly wound caused by striking his head against the sharp corner -of the seat as he fell. I dashed some cold water in his face, then -lifted him from the floor and laid him on the seat, watching eagerly for -signs of returning life, which I was gratified to see very soon. Fixing -his eyes on me with a wild, restless expression, he said: - -"'Is is true that Lottie is dead? How can you gaze on me with such a -look of affection, Ed, when you know that by your kindness you are -heaping coals of living fire on my unworthy head? If you would abuse me, -curse me, spit on me, spurn me, or do anything to show that you despise -me--I could bear it; but to receive disinterested kindness from one that -I have so deeply wronged is a greater punishment than humanity can -endure. You must remember that I have murdered Lottie, yes, I have -closed those pretty blue eyes forever; I have pushed her fair body into -the grave; I have invited the worms to banquet on her queenly form; I -slapped you in the face, I drove Viola to desperation, and caused her to -murder her little brother, and yet I am unhung, and you can look kindly -on me! What kind of man are you? what sort of a heart is yours? why do -you not plunge a dagger into my breast? Well, I suppose you think that -you can kill me with kindness as well as any other way; and in that you -are very correct. When I am dead, I want you to continue your kindness -until you see my remains deposited by the side of my murdered sister. I -know I don't deserve such honor, but I may rely on your goodness to have -my last request complied with.' - -"The strangeness of his conduct, the mystery of his language, had a -tendency to add to the great waves of misery that were rolling over me, -for I inferred that he was contemplating suicide. For full thirty -minutes he continued to rave about innumerable blunders that he accused -himself of having committed, and I positively assert that no prosecuting -attorney could have given such an offensive coloring to willful and -malicious murder as he gave to the cause of Lottie's death, all of which -he declared had been produced by himself. I ventured to discuss the -matter with him as soon as I regained sufficient self-command to enable -me to do it, hoping to lead his mind away from the subject of Lottie's -death; but it was like the blind trying to lead the blind. While I was -endeavoring to console Harry Wallingford, I stood as much in need of it -as he did; nevertheless, I put forth my utmost efforts to soothe him. - -"I was somewhat surprised when the train came to a sudden halt in front -of the Hernando Station. Mr. Steelbrim thrust his smutty head into the -front door and said: - -"'By jing! we made the best time on record; the old gal is in a splendid -humor to-night--made a mile a minit from Sardis here, and I bet she -could distance a streak of greased lightning from here to Memphis. If I -had a track from here to the moon, I could make the old gal climb the -grade in time to make the connection. We are now three minits ahead of -time, and according to orders, we must not move a peg till time is up.' -Then he turned round and addressed the fireman: - -"'Feed the old gal a little, Mr. Smutty, and ile her j'ints good, for -I'm gwine to let her rip from here to Memphis; she'll make it in -twenty-five minits like a top. The old gal knows me, and she allers -makes up her mind for business when this chap holds the throttle. Tom -Scratchler undertook to manage her t'other day, but she took the dumps -and wouldn't run worth a cent; but it takes me to hold her down to -work.' - -"'Wait a moment, Mr. Steelbrim,' said the telegraph operator, 'a -dispatch is coming for Edward Demar.' - -"'All hunkadory,' replied the eccentric little engineer, 'plenty of -time, and if necessary, I can persuade the old gal to put in a few extra -licks.' - -"The rain had ceased, and the dark clouds began to move rapidly -northward; the moon, that had been obscured, emerged from behind them, -casting a bright, cheerful light over the earth. - -"'Here we are, Demar,' exclaimed Mr. Steelbrim, as he came in and handed -me the telegram. - -"I tossed it down on the seat, not caring to read any news since Lottie -was dead. In fact, I felt a peculiar hatred against all telegraph lines, -and more especially against the one that had brought me the fatal news. -Mr. Steelbrim started his engine forward with such a sudden plunge that -it threw me to the third seat behind where I was standing, pitching me -head foremost against the stove-pipe, slightly bruising my head. I think -the effect of the shock was beneficial, for it seemed to relieve the -smothering sensation which had afflicted me for some time. Seating -myself where I could watch Wallingford--for I was afraid he meditated -self-murder--I began to conjecture in regard to the contents of the -envelope that lay on the seat just in front of me, and as is usual in -such cases, never guessed anywhere near the truth. I might have gone on -conjecturing for a hundred years, and I dare say I never would have made -the right guess as to the purport of the message. After taxing my mind -in that way for five minutes: - -"'I have hit the mark at last,' I muttered to myself: 'The sheriff will -let Miss Bramlett attend Lottie's funeral.' - -"Having satisfied myself that I had at last made the proper guess, I -took the envelope, tore it open and held it carelessly for some time -before I commenced reading it. I have that particular telegram here in -my bosom; and I have no doubt my friends would like to hear it read. I -had often heard men say that the danger of death being caused by good -news was equal to that produced by bad; but I never did credit any such -notions until after I received that dispatch. I am now a full believer -in the idea that death could be, and doubtless has often been, produced -by the sudden shock occasioned by the reception of unexpected good news; -but let me read you the telegram: - - "'MEMPHIS, 10:10 P. M. - - "'Bless God, my dear boy! A wonderful miracle has been wrought! - Medical science is all a humbug, a bauble, a farce, nonsense, - moonshine; the profession all bosh! I would not give a nickel for - any man's opinion; I never will give another opinion; don't ever - ask me for an opinion; I won't give it. I telegraphed you, 40 - minutes ago, that Lottie was dead! I thought she was dead; we all - thought so; medical science pronounced her dead. If I had not the - evidence of my own eyes to the contrary, I should continue to say - she was dead; but when I see those pretty eyes watching me, I am - forced to halt. Lottie is alive! and says she is not going to die! - Plaxico says she will not die; and if I had not vowed never to give - another opinion, I should say so, too. Plaxico says she was in a - trance, sometimes called an ecstasy--a sort of suspended animation. - I say she was dead; he says he has seen many such cases--I say - gammon--though, bear in mind, I venture no opinion. If the - Mississippi river were to commence running north it would not - surprise me; fact is, nothing could surprise me after what I have - seen to-night. Lottie talks very strangely; says she was with you - on the train to-night; what does it all mean? Plaxico contends that - the soul was temporarily released from the body; I say bosh. Lottie - is much better, mind clear, pulse regular, respiration good, - symptoms all favorable, no pain. Bless God, my boy! but don't - construe this as an opinion from me. Be cautious when you arrive; - Lottie must be prepared to receive you. The slightest shock might - prove fatal; will meet you at front gate, and advise you how to - act. Get control of your feelings before you see Lottie. - - DODSON.' - -"Perhaps a man possessed of a vivid imagination might work his mind up -to a point where he could make a pretty fair guess as to the joy that -came to my crushed heart when I read that dispatch; but I know that no -eloquent writer could set down anything approaching a correct -description of it. It would not be an exaggeration to say that I was for -a moment paralyzed with the excess of joy. I did not shout, scream, or -move, but stood like one who had been stunned by a heavy blow, while I -held my hand over my heart, pressing it very hard in order to still its -violent throbbing. As soon as I recovered sufficiently to enable me to -speak calmly I called to Wallingford, who was sitting there with his -eyes closed, looking more like a block of white marble than a man. - -"'Are you asleep, Harry?' I inquired, as I laid my hand on his shoulder. - -"He gave a sudden start, then gazed a moment at me. - -"'How can I sleep when the hot flames of torment are blazing in my -bosom? Never shall I sleep any more; I have "murdered sleep," and my -sweet sister, too. My career will soon be closed, and the world will be -rid of the vilest wretch that ever dwelt in it!' - -"'Harry, do you believe that any man could be killed with good news?' - -"'No, of course not; but why do you ask me such a question?' - -"'Because it is in my power to impart to you some of the best news that -ever was poured into the ears of mortal man!' - -"'Edward,' he groaned, 'you must not try to console me with false hopes; -you had better leave me to endure my just punishment; it is the will of -God that I should suffer, and I do not complain. You could not tell me -anything in the shape of news that would relieve me, except it was to -let me know that my darling sister lived, and the guilt of murder was -not on my wicked soul.' - -"'That is the very thing I am prepared to assert.' - -"'What in Heaven's name do you mean?' - -"'Be perfectly quiet and I will explain. Could you calmly listen to the -news of Lottie being alive?' - -"'Certainly I could, because it would not be true; and I must request -you not to torture me in this manner.' - -"'Did you ever hear of a person being in a trance, when the friends -thought it was death?' - -"'Yes, very often; Doctor Plaxico told me that such things frequently -occurred; he mentioned two cases that had come under his observation.' - -"'Then why might we not hope that such was Lottie's condition when -Doctor Dodson telegraphed us that she was dead?' - -"'Edward, pray tell me what you mean!' - -"'Exactly what I say. Now stop, Harry; don't lose control of yourself.' - -"'Edward, you must not trifle with my feelings.' - -"'I do not mean to trifle with your feelings, but I must request you to -control them. Do you think you can do it?' - -"'Yes! yes! pray go on.' - -"'Well, in the first place, Lottie is not dead; and in the second place, -she is much better; and in the third place, she is going to recover. -Now, come, you promised to be calm; remember I hold you to your promise. -I will read you the telegram if you will sit down and be perfectly -quiet; if you do not, I shall not let you see or hear it.' - -"'What are you talking about? Am I not calm? You don't expect me not to -tremble, do you?' - -"'There, now, just sit perfectly still and hear the good news.' - -"He at last fell back on the seat and listened to the reading of the -telegram, while his eyes were closed and his hands tightly clasped -across his breast. When I had finished reading, I knelt down by his seat -and whispered: - -"'Kneel down, Harry; now is the very time to offer thanks.' - -"He fell on his knees in an instant, and remained there a long time; and -when he got up there was a look of inexpressible joy on his countenance. -I was satisfied that he was safe, and then I was happy, too. - -"'Eddie,' he said, after remaining silent for a few minutes, apparently -soliloquizing, 'if God spares Lottie's life, I will love and worship Him -as long as I live.' - -"'Indeed, we should feel very grateful to Him for such a great -blessing,' I replied. - -"'What is the time?' he inquired, as he saw me looking at the watch. - -"'11:10,' was the reply. 'We will soon see our darling, but we must -remember Doctor Dodson's instructions. Do you think you will be able to -command your feelings?' - -"'I believe I will, but it will cost a desperate effort.' - -"'We must remember what is at stake, and not forget ourselves when the -critical moment arrives.' - -"'I think you may depend on me now. You know how much misery has -resulted from my rashness, and I have had a severe, but I hope a useful, -lesson.' - -"'Harry, I have always believed that experiential lessons were the only -ones of much value.' - -"'I dare say you are correct in that belief; I have reasons to hope that -the sad lessons taught me by experience will make a better man of me.' - -"The shriek of the locomotive announced our arrival as the train dashed -into the station at Memphis. We found the carriage waiting for us when -we stepped on the platform. - -"'How is she?' I inquired eagerly as I grasped the hand of the old negro -coachman. - -"'Better, much better, sir, thank God; we hope she will recover now.' - -"'Go as fast as you can,' I said, as we entered the carriage. - -"The faithful old negro seemed to appreciate the situation, for he took -us over the road at the rate of twenty miles an hour. The few -pedestrians who were on the streets at that late hour stopped and stared -at the carriage as it whirled past them as if they thought the horses -were running away. - -"'Some one will be killed certain!' said a man who stood gazing with -wonder as we dashed by him. Many heads were thrust out of the windows; -the owners of said heads seemed to have been startled from pleasant -dreams by the rattling of the wheels on the pavement. - -"Within two minutes from the time we started from the depot I was in the -arms of Mrs. Dodson, my good mother. She had been watching at the front -gate for our arrival. She kissed my lips, my cheeks, my brow, my -temples, and did not slight my nose. - -"'Ah, ha! Here we come, my boy!' exclaimed Doctor Dodson, as he snatched -me from his wife's arms. 'Get out of my way, Dolly; ah, ha! don't -smother the boy; don't you see how he is panting for breath? Stand back, -old 'oman; don't you think I want to hug the boy, too? Ah, ha! here we -come.' Then he made a grab at my body and jerked me against his breast -and squeezed me as hard as a polar bear could have done. 'Ah, ha! my -boy, "all's well that ends well," you know. Yes, we will all be happy -yet; but don't construe this as an expression of my opinion, by any -means. I don't express my opinion on any subject now.' - -"While Doctor and Mrs. Dodson were paying their respects to me, Mrs. -Rockland was weeping on Harry's breast, and Mr. Rockland, who rarely -ever suffered anything to disturb his equanimity, was jumping around, -trying to get hold of Harry. - -"'How is my darling?' I inquired, as soon as I could release myself from -Doctor Dodson's embrace. - -"'Better, much better, my boy, thank Heaven!' - -"'Let me see her instantly; I cannot wait a moment longer; I am dying to -hold her in my arms!' - -"We were at the front gate, some distance from the house. - -"'Ah, ha! my boy, be calm; Lottie is asleep; can't let you see her now; -crisis not passed yet--life hangs by brittle threads--patience, my boy, -patience! Keep cool; ah, ha! keep cool, my boy. Give me another hug. -There now; ah, ha! that's like old times. Plaxico is with Lottie; will -consult with him; if he thinks there is no risk, you shall see her! ah, -ha! that you shall, my boy! Let her sleep, though; she must not be -disturbed until she awakes. Take your boots off when you get to the -house, my boy--Dolly will get you a pair of slippers. Caution, my boy, -caution, you see the necessity of it, don't you, my boy? Yes, of course -you do. Ah, ha! here we come!' - -"In pursuance of instructions, I took off my boots and thrust my feet -into a pair of cloth slippers which Mrs. Dodson handed to me as we -entered the front portico. Mrs. Rockland furnished Harry with a pair of -the same sort, and the cat-like movements of all showed how they loved -the angelic creature whose life was trembling in the balance. Doctor -Dodson whispered a few words to me, then went into Lottie's room, and -soon returned, accompanied by Doctor Plaxico. - -"'How is she now, doctor?' I inquired. - -"'Oh, she is all right now, sir; I think she will come round handsomely. -She is sleeping quite soundly--pulse greatly improved--respiration -regular.' - -"'Can we see her now?' I eagerly demanded. - -"'Yes, certainly, provided you obey instructions to the very letter. -Only one of you can go in at a time, and you must not speak to or touch -her; but if you have the slightest doubt as to your ability to control -your feelings, you had better not go in.' - -"'You go in first,' said I to Harry. - -"'No, Edward, I yield to you--it is your privilege to see her first. Go -in and give me time to get my feelings under control.' - -"It was his generous heart that prompted him to give me the preference. - -"'Come with me,' said Plaxico, as he took hold of my arm, 'I cannot -trust you alone, when so much depends on your actions.' - -"As soon as I passed through the half open door I encountered the same -sweet scent of flowers that had so strangely come into the coach between -Sardis and Grenada. I recognized it instantly; there was no mistaking -the delicious fragrance; the carpet was covered with fresh flowers; the -mantel was loaded with them. Two large bouquets lay on the snow-white -cover of the bed. There lay my darling, pale but beautiful still. Her -eyes and lips were closed, and the long, pretty lashes fell over her -eyes, concealing them from my view. I approached the bedside silently -and fell on my knees near the beautiful patient. I could hear the gentle -breathing, and see the regular rise and fall of her bosom, as her sweet -breath fanned my cheeks, and it taxed my strength to its utmost capacity -to keep from touching her. Doctor Plaxico, doubtless fearing that I -might be unable to control myself, stood on the opposite side of the -bed, so as to be in front of me, with his finger raised, by way of -cautioning me to be quiet. The bed on which the pretty sleeper reposed -was near the center of the room, a low French bedstead, and her arms -were resting above the white counterpane that covered it. Occasionally a -sweet smile would light up her pale, beautiful face, and I could hear -her whispering my name. - -"'She is dreaming about you now, Demar,' whispered Plaxico, as he put -his mouth close to my ear. 'She appears to be thinking of you all the -time, both when asleep and awake; she holds your picture in her hand -constantly, and I do not believe any one could steal it from her without -awaking her.' - -"Placing my ear close to her lips, in order to hear what she was saying, -my long whiskers happened to touch her chin, when her body instantly -began to tremble violently. - -"'Edward is coming home to-night, mother,' she whispered. - -"Was it a sin to worship that charming girl, who dreamed of me while -asleep, and loved and prayed for me when awake? If it was, then you may -set me down as a very great sinner, for I did worship her with a -devotion as fervent and sincere as that with which any heathen ever -worshiped his god. - -"'You must retire now, Demar,' whispered the doctor, 'as I think there -is danger of her being disturbed, for you do not seem to have control of -your feelings. Refreshing sleep is what she needs most just now; it is -the best restorative in cases of this sort, and it would be very -unfortunate if you should happen to disturb her.' - -"I reluctantly obeyed his command and withdrew to the parlor, -accompanied by him. - -"'How is my dear sister now, doctor?' eagerly exclaimed Harry, as he met -us at the door. - -"'Every symptom appears to be favorable,' the physician replied. 'She is -sleeping quite soundly, and her fever is entirely gone; pulse greatly -improved; but we must be extremely cautious not to give her a sudden -shock when she awakes.' - -"'When can I see her?' - -"'I will let you go in any moment when you are sure that you can govern -yourself completely, for you shall promise me not to touch or speak to -your sister.' - -"'I make the promise now, and beg you to let me see her.' - -"Plaxico took his arm and led him into Lottie's room; and at the end of -five minutes he returned, and, sinking down on the sofa, buried his face -in his mother's bosom and burst into tears. - -"'Weep, my dear son,' said Mrs. Rockland, as she pressed him to her -heart, 'it will do you good; I often find relief in tears when sorrow -weighs heavily upon me.' - -"'My dear, good mother,' he exclaimed, as he threw his arms around her -neck, 'can you ever love me again after I have caused you so many hours -of sorrow?' - -"'Love you, my son! Nothing could deprive you of my love; you have -erred, but you were deceived by a combination of circumstances that -would have misled any one.' - -"'Mother, can you forgive me?' - -"'There is nothing to pardon, my son; you thought your sister was -betrayed, and that it was your duty to defend her; you acted upon what -appeared to be proof, and not from an evil motive.' - -"Doctor Plaxico took a seat near me, and requested Mrs. Rockland to go -into Lottie's room and keep watch until the patient should wake. I then -gave the doctor a detailed history of the strange events that happened -on the train, and requested him to give me the benefit of his opinion on -the subject. - -"'Ah! Demar,' said he, 'if you follow the profession as long as I have, -you will encounter many curious things. This is the third case of the -same sort that I have treated. I was not here when Dodson telegraphed -you that she was dead; of course I should have prevented it. Dodson's -heart is too large--it gets away with his judgment. Miss Wallingford -was merely in a short trance--a fortunate thing, too, by the by. That -was one of nature's scientific plans adopted to cure the patient; and I -think it has succeeded. The authorities differ as to the causes of such -a condition, and many different theories have been advanced on the -subject; but I am sorry to say that nothing satisfactory has been -developed. I am decidedly inclined to the views of the minority, who -think that the soul for the time being is absolutely out of the body. -You say that Miss Wallingford was with you on the train at exactly 9:20. -I believe it, too, for that was the very moment when she fell into the -trance. Now if the soul was temporarily released from the body, where -would it be most likely to go? Of course to where her affections led--to -the man of whom she had been thinking all the time. If my theory is not -correct, your imagination was at fault, and you were mistaken in your -belief. The fact is, Demar, the more we study and theorize on this -subject, the more complicated it seems. I often rack my brain about the -matter until it all ends in confusion. God was the Artist who made the -wonderful machine called man, and he crammed him full of mystery, -eccentricities and unaccountable things. Well, Demar, the best way to -secure true happiness is to fear God and keep His commandments; and let -Him run the machine in his own way. What is, is, and that's all we know -about it. We don't know the cause of things; and the less we puzzle our -brains about it the better for us. But let me tell you, Demar, you ought -to worship God day and night, as long as you live. What have you ever -done for Him, by way of compensation for what He has done for you? He -made Miss Wallingford; she is the paragon of beauty and loveliness--an -angel in disposition; and then He made her fall in love with you. That -is more than you deserve--more than any sinner deserves.' - -"'I know it, doctor, and I acknowledge my obligation, and have resolved -never to forget it.' - -"'Excuse me, Demar, I must now go and see my patient; I will return -presently.' - -"After Lottie had slept three hours Doctor Plaxico consented for me to -go into her room again. - -"'I think she will wake very soon,' said he, 'and you had better be -present then; you must be very cautious and not exhibit any unusual -emotion. Remember she is in a critical condition, and the slightest -shock might prove fatal, and govern yourself accordingly. At first I -thought that probably it would be better to let some one break the news -of your arrival to her, before letting her see you; but upon second -thought I have concluded to allow you to be present when she awakes. -Place yourself near the bed, take hold of her hand, press it gently, and -remain very quiet; be sure you do not make any demonstrations when you -see her eyes open.' - -"This was a hard command, but I made up my mind to obey it, believing, -as I did, that it was wisely given. Kneeling down near the bed, I took -her left hand in mine, pressing it gently to my lips, when she instantly -commenced to roll her head from one side to the other. - -"'Let go her hand, quick!' the doctor whispered. - -"I obeyed instantly, but was puzzled to know his reasons for giving such -an order. Plaxico stood with his finger on his mouth, which I understood -to be a command for me to maintain silence. Any one might have heard the -throbbing of my heart across the room, while every nerve in my body was -quivering violently. - -"'Now take hold of her hand again, and be careful to remain quiet.' - -"The very instant my hand touched hers she again began to tremble; -raising her other hand, she commenced to pass it round, as if searching -for something, while her lips were continually moving; and every now and -then I distinctly heard my name pronounced. I was informed by the doctor -that she was under the influence of a very strong opiate, which I -suppose accounted for the apparent uneasiness of her slumber. Five -minutes, perhaps, had elapsed after I took hold of her hand the second -time when she touched my cheek; then running her fingers among my -whiskers, she began to pat me on the face. At length her eyes flew open; -and after gazing at me for a moment in a bewildered way, she laid her -right arm around my neck, drew my head down on the pillow, close to her -cheek, and whispered in my ear many sweet expressions of affection. -There were no evidences of violent emotion or extravagant outbursts of -excitement, but her voice sounded like the cooing of a dove. My face -was moistened with the tears that streamed from her eyes; but they were -tears of unmixed joy. - -"'I thought they had killed my noble-hearted hero,' she whispered, as -she drew her arm closer about my neck. 'I have been very unjust to my -poor brother, but I thought he and Heartsell had murdered you; and you -must bring him here, so I can ask him to pardon me. I was with you and -my brother on the train last night, and tried to speak to you, but could -not make you hear me. Our mother was with me, and she says that she is -our guardian angel, commissioned to watch over us--she was such a -beautiful angel, too; I never beheld anything so pretty.' - -"'Miss Wallingford,' said Doctor Plaxico, 'I think it would be very -imprudent for you to talk any more just now.' - -"'I would not venture to disobey a peremptory order of yours, doctor, -but I believe that a conversation with Harry and Edward would do me more -good now than any medicine you could give me. Let me see my dear brother -immediately, and then you may demand silence.' - -"'I had better grant your request than to raise a row by refusing,' -observed the doctor, as he went to bring Wallingford in. - -"When Harry entered the room, I could see that he was making a vigorous -effort to restrain his great emotions; sinking down on the opposite side -of the bed, he allowed his sister to embrace him. - -"'Brother dear,' whispered Lottie, 'can you forgive the great wrong I -have done by my unjust suspicions against you?' - -"'Ah! my darling sister, it is I who ought to sue for pardon; because if -I had heeded your advice, all this sorrow might have been prevented. If -you only will get well, and love me in the future as you have in the -past, I shall yet be happy. Let us endeavor to eradicate from our memory -the sad occurrences of the past; and I solemnly promise never again to -set up my judgment against yours.' - -"'Oh, my good brother! how happy you have made me! I soon shall be well -again. I thought at one time that I could leave this world without -regret; but it is different with me now; I do not want to die, because I -have something worth living for.' - -"'Now, Miss Wallingford,' said Plaxico, 'I must positively drive these -two gentlemen out of the room, unless you will agree to be perfectly -quiet.' - -"'I will make any promise, in the bounds of reason, if you will let them -remain with me.' - -"'Very well; they may stay, if you will hush.' - -"Harry held her right hand and I her left, while I drank deep draughts -of love from the dear eyes that were gazing up into my own. Who can -describe the inexpressible joy that one feels when he knows himself to -be the exclusive owner of such a heart as the one that throbbed in the -breast of Lottie Wallingford? It would be extreme folly on my part to -attempt to convey to my audience a description of the great happiness I -enjoyed then. My heart was almost drowned with the excess of delight. - - - - -CHAPTER XXX. - - -"For three days after Harry and I had arrived at home scarcely any -change was perceptible in Lottie's condition, except an inclination to -sleep all the time, which Plaxico contended was most favorable. This -conjecture proved correct, for at the end of ten days her condition was -so much improved that he pronounced her entirely out of danger. - -"'Good nursing is all she needs now,' said he. - -"I never left the premises until I was satisfied that all danger was -over, and I did not go then of my own accord; Lottie ordered me to go -and see Viola, and to carry a hamper basket full of fresh flowers that -she had caused to be gathered for her. - -"'Tell Viola that as soon as I am able to ride in the carriage I will -come to see her. Ask her if she wants anything and tell her that she -must be of good cheer, and we will defeat the enemy yet. Now do your -best to encourage the poor thing, and assure her that I will soon be -with her to stay all the time.' - -"'Lottie, you don't think of going back to stay in jail again, do you?' - -"'Certainly I do; why not?' - -"'People will talk, you know.' - -"'Let them talk as much as they please. God has spared my life in order -that I might save my dear friend, and I mean to do it. Eddie, do you -still doubt me? Can you trust me?' - -"I did not make any answer, because I was bewildered and did not know -what to say; hence I abruptly left the room to carry the flowers and -message as directed. - -"When I entered Viola's cell I was shocked at her appearance; there was -a look of hopeless despair settled on her face, and her cheeks were -bloodless and deadly pale. She was dressed in plain black silk without -ornaments. Her pale face brightened up when I entered, and she rose to -meet me, holding out her hand for me to take. When I delivered the -flowers and Lottie's kind message, telling her that Lottie was out of -all danger, she burst into tears and sank down on the sofa. After a -while she brushed the tears away and said: - -"'Pardon me, Mr. Demar; this flow of tears has relieved my aching heart. -God has answered my prayers, when I had lost all hope. Oh! sir, if you -knew how I have prayed for dear Lottie's life, you would better -understand my love for her. Take a seat, Mr. Demar, and tell me about -your late troubles.' - -"I complied with her request by giving her a detailed history of the -unfortunate occurrences that had kept me away from home. - -"'You now know from experience, Mr. Demar, how hard it is to be punished -for a crime you did not commit. You have not told me anything about your -friends yet.' - -"I knew that she wanted to hear from Harry, but I doubted the propriety -of mentioning his name, because I did not know what he intended to do. I -therefore confined my remarks to Doctor and Mrs. Dodson, and Mr. -Rockland and his wife, studiously avoiding Harry's name. I saw that she -was disappointed, and more anxious than ever to hear about him. I rose -to depart, when she begged me to stay a while longer. - -"'You have not told me about all of your friends yet,' she said, as she -blushed and looked down at the carpet. - -"I noticed that she was trembling from head to foot, and her bosom rose -and fell rapidly. I had arrived at the conclusion that it was best for -me not to mention Harry's name. I thought that the best plan to bring -about a reconciliation would be to say nothing on the subject, hoping -that she would send an invitation to him to pay her a visit. - -"'Is there any one in particular whom you wish to inquire about, Miss -Bramlett?' - -"'Yes--no--that is, no one in particular; but I was thinking that Lottie -would be so happy to have her brother with her.' And as she said this, -the crimson tinge on her cheeks became as red as blood could make it. - -"'Yes, she is very happy now, since her brother has returned.' - -"'Has he? Ah! never mind, Mr. Demar, I will not detain you any longer. -Give my love to Lottie, and bring her to see me as soon as she is able -to come.' - -"I took her extended hand and felt it quiver; her eyes met mine for a -second, and there was a meaning look in them which I understood. I could -not leave her thus; my resolution vanished at once. - -"'What shall I tell him for you, Miss Bramlett?' - -"'Tell whom?' - -"'Have you no message for me to deliver to any one except Lottie?' - -"'Yes--no; I--I--good-by, Mr. Demar.' - -"I passed out of the room and spoke a few words to the jailer, and when -I went to leave I glanced a look into Viola's room. She was lying on the -bed convulsed with grief, and weeping bitterly. - -"I sought and obtained an interview with Mr. Rockland, in order to have -a consultation about Miss Bramlett's case. The iron man shook his head -ominously when I asked him to advise me what I should do about the case. - -"'The Supreme Court will reverse it,' said he, 'beyond question, but -that will do no good. It will only serve to prolong our troubles. The -lower court committed a very grave error in allowing the jury to -disperse before the evidence closed; hence I say it is certain that a -new trial will be granted; but again I ask where is the benefit to Miss -Bramlett? Every one knows she is guilty--the proof established it beyond -the possibility of a reasonable doubt. Poor girl! I pity her, for she -was not responsible for the crime. She was crazy, beyond question, when -she committed it. She shall not be punished, because I will secure -executive clemency when the court shall have finally disposed of her -case. Mr. Demar, I have just been informed that it is Lottie's intention -to return to the jail, with a view of remaining with Miss Bramlett, as -soon as she is able to go.' - -"'Yes, Mr. Rockland, I have heard Lottie say that such was her -intention.' - -"'This must be prevented by all means, and no one can do it but you; I -shall expect you to exert your influence in that direction. Her -reputation has already suffered to some extent by her conduct, and it -must be prevented in future.' - -"'Do you know, Mr. Rockland, that Lottie affirms that she knows Miss -Bramlett is innocent?' - -"'Ah, Demar, that is one of her strange infatuations. She is a sensible -girl, in whose judgment I have unbounded confidence, but her friendship -for Miss Bramlett has caused her heart to get the upper hand of her -brain. She thinks she knows that her friend is innocent, but what does -she know about the rules of evidence? She thinks everything that she -hears can be offered as proof.' - -"'I imagine, sir, that you will find Lottie better posted as to the -rules of evidence than you think. She has been reading Mr. Greenleaf's -treatise on evidence--also Mr. Starkie's and many others. She seems to -comprehend and grasp the meaning as well as an experienced lawyer would. -She says she will furnish evidence to clear Miss Bramlett, and to -convict the real criminal.' - -"'Ah! Demar, that is the strangest mystery that has ever come under my -observation. If she knew that Miss Bramlett was innocent, why should she -let her remain in jail, when she could have got her out with a _habeas -corpus_? No, Demar, if you build your hopes on that foundation, you will -meet with nothing but defeat and disappointment.' - -"'The reasons which Lottie gives for withholding the proof appear to me -to be good. She says that she is waiting to collect evidence sufficient -to convict the guilty one; and that this is done at the request of Miss -Bramlett.' - -"'Very well, Demar, I see that you are determined to pin your faith to -Lottie's skirts. The truth of it is, love has got the upper hand of your -judgment, while Lottie is carried away by her affection for Miss -Bramlett. I admire those who stick to their friends, but we ought to be -very cautious in selecting them. Next week the Supreme Court will take -up the case, and then a new trial will be granted, certain, and you and -Lottie shall have a fair chance to establish the defendant's innocence -if you can.' - -"When I left the iron lawyer, I was chilled to the very marrow of my -bones by the coldness of his manner. - -"About eight days after my arrival at home, I was called from Lottie's -side (where most of my time was being spent) to assist Doctor Dodson in -performing a difficult surgical operation on one of his patients. In -fact, I performed the operation myself under Doctor Dodson's advice and -assistance. - -"'Ah, ha! my boy,' said the old doctor, when the delicate job was -finished, 'you are an excellent surgeon, so you are. I am proud of -you--so I am. You will do to tie to; ah, ha! that you will. Lottie need -not be afraid to hitch on to you, my boy; no indeed, you will make a -living for her; yes, yes, ah, ha! she won't starve by marrying you. You -must remain with this patient day and night until all danger is over. -Ah, ha! my boy, stick to it like a leech; I'll relieve you day after -to-morrow.' - -"By this means I was kept away from Lottie two days and nights, much -against my wish; but I stood to my post until I was relieved on the -third morning by Doctor Dodson. I hurried to Mr. Rockland's residence -and met his wife at the door. - -"'How is Lottie?' I hurriedly inquired, as I entered the house. - -"'Improving rapidly, though I don't think she is quite as prudent as she -ought to be.' - -"'Can I see her now?' - -"'No, Edward, she is asleep, I believe; but come in to breakfast, and -then you can see her.' - -"I obeyed reluctantly, because I did not feel like eating. As soon as -breakfast was over Mrs. Rockland went into Lottie's room to inform her -that I was waiting to see her. - -"'She will receive you, Edward,' said the kind lady, as she came into -the parlor where I was waiting. 'She bid me tell you to come in.' - -"The door of Lottie's room was half open when I entered; and the bed, -where I expected to see her, was made up and covered with a snow-white -counterpane; every article of furniture was freshly dusted and properly -arranged; two large vases of fresh flowers stood on the mantel, and the -room contained no evidences of an occupant. - -"'Ah! she has moved to her old room up-stairs!' I exclaimed, as I turned -to go out, when I felt some one pluck my hair behind. Imagine my -amazement, if you can, when I hurriedly turned round and saw nothing but -an empty room, where I had expected to see Lottie. I had not remained -there, however, but a second or two, when I heard a suppressed laugh; -and looking behind the door, I discovered my darling in full -dress--beautiful, radiant, charming and lovely,--with a mischievous -smile playing on her face. Never had I seen her looking so beautiful -before; the color of the rose and lily were mingled on her fair cheeks, -while evidences of restored health appeared. Her toilet had been -arranged with great care and exquisite taste, evidently done to please -me, for I had sent word that I was coming to see her that morning. She -wore a most magnificent rose-pink brocade silk dress, with full train; -the body and skirts were covered with point de Venice lace, while the -bodice fitted the slender waist so neatly that her square shoulders and -tall, queenly form exhibited their beauty to great advantage. My -picture, incased in a heavy gold locket, was suspended by a costly chain -around her neck, and my diamond ring sparkled on her finger. The great -rolls of pretty golden curls had been half confined behind her head with -a blue ribbon, while a fresh white rose, bordered on all sides with pink -geraniums, adorned her throat. As soon as my eyes encountered the lovely -creature before me I threw up my bands with an exclamation of surprise. -When I left her, two days previous, she was in bed, where I had expected -to find her still; but when I beheld her beautiful form standing before -me, with all the loveliness and beauty of an angel, I was dazzled and -overwhelmed with amazement. I was not able to understand how such a -speedy recovery had been effected. The pretty blue eyes had regained all -their charming brilliancy and the stately form its beauteous symmetry; -in fact, my darling had never before appeared so lovely in my eyes as -she did then. - -"'Why, Eddie!' she exclaimed, as I took her in my arms, 'where have you -been hiding all this time? I declare, if you play me another such a -dodge, I will set the police on your track!' - -"'Don't ask me any questions now, Lottie; I am too happy to talk. Let me -look at you well; you are so pretty to-day; I never saw you looking so -lovely!' - -"'I never felt better in my life--am as strong as ever. I was up early -this morning, dressed myself without assistance, made up my bed, -re-arranged the furniture, and am now ready for breakfast. And such an -appetite as I have--it is like that of a wolf! You were surprised to see -me up and dressed; you admire my appearance; well, I am glad you do. You -shall not see me eat breakfast; I should be ashamed to let you see how -much I can devour. Go order the carriage while I am eating; I am going -to see Viola this morning. Why don't you go along, Eddie? What are you -waiting for?' - -"'Don't you know?' - -"'I have a very strong suspicion; very well, I suppose I must be kind to -the old darling, since he has been so true to, and suffered so much for -me. Take it quickly and go, for I am starving. There! there! Eddie, go -along with you; don't you see how you have torn my hair down? I declare, -you have almost smothered me; you are like a Russian bear.' - -"She dodged under my arm, and went into the dining-room. I went out and -ordered the coachman to get the carriage ready, then came back to the -parlor and waited for Lottie. - -"'Well, Eddie,' she said, as she entered the parlor and took a seat on -the sofa by my side, 'I have devoured everything on the table, and, -like Oliver Twist, I wanted more, but mother closed down on me, and even -refused to let me eat the cold scraps that were left in the cupboard.' - -"'I fear you are imprudent, Lottie,' said I, 'but I am truly glad to -know that you have an appetite.' - -"'Thank you, Eddie; but now I must ask you to talk business with me a -while. We must lay aside all selfish thoughts, and go to work on Viola's -case. You must not talk to me about love or marriage; I request you to -promise me here and now that you will devote your whole attention to -this business, and that you will not mention love to me until Viola's -innocence shall be established. Will you or will you not do it?' - -"'I promise to obey you in all things, under all circumstances; but what -is to be my fate if we fail to clear Viola? "Would you then refuse to -marry me?' - -"'Yes, I would, though it would break my heart to do it; but I love you -too well to make you the husband of a miserable, unhappy woman, such as -I would be if Viola is not cleared. But I tell you candidly that we -shall all be happy yet, if you will trust me implicitly. I must have -your entire confidence; there must be no doubting or hesitating in this -business. Again I ask you, will you trust me in all things connected -with this business?' - -"'So help me Heaven, I swear I will!' - -"'Enough; I ask no more. Read that letter carefully while I re-arrange -my hair, and then I will tell you what you are to do.' - -"'Lottie, tell me where you got this letter.' - -"'Ask me no questions, but trust me implicitly. I will not submit to a -cross-examination, mind you.' - -"'Very good; issue your orders, and I will obey. Nothing can astonish me -after looking at this letter.' - -"'That is a mere mole-hill, by a mountain, when compared with other -things that I know.' - -"'Lottie, this letter means death; it smells of blood; it is as black as -the deepest hell!' - -"'Hush! don't become excited; coolness and courage will accomplish more -than anger or excitement. The time has come to shake up the dry bones -in the valley; God has spared me in order to make me His instrument in -saving the innocent and punishing the guilty.' - -"'Lottie, I do believe you are aided in this business by inspiration -directly sent to you from Heaven.' - -"'Perhaps so, and perhaps not; but Viola's day of deliverance is near at -hand; and the day of retribution for the real murderer is drawing near. -Society has condemned me for associating with Viola--the purest, best, -most patient, suffering angel that ever lived. I will make society blush -with shame for its cruelty in this case.' - -"'Lottie, pardon me for using strong language; but I think the -circumstances justify it; therefore, I say that the writer of that -letter ought to be roasted in the hottest flames of ----' - -"'Stop! stop! don't use such language as that; it does no good. We must -move cautiously, as we have a wily foe to deal with. We must have a -witness in court to prove that handwriting; and that is why I have shown -you that letter. There is a woman in this city by whom we can make the -proof--provided we can force her to swear the truth. She is a friend to -the writer, and would suffer martyrdom before she would tell anything -that would injure him if she knew it; but if you will execute a little -plan which I have invented, I will answer for the result.' - -"'Explain the plan, and issue orders. I trust you now with more faith -than an Arab would the author of the Koran. Consider me a machine made -to do your bidding.' - -"'I like that kind of talk now, because everything depends on you and -me.' - -"'More especially on you, Lottie. You are the pilot, and I am only the -engine.' - -"'We will not dispute about that; but you must have an interview with a -certain woman, with a view of proving the handwriting of that letter. -You are acquainted with Miss Clattermouth, I believe?' - -"'To the best of my knowledge and belief, I should say I was; but I -would not like to confess it in public.' - -"'I don't blame you for that, because there is not much honor in it; but -it is a fortunate thing that you do know her, for it will aid you in -this business. I want you to go and see her; take this letter with you; -and I charge you under no circumstances to let her see the contents; but -you will manage to show her the superscription, and by that means -ascertain whether or not she knows who wrote it. Remember, she is a -devoted friend of the writer, and if she suspects your object, your -labor is lost. You must invent some plan to direct her attention to the -letter, and she will probably ask you where you got it. Then you can ask -her if she knows the handwriting; do you think you can manage the -business so as to accomplish the purpose without rousing her -suspicions?' - -"'Lottie, you have asked me to trust you, and I am going to do it. Now I -ask you to trust me; will you do it?' - -"'That I will, with all the faith that is in me; and without intending -to flatter you, I would risk my soul's future happiness on your judgment -and integrity.' - -"'Thank you! thank you, darling! enough on that branch of the subject. -Let us now discuss another. Shall we let Harry into our secrets and ask -his assistance?' - -"'No, indeed, we must not, because his love for Viola would cause his -heart to control his brain, and endanger our plans. He has quieted down -since his late troubles, and it is better to let him alone. The breach -between him and Viola will heal itself when she is cleared.' - -"'Be it so, then; you are the judge.' - -"'You must not lose sight of our Vicksburg witness; it would be -advisable to write to him immediately. That evidence I consider the most -important of all.' - -"'I must confess I cannot see its application to Viola's case; but you -may depend on me for having the witness here when the trial comes on.' - -"'You shall be posted as to its application in due time. There are two -individuals in this city who are mounted on very high horses, riding to -their fate. They are enjoying the ride just now, unconscious of the -precipice toward which they are hastening. They are reveling in their -fancied security, little dreaming of the mine soon to be sprung under -their feet.' - -"'One of them is the writer of this letter--the other the one to whom -it was directed. Am I not correct in that guess, Lottie?' - -"'You are correct.' - -"'Well, if anybody but my darling had told me this, I would not have -believed a word of it. This business is going to cause some people's -fine castles to come toppling topsy-turvey down; and great will be the -fall thereof.' - -"'It won't be the first instance where a man was hung on the gallows he -had built for another. You may have heard of a man who erected a gallows -fifty cubits high, on which he intended to hang his neighbor; but the -spectators were no doubt surprised, one morning, when they saw the body -of the builder dangling from his own gallows.' - -"'Yes, that was a case in which God seems to have directly interfered.' - -"'Just so; and he has directly interfered in Viola's case, too.' - -"'Lottie, I am dying with curiosity to know how you got possession of -that letter.' - -"'You shall know everything that I know; but not at present. I have a -reason for withholding the information just now, which I cannot explain. -Remember you have promised to trust me fully in this matter.' - -"'Yes, and I mean to do it; but the very sight of this letter freezes -the warm blood in my veins. I feel cold rigors stealing over me now. It -is horrible to contemplate. It surpasses my comprehension. It would make -Satan blush to read this most diabolical composition. He would be -inclined to abdicate in favor of the author of that letter, as the one -best qualified to run the infernal government.' - -"'Hush! that is wicked language. Go see if the carriage is ready, while -I get my hat and cloak. You will first go with me to the jail; leave me -with Viola; go and see Miss Clattermouth about the proof as to the -handwriting; then return to the jail, remain with us to dinner, and -bring me home at night. There, now, you have the programme for the day, -and remember, you must sharpen your wits before you tackle Miss -Clattermouth. She is a clever little detective herself, and will get the -best of you if you don't be careful.' - -"'If she gets the upper hand of me in this business, you may has take -off both of my ears.' - -"'Come! I see the carriage is waiting for us. Don't take my arm--that is -out of style now.' - - - - -CHAPTER XXXI. - - -"I escorted Lottie to the jail, and when she and Miss Bramlett rushed -into each other's arms, I was so deeply moved by the affectionate -meeting of those two devoted friends that I felt the tears begin to -trickle down my cheeks. For full five minutes they remained silently -clasped in each other's strong embrace. - -"'Heaven bless you, my precious, true, unselfish friend!' exclaimed Miss -Bramlett, still holding Lottie to her heart; 'God has answered my -prayers, for on my knees I have spent four hours every day in sending up -my supplications in behalf of my darling Lottie. I am one of those who -have unlimited confidence in the goodness and mercy of God, and believe -He answers the prayers of those who ask in the spirit of true faith. -Every time I knelt down to pray for the recovery of my darling friend, I -thought of that precious promise which our dear Saviour made with His -own lips, when He said: "Ask and it shall be given you; seek and ye -shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that -asketh, receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that -knocketh, it shall be opened." Now, Lottie, when I prayed, I did -honestly believe that our dear Jesus would remember His precious -promise; and sure enough He has. Oh, dear God, receive my humble, but -sincere, thanks for this great blessing!' - -"Lottie then came to me, smiling through her tears and looking supremely -happy. - -"'You may go to see Miss Clattermouth now, Edward; and you must not fail -to return here punctually at four o'clock, for I am going to order -another one of those cozy dinners, to be served in Viola's room; -therefore you must not keep us waiting. Remember the instructions, and -let no consideration or circumstance prevent the success of our -enterprise, which you know to be of such great importance.' - -"Pressing her hand to my lips, and promising to put in my appearance -punctually at four o'clock, I jumped into the carriage and ordered the -coachman to drive to the residence of Miss Clattermouth. As the vehicle -went rumbling over the rough road, I began to reflect on the business -before me, with a view of arranging my plans so as to be ready to act -promptly at the proper time. - -"The carriage halted in front of the house before any definite scheme -was arranged in my mind. Walking up to the door, I gave the bell a -vigorous pull, and a moment after I heard the slamming of innumerable -doors, and then the front one flew open, and there appeared a living -creature. It would be a misnomer to say it was a woman; yet it was not a -man or monkey; and not being a believer in witches, I am at a loss to -describe the horrible looking object that stood with glaring eyes -riveted on me. Miss Cushman's representation of the Gypsy in 'Guy -Mannering' would be a fairy when compared with the hideous object who -darkened that door. I ran back eight or ten paces, while an involuntary -shudder darted through my body. I did not smell brimstone, see fire, or -hear thunder, but the same feelings of horror seized upon me that I had -experienced once upon a time when I went to see the infernal regions in -a museum. This she-demon (a name I think most proper to give her) held -out her long bony arm toward me, and began to work her claw-like fingers -as if she wanted to grab me. - -"'What do ye stand there for, staring at a body like an idiot?' she -growled; 'are ye dumb? Can't ye tell what ye want?' - -"'I wish to see Miss Clattermouth,' I stammered with no little -difficulty. - -"'Get along with ye to Tadpoddle's then!' and the door was closed with a -slam, and I felt very much relieved. I was pleased to learn that I -should find Miss Clattermouth and Miss Tadpoddle together, as I imagined -that this circumstance would facilitate the important business which I -was so anxious to transact. I lost no time, you may be sure, in leaping -into the carriage, and as I did so, I gave the coachman instructions to -hasten to the Tadpoddle mansion. I found the front hall door open when I -arrived, and being well acquainted with the premises, I immediately and -without ceremony passed through the hall, and made my appearance at the -door of Miss Tadpoddle's boudoir, which I also found standing wide open. -As I entered the house my ears were pierced with a succession of the -most doleful and heart-rending cries that I had ever heard. Miss -Tadpoddle was lying on the sofa in the middle of the room, and her -mother was bathing her temples with some sort of liquid, while Miss -Clattermouth was holding a smelling bottle to her nose. - -"'Oh, mother! how can I live when my sweet, precious little darling is -dead? Oh, ho! ho! ho! it will kill me, I know it will! Every time I shut -my eyes I can see the pretty little darling in his tiny coffin, wrapped -in his little ruffled shroud, with his sweet little eyes closed just as -if he was asleep. Oh, ho! ho! ho! shall I never see him again in this -world? Oh, mother, let me die! I do not want to live now, since my -little angel is gone from me forever. He loved me so much, and was such -a comfort to me--he was always crying after me when I was away from -him.' - -"My heart was deeply moved to hear the poor lady's sorrowful -lamentations, and it was with some difficulty that I restrained my -tears. I began to look round for a little coffin, but it was not there. -I then cast a glance up and down the hall, expecting to see an empty -baby carriage or tenantless crib, but I saw them not. No little baby -shoes or baby frocks were in sight; no baby hats; no broken toys, or any -article such as pleases little boys, were to be seen. That a boy baby -was dead I concluded was certain, for I heard her speak of his little -coffin, and his little shroud. Now what does it all mean? was a question -which naturally presented itself to my mind. Who is the little angel -that has been taken back to Heaven? Ah, I have it now! She has adopted -some sweet little orphan child, and just as she began to love it dearly, -the little darling has laid down and died. - -"'I beg pardon, ladies,' said I, as I bowed to Miss Clattermouth, 'I did -not know that death had entered this house, else I should not have -intruded.' - -"'Oh! doctor,' exclaimed Miss Tadpoddle, wringing her hands and tossing -her head from side to side, as if suffering untold anguish, 'I am so -glad you have come; do pray put me to sleep as soon as you can, for my -poor heart is forever crushed--I never shall survive this awful -calamity. Ah! doctor, my poor little darling is taken from me, and no -one will ever love me as he did; he was always crying to get in my lap; -for Heaven's sake give me a sleeping drug; I don't care what it is; -anything to make me forget this melancholy dispensation of Providence. -Oh, me! it is more than I can bear--to think that I never shall see poor -little Tottie any more; it will be the death of me; I know it will!' - -"Now I was perfectly amazed when I heard Tottie's name mentioned, for -the whole mystery was then cleared up. All this nonsense was produced by -the death of an eight-ounce poodle dog; and I hastened to a pitcher of -water, poured out a glass and pretended to get strangled, so I might -have a chance to conceal the mirth that was about to precipitate me into -a fit of laughter. I was compelled to walk out into the hall, in order -to gain time to get control of myself, as I did not wish to appear rude. -Miss Tadpoddle seemed to be growing worse all the time, and continued to -implore me for a sleeping drug; and I concluded that it was best to make -a show of compassion, which I did, but not without a considerable -effort. I requested Miss Clattermouth to procure me a spoonful of flour, -and while she went after it, I took out my medicines and scattered them -about on the top of a bureau that stood in one corner of the room; and -as I was thinking more about the proof which I wanted to make by Miss -Clattermouth than anything else, I took out the letter and laid it down -among the medicines, where I knew she could see it when she brought the -flour. My mind was wrought up to a high pitch of anxiety; because I had -been led by Lottie to believe that the fate of Miss Bramlett depended -entirely on the success or failure of my enterprise. Consequently, an -unusual degree of excitement seized upon me when I saw her eyes fixed on -the letter as she handed me the flour. I felt my heart thumping -violently in my breast, while I held my breath and tried to assume a -careless air, as I began to finger my drugs. There was a large mirror -swinging on the top of the bureau, which enabled me to watch Miss -Clattermouth without letting her know what I was up to; and I could see -that her little round eyes were intently fixed on the letter, while an -expression of curiosity mantled her face. I felt my knees knocking -against each other, and my whole frame began to shake from the intense -anxiety that possessed me. When Banquo's ghost 'shook its gory locks' at -Macbeth, at the banquet, he did not tremble more than I did on that -important occasion. - -"'Oh, doctor!' exclaimed Miss Tadpoddle, 'are you going to let me die? -Why don't you put me to sleep? Are you going to save my life or not?' - -"'My dear madame, I beg you to command a little patience--you shall soon -be relieved; it is our duty to submit humbly to the decrees of -Providence.' - -"'Yes! yes! I know it is, doctor, but those who never felt the heavy -hand of affliction laid upon them, as it is now laid on poor me, cannot -understand or appreciate the awful calamity.' - -"I hastily prepared three wheat dough pills, and persuaded her to -swallow them, assuring her that they would put her to sleep in a very -short while; and in less than five minutes she declared that she felt a -great deal better. - -"'Ah! doctor, you are such a good physician; you seem to comprehend the -nature of one's complaint at a glance. Now you know I never exaggerate; -there is nothing I despise more than I do exaggeration; still I do -believe my nervous system is completely destroyed; but if anybody can -restore my shattered system, you are the man to do it. I declare, I -begin to feel drowsy now. Oh, what a relief! Just run your hand through -my hair and over my throbbing temples. Oh, that is delicious! indeed it -is! You do not know how much good it is doing me!' - -"At the end of twenty minutes from the time I administered my pills Miss -Tadpoddle was happy in the arms of Morpheus, probably dreaming sweetly -about poodle dogs. Now, my friends, I wish to say that, as a practicing -physician, I am able to recommend wheat dough pills as an infallible -remedy for hysterics--especially when that dangerous disease is caused -by the death of poodle dogs. - -"As soon as I had succeeded in silencing Miss Tadpoddle, I turned my -attention to Miss Clattermouth and the important letter, on which I -noticed she every now and then cast an inquiring look. I was waiting for -her to propound the question, which I inferred from her restlessness she -was on the eve of doing. After eying the letter for some time, she -picked it up and, after scrutinizing it carefully, when she imagined I -was not observing her movements (for I was watching her through the -mirror by a side glance), she turned her back toward me, and began to -slip the letter out of the envelope. I knew that it would not do to -allow her to see the contents of the letter; therefore, as soon as I -divined her object, I went to the bureau, pretending to be collecting my -scattered medicines, where she could see that I was in a position to -observe her actions. - -"'Did you drop this letter here, doctor?' she carelessly observed, as I -came round so as to confront her. - -"'Yes, I believe I did; I must have dropped it when I took out my pocket -case a while ago.' - -"'I should like to know what you are doing with that letter, Doctor -Demar? I see that it was not addressed to you.' - -"I was considerably puzzled by this question, because I did not know -what sort of an answer I ought to make; but it occurred to my mind that -it would be advisable to rouse her curiosity still higher if I could. -Having made up my mind to act on that idea, I carelessly observed that -there was a great secret connected with that letter, which I did not -consider myself at liberty to reveal. - -"'Now I should like very much to know what great secret Ben Bowles could -have to communicate to that woman?' - -"'Why do you mention Mr. Bowles' name in connection with that letter, -Miss Clattermouth?' - -"'Oh, that is a great secret, which I do not consider myself at liberty -to reveal,' she said in a tantalizing tone, which convinced me that she -was piqued because I had mentioned a secret. 'It is a mystery to me,' -she continued, 'why Mr. Bowles should constitute you as his messenger, -to carry his letters to that woman!' - -"'What has Ben Bowles got to do with it?' - -"'I hope, Doctor Demar, that you do not consider me an idiot?' - -"'Indeed, madame, I do not; but on the contrary, I have set you down in -my mind as one of the cleverest ladies in Memphis; but what has that to -do with the question I propounded to you?' - -"'Do you imagine that I do not know who wrote that letter?' - -"'Why should I take the trouble to imagine anything about it?' - -"'You are a real Yankee; you answer my questions by propounding others. -We will let the subject drop unless you can make a candid answer to a -simple question.' - -"'I crave your pardon, madame, and promise to furnish a direct answer to -all your questions, provided you will agree to do the same with my -interrogatories.' - -"'Very good! I consent to the agreement. Where did you get that letter?' - -"Now I was completely nonplussed by that question, and entirely thrown -off my guard, and did not know what answer to make. I began to stammer -and halt; and despite all my efforts to invent a suitable answer, I made -an absolute failure; my confusion proved to be the very lever that -enabled me to pry the secret out of its hiding-place. When Miss -Clattermouth saw my great confusion, her curiosity went up to the -highest pitch, and she exclaimed: - -"'Ah, ha! Doctor Demar, you are caught in your own trap. You have been a -carrier of a clandestine correspondence between Ben Bowles and his -"Dulcinia del Toboso," and I must say that I am surprised and mortified -to make the startling discovery.' - -"'You may imagine that you know that handwriting, Miss Clattermouth, but -I beg permission to inform you that you are very much mistaken.' - -"'I say, mistaken! indeed, I know that handwriting as well as I do my -own; and if I were to find a line of Ben Bowles' writing in the great -Sahara Desert, I would know it--yes, I would swear on a stack of Bibles -as high as this house that that was written by Ben Bowles.' - -"'Thanks be to Heaven!' I mentally exclaimed; and it was all I could do -to keep from shouting with joy. I seized the letter, and pretended that -I had suddenly thought of an appointment down town; looking at my -watch, I hurried from the house, leaving Miss Clattermouth angry and -astonished at my conduct. - -"Miss Tadpoddle recovered (thanks to my dough pills and a vigorous -constitution); but she became misanthropic and sullen, resigning her -office as vice-president of the Tramp Reform Association, which left -that noble institution without her patronage, causing it to go into -bankruptcy. The untimely death of an eight-ounce poodle dog caused many -a forlorn tramp to seek a night's lodging in the station-house, who, but -for the sad event, would have found comfortable entertainment at the -headquarters of the Tramp Reform Association. - -"As soon as I left Miss Clattermouth, I hastened to the jail, being -anxious to acquaint Lottie with the success that had crowned my efforts -as to the proof desired. - -"'Eureka! Eureka!' I exclaimed, as I went hurriedly into the room where -Lottie and Viola were. 'Our luck has changed at last; Miss Clattermouth -says she will swear it is Bowles' handwriting and she will kiss a stack -of Bibles on it as high as Tadpoddle's house, which you know is three -stories high, not counting the cellar. She says she would recognize the -writing if she were to find it in a desert, the name of which I do not -just now remember, though it is situated somewhere on the other side of -the globe.' - -"'Sit down, Edward, and give me the letter; I declare, you are excited.' - -"'Indeed I am excited; have I not good cause to be! Did you not tell me -that Miss Bramlett's fate depended on the proof that I have procured?' - -"'Yes, but sit down and tell us how you managed to succeed so well.' - -"I then gave a graphic description of all that had occurred, dwelling -eloquently on my splendid maneuvering; and the sweet smiles that were -showered on me, and the numerous thanks tendered by those grateful -girls, amply compensated me for all my trouble. The good-natured steward -had an excellent dinner prepared, which was served in Miss Bramlett's -room at four o'clock. It was very late in the evening when Lottie and I -took our departure from the jail. - -"About a week after those events occurred, I received a note from Mr. -Rockland, requesting an interview with me at his office. When I read the -note, it caused a pang of uneasiness to dart through my breast, because -I always expected bad news when the iron lawyer had anything to -communicate. - -"I found the iron lawyer, as usual, busily at work with innumerable old -papers piled high before him. - -"'Take a seat, Demar,' he said, without looking at me; 'I will be at -leisure in a moment.' - -"He then began to dash the papers about as if he were angry with the -inoffensive documents, while my mind was ill at ease, and full of -curiosity. After the lapse of five minutes he wheeled his chair around -so as to confront me. - -"'Demar, I have just received a telegram informing me that Miss -Bramlett's case has been reversed and another trial granted. This is no -news to me, for you remember I told you that the Supreme Court was bound -to reverse the case. I must confess, however, that I cannot see wherein -this is going to benefit that unfortunate girl, because (as you have -often heard me say) there is no possible chance to secure an acquittal -under the mountain of testimony that will be adduced against her. I want -you to understand, however, Mr. Demar, that I mean to do all I can for -Miss Bramlett; but I do not hesitate to say that during thirty years' -practice at the bar I have never seen such a complete, unbroken chain of -circumstantial evidence arrayed against a prisoner as was mustered on -the trial against Miss Bramlett. If you will meet me at the criminal -court-room in the morning at ten o'clock, we will arrange with Mr. -Quillet to have a day set for the trial. Demar, you must watch Lottie, -and not let her become entangled in this unfortunate affair. She may -listen to you, but she outtalks me. The fact of the business is, I -cannot have the heart to scold that dear girl; but she must be separated -from Miss Bramlett, and I depend on you to do it.' - -"'Mr. Rockland, I think we had better let Lottie have her own way in -this affair, for, if I am not very sadly mistaken, she will snap the -strong chain of circumstantial evidence into a thousand pieces. You have -always told me that you thought she possessed a high order of intellect; -but, sir, when this case is tried you will have good cause to think she -has a mind of a most extraordinary character.' - -"'Demar, I think you and Lottie both are on the direct road to the -lunatic asylum, and I hope you will take Miss Bramlett with you, and not -leave her here on my hands. It is the height of folly, to say Miss -Bramlett did not murder her little brother; besides this, she has been -guilty of other crimes so black that all the water in the Atlantic Ocean -could not wash the stain from her character; though I believe she is -insane, and intend to convince the Governor of it, and he will grant a -pardon beyond question.' - -"I felt a sensation of relief as soon as I stepped out of Mr. Rockland's -office. I hastened to convey the good news of a new trial to Lottie, and -the first thing she did was to offer up thanks to Providence for this -evidence of His favors. - -"'Have you heard from our Vicksburg witness lately, Edward?' - -"'Yes,' I replied, 'and he will come at any time when he is notified -that we want him.' - -"'Very good, then; as soon as you ascertain the day the trial is to come -off, you must send him a telegram immediately. We are ready for the -grand battle, and victory will be ours!' - -"'Lottie, don't be too sanguine of success; a good general always -prepares for a retreat before he engages in battle, so that when the -battle is lost, he can save his army.' - -"'Edward, you must not talk of defeat in connection with this case. I -have a magic wand, with which I can perform more wonders than could -Aladdin with his magic lamp. There is a good genius serving me in this -business, whose powers will surprise and startle you.' - -"'Lottie, I do not think you are justifiable in keeping secrets from me -in connection with this affair.' - -"'I want to test your faith in me, to see whether you can trust me as I -have trusted you. My brother told me you were untrue to me, and had -eloped with another woman; I had faith in you, and refused to believe -his information.' - -"'Enough; keep your own secrets; I will serve you, and believe in you, -as faithfully as Orlando believed in his Rosalind.' - -"'Thank you, Edward; and I promise you I will perform more wonders for -you than Rosalind did for her Orlando. She changed a shepherd boy to a -beautiful maiden; but I will show an angel of purity, where everybody -sees a she-demon.' - -"Mr. Rockland and I met Mr. Quillet promptly at ten o'clock next morning -at the court-room, and the attorney-general kindly consented that Mr. -Rockland should fix any day for the trial that he chose; consequently it -was set for Thursday--that being Tuesday. I repaired immediately to the -telegraph office, and sent a dispatch to the Vicksburg witness, -requesting his attendance and asking him to answer whether he could come -or not. The reply came--he promised to come without fail. - -"'Now,' said Lottie, when I showed her the telegram, 'I have ordered the -carriage, and want you to escort me to the court-house. Do not look at -me as if you were angry; I must go to the court-room immediately.' - -"'Lottie, you know I could not be angry with you; but will you be so -good as to inform me why you wish to go to the court-house to be stared -at by a motley crowd of very rough people?' - -"'I certainly have no wish to conceal my motive from you. In the first -place, I am going to examine all the papers connected with Viola's case, -especially the evidence that was given in on the first trial.' - -"'I can get those papers and bring them to you, and you can have ample -time to examine them.' - -"'Of course you could do that; but I have another reason for wishing to -visit the court-house; I want you to introduce me to the judge, -attorney-general and all the lawyers. I want to catch a few ideas in -regard to the manner of proceeding in court, so that when Viola is put -on trial I will not be very much embarrassed. I shall ask the judge to -let me cross-examine some of the State's witnesses; and you know I ought -to see how it is done; and that is exactly what I am going to find out -to-day.' - -"'You are going to leap into the contest as an attorney, and plead your -client's case?' - -"'No, I am not going to make any leap at all; but I have a trap set to -catch certain birds, and I am going to arrange the bait myself, and at -the proper time I shall spring the trigger and pen the game. It is my -intention to spend the remainder of this day in the court-house; in -fact, I think I shall make that place my headquarters until the trial is -over.' - -"'Do you think you can stand the jokes and jeers and vulgar gaze of such -a crowd as you must necessarily meet in a criminal court-room?' - -"'I can bear anything, endure anything, submit to anything, in order to -save my dear, unfortunate friend!' - -"'Lottie, I do not believe this world ever contained another such a -good-hearted, noble girl as you--so unselfish, so thoughtful of others, -so generous and sympathetic!' - -"'Edward, reserve your compliments until Viola is clear, and then you -may pile the flattery on as much as you please.' - -"'I suppose you will make an eloquent speech to the jury in defense of -your client; I can in my imagination hear the sweet words echoing -through the halls of justice.' - -"'Cease your levity, if you please; the occasion demands seriousness. -You know very well I do not intend to make a speech; but I am in real -downright earnest when I say that I am going to ask the judge to allow -me to cross-examine some of the witnesses. You see I have been studying -a great many commentaries on criminal evidence, and have learned that -when a witness swears falsely to one material point, he is not to be -believed in anything else. Now I am going to propound certain questions -to some of the witnesses, and if they swear what they did on the former -trial, why, then, they will be in my trap.' - -"'Lottie, don't you think it advisable to acquaint Mr. Rockland with all -the new facts in your possession, so he could be prepared to handle them -when the trial comes off?' - -"'No, I do not; and besides this, I cannot reveal to any one the secrets -confided to me by another, without her consent.' - -"'Ah! it is a "her" then who works the wires behind the curtains?' - -"'There are no wires to work nor any curtains to work behind; but enough -of this; come, we will now go to the court-house.' - -"As I entered the court-room with Lottie leaning on my arm, the eyes of -the lawyers and spectators were at once fixed on her with a curious -gaze, as she moved across the room like an empress, and advancing to the -clerk's desk, asked for the papers in the Bramlett case. The little -sleek-haired clerk, whose nose was very large, stood with his mouth wide -open, his pen in his hand, gazing at the angelic beauty before him, as -much astonished as if a ghost had suddenly risen out of the ground. -Lottie again called for the papers, when the little clerk began to -stammer: - -"'You had better--that is, we could not--I must ask you to see Mr. -Quillet, madame--it is against the rules to let papers go out of the -office, except to the attorneys.' - -"I do not wish to take the papers out of the office, sir,' replied -Lottie modestly, as she smiled sweetly, 'I can examine them here.' - -"The little clerk was very much embarrassed, but refused to let her have -the papers until he was ordered to do so by Mr. Quillet. Lottie took the -great bundle of documents, and, scattering them about on the table, -seated herself and began to read them, while the judge and Mr. Quillet -eyed her closely. A group of lawyers assembled inside of the bar and -began to whisper to each other, occasionally pointing at Lottie, who was -too deeply engaged with the papers to notice them. - -"'She is the most beautiful woman I ever saw,' I heard Mr. Quillet -whisper to a lawyer who sat near him. - -"'Who is she?' inquired the man to whom Quillet had addressed the -remark. - -"'Miss Charlotte Wallingford, I believe--an adopted daughter of Mr. -Rockland.' - -"'Well, Quillet, I indorse your judgment; I don't think I ever saw such -a perfect model of beauty before. What is she up to there? She seems to -work as if she meant business.' - -"'She is examining the evidence in the Bramlett case; she is a stanch -friend to the defendant; you were not here when the case was tried, I -believe?' - -"'No.' - -"'Well, it is an interesting case, full of strange, romantic mystery. It -is to be tried again next Thursday; so you will hear the evidence.' - -"'Quillet, if I could marry such a woman as that, I think I should be -willing to surrender my bachelor freedom, and put my neck under old -Hymen's yoke.' - -"'Yes, no doubt of it; and I dare say I could find a brigade of men in -this city who would do likewise; but you need not lay siege to that -castle--that article is already bespoke.' - -"'How is that?' - -"'She is going to marry that tall, awkward booby yonder, leaning against -that column--the one with the long, shaggy whiskers.' - -"'Well! well! there is no accounting for a woman's taste. It is -surpassingly strange that so glorious a beauty should take a fancy to -such a bulk of humanity as that!' - -"'Hush!, hush! he is listening to us.' - -"Then they continued the conversation in lower tones, so I could not -hear any more. - -"The court took a thirty minutes' recess, which afforded me an -opportunity to introduce Lottie; this I lost no time in doing. - -"'Miss Wallingford,' observed the judge, as he courtesied to her and -dropped into a seat by her side, 'you seem to be deeply interested in -those papers; may I inquire what they refer to?' - -"'Those papers refer to the evidence that was in the Bramlett case on -the first trial,' said Lottie, as her pretty eyes rested on the handsome -countenance of the judge. - -"'Oh, yes; that is the case that was set for Thursday; a very strange -case it is, indeed! You are the young lady who has been staying in the -jail with Miss Bramlett?' - -"'Yes, sir; and I am a true friend to that young girl.' - -"'Well, Miss Bramlett ought to be proud of the friendship of such a -lady; and I promise you that your friend shall have a fair and impartial -trial. I suppose you will be present to witness the proceedings?' - -"'Oh, yes, I certainly shall attend the trial; I should have been -present at the first trial, but I was very ill at the time. I have a -little favor to ask of your Honor, which I hope you will grant--provided -it is not against the rules of practice.' - -"'I beg you to name it, Miss Wallingford; and I promise in advance to -grant it, if it is within my power, even if it requires a change of our -rules.' - -"'I thank you sincerely, sir; I should like very much to have the -privilege of cross-examining some of the State's witnesses.' - -"'Oh, is that all? You shall cross-examine all of the State's witnesses, -if you like; and you may make a speech in defense of your friend, if you -wish.' - -"'I have no inclination to make a speech--I am not a lawyer, but I have -been studying Miss Bramlett's case. There are some very peculiar points -in it, with which Mr. Rockland is totally unacquainted; and I have other -peculiar reasons for wishing to cross-examine some of the witnesses.' - -"'Mr. Quillet,' said the judge, addressing that gentleman with a bland -smile, 'you had better look to your laurels, next Thursday, for I think -you are going to encounter heavier mettle than usual.' - -"'A defeat caused by Miss Wallingford would be as good as a victory over -an ordinary adversary.' - -"'You are quite complimentary, Mr. Quillet; you seem to understand the -weakness of our sex; we all love flattery.' - -"'Candidly speaking, Miss Wallingford, I do most sincerely wish you may -be able to furnish evidence enough to justify a jury in acquitting your -friend.' - -"'Indeed, I thank you for your kind wish, and flatter myself that I -shall be able to put a different feature on the case the next time from -what it was on the first trial. On next Thursday I am going to unravel -one of the strangest mysteries that ever was revealed in open court. I -will make you think I am a real magician. Lucio made a duke out of a -friar, and I will make a saint out of a murderess--that is, I will show -a saint where everybody sees a demon.' - -"'May God speed you, Miss Wallingford,' the judge replied; 'you deserve -success, whether you achieve it or not.' - - - - -CHAPTER XXXII. - - -"The judge was so completely charmed by Lottie's brilliant conversation -and sparkling wit that he forgot all about the business of his court, -and consequently the thirty minute recess was prolonged to an hour, and -probably would have gone on indefinitely, but Mr. Quillet reminded him -of the McCay case, which had been set for trial that day. - -"'Ah, yes, Mr. Quillet,' said the judge, as he looked at his watch and -rose from his seat, 'I crave your pardon; I was so much fascinated with -Miss Wallingford's conversation that I had entirely lost sight of -business. She is the most intellectual woman I ever met. Then her beauty -is equal to her talent; the truth is, she is an animated library.' - -"'How could she be otherwise, after being tutored by old Rockland? I -hope she is not as cold-hearted as that old iceberg.' - -"'No woman with such a face as hers ever possessed a cold heart, for I -think she is the most beautiful woman I ever saw.' - -"This conversation was carried on in an undertone, close to where I sat, -and notwithstanding I had often heard extravagant encomiums passed on -Lottie's beauty and intellect, I felt a sensation of pleasure at hearing -her praised by a man possessing such a solid mind as Judge Flipout. I -could scarcely realize the favors that fortune had showered on me, by -enabling me to win the heart of a woman whose brilliant mind and -dazzling beauty had won the admiration of all who beheld her. - -"'The State _vs_. McCay,' said the judge, as he resumed his seat and -began to turn the leaves of the trial docket. - -"'Ready for the State,' replied Mr. Quillet. - -"'Bring in the prisoner, Mr. Sheriff,' observed the judge. - -"That officer went into an antechamber and soon returned, followed by a -pale-faced little man, whose emaciated appearance indicated the presence -of severe illness. He was leaning on the arm of his wife, whose haggard -features and sunken eyes exhibited unmistakable evidence of intense -suffering. She held a sickly looking infant against her breast with one -arm, while she supported her husband with the other. She was followed by -two pale-faced little girls, about three years old, who clung to the -tattered skirts of the faded calico dress worn by their mother. They -were bright-eyed, pretty little timid twins, whose pinched features told -a tale of want, misery and starvation as plain as print. - -"'Who is your attorney, Mr. McCay?' inquired the judge, as he began to -rub the left side of his nose with the forefinger of his left hand, -which he always did when vexed about anything. - -"'I have no attorney, sir,' replied the defendant meekly; 'I did not -have any money to pay a lawyer to defend me.' - -"Lottie instantly rose and whispered to Colonel Buff, a lawyer of -considerable reputation: - -"'Defend that unfortunate man, Colonel Buff, and I will compensate you -liberally.' - -"The attorney then stepped forward and announced himself as attorney for -the defense. - -"After the indictment was read, the prosecuting witness was ordered to -take the stand. He was a large, red-faced man, with a hangdog look on -his countenance, while an offensive scent of mean whisky and tobacco -pervaded the atmosphere for ten feet in every direction from his filthy -body. His evidence was in substance as follows: - -"'I was passing along the street near defendant's residence with a wagon -loaded with bacon, and when near his house, one of the wheels of the -wagon broke down, causing one of the casks to roll out; falling against -the curb-stone, it burst and scattered the meat on the ground. The -defendant came and proposed to purchase a side of the bacon, stating -that his wife and children were on the verge of starvation, caused by -the sickness of himself and wife. I was at first disposed to make the -trade with him, and perhaps would have done so, but I soon discovered -that he did not have any money to pay for the meat. He begged me to sell -it to him on a short credit, making at the same time a most solemn -promise that he would pay me as soon as he got able to work. I of course -declined to accept his proposition; he then offered to pawn his coat, -hat and pocket-knife with me as a security that I should have the money. -I rejected this nonsensical offer, and went away to get my wagon wheel -mended at a shop hard by; when I returned I noticed that one of the -sides of bacon had been cut, and a large piece of it was missing. I went -immediately to the defendant's residence, where I found the stolen bacon -in a pot which was boiling on the fire. I took it, and, replacing it in -the spot where it had been cut away, found it exactly fitted--consequently -I knew it was my meat.' - -"'We rest our case here, if the court please,' said Mr. Quillet, as the -villainous looking witness retired from the stand. - -"'Have you any witnesses for the defense, Colonel Buff?' inquired the -judge. - -"'We will introduce Mrs. McCay for the defense,' replied Buff. - -"The poor woman staggered into the witness box, while the half-starved -babe was vainly endeavoring to draw a little nourishment from her -breast. - -"'Mrs. McCay,' said Colonel Buff, 'please tell the court and jury all -you know about this case.' - -"She wiped the fast falling tears from her pale cheeks with the sleeve -of her tattered dress, and in a tremulous voice mingled with broken -sobs, said: - -"'My husband is a railway engineer, and when he was able to work, we did -not want for anything; but his health failed, and he was compelled to -give up his situation; we did not suffer for food then until I fell ill. -When we both lost our health, we were driven to the necessity of selling -everything we had in order to buy provisions and medicines. Our -condition continued to grow worse until we were driven to the very brink -of starvation, when a beautiful angel visited our humble home, and -furnished us everything necessary to make us comfortable. She continued -to visit our house every day, supplying all our wants, and she engaged -the services of a good, kind doctor, who came to see us often, and gave -us his medicine and his kind attention. So long as that beautiful angel -visited our home, my husband's health continued to improve, because she -not only furnished all the provisions and medicine that we needed, but -she was such a kind, gentle nurse, that we all improved while she was -with us; but they put the beautiful angel in jail, and she never came -to visit us any more.' - -"'Edward, that was Viola,' said Lottie, as she seized my arm and smiled -through her tears; 'Heaven bless that dear girl, do you think now she -ever committed murder?' - -"'Before the great Creator, I declare she is not guilty!' - -"Mrs. McCay paused a moment to wipe the tears away; while Flipout put -the friction heavy on his nose. - -"'My father died,' continued the witness, 'leaving an estate of ten -thousand dollars, and I, being his only child, was entitled to all the -money, which (had I received it) would have placed us beyond the reach -of want; but the money was paid into the hands of Mr. Anterson, the -public administrator, who kept it and refused to pay it to me.' - -"'If the court please,' said Mr. Quillet, 'while I deeply sympathize -with this unfortunate woman, I must insist that her statement cannot be -admitted as evidence in this case.' - -"'I concur with my learned friend,' said Colonel Buff, 'and shall not -insist on her statement as testimony unless she can tell us something -directly bearing on the case.' - -"Then, addressing the witness, Colonel Buff propounded the following -question: - -"'Mrs. McCay, do you know anything about the slice of bacon that is -alleged to have been stolen?' - -"'My husband brought home a small piece of bacon, telling me----' - -"'Stop,' said Quillet, 'don't tell anything about what your husband -said.' - -"'Then I have nothing more to tell, if you refuse to hear what my -husband said, though I know he did not steal the bacon.' - -"'How do you know he did not steal it? - -"'Because he told me so.' - -"'We ask your Honor to exclude what defendant said,' exclaimed Quillet. - -"'Certainly,' replied the judge, 'the statements of defendant will not -go to the jury.' - -"'Any more witnesses, Colonel Buff?' inquired the court. - -"After a hurried consultation with his client, the colonel rose and -addressed the court: - -"'If your Honor please, I have advised the defendant to withdraw his -plea of not guilty and throw himself on the mercy of the court, which he -has consented to do. I have been induced to take this course because the -jury could not, consistently with their oaths, acquit the prisoner in -the face of the evidence. This is a case which appeals in the strongest -terms to the mercy of the court, and I am sorry that your Honor does not -possess the power to discharge the prisoner, because I do -conscientiously believe the circumstances would justify your Honor in a -course of that kind, and that you would not hesitate to do it if you had -the legal authority.' - -"'Mr. McCay,' said the judge, 'have you any reason to urge against the -sentence of the court?' - -"The prisoner rose to his feet with trembling limbs, leaning against a -table to steady himself, and said: - -"'The prosecuting witness has sworn falsely--I did not steal his bacon; -he promised that if I would watch his property until he could go to the -shop and get his wagon wheel mended he would give me enough of the meat -for our dinner. I agreed to remain and watch the wagon until his return, -and with this understanding he went away, leaving me with the property. -Some time after he went away I cut off a few pounds of the bacon and -carried it home, as I knew my little children were very hungry, -intending to go immediately back to my post, but before I had time to -return the witness came to my house in a great passion, and charged me -with stealing the bacon.' - -"As the unfortunate man resumed his seat, Flipout began to rub both -sides of his nose furiously and said: - -"'The duty which the law imposes upon me in cases of this nature is a -very painful one to perform. I cannot escape it, though much I wish I -could. The court will take the liberty to say that the prosecuting -witness in this case has shown himself to be a cruel, unfeeling wretch, -and it is very sorry that it has not power to inflict upon him such -punishment as his meanness so richly merits. The punishment in this case -is about to fall on the wrong man, consequently the court will make it -as light as possible. The sentence of the court is that the defendant be -imprisoned in the penitentiary for two years.' - -"Lottie now drew her chair near a table, seized a pen, and began to -write very rapidly, and continued until she had covered two sheets of -paper; then she directed me to hand it to the judge. He adjusted his -spectacles and read the document. - -"'Mr. Quillet,' said Flipout, 'Miss Wallingford has prepared a truthful -history of this case, with a petition asking the Governor to grant a -pardon, and I shall sign it with a great deal of pleasure, and hope you -will do likewise.' - -"'Indeed, sir, you could not ask me to do anything that would afford me -more gratification.' - -"The judge and Mr. Quillet placed their signatures to the paper, then -every lawyer in the room promptly stepped forward and signed it. - -"'Now, Edward,' said Lottie, 'take this document to the telegraph -office, have it sent by wire immediately at my expense, and tell them to -send the answer to me without delay.' - -"I gladly obeyed her instructions, and more than that, I hurried to Mr. -Rockland's office and prevailed on him to send a private dispatch to the -Governor, requesting a favorable consideration of the petition, knowing -that the Governor would do anything reasonable to accommodate his friend -Rockland. - -"As soon as I had sent off the dispatches I again made my appearance in -the court-room, supposing Lottie would be ready to return home; but in -that respect I was very much disappointed. - -"'The next case on the docket, Mr. Quillet, is the State against -Anterson,' said the judge. - -"'We are ready for the State,' replied Quillet. - -"'Is the defendant in court, Mr. Sheriff?' - -"'Yes,' replied a fat short man, whose skin appeared to be stretched to -its utmost capacity in the effort to cover his ponderous body. - -"Mr. Anterson then moved to the front with as much dignity as ever -General Washington possessed, and announced himself ready for trial. He -was exquisitely dressed in glossy black cloth, cut in the most approved -style, while a large ring set with diamonds sparkled on one of his -fingers, and a costly diamond pin glistened on his bosom. His boots were -polished until they looked like the face of a mirror, and his hair was -sleek, oily, and neatly combed; his little soft hands were as white as -those of a delicate lady, and he was the most innocent, harmless looking -little man I ever beheld. The indictment charged this innocent little -man with embezzling the trifling sum of ninety thousand dollars of money -belonging to sundry widows and orphans of the good city of Memphis, -county of Shelby, State of Tennessee. Nineteen other bills of a similar -character had been presented against that distinguished little -gentleman, charging him with embezzlement. The fact is, he had made a -clean sweep of something near three hundred thousand dollars of trust -funds that had come into his hands as public administrator. - -"'Who are your attorneys in this case, Mr. Anterson?' inquired his -Honor. - -"With a dignified wave of his hand he pointed toward a dozen lawyers who -had assembled near their distinguished client. - -"'You seem to be well supplied with attorneys, sir,' observed the judge, -as he renewed the friction on his nose. - -"'My attorneys are not all present yet, sir,' said the handsome little -man, 'but we can send for Mr. Rockland and Mr. Bullger, so as to have -them here in a few minutes.' - -"'Are you ready to proceed with the case now, gentlemen?' inquired -Flipout, addressing the brigade of lawyers. - -"'I believe we are ready,' replied Mr. Fullbrain, a red-faced lawyer, -with large Roman nose, broad mouth and massive jaws. This distinguished -lawyer was commonly called Hogjaw, which nickname had been suggested by -the striking resemblance between his jaw and that of a fat Berkshire -hog. - -"'We make a motion to quash the indictment in this case, if your Honor -please,' said Hogjaw, as he held the bill up before the court. - -"'State the grounds of your motion, if you please, Mr. Fullbrain,' -exclaimed the judge impatiently, as he began to warm up his nose with -his finger, while his keen black eyes sparkled with anger. - -"Mr. Quillet began to pace up and down the floor with his hands thrust -deep in his pockets, while a defiant expression mantled his face. The -clerks dropped their pens and moved to the front so as to witness the -great brain-battle soon to be waged, while a motley crowd of idlers -moved like an ocean wave toward the combatants, eager to view the -interesting contest. - -"Hogjaw surveyed the crowd for a moment, slowly running his eyes over -the eager throng, as if inviting them to prepare for the intellectual -banquet which he was about to dish out to them; then turning toward the -court, he swelled out his brawny chest, as if taking in a supply of -wind, which was to be converted into a terrific tornado, with which he -expected to blow the attorney-general and his little bill of indictment -out of the court-house. - -"'If your Honor please,' began Hogjaw, 'we think there is a fatal defect -in this bill of indictment, a patent incurable defect which must appear -as clear as the sun at noontide to the mind of an intelligent court. It -is a source of indescribable regret to me, sir, to find such a glaring -defect in this bill, as we would have greatly preferred to try this case -on its merits, because we are happy to be able to inform your Honor that -we are prepared to vindicate the innocence of our client. His -distinguished reputation for honor and unblemished integrity--his -lacerated feelings--his wounded pride--all cry aloud for redress. We -feel an abiding confidence in our ability to clear our distinguished -client with the brilliant array of witnesses who are ready to testify to -his innocence, but we find the bill of indictment so fatally defective -that we are driven to the necessity of making the motion to quash. We -would gladly have avoided this course but for the duty which we owe to -the legal profession, which tells us that such mistakes should not be -encouraged or countenanced by lawyers who profess to have such a feeling -as self-respect. Who is the man intended to be indicted under this bill? -yes, who is the man? that is the question I dare to ask of this -honorable court. This innocent, much injured man has been seized and -ruthlessly dragged away from the bosom of his family, and treated as a -common malefactor, all of which unpardonable wrongs have been inflicted -upon him by the officers of the law acting under a mistaken belief that -the grand jury had presented a bill of indictment, into open court -against him. Now, sir, I boldly assert in the presence of this -honorable court and high Heaven that no such thing has ever been done. -A thing, a scrap of worthless paper, is filed here, which ignorant -people might be deceived into believing was a bill of indictment, but -you cannot cram such nonsense into the brains of sensible men. My -client's name is Anterson, which name I unhesitatingly assert cannot be -spelled without a _t_, and if any man under the blue vault of Heaven -will show me a _t_ in connection with the name on this indictment, why, -then, I promise to surrender the case. Doubtless the writer of this bill -was endeavoring to make a _t_ when that little deformed animal was made, -but I have the temerity to assert that no gentleman with as much as a -thimble full of brains in his head, or an ounce of self-respect in his -heart, would undertake to call that animal a _t_ in open court. So far -as civilization extends, the English language is written and spoken, and -that elegant language is composed of certain letters whose office it is -to represent certain sounds. The twentieth letter in our alphabet is -called _t_, which letter is made with a perpendicular stroke of the pen, -then a horizontal stroke, making a cross near the top end of the upright -line. Now we all know that the letter cannot be made without the cross. -Your Honor is doubtless familiar with the wise and charming compositions -of the celebrated poet Ramsquadlar, whose reputation is co-extensive -with the world. That distinguished bard said: - - "'"When you can extract the salt from the sea, - Then without a cross can you make a t. - As sure as fog doth rise, the rain will fall, - _T_ without a cross is no _t_ at all." - -"'Now, sir, if that eminent poet was correct in his beautiful -composition, which I presume no one will be so bold as to doubt, I think -it settles the hash (if I may be allowed the expression) with the motion -now under consideration. If a _t_ without a cross is no _t_ at all, then -it follows, as a matter of course, that no legal indictment has been -filed against my client. If your Honor concedes that the _t_ is not -crossed--and that is too plain to admit of doubt--why then, of course, -the motion to quash must prevail.' - -"After haranguing the court for an hour, Hogjaw dropped, overcome with -exhaustion, into his seat, while the brother members crowded round him -to offer their congratulations. One fanned his red face, another brought -him a glass of whisky and water, a third brought a napkin, while all the -rest appeared to be anxious to render some friendly aid. - -"Mr. Quillet delivered an eloquent and learned argument against the -motion, insisting that the defect was such as could be cured by -amendment; but he was forced to confess that the _t_ had not been -crossed. It was very plain to be seen that the attorney-general was -considerably embarrassed, and a lack of confidence appeared on his face, -while his actions showed that he had an up-hill business. - -"As soon as Mr. Quillet resumed his seat, Mr. Rockland, who had been -silently watching the progress of the argument, stepped forward and -began to address the court, favoring the motion to quash. He commenced -by a learned dissertation on the laws of creation which prevailed -anterior to the existence of Adam, then gave a graphic sketch of the -rules which God laid down for the government of Eden, showing the awful -consequences which had resulted from a disobedience of those holy laws. -He then came down to the time of Moses, giving a brilliant history of -the strict discipline which that great leader enforced in his -magnificent army of exodusters, while marching out of the filthy land of -Egypt; then taking up the laws of the Medes and Persians, he explained -them to the satisfaction of the court; showing clearly wherein they -applied particularly to the case under consideration. The renowned -advocate then paid his respects to the Koran, citing many passages which -he insisted had a direct bearing on the question now before the court; -passing on thence to the birth of Christ, he descanted at large on the -meekness and suffering of the great Saviour of mankind; and when he -began to advert to the vulgar mob of Jews who clamored for the innocent -blood of Christ, he compared them to the motley crowd of ill-bred -wretches who were clamoring for the innocent blood of Mr. Anterson. When -he plunged into the English law, he threw book after book behind him, -while he hurled precedents and quotations at the head of the court so -thick and rapidly that the judge became completely bewildered. After Mr. -Rockland had exhausted the laws of England, he made a raid off the -American decisions, pouring a mighty deluge of learning into the ears of -the court; then wound up with such a burst of eloquence as to bring -tears from the audience, and confusion to the mind of the court; he then -sank back in his seat, and wiped the perspiration from his brow, and -awaited the decision of the court. - -"Flipout dropped his head on his hands and remained silent for several -moments, evidently bewildered and confused by the vast waves of learning -that had rolled over him. At length he rose up, rubbed both sides of his -nose with his fingers, re-adjusted his spectacles, coughed two or three -times, looked up at the ceiling as if he thought it were going to fall -down on his head, then delivered the following learned opinion: - -"'The court has listened with exquisite pleasure to the lucid and -learned argument made by the attorneys, and it feels profoundly thankful -to those wise gentlemen for the valuable assistance which they have -rendered in that respect. This case presents many strange and difficult -features, such as we very seldom meet with in this country. The court is -seriously impressed with the importance of this very peculiar case, -because it involves the fortunes of many poor, destitute widows and -starving orphans. The defendant is charged with the embezzlement of -large sums of money belonging to a class of unfortunate people whose -helpless condition cries aloud to the court for protection. The law is -made to restrain the strong and to protect the helpless, and it is the -duty of the court to enforce the law in such a manner as to attain the -end which the makers had in view when the statutes were passed. -Unscrupulous men who wantonly trample on the law should have the -severest penalties pronounced against them; but we must not lose sight -of the fact that no man can be compelled to answer for a felony except -upon an indictment presented in open court by a grand jury. The law -presumes every man to be innocent until such presumption is overthrown -by competent proof; and we all remember the Scriptural maxim that -declares it is better that ninety-and-nine guilty persons should escape -than that one innocent man should suffer. This being the case, it -behooves us to exercise great caution in the administration of the laws. -It is contended by the able counsel for the defense that this -indictment is fatally defective, because the letter t has no cross, and -many learned decisions have been cited to sustain that view. The court -had occasion, at a former term, to examine the authorities touching this -identical question, and it considers that a very fortunate circumstance, -as it will greatly aid the court in arriving at a correct conclusion in -regard to the case now under consideration. In the celebrated case of -Hikokolochuckle _vs_. Lokoklohichuckle, it was held that all the letters -necessary to spell the defendant's name must appear plainly written, so -that a man of ordinary understanding could easily determine what name -was intended. Chief-justice Wangdoodle, in delivering the opinion in -that case, said that it was a deplorable fact that men of learning very -frequently fell into the despicable habit of neglecting to cross their -_t's_ and dot their _i's_. In the case of Changtookoo _vs_. -Ronder-bangtookoo, which was tried in the Celestial Empire, before the -eminent Chief-justice Shooflytoto, it was held that the twelfth letter -in the alphabet was entitled to ten tails and seven horns, and that it -could not be considered complete if either of those tails or horns was -left off. The points decided in that case appear to have a direct -bearing on the one now before this court. The letter referred to in that -famous case is not made with a pen, as it is in this country, but by -drowning a large battle spider in black ink, and then carefully setting -him down on white paper. The legs of the spider correspond exactly with -the number of tails and horns necessary to constitute the letter. In the -case referred to, it appeared that the spider which was used in making -the letter had unfortunately lost a leg in a combat with a bumblebee, -which was not discovered by the writer, consequently the letter had only -six tails, when it should have had seven. Owing to that fatal defect, -the plaintiff lost his case, which involved an immense fortune. Now, if -the failure to make all the tails and horns rendered that letter -defective, it would seem that a failure to cross the letter _t_ in this -case would be fatal. Spotted Tail, the renowned Indian chief, in his -remarkable communications to the President of the United States, was -very careful to cross his _t's_ and dot his _i's_; therefore it is the -opinion of this court that if an ignorant savage can afford to dot his -_i's_ and cross his _t's_ the attorney for the State should be required -to do likewise. Entertaining this view of the case, the court feels -conscientiously bound to sustain the motion. Let the indictment be -quashed.' - -"'I suppose,' said Hogjaw, 'that all the other bills may be considered -as disposed of by this judgment, as they are all in the same category?' - -"'Yes, let all the bills be considered quashed.' - -"A grand rush was made toward Mr. Anterson by the lawyers and -spectators, who showered congratulations thick and rapid. Every one -seemed to be eager to shake his hand, and to offer obsequious -congratulations. The little embezzler was placed in a carriage and -driven to a saloon, where champagne sparkled--corks flew in all -directions--toasts were drunk, and shouts of joy and hilarious laughter -were wafted on the breeze. - -"The poor widow and helpless orphans went on starving all the same. The -world wags on, the sun continues to shine, the moon blushes not, the -rich robber revels in stolen wealth, while Justice spreads her white -wings and bids the world farewell. The starving wretch who steals a -slice of meat to feed his starving children must expiate the crime in -the penitentiary, while he who steals a million is champagned and -worshiped, lionized and petted. - -"Lottie gave me the benefit of her opinion about courts, lawyers and -judges, with a vengeance, and that opinion was anything but a compliment -to that class. When court adjourned she beckoned me to follow her, and I -knew from the bright sparkle of her pretty eyes, and the manner in which -the corners of her mouth hung down, that she had something of importance -to communicate. I followed her into a small antechamber adjoining the -court-room, where I saw Mrs. McCay weeping over her husband, while the -two pretty little twins were sound asleep on the floor. - -"'Oh! Charley,' said the unfortunate woman, as she threw her arms around -her husband's neck, 'if they take you to prison now, it will kill you. -You have been so ill, and you are now so weak, that you cannot live if -they start with you to the penitentiary in your present condition.' - -"'Let me die, then; why should I care to live in a world that is -overflowed with injustice? I am unable to work any more, therefore it -would be better for me to be out of the way!' - -"'Dear Charley, please do not talk that way, for my poor heart is -breaking! If they take you to the penitentiary, they may take me to my -grave, for it will kill me to lose you!' - -"'They are not going to take him to the penitentiary yet a while,' said -Lottie, as she lifted Mrs. McCay's little babe in her arms; 'I have come -to take you and your good husband home; so come along, for the carriage -is waiting at the door.' - -"Mrs. McCay wiped the tears from her eyes and began to stare at Lottie -in a bewildered manner. - -"'We cannot go home now, because the sheriff was here a moment ago, and -said he would be back soon to take my husband to jail. He told me he was -going to take Charley to the penitentiary in the morning.' - -"'But I tell you, Mrs. McCay, that they shall not take your husband to -prison; he is a free man--here is a dispatch from the Governor granting -a full pardon, and your husband can go where he pleases; so come along -and get in the carriage!' - -"Mr. McCay fell on his knees at Lottie's feet, seized her hand and -pressed it to his lips, while his wife knelt on the other side and took -the other hand. - -"'You are a dear angel!' exclaimed the weeping woman as she pressed -Lottie's hand to her lips. 'Heaven bless you, we will be your slaves as -long as we live!' - -"'No, you will not be my slaves, either, but you shall be my good -friends.' - -"The whole family was crowded into the carriage, which forced me to take -a seat by the driver. Lottie directed the coachman to stop at the -nearest provision store, where she handed the salesman a bill of -provisions, with orders to have them immediately sent to Mr. McCay's -residence. Soon after we deposited the family at the front gate a dray -stopped, and the driver began to place the provisions on the pavement in -front of the house. A barrel of flour, a barrel of sugar, a sack of -coffee and a cask of hams, with numerous other packages, were soon -scattered about on the pavement. - -"'Edward,' said Lottie, as she cast one of her peculiarly sweet smiles -on me, 'did you ever read Dickens on the circumlocution office?' - -"'Yes,' I replied. - -"'Very well, then you will understand my meaning when I tell you I have -started a circumlocution office of my own.' - -"'How is that?' - -"'Mr. Anterson steals ten thousand dollars from Mrs. McCay, and gives -Mr. Rockland part of the money to keep him (Anterson) out of the -penitentiary; Mr. Rockland gives me the money, I purchase provisions -with it, and deliver them to Mrs. McCay.' - -"'That is circumlocution double and twisted!' - -"We then took leave of the family who had been made happy by Lottie's -bounty, and drove home. I attempted to embrace Lottie as I assisted her -from the carriage. - -"'Stop, sir!' she said, 'remember the terms of our compact--no love -demonstrations until Viola is clear!' - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIII. - - -"At length the long expected day arrived, the time to which I had been -looking forward with a mind crowded with hope and anxiety; the day which -was to settle the fate of Miss Bramlett, as well as my own, for Lottie -had suffered herself to become so completely entangled with Viola's -affairs that no power could separate them. - -"I ate a light breakfast and hurried to Mr. Rockland's residence, in -order to meet Lottie, according to previous arrangement, for the purpose -of escorting her to the jail. As she met me at the front portico with -both hands held out for me to shake, a smile of unusual brightness -played on her beauteous face, while a hopeful confidence beamed from her -pretty blue eyes. I noticed that her toilet was exquisitely arranged, -displaying evidence of unusual care, skill, and taste. She was clad in a -neat-fitting robe of dove-colored silk, the body cut so as to exhibit -the symmetry of the waist without encumbering the movements of the arms, -terminating close up round the throat, and crowned at the top with -snow-white lace. A large golden chain encircled her neck, at the end of -which was suspended a beautiful locket of the same kind of metal, -containing a picture of my unworthy self, which was held against her -bosom by a golden arrow running through a little ring, and fastened to -her dress. The abundant wealth of golden hair was handsomely braided, -and resting in beautiful coils at the back of her head, being pinned up -with a Cupid dart, while an exquisite hat with two drooping plumes -covered her well-shaped head. - -"'Edward, what is the matter with you this morning? I declare, you look -as blue and solemn as if you were in a funeral procession, following a -dear friend to the grave!' - -"'Lottie, have you no fears as to the result of the trial to-day?' - -"'Now that is a real Yankee style of answering questions; nevertheless, -I will give you a direct answer. I have no fears, but to the contrary, I -am full of confidence and hope; this is to be a day of great triumph for -us. But now I wish to know what makes you look so melancholy?' - -"'While I am hopeful, I am full of doubts as to the result, and those -doubts cling to me, despite my efforts to shake them off.' - -"'Well, all I can say is wait and see. But it is high time we were -going, for I must have a private interview with Viola at the jail before -she goes to the court-house; is the carriage ready?' - -"'Yes, I saw it pass the window just a moment ago!' - -"When we arrived at the jail, Miss Bramlett embraced Lottie -enthusiastically, uttering many endearing words of affection and -gratitude. Her toilet was in every respect exactly similar to Lottie's -and save the color of the hair, they were very much alike. Lottie -requested me to leave her alone with Miss Bramlett until the time -arrived for her to go to the court-house, and I went out into the hall -and began to pace up and down the floor, counting the moments, as they -appeared to crawl at a snail's pace. When the two girls had been -together about an hour, a gentle rap sounded on the door of Miss -Bramlett's room, and when it was opened the sheriff said: - -"'I am ordered, Miss Bramlett, to accompany you to the court-house; you -need not be in a hurry--I can wait until you are ready; take as much -time as you wish.' - -"'I am ready, sir, as soon as I can put on my hat and cloak.' - -"'Doctor Demar,' said the sheriff as he came out, 'I will place my fair -prisoner in your custody and request you to escort her to the -court-house in the carriage, and I will walk.' - -"'Why not ride in the carriage with us?' - -"'I have too much respect for Miss Bramlett's feelings to do anything -that would look like guarding a prisoner.' - -"I seized the hand of the generous-hearted officer and thanked him for -his kindness, promising to take the ladies as he requested, and he -hurried away. - -"When the carriage halted in front of the court-house, an immense crowd -of curious idlers began to collect near the door, eager to get a look at -the beautiful murderess (as they were pleased to designate Miss -Bramlett), and it required the services of a couple of policemen to -clear a road through the dense mass of humanity for the ladies to enter -the door. - -"Judge Flipout, who sat on the judicial bench reading the morning paper, -laid it down and gazed intently at the fair prisoner for a moment, then -descended, and taking Miss Bramlett's hand, inquired about her health. -After a few minutes' conversation with her, he turned round and -addressed Lottie: - -"'Miss Wallingford, have you concluded to deliver a speech in defense of -your pretty client?' - -"'No, I have not, but if I were to make a speech, you would hear new -ideas expressed, such as would not be complimentary to courts, lawyers -and judges. I used to be simple enough to think that courts were the -very fountains of justice, where the weak and helpless could procure -redress for wrongs inflicted on them by the strong and powerful, but the -scales of ignorance have lately been removed from my eyes.' - -"'Indeed! I am very sorry to learn that you have such an unfavorable -opinion of us, but I trust you will alter it when you know more about -us.' - -"'I am sure I should be delighted to see something that might be -considered an improvement on the farce I witnessed here the other day.' - -"'You must not set those two cases down as a sample of what we do all -the time, because the court was forced by the law in those cases to -render decisions the effect of which was to enable guilty parties to -escape.' - -"Then Judge Flipout again addressed Miss Bramlett, remaining by her side -a moment. - -"'Open court, Mr. Sheriff,' he said as he looked at his watch. 'I wish -you a speedy delivery, Miss Bramlett, as much for Miss Wallingford's -sake as for your own. You have been quite fortunate in securing the -friendly services of such an astute attorney.' - -"Then his Honor resumed his seat and listened to the reading of the -minutes, while the lawyers began to whisper to each other, and -occasionally point toward Lottie and Viola. I was close enough to hear a -whispered conversation carried on by Hogjaw and Quillet in regard to the -two charming girls. - -"'Which one is the prisoner?' inquired Hogjaw, as he started toward the -ladies. - -"'The one sitting nearest this way,' replied Quillet. - -"'There are no evidences of guilt in that face, certain. By Jupiter, she -is pretty!' - -"'Yes, but I do not think her as beautiful as Miss Wallingford. I have -never laid my eyes on such a model of perfection; there is an -indescribable charm about the expression of her features that eclipses -anything I ever beheld. Just look at that pretty golden hair--did you -ever see anything like it? Look at those large blue eyes, and that saucy -dimpled chin, the straight, symmetrical form, the exquisite neck, the -rosy cheeks!' - -"'Stop, Quillet, I cry enough! you are done for, that is plain; that -girl has captured you beyond question.' - -"'I would give a California gold mine if I could capture such a woman -for a wife!' - -"'Do you think Miss Bramlett is guilty?' - -"'I am truly sorry to be compelled to say that I do, though I do not -believe she was in her senses when she committed the murder.' - -"'Why do they not plead insanity then?' - -"'Ah, there is where the unaccountable mystery comes in; but I have -lately been informed that Miss Wallingford is in possession of some very -strange facts which she believes will secure the acquittal of her -friend.' - -"'Is it true that Miss Wallingford has lived in the jail with the -prisoner all the time?' - -"'She has been with her most of the time, despite the continued -remonstrances of old Rockland and all of her friends. I tell you what it -is, that girl understands law as well as a majority of young members of -the bar, and we are going to have some rare fun here to-day.' - -"'How is that?' - -"'Miss Wallingford has secured permission of the court to cross-examine -some of the witnesses for the State; and I think we shall see a regular -duel between her and one of the female witnesses.' - -"'Well, Quillet, you must let Miss Wallingford have a fair chance.' - -"'Indeed I will! she shall have her own time, and shall be allowed the -privileges of a regular member of the bar.' - -"'I guess Miss Wallingford picked up her legal knowledge from old -Rockland's abundant store; he is a cold-hearted old cuss, but I regard -him as the best lawyer in Tennessee.' - -"'Yes, and I believe he hates everybody in the world except his wife and -Miss Wallingford, and they say he worships the very ground on which that -girl walks; he has crammed her head full of solid information, and I do -honestly believe she is the most intellectual woman I ever met.' - -"'There comes old Rockland now, looking as pale as a ghost.' - -"The iron lawyer moved slowly across the room and dropped into a chair; -resting his elbows on a table and placing his face between his hands, he -stared vacantly at space without apparently noticing anybody in the -house. - -"'Mr. Quillet,' said the judge, 'are you ready to proceed with the -Bramlett case?' - -"'We are ready on the part of the State, if your Honor pleases.' - -"'What says the defense?' - -"Mr. Rockland straightened himself up, gazed at the judge a moment, and -ran his eyes slowly over the vast crowd of spectators, then fixed his -gaze on Lottie as if he were waiting for her to answer the judge's -question. - -"'Yes, papa,' she whispered, 'tell the judge we are ready.' - -"'I believe we are ready for the defense,' growled the old lawyer as he -resumed his seat, and again rested his face in his hands. - -"'Call the _venire_, Mr. Sheriff,' said Flipout, as a frown began to -darken his brow, occasioned, no doubt, by the confusion produced by the -restless crowd who had come in to witness the proceedings. - -"The first juror who presented himself was Gabriel McCracken, a very -little man, with large red nose of the Roman type. - -"'Have you formed or expressed any opinion as to the guilt or innocence -of the prisoner at the bar?' inquired Mr. Quillet. - -"'I have.' - -"'Stand aside.' - -"Thomas Tadler answered to the second call, who said he had formed and -expressed an opinion, and was promptly ordered to stand aside. - -"The forty-seventh man called was the first one who had not formed an -opinion about the case, or anything else, because he did not have sense -enough to shape an idea on any subject. He was a tall, hump-shouldered, -slim man, with weak, watery eyes, a starvation look resting on his face, -and a three-cornered head, covered with a profusion of long, tangled -brown hair, and an idiotic expression of countenance. - -"'What is your name, sir?' - -"'Obadiah Crookwood!' - -"'What is your occupation?' - -"'I are a peanut peddler!' - -"'Have you formed or expressed any opinion as to the guilt or innocence -of the prisoner at the bar?' - -"'No, I hain't; never hearn tell of the concern afore.' - -"'Where do you reside?' - -"'T'other side ov the bayou.' - -"'What is your age?' - -"'Don't 'zactly know--suppose summer about thirty, forty or fifty!' - -"'Are you a married man?' - -"'Not now--useta was.' - -"'Your wife is dead, then!' - -"'Bless your soul, her sort don't die!' - -"'Where is your wife?' - -"'She's livin' with another feller.' - -"'How does it happen that your wife is living with another man?' - -"'We swapped wives.' - -"'Then you have got his wife, and he has yours?' - -"'Not 'zactly, because hizen jumped the track and run off with Jim -Stitcher.' - -"'Why did you not then take your wife back, when the other woman -repudiated the trade?' - -"'Because I didn't want her.' - -"'If your Honor please, I think this a competent juror,' said Mr. -Quillet. - -"'What say you for the defense, Mr. Rockland?' - -"The iron lawyer waved his hand slowly toward the jury box, without -looking up or uttering a word, and Mr. Crookwood took his seat. - -"The next juror who answered was a coal-black negro, with large flat -nose, flared nostrils, and a mouth extending from ear to ear, with a -form measuring six feet three at least. - -"'What is your name?' - -"'Ebenezer, sah.' - -"'What is your Christian name?' - -"'Lord love your soul, boss, I iz no Christian nigger--I iz a stray -sheep from de congregation!' - -"'Have you any other name besides Ebenezer?' - -"'Ah, you bet I has, boss--lots on 'em!' - -"'What are they?' - -"'Solomon, Absalom, Lazarus, Ebenezer, sah--dey calls me Laz for short.' - -"'Have you ever formed or expressed any opinion as to the guilt or -innocence of the prisoner at the bar?' - -"'Lord love your soul, boss, I never goes in a bar, I iz a temperance -nigger; I iz an honorable member of de Murphy 'stution!' - -"'You do not understand my question: have you formed or expressed any -opinion as to the guilt or innocence of Miss Viola Bramlett?' - -"'How could a nigger 'spress hisself about a lady 'cept he knowed her? I -nebber seed dat ar gal afore in my born days!' - -"'Then you have never formed or expressed any opinion about her guilt or -innocence?' - -"'Nebber 'spressed myself about white folks, nebber 'sociates wid white -people--dis nigger 'fesses to be a ge'man!' - -"'I think this is a competent juror, if the court please.' - -"'What say you for the defense?' - -"Another careless wave of Mr. Rockland's hand, and the juror was ordered -by the court to take his seat in the box. - -"It was very clear to my mind that Mr. Rockland was perfectly -indifferent as to the material being collected on the jury, and it was -also evident that he regarded the entire proceeding as a mere matter of -form to be passed over in order to reach the inevitable verdict of -guilty against the defendant. - -"Out of a _venire_ of three hundred men, they succeeded in securing a -jury of brainless idiots, and if any man had been bound by contract to -furnish a dozen fit subjects for a first-class lunatic asylum, he could -have used that jury as a legal tender for the debt. - -"While Mr. Quillet was reading the bill of indictment, Viola fixed her -beautiful eyes on him, and listened attentively, and I could see the -regular rise and fall of her bosom, while her breathing was as calm and -gentle as that of a slumbering infant; not a muscle of her face moved, -nor did any evidence of fear or excitement manifest itself on her -features. Lottie's hands trembled slightly as she pulled the leaves from -a rose, and let them fall at her feet; no other signs of emotion -appeared. - -"The spectators and lawyers were listening in breathless silence, -anxious to hear what sort of a plea the defendant was going to put in. -Absolute quiet reigned throughout the spacious room, only broken by the -solemn tones of Mr. Quillet's deep bass voice, as he read the awful -charge of willful and malicious murder against the beautiful prisoner. -When he came to the last word in the bill he turned from the jury, and -fixing his keen black eyes on Viola's face, paused for a moment, as the -prisoner rose to her feet and looked firmly into the face of the -attorney-general. It was not a bold, brazen-faced, defiant stare, but it -was such a calm, dignified, charming look as I suppose the angels in -Heaven are wont to cast on each other. - -"'Miss Viola Bramlett,' said Quillet, as he bent forward, 'are you -guilty or not guilty?' - -"'Not guilty!' was answered in a firm but sweet tone. - -"Then commenced a tremendous scramble among the spectators seeking to -secure eligible seats, so as to hear the evidence. Flipout began to put -the pressure on his nose, while the dark frown re-appeared on his brow. - -"'Mr. Sheriff,' exclaimed the court, 'if you do not instantly put an end -to this confusion the court will impose a heavy fine on you; order those -people to sit down, and station a deputy at each end of the aisle with -instructions to keep it clear, and report the names of persons who -disturb the business of the court. Have your witnesses called, Mr. -Quillet, and proceed with the case.' - -"As the vast crowd of witnesses began to move to the front, I was -reminded of Byron's 'Vision of Judgment,' wherein he gives such a -sublime history of the trial of George III. When Saint Peter called on -Satan for his witnesses, the King of darkness waved his hand down toward -hell, when up rose a black cloud of lost souls, almost as numerous as -the legions of locusts that infested the shores of Egypt. Now I do not -by any means intend to assert that the crowd of witnesses who came -forward to testify against Viola Bramlett were as numerous as the -countless throng that come up to offer evidence against England's dead -king, but I merely give it as my candid opinion that his Satanic Majesty -would have scorned the idea of introducing into a decent court such a -motley crowd of witnesses as those who appeared to swear against Miss -Bramlett. I do not apply these remarks to all of them, however, for -Doctors Dodson and Plaxico were of the number. I was horrified to see -Mrs. Ragland step forward and array herself on the side of the State. -Could it be possible that Viola's own aunt was to be a witness for the -State? I looked at Lottie to see if any evidences of alarm appeared in -her face, but nothing of the sort was perceptible--all seemed calm as an -unruffled lake, while the corners of her mouth were closely drawn down. -Zip Dabbs appeared at the head of the long column of witnesses, and if -he had held the sun in one pocket, the moon in the other, the world on -his shoulder, with the final destiny of the entire human race in the -palm of his hand, he could not have put on a more self-important air -than he did on that occasion. Tadpoddle appeared with his little eye on -duty, while he was making an ineffectual effort to imitate his -illustrious leader. Miss Jemima Tadpoddle, with her tall, gaunt form -looming high above ordinary women, moved deliberately toward the clerk's -desk, and kissed the Bible with a smack as the oath was administered by -the clerk. Miss Clattermouth stood by the side of her tall friend, -looking like a Lilliputian by the side of Gulliver, with her little -mouth handsomely puckered as if she were afraid that the important facts -known to her would escape before she got a chance to tell them to the -jury. - -"As soon as the clerk completed the task of swearing the vast number of -State witnesses, the court ordered the defense to call and swear theirs. - -"'If your Honor please,' growled Mr. Rockland, as he deliberately rose -up from his seat, 'I believe we have no witnesses on the part of the -defense.' - -"'Yes, we have, papa,' said Lottie, in a whisper, as she plucked at Mr. -Rockland's sleeve, 'we have some witnesses, but we do not wish to have -them sworn just now.' - -"Then the iron lawyer stated to the court that he had just learned the -fact that the defense would probably have one or two witnesses, and -asked permission to have them sworn at a later period, which was readily -granted. - -"'We shall ask your Honor,' continued Mr. Rockland, 'to order the -witnesses under the rule.' - -"The court then instructed the sheriff to have all the witnesses -conducted to a comfortable room adjacent to the court-room, and to -station a reliable deputy with them, with orders to keep them together. - -"'Will you insist on the rule being enforced as to Doctors Dodson and -Plaxico?' inquired Mr. Quillet. - -"'No,' said Mr. Rockland, 'we consent that they may remain here.' - -"Doctor Plaxico was the first witness who took the stand on the part of -the prosecution. - -"'Doctor Plaxico, you will please face the jury, and then proceed to -relate all the facts and circumstances connected with the death of Harry -W. Bramlett.' - -"The doctor coughed two or three times, wiped his brow with his -handkerchief, ran his fingers between his cravat and throat as if the -supply of air in his lungs was about to be exhausted, then, in a voice -tremulous with emotion, he began as follows: - -"'Harry W. Bramlett died on the night of the 10th of February; his death -was caused by poison administered to him by some person to me unknown. -Death was produced by strychnine, large quantities of it being found in -the stomach of the deceased. I am a practicing physician, and have been -actively engaged in that profession for ten years past; could have saved -the boy's life if I had been called an hour sooner. Assisted at the -autopsy, found considerable quantity of strychnine--more than sufficient -to produce death.' - -"'If you found any strychnine concealed about the premises, please tell -the jury all about it.' - -"'Immediately after the child expired I began to examine the premises -with a view of securing any evidence which would tend to unravel the -strange mystery that appeared to surround the affair; the circumstances -having directed my suspicions to----' - -"'Stop, Doctor Plaxico,' said Mr. Rockland; 'don't say anything about -your suspicions, if you please--just state the facts that are known to -you.' - -"'Very well. I found a small phial of strychnine in a bureau drawer that -stood in Miss Bramlett's sleeping room, which apartment adjoined the one -in which young Bramlett died. The phial was concealed in a little secret -niche on the inside of a large drawer, among a great quantity of fine -jewelry, and upon very careful inspection I noticed that some of the -strychnine had been dipped out of the phial with the blade of a knife, -or some other smooth substance, which had left its imprint plainly to be -seen on the surface of that remaining in the phial. When Doctor Dodson -arrived, I gave him a detailed account of what had occurred, and -requested him to grant me a private interview, which he immediately did. -As soon as Doctor Dodson and I were alone, I proceeded to describe all -the symptoms that had presented themselves in young Bramlett's case, at -the same time informing him that the child had been poisoned.' - -"'Doctor Plaxico,' said Quillet, 'be so good as to describe the conduct -of Miss Bramlett in every particular, from the moment of your arrival -until the time you left the premises.' - -"'When I first arrived at the house, Miss Bramlett appeared to be in the -deepest distress, wringing her hands and weeping bitterly; but when the -boy expired, she ceased to weep and began to stare wildly about the room -as if searching for something, while a strange, inquiring expression was -perceptible on her features. I noticed that she frequently picked up the -little blue papers that lay on the table, and examined each one -attentively, then replacing them, she turned round and gazed at me with -a mysterious look, as if she were waiting for me to say something. She -would frequently glance at the door, as if she were expecting some one -to enter, and any noise seemed to frighten her.' - -"'We now turn the witness over to the defense for cross-examination,' -said Mr. Quillet. - -"'You may stand aside, doctor,' said the iron lawyer, 'we will not -trouble you with any questions.' - -"'We will examine Doctor Dodson now, Mr. Sheriff, if you will call him -in,' said Mr. Quillet. - -"'He is here, sir,' replied the officer as Doctor Dodson came forward -and went on the stand. - -"'Tell the jury all you know about the death of Harry W. Bramlett, -Doctor Dodson--the cause of his death and all the circumstances -appertaining to it.' - -"The old physician was greatly agitated, though making a vigorous effort -to conceal his emotions, but with only partial success. A tear glistened -in his eye, while his hands trembled, and his breathing was short and -labored. - -"'I am a practicing physician; was called to see young Bramlett a few -days before his death; ah, ha! and found him suffering with ordinary -chills and fever, don't you see? ah, ha! Well, you see it was on the -afternoon of February 10 that I prescribed quinine; making up five -doses, I put them in blue papers and directed Miss Bramlett to -administer one dose every two hours, commencing at four o'clock p. m., -ah, ha! don't you see? I was again called to visit the patient late at -night, and when I arrived was horrified to find the child dead, ah, ha! -Plaxico then requested me to grant him a private interview, and when we -were alone he informed me that the deceased had been poisoned with -strychnine; then I was greatly frightened, thinking it possible that I -might have made a terrible mistake, don't you see? I instantly went and -examined the phial from which I had taken the medicine, which was left -on the mantel, and found it was pure, unadulterated quinine, don't you -see? I then carefully inspected the contents of the blue papers on the -table, and found two of them containing quinine, just as I had prepared -them, while the other three were empty. I felt greatly relieved, because -I was convinced that I had made no mistake, don't you see how it is -yourself, ah ha? Miss Bramlett said she had administered the medicine -exactly according to my directions, commencing promptly at four, and -when she gave the third dose at eight her brother soon thereafter became -seriously ill. I assisted at the post-mortem examination, and found a -large quantity of strychnine in the stomach, enough to produce death; am -satisfied that deceased died from poison.' - -"'What was the nature of Miss Bramlett's conduct while you remained in -the room?' - -"'The poor child appeared to be paralyzed, stunned, as you may say, with -grief; the fact is, she seemed to be perfectly crazed by the sudden -death, ah ha! yes, don't you see? She had a frightful, wild appearance -difficult to describe!' - -"'Did you question Miss Bramlett about the phial of strychnine that -Doctor Plaxico found in her bureau drawer?' - -"'Yes, I asked her for what purpose she had purchased the phial of -strychnine? She hesitated a moment, and appeared to be greatly confused -by the question; then she said that she would rather not tell, and I did -not urge her any further. I asked her if any other person had been in -the room after I had left the quinine and before her brother suddenly -grew worse. She said that no one had entered the room, so far as she -knew.' - -"'Did you examine the phial of strychnine? if so, how much had been -taken out of it?' - -"'A small quantity had been dipped out with the blade of a knife, or -some other smooth instrument, which had left its imprint on that which -remained. The phial had the usual label on it, with the word "poison" in -large printed letters, and a picture of a skull and crossbones just -below.' - -"Doctor Dodson was permitted to stand aside, Mr. Rockland declining to -cross-examine him. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIV. - - -"The famous Philadelphia detective was then placed on the stand. - -"'Mr. Dabbs,' said Quillet, 'will you please face the jury and tell all -you know about the facts and circumstances connected with the death of -Harry W. Bramlett.' - -"The renowned detective then unbuttoned his vest, leaned back in his -seat, and thrusting his thumbs through the arm-holes, surveying the -crowd for a moment, began as follows: - -"'I have for the last ten years practiced my profession in the city of -Philadelphia, and was employed by Doctor Demar to work up the Bramlett -case. I had been led to believe that the case was going to be a -difficult one to manage, and that impenetrable mysteries and dangerous -plots would have to be encountered and mastered before a correct -conclusion could be reached; but I do not hesitate to say that during -all my successful career as a detective officer, I never have met with a -case of murder by poison in which it was so easy to spot the perpetrator -as it has proved in this one.' - -"'We do not want to hear your opinion as to the sufficiency of your -evidence, Mr. Dabbs,' growled Mr. Rockland. 'Tell what you know about -the case, and let the jury weigh the proof.' - -"'That is exactly what I was coming to when you interrupted me. While -searching the premises we succeeded in making many wonderful -discoveries, all tending to fix the guilt on Miss----' - -"'Stop, sir!' exclaimed Mr. Rockland, as anger flashed from his eyes. -'If your Honor please, we do most earnestly protest against this manner -of proceeding!' - -"'Tell what you know about the case, sir, and let us have none of your -opinions as to where it fixes the guilt.' - -"'Very well, your Honor,' said Dabbs, 'I was just going to do that.' - -"'Proceed with your evidence,' said Quillet. - -"'Well, as I was telling you a moment ago, we made some startling -discoveries while going through the premises where the murder was -committed. In a large wardrobe that stood in Miss Bramlett's bedroom we -found a blue silk dress, which proved to be the property of that person, -and in the left-hand pocket we discovered a dose of strychnine wrapped -in a blue paper, exactly similar in all respects to those containing the -quinine that had been prepared and left by Doctor Dodson. During our -very satisfactory search, we discovered a small quantity (say one dose) -of quinine under the grate, and upon chemical test we found that one of -the blue papers that had been left by the doctor contained traces of -quinine and strychnine both; the quinine was next to the surface of the -paper, and the strychnine on top of the quinine, showing clearly that -the quinine had been emptied out of the paper and the poison put in its -stead. In the right-hand pocket of Miss Bramlett's blue silk dress we -found a letter of a most mysterious character, addressed to her by a man -whom we have been shadowing all this time--an accomplice, as we have -good reason to think, though the evidence against him is not sufficient -to warrant us in demanding his arrest. As soon as I got possession of -the letter and the strychnine, I began to make my arrangements to take -Miss Bramlett by surprise, hoping thereby to precipitate her into a -confession. I entered her room in the jail disguised as a bill -collector, being aided, of course, by the jailer, who had orders to -assist me, I began to approach the subject which had caused my visit. -After beating round for some time, I threw off my disguise, and -confronted her as the officer of the law, intending by my sudden change -to surprise her, so she would not have time to invent a lie. - -"'"Miss Bramlett," said I, as I threw off my disguise, "you are caught -at last, and the best thing for you to do is to confess and plead for -pardon." - -"'I showed her the letter, and the strychnine that I had found in her -dress pocket, at the same time demanding an explanation. Then, sir, -commenced some of the most splendid acting that I ever witnessed in all -my life. I have seen Charlotte Cushman in "Guy Mannering;" I have seen -Julia Deen, Charlotte Thompson, Eliza Logan, and all of our favorite -actresses on the stage, but never has it been my good fortune to witness -such splendid acting as that performed by Miss Bramlett on that -occasion. I am willing to state on my oath that she seemed to grow at -least ten inches taller when I showed her that letter, and although I -could not swear that real fire flashed from her pretty eyes, yet -something of a strange light blazed from them that I considered a -first-class imitation of living fire. The manner in which she pointed to -the door, and the peculiar tone of voice she employed as she bid me go -through it, were indescribably grand, such as if acted on the stage -would create quite a sensation. The language used was of an emphatic -nature, and the pose so sublime that it caused me to forget my position -as an officer, and implanted in my mind a desire to be somewhere else. -If, however, I did for a moment forget my position as an officer, I did -not lose my self-respect as a gentleman; consequently, I at once made my -way through the door at which she was pointing, extremely disgusted with -my interview. The very impressive manner in which that young woman -invited me out of her room had the effect, I confess, to produce a -temporary confusion, causing me to withdraw rather hurriedly, and I did -not discover the fact that I had left the letter in her possession until -I was out of her presence. As soon as I could I returned to her room and -requested her to deliver the important document to me; but, sir, you may -imagine my astonishment, if you can, when she pointed down at her left -heel, which was on the letter, grinding it against the floor. Yes, sir, -she was, I will not say dancing a jig on the letter, but she was making -a first-class imitation of that sort of sport. If you will take the -trouble, Mr. Quillet, to examine this letter, sir, you will see the -print of her boot-heel on it; the words "Dear V." you will observe have -been almost obliterated by the print of her heel; but I can prove by -Doctor Demar that "Dear V." was plainly written at the top of that -paper.' - -"Mr. Quillet now took the letter from Dabbs and read it to the jury. - -"'She is guilty beyond all doubt,' whispered Hogjaw to Quillet. 'Oh! it -is horrible to think that such a beautiful creature could be so cruel! -it will make me suspect everybody!' - -"'Mr. Dabbs, do you know the handwriting of that letter?' - -"'Being on my oath, and therefore bound to tell the truth, I regret to -say that I do not, but I have a very strong suspicion.' - -"'We care nothing about your suspicions,' said Mr. Rockland; 'be so good -as to confine your statements to what you know.' - -"'Very well, that is exactly what I meant to do, consequently, I say I -do not know who wrote that letter. The handwriting has evidently been -disguised, and the man I suspect is a shrewd rascal, who understands the -art of deception and concealment of evidence. We found rather a singular -contrivance at the back part of Mr. Ragland's vegetable garden--it would -perhaps be a misnomer to call it a gate, but nevertheless, it had -evidently served the purpose of one. We could see where persons had -often passed through--the soft earth on the inside bore plainly the -imprint of shoe tracks, one a number eight, the other a number three -lady's shoe.' - -"'What size shoe does Miss Bramlett wear?' - -"'She wears a number three--I procured one of her shoes, and compared it -with the track, and found that the fit was perfect! and I do not -hesitate to swear that the track was made by the prisoner.' - -"I cast a glance at Lottie, being curious to know what effect this -startling evidence would have on her; but no signs of emotion were -visible on her features. She sat with her pretty eyes fixed on Mr. -Dabbs, as if endeavoring to read his thoughts, while the corners of her -mouth were both drawn down, and her lips firmly pressed together. - -"Mr. Dabbs was kept on the stand for more than an hour, and when he was -ordered to stand aside every vestige of hope had fled from my bosom. The -proof of Miss Bramlett's guilt appeared to me to be insurmountable and -overwhelming. - -"Mr. Tadpoddle was then put on the stand, and I noticed that he had the -little eye on duty, while the large one calmly reposed in its hole. A -roar of laughter greeted the arrival of that singular specimen of -deformed humanity. Mr. Tadpoddle's evidence was nothing more nor less -than a confirmation of that given by Dabbs; but it was all that the -court and Mr. Rockland could do to prevent him from telling what his -remarkable sister knew about the case. - -"'Call in your next witness,' exclaimed Flipout impatiently, as -Tadpoddle left the stand. - -"'Bring Miss Tadpoddle now, Mr. Sheriff,' said Quillet as he turned -round and addressed the officer. - -"The eyes of two hundred men were riveted on the tall, straight form of -the witness as she moved proudly down the aisle; a scornful curl on her -thin, bloodless lips, and a haughty bend of her long, stringy neck, as -she flashed a glance of defiance at the spectators, told plainly what -contempt she felt for all of the human race, and that part of it in -particular. Her costume was of the flashy style, the dress being crimson -silk; with as much of the material in her train as had been used in the -remainder of the garment; and as to cheap lace, and pinchbeck jewelry, -she looked as if she had just been in a storm, where such articles had -rained down on her from the clouds. She had as much paint on her face as -a Comanche chief would have used in three months while on the war-path. -Her hat contained all the colors of the rainbow, with the star-spangled -banner thrown in, while three tall plumes of different colors waved high -above her head, like those that I had seen on the hat of an -old-fashioned militia captain at a regiment muster. - -"'Take a seat, Miss Tadpoddle,' said Quillet as he pointed toward the -chair, 'and tell us all you know about the case now on trial.' - -"'La bless your soul, sir, if I were to tell everything I know about -this case it would take me a week! Now I never exaggerate or get -excited; I am different from other young girls--I despise exaggeration! -You know there are a great many people who would not tell a lie under -any circumstances, yet they have a despicable habit of exaggerating -everything. Very well, I am not that sort of a girl--I always confine -myself closely to the truth without exaggeration. There is my particular -friend, Miss Clattermouth, Heaven bless her dear little soul! She is the -sweetest creature in the world, though she has fallen into the -detestable habit of exaggerating. You know her I presume, Mr. Quillet? -Yes, I have heard her speak about you very often; the fact is, she is a -stanch friend of yours, and so am I; but let that pass.' - -"'Please tell us what you know about the Bramlett murder?' - -"'Ah! yes, I beg your pardon, Mr. Quillet, that was the very thing I was -doing when you interrupted me. Well, you see my sweet little friend -Clattermouth came to see me one day--and, by the by, she visits me very -often--and we were correcting the proof-sheets of her forthcoming -lecture, which she was going to deliver at the next meeting of our Tramp -Reform Association; the subject of the Bramlett murder came up, and Miss -Clattermouth was thinking that it might be a good idea to mention the -case in her lecture, when I said, says I: - -"'"Jerusha----"' - -"'Stop a moment, Miss Tadpoddle,' said the judge as he began to rub both -sides of his nose with great vigor. 'Mr. Quillet,' he continued, 'you -will have to propound direct questions to this witness--we cannot have -the time wasted in listening to this rigmarole. Direct the mind of the -witness to the facts you expect to prove by her, and put a stop to this -nonsense.' - -"'Miss Tadpoddle,' said Quillet, as he moved closer to her, 'if you ever -heard a conversation carried on between Miss Bramlett and Benjamin -Bowles, in which strychnine was mentioned, please tell all you heard.' - -"'La bless your soul, that is the very thing I was telling when the -judge interrupted me! Yes, indeed, I did hear them talking about murder, -poison and many other awful things--that is, I heard Miss Bramlett -talking about them, but Mr. Bowles was a mere listener. I inferred from -what I saw and heard that Mr. Bowles was greatly annoyed by her strange -questions about the effect of strychnine as a poison; the fact is, I -think he is a perfect gentleman--a little wild, I admit, but withal a -man of honor; he has made many liberal donations to our Tramp Reform -Association, and my friend Miss Clattermouth says that he promised -to----' - -"'Miss Tadpoddle,' exclaimed the judge, 'can you not tell what you know -about this case without giving a history of all creation?' - -"'La, bless your soul, yes!' - -"'Well, go on and do it then!' - -"'That is exactly what I was doing when you interrupted me. I was -telling what my friend Miss Clattermouth said about Mr. Bowles.' - -"'Tell us what you know about Miss Bramlett's connection with her -brother's death, and let Mr. Bowles and Miss Clattermouth alone.' - -"'Miss Tadpoddle,' said Quillet, 'if you will just answer my questions, -I dare say we shall get along much better. What did Miss Bramlett say to -Mr. Bowles about strychnine?' - -"'She asked him how much strychnine it would require to produce death, -and if a doctor could tell when it had been caused by that sort of -poison; I heard her say it with my own ears, and I would swear it on a -stack of Bibles as high as this court-house; and I never exaggerate -either--I despise people who do exaggerate! I told my friend Miss -Clattermouth about it; I said, says I: - -"'"Jerusha," says I----' - -"'Stop, Miss Tadpoddle, don't tell what you said, but let us hear what -Miss Bramlett said.' - -"'That is the very thing I have just told you; but if it will do you any -good, I can tell it again.' - -"'When was it you heard the conversation which you have just mentioned?' - -"'About one week before she poisoned her poor little brother.' - -"'Where did it occur?' - -"'In the alley just in the rear of Mr. Bowles' apartments.' - -"'How did you happen to see Miss Bramlett and Bowles on that occasion?' - -"'Well, if you must know, I was playing the role of detective; I had my -suspicions aroused by a little circumstance that transpired previous to -that time, and I resolved to unravel the little mystery--in other words, -I made up my mind to get even with Miss Bramlett, for she insulted me -when I asked her to join our Tramp Reform Association, and I determined -to have my revenge. I told my friend Miss Clattermouth all about it, as -soon as we met, and we then began to arrange our plans to expose that -hussy. I told my dear friend, says I: - -"'"Jerusha," says I----' - -"'Never mind what you told your friend--confine your statements to what -you heard Miss Bramlett say.' - -"'That is the very thing I was doing when you interrupted me.' - -"'If you ever saw Miss Bramlett go from Mr. Ragland's residence to the -apartments of Mr. Bowles, tell all about it.' - -"'La, bless your soul, I was telling that very thing when you -interrupted me; yes, I should say I did see her go to the apartments of -Mr. Bowles! The night was quite dark, and the lamp-lights were very dim, -but I was close enough to see her go through the slip-gap at the back of -the garden. I was determined to stick to her until I could find out what -she was up to. I never give up when I undertake anything--I despise -people who always give up when they encounter difficulties! I followed -her to Bowles' quarters, and it was after she came out of his apartments -that I heard her asking about the strychnine.' - -"'If your Honor please,' said Mr. Rockland, 'I cannot imagine what -object my friend has in view by the introduction of this rigmarole. It -would seem that the attorney for the State had lost sight of the charges -contained in his bill of indictment, and was seeking merely to destroy -the young lady's character.' - -"'Let them go ahead, papa,' said Lottie, 'don't stop them--that is the -very thing we want them to prove.' - -"'Pshaw! child, you don't know what you are talking about!' growled the -iron lawyer. - -"'Yes I do, papa, let them walk into the trap--I'll spring the trigger -directly.' - -"'If the court please,' said Mr. Quillet, 'we think the evidence is -competent in all respects. We have proved by this witness that the -defendant was planning the murder a week before it was perpetrated.' - -"'We withdraw the objections,' said Mr. Rockland, 'you may go on with -the evidence.' - -"'We are through with the witness,' observed Mr. Quillet, 'and she may -retire, unless you wish to cross-examine her.' - -"'Stand aside,' growled Mr. Rockland, as he waved his hand slowly. - -"'No, no, papa,' said Lottie, 'don't let her go yet--I have some -questions to ask her.' - -"'Hold on a moment, if you please, Miss Tadpoddle,' exclaimed Mr. -Rockland; 'if your Honor will permit Miss Wallingford to ask the witness -a few questions, we will esteem it a favor. She has been with the -defendant most of the time, and is very familiar with the points of the -case.' - -"'Certainly, certainly!' said the judge, 'let Miss Wallingford ask as -many questions as she pleases.' - -"A great sensation was caused among the spectators at this new turn of -things, and a scramble for front seat ensued. The crowd swayed back and -forth, while all the lawyers moved close to Lottie, and gazed at her -with open mouths. - -"'Now the fun begins,' whispered Quillet to Hogjaw. - -"'Miss Tadpoddle,' said Lottie, in a calm, firm tone, 'I believe you -said the night you saw Miss Bramlett with Bowles was very dark?' - -"'Yes, of course I did; and I'll say it again, if it will do you any -good.' - -"'Never mind, once will do. How did you know it was Miss Bramlett if the -night was so dark?' - -"'How did I know it was she?' - -"'Yes, how could you know it was Miss Bramlett, when it was so dark that -you could not see her face?' - -"'I never said I saw her face; the fact is, I did not see her face, -because she had it concealed behind a heavy veil.' - -"'Then how did you know it was Miss Bramlett?' - -"'I knew her by the dress she had on--it was her blue silk and I knew it -as well as I know my own silk, because I helped her alter it one day. It -was too short in the skirt, and I let it out so as to make it the proper -length.' - -"'How could you tell it was a blue silk dress when it was so dark?' - -"'I followed her down the street, and when she would pass near a -lamp-post I could see the color of the dress distinctly.' - -"'Then the only reason you have for saying it was Miss Bramlett was -because you knew the blue silk dress?' - -"'No, that is not the only reason, by a long jump, I'll let you know.' - -"'What other reasons have you besides the dress?' - -"'Didn't I see her come out of Mr. Ragland's house, and go to Bowles' -quarters? Didn't I see her meet him in the garden at another time, when -I was waiting to meet Mrs. Ragland?' - -"'Well, tell us about the first time you saw Bowles and the woman -together in the garden.' - -"'Haven't I told it? What do you want me to tell it a dozen times for?' - -"'The witness will answer the questions promptly!' said the judge. - -"'Oh! very well, I can tell it over a thousand times if you want it. I -saw Miss Bramlett meet Bowles in the garden one night, about a week -before I saw her go to his quarters.' - -"'Did she have on the same blue silk dress the first time you saw her -meet Bowles?' - -"'I don't know--I was not close enough to tell.' - -"'How did you know it was Miss Bramlett, then?' - -"'The servant told me that Mrs. Ragland had gone visiting, and while I -was waiting for her return, I saw a woman meet Bowles in the garden, and -knowing that Mrs. Ragland was not at home, I knew it must be Miss -Bramlett--now you have it.' - -"'Then the only thing that caused you to think it was Miss Bramlett was -the fact that you saw a woman in the garden, and having been informed -that Mrs. Ragland was not at home?' - -"'Yes, I suppose that is the way of it.' - -"'Did you go up to Miss Bramlett's room to ascertain whether she was -there or not?' - -"'Why should I go up to her room to look for her, when I saw her in the -garden?' - -"'You did not know it was Miss Bramlett you saw in the garden; it might -have been some one else.' - -"'It might have been somebody else, but it wasn't.' - -"'How can you swear that it was not somebody else?' - -"'How many times do you want me to tell it?' - -"'Only once.' - -"'Haven't I told you more than once?' - -"'Answer the question, madame,' said Flipout, while he rubbed his nose -unusually hard. - -"'What was the question?' inquired Miss Tadpoddle as she looked daggers -at Lottie. - -"'I asked you how you could swear it was not somebody else you saw in -the garden.' - -"'I never said I could swear it was not somebody else.' - -"'Very well; then can you swear that it was Miss Bramlett?' - -"'You can't make me swear a lie if you work on me till Gabriel comes -with his trumpet!' - -"'I do not want you to swear falsely; I would much rather hear you swear -the truth.' - -"'That is precisely what I mean to do; I never exaggerate; I hate -exaggeration--it is my nature to despise it!' - -"'Miss Tadpoddle, do you, or do you not, know who the woman was that you -saw in the garden?' - -"'I will not swear positively that I did know who she was, but I thought -it was Miss Bramlett.' - -"'When you were playing detective that other night, what kind of a gown -did you have on?' - -"'Now, I should like to know what on earth you ask such a question as -that for?' - -"'Answer the question,' thundered Flipout. - -"'Very well, if you must know, I did not have on any gown at all.' - -"'How did you happen to be parading the streets at night without a -gown?' - -"'Did you never see any one clad without a gown?' - -"'How were you dressed on that occasion?' - -"'I had on a suit of my brother's clothes; now, then, what else do you -want to know about it?' - -"'How far were you from Bowles when you heard the woman ask him about -the strychnine?' - -"'I suppose I was twenty yards from him.' - -"'Did you recognize Miss Bramlett's voice?' - -"'I wouldn't swear that I did, because I wasn't close enough to do that; -though I knew it was she by the dress.' - -"'What reply did Bowles make when she asked him how much strychnine it -would take to kill?' - -"'I did not hear his reply distinctly.' - -"'Did Bowles accompany the woman to Mr. Ragland's house?' - -"'He parted with her in the garden, after kissing her a dozen times. I -declare, it made me sick to see such carryings-on!' - -"'How did you get into the garden?' - -"'Why, I just put one foot on the railing and then set my other foot on -the railing on the other side; then I jumped over, the same as a man -does when he gets off a horse.' - -"'Did you see Mrs. Ragland on the first night you discovered Bowles and -the woman in the garden?' - -"'No; I waited for her until I got tired, then I went home.' - -"'You may stand aside now,' said Lottie. - -"Then Miss Tadpoddle gathered up her skirts and giving Lottie a scornful -look, moved away with long and rapid strides. - -"'Quillet,' whispered Hogjaw, 'you have caught a tartar, I think.' - -"'How is that?' - -"'That Miss Wallingford has got a trap set for some of your witnesses, I -infer from the shape of her questions. I tell you, she is a trump, as -sure as you are born; and she will spring a mine under your case yet -that will blow it skyward. I know by her looks and the manner of her -questions that she means mischief; somebody is going to get scratched -yet before this case is ended.' - -"'She lacks a great deal of being a fool, at any rate, and I should be -very glad if she can develop any facts that would benefit her -unfortunate friend.' - -"'Why did you not have Bowles arrested as an accomplice?' - -"'The proof against him is not sufficient to convict, though it looks -very suspicious; and then I wanted to use him as a witness.' - -"'Which witness will you examine next?' said the judge. - -"'Bring in Benjamin Bowles, Mr. Sheriff,' said Mr. Quillet, without -giving a direct answer to the judge's question. - -"Mr. Bowles walked forward with a dignified step and serene countenance, -and took his place in the witness box, as he cast a scornful glance on -the jury. His dress was fashionable, faultless, and eminently exquisite, -cut in the most approved style of dandyism. A large diamond pin flashed -its bright rays from his bosom, and mingled with the sparkle of the -gaudy rings on his fingers. His hair was very glossy, richly perfumed, -and nicely parted in the middle, while his white cravat was tied in a -most beautiful fashion. There was a look of bold impudence about the -countenance that amounted to an insult, while you could see an -indescribable something that convinced you that Satan had sealed him as -his own property. - -"'Mr. Bowles,' said Mr. Quillet, 'are you acquainted with Miss Viola -Bramlett?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'How long have you known her?' - -"'Five or six months.' - -"'If she ever asked you any questions about strychnine, please state -what she said.' - -"'On several different occasions Miss Bramlett propounded questions to -me of a very startling character, but I do not recall the exact words -she used. I remember one night, about a week before her brother's death, -she asked me if a doctor could tell when any one had been killed with -strychnine. She also wanted to know how much strychnine it would take to -produce death.' - -"'What reply did you make to such questions?' - -"'I evaded the questions by changing the conversation to other topics, -but she would whip round and get back to the same subject. She persisted -in pumping me on the subject, until my suspicions were roused, and I -avoided her after that.' - -"'Where were you when you had the last conversation with her about -strychnine?' - -"'She commenced the conversation at my apartments, but continued to talk -on the same subject after we got into the street.' - -"'She had been visiting you at your rooms, then?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'Did you ever meet Miss Bramlett in Mr. Ragland's garden?' - -"'Yes, very often.' - -'"If the court please,' said Mr. Rockland, 'I do most earnestly protest -against this sort of evidence.' - -"'Hush, papa!' whispered Lottie, as she kept plucking at Mr. Rockland s -sleeve, 'let him go on; he is already in my trap, and is one of the main -birds I have set the net to catch!' - -"'We withdraw all objections to the evidence,' said Mr. Rockland as he -resumed his seat and gazed inquiringly at Lottie. 'What in the name of -common sense do you mean, daughter, by a trap set for the witnesses?' - -"'Bowles has sworn to an absolute falsehood, and I will trap him before -long.' - -"'Take the witness, Mr. Rockland,' said Mr. Quillet as he leaned back in -his seat, thrust his hands in his pockets, while a smile of triumph -played on his handsome features. - -"'I will cross-examine him,' whispered Lottie as she began to turn the -leaves of a memorandum book which she held in her hand. - -"'Mr. Bowles, what is your occupation?' - -"'I am a sportsman.' - -"'Please explain what you mean by the word sportsman?' - -"'I mean that I am a turfman, and follow the business as an occupation.' - -"'Are you not the owner and proprietor of a gambling hell in this city?' - -"'I don't know that there is any hell about it.' - -"'You need not answer any question, Mr. Bowles, that would tend to -criminate you,' said Mr. Quillet. - -"'Oh, I am perfectly willing to answer all questions.' - -"'Very good, then I will repeat the question. Are you not the keeper of -a gambling house in this city?' - -"'No, I am not; but I keep a suite of rooms where my friends frequently -assemble to engage in a harmless game of cards, merely for amusement.' - -"'Do you run a faro bank, and a roulette table at those rooms?' - -"'I am not a faro dealer myself, though such a machine is sometimes -operated there.' - -"'Now, Mr. Bowles, do you swear that Miss Viola Bramlett ever was inside -of your apartments?' - -"'Yes, certainly I do.' - -"'Did anybody else ever see her in your quarters, besides you?' - -"'I don't think they ever did.' - -"'Were you ever acquainted with a woman by the name of Victoria Totten?' - -"If an adder had stung Mr. Bowles in a vital part, he could not have -changed color as quickly as he did when the name of Victoria Totten was -mentioned. His face, which was actually florid, turned as pale as death, -and his white hands trembled as he put a glass of water to his lips. His -agitation, however, was only temporary, for he was a bold villain, who -could command himself under adverse circumstances. - -"'What name was it you asked me about, madame?' - -"'I asked you if you ever knew a woman named Victoria Totten?' - -"'I declare, I don't remember; the names, however, seem familiar to me, -but I can't exactly call to mind any acquaintance of that name.' - -"'Perhaps I can assist your memory a little. Did you know the widow -Totten, who resided three or four miles from Vicksburg, Mississippi, who -had a daughter named Victoria?' - -"'I don't think I did.' - -"That answer was made by Bowles in a tremulous tone, while he showed -signs of great uneasiness. - -"'Have you ever been married, Mr. Bowles?' - -"'No.' - -"'Did you ever live in New Orleans with a woman whom you represented to -be your wife?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'If the court please,' said Mr. Quillet, as he sprang quickly to his -feet, 'I must confess I cannot see wherein this kind of evidence can -have any connection whatever with this case.' - -"I heard Lottie whisper to Mr. Rockland, as I was sitting near her: - -"'Tell the court, papa,' said she, 'that we will connect it with the -case very soon.' - -"The iron lawyer then said to the court: - -"'We think we will be able to connect this testimony with this case, and -if we fail, then your Honor can rule it out.' - -"'The court cannot see the applicability of the evidence to the case now -on trial, but the defendant has a right to introduce evidence in the -order chosen by her attorney. I will not give any opinion just now, but -will decide upon it when all the testimony has been put before the -court. Proceed with the examination.' - -"'What was the name of the woman whom you represented to be your wife?' - -"'I had rather not answer that question, as it might compromise a lady's -character.' - -"'We object to the question,' said Quillet. - -"'We insist on an answer,' said Mr. Rockland; while Bowles changed from -a deep red color to a deathly pallor. - -"'The court will not permit such questions to be propounded, unless the -attorney for the defense can state some reasons for inquiring into the -private history of a woman residing in New Orleans.' - -"'The woman alluded to,' said Mr. Rockland, 'does not reside in New -Orleans at this time; but she is here in the city of Memphis; and Miss -Wallingford informs me that we will connect all this proof directly with -the case now on trial.' - -"'In view of that statement, the court will permit the question to be -asked.' - -"Bowles moved uneasily backward and forward in his seat, wiped the big -drops of perspiration from his brow and coughed several times. As he -played with his watch chain I could see that his hands were trembling -and his face became deathly in its pallor. - -"Lottie repeated the question. - -"'Her name was Rose Elrod.' - -"'Where is she now?' - -"'I don't know.' - -"'Mr. Bowles, don't you know that you were living with Miss Victoria -Totten, a young girl whom you had induced to elope with you?' - -"'No, I do not.' - -"'We have got him safe in the trap at last,' said Lottie, in a whisper, -as she put her mouth close to my ear. - -"I remembered the time when that identical scamp insulted her, when she -was a helpless orphan child, and how he swore a lie against Harry. Then -I thought of the old adages: 'Chickens will come home to roost,'--'Every -dog will have his day,' etc. Lottie was having her revenge now; though -she was not actuated by any feeling of that sort--but she was working to -save her friend. - -"She took a letter from her satchel, and after carefully removing it -from the envelope handed the latter to Mr. Bowles. - -"'Is that your handwriting, Mr. Bowles?' - -"He first held the paper close to his eyes, then at arm's length; he -next twisted himself round, as if he wanted some light, and wiped his -brow hurriedly. - -"'I can't say--that is, I think--er--er--I was not certain--ahem! I was -under the--well, the writing looks a little like mine, though I can't -say I wrote it.' - -"'Can you swear that you did not write it?' - -"'I--I--I--that is, I don't know--I don't think I did!' - -"'Mr. Quillet,' said Lottie, 'please loan me the note about which Mr. -Dabbs testified.' - -"Mr. Quillet handed it to her. - -"'Mr. Bowles, did you write that note?' - -"'No, I did not.' - -"'Mr. Bowles, don't you know that that letter was intended for the woman -whom you represented to be your wife, and not for Miss Viola Bramlett?' - -"'I know nothing whatever about that note.' - -"'Don't you know that the woman with whom you lived in New Orleans, the -same one you represented to be your wife, is now living in the city of -Memphis?' - -"'No, I do not.' - -"'The witness may stand aside,' said Lottie, as she turned round and -whispered to me. - -"'Eddie, we have got the birds in the trap at last! I will spring the -trigger when the next witness takes the stand.' - - - - -CHAPTER XXXV. - - -"The next witness introduced was Mrs. Ragland, a very beautiful woman--a -brunette of the Guluare type. She was elegantly attired in a gown of -drab silk, with an abundant train, containing innumerable flounces -trimmed with Valenciennes lace. Diamonds flashed from her bosom, neck -and arms, and a massive gold chain encircled her neck two or three -times, at the lower end of which was fastened an exquisite lady's watch, -half concealed in a shallow pocket at her waist. Her large dark eyes -rolled about wildly beneath very long, heavy lashes. There was a -mysterious restlessness in the expression of her great black eyes which -convinced me that she possessed a soul that was a stranger to happiness. - -"'Mrs. Ragland,' said Mr. Quillet, 'if you ever saw Miss Bramlett meet -Mr. Bowles, please tell the jury when and where it was.' - -"'I have very often seen them meet in our garden; can't say exactly how -often, though I can positively assert that they met as many as three -times. The last time I saw them meet was but a very few days before Miss -Bramlett's little brother died; don't know the exact date, but am sure -it was less than a week before her brother's death.' - -"'If you ever heard any conversation between Miss Bramlett and Mr. -Bowles, please tell what was said by each of them?' - -"'I distinctly remember one occasion when I heard a conversation between -them, but I think that most of the talking was done by Miss Bramlett. To -the best of my recollection, it was about the 1st of February, at night; -the weather was uncommonly warm and oppressive; I was suffering with a -severe headache, and I concluded that probably a stroll in the garden -would have the effect to ease my sufferings. After walking about in the -garden for some time, I went into the summer-house and took a seat on -one of the low wooden benches that stood near the wall, which was -covered with honeysuckle vines, under which I was partially concealed. I -had been there but a few minutes when I heard footsteps sounding on the -ground, and was very much frightened when I discovered a man coming -toward me from the extreme rear of the garden. He approached to a spot -within five paces of the summer-house, and halting, instantly gave a low -whistle which I suppose was a signal to notify Miss Bramlett of his -arrival. As soon as he halted, I discovered that it was Mr. Bowles. I -suppose he had been there somewhere about five minutes, when I saw Miss -Bramlett coming from the house. She approached the spot where Mr. Bowles -was and entered into a whispered conversation with him, all of which I -could distinctly hear. She commenced the interview by urging him to -fulfill a promise of marriage, which she alleged he had made, and which -he did not deny. He made many protestations of love to her, which she -returned in very earnest language, and after the conversation had run on -the subject of love and marriage for some time, she asked him how -strychnine was used to kill rats; then she brought the conversation -round to the effect such a poison would have on the human system. After -a while she put the question to him directly, by asking him how much of -the poison it would require to kill a man; and then she asked how much -it would take to kill a child under ten. She also asked him if a doctor -could tell when a person had died from the effects of strychnine. Mr. -Bowles endeavored to change the subject by asking questions about other -things, but she invariably whipped round and came back to the subject -and persisted in talking about it, until Mr. Bowles in an angry tone -threatened to depart and leave her unless she would hush talking about -poison. - -"'"Viola," said Mr. Bowles, "I do not like to have you talk that way--it -makes me shiver to listen to it!" - -"'After they had conversed there about thirty minutes, he invited her to -accompany him to his apartments, which she consented to do, and passed -out through the garden and disappeared down the street.' - -"'You may take the witness, if you wish to cross-examine her,' said Mr. -Quillet. - -"'Have you been friendly with Miss Bramlett all the time since she came -to reside in your husband's house?' - -"'I cannot say that we were all the time friendly, for we did frequently -have little disputes about matters of a trifling nature; but I never for -a moment harbored any ill-will or malice toward Miss Bramlett. I, of -course, did not approve of her conduct, and many times have remonstrated -with her about the impropriety of it, but instead of thanking me for my -good advice, she would fly into a passion; with that exception, our -relations were undisturbed.' - -"'Mrs. Ragland, have you not often borrowed large sums of money from -Miss Bramlett?' - -"'Well, I do not know what you would consider a large sum of -money--people have different ideas on that subject, you know.' - -'"Very well, then; just tell us how much money you did borrow from her!' - -"'I remember borrowing five hundred dollars from her on one occasion.' - -"'What did you do with that five hundred dollars?' - -"'That is none of your business, Miss Wallingford; you have no right to -be prying into my private affairs.' - -"'You must answer the question, madame,' said the judge. - -"'I could not tell now, to save my life, exactly what I did do with it.' - -"'Did you not borrow the money expressly for Benjamin Bowles?' - -"'No, I did not. Why should I be borrowing money for him?' - -"'That is the very thing we are endeavoring to find out. Did you not -borrow as much as five hundred dollars from Miss Bramlett on two -different occasions.' - -"'Perhaps I did.' - -"'Don't you know you did?' - -"'Well, yes, I believe I did.' - -"'Have you ever paid any of that money back?' - -"'No; I have not.' - -"'About one week before the death of Miss Bramlett's little brother, did -you not borrow from her one thousand dollars?' - -"'I think I did.' - -"'Don't you know you did?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'What did you want with it?' - -"'I do not now remember exactly what I did want it for.' - -"'Did you not borrow it for Benjamin Bowles?' - -"'No, I did not; but I dare say I got it to pay for a set of diamonds, -or something of the sort.' - -"'Were you acquainted with Mr. Bowles before you were married to Mr. -Ragland?' - -"'No.' - -"'What was your maiden name?' - -"'Helen Herndon.' - -"'Are your parents living now?' - -"'No, they are both dead.' - -"'Where and when did they die?' - -"'In the State of Louisiana, ten years ago.' - -"'Were you ever acquainted with a woman named Victoria Totten?' - -"At the mention of that name, Mrs. Ragland's face turned ghastly pale, -and she gave a sudden start, as a person would when stung by a wasp, but -she promptly answered: - -"'No.' - -"'Did you ever reside in the city of New Orleans?' - -"'No.' - -"'Have you ever been in that city?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'Now, Mrs. Ragland, will you state on your oath that you never did -reside in New Orleans as the reputed wife of Benjamin Bowles?' - -"'Yes, I will; and I do not thank you for asking me any such a -question!' - -"'I do not wish or expect any thanks from you, madame, but I merely want -to get at the truth. Mrs. Ragland, did you ever see a copy of Bolivar -Bramlett's will?' - -"'Perhaps I have.' - -"'Don't you know you have?' - -"'Suppose I have: what does that signify?' - -"'Just answer the question, if you please.' - -"'Very well, then--I have seen a copy of the will.' - -"'Did you not send to New York for a copy of the will, and pay ten -dollars for it?' - -"'Oh, yes, I declare, I had forgotten all about it!' - -"'Yes, I dare say you had forgotten all about such a trivial little -circumstance; but I want you to tell the jury what object you had in -view when you paid ten dollars for a copy of Mr. Bramlett's will.' - -"'I cannot remember precisely what I did want with the copy, but I -suppose I was prompted by sheer curiosity.' - -"'Is this the copy of the will that you received from New York?' - -"Lottie handed her a large bundle of papers, containing at least a dozen -sheets of paper covered with writing, the last one being sealed with red -wax, to which was attached a blue ribbon, just below the notary's -signature. - -"'This looks very much like the copy I received, though I could not -swear positively that it was the identical document. If it is the same -paper, some thief has stolen it from my bureau drawer; and I should like -very much to know how you got possession of it.' - -"'I dare say you would, and I promise that you shall know all about it -very soon. Who, under Bolivar Bramlett, would inherit his immense -wealth, if Miss Bramlett and her brother had both died childless?' - -"'I believe it would have come to my husband.' - -"'Don't you know it would?' - -"'Yes, I suppose I do.' - -"'Then your husband would have been the possessor of a very large -fortune, if those two children had died childless?' - -"'Yes, I suppose that is the way of it.' - -"'But you did not want those two children to die, and leave your husband -to be bothered with the management of such a large fortune?' - -"'I do not know that I ever gave a thought to that subject.' - -"'Well, were you not frequently in need of money?' - -"'I don't know that I was frequently in need of money, though I did -sometimes borrow a little from my niece.' - -"'Why did you not get money from your husband when you stood in need of -it, instead of borrowing it from Miss Bramlett?' - -"'My husband was not in a condition to let me have money.' - -"'Then how did you expect to pay the money back that you borrowed of -Miss Bramlett?' - -"'I do not know that I ever gave a thought to that subject.' - -"'Were you ever in a gambling house on Canal street, New Orleans?' - -"'No, I was not; and I should like to know why you ask such absurd -questions of me?' - -"Be patient, madame, and it will all be very plain to you in a short -time. What number shoe do you wear?' - -"'Number four.' - -"Lottie then opened a little portmanteau which the coachman had brought -in that morning, and placing it on the floor near her, took out a pretty -little number three lady's boot, and handed it to Mrs. Ragland. - -"'Please examine that boot and tell me whether or not you ever saw it -before?' - -"'La, yes, indeed, I have seen it before! it is mine--it was stolen from -my boudoir, and I should like very much to know the thief.' - -"'You shall see the thief before you leave the stand; but tell us what -is the number of that boot?' - -"'It is a number three, I believe; I know it is too small for me--I -could not wear it, for that very reason.' - -"'Have you not very often worn this boot, along with its mate?' - -"'No, I don't think I have, because they hurt my feet so that I could -not wear them.' - -"'Then will you be so good as to explain how this heel came to be so -much whetted off?' - -"'I cannot tell, unless it was done by Miss Bramlett, as she very -frequently wore them, because her foot is smaller than mine, and a -number three exactly fits it.' - -"'Are you not wearing a number three shoe now?' - -"'Perhaps I am; in fact, I know I am, because I was pressed for time -this morning, and during the confusion my maid put on a pair of number -threes, which I did not notice until I got out of the carriage to come -into the court-room, and then I found it out, because my feet were being -pinched.' - -"'How does it happen that you have so many number three shoes about your -house, when you say that you only wear number fours?' - -"'You know how foolish we ladies are about the looks of our feet, and -you also know that we very often thrust them into shoes that are too -small.' - -"'You admit, then, that you are now wearing number three shoes?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'I see that you have lost the set out of that beautiful ring on the -third finger of your left hand; will you be so good as to let me examine -it?' - -"'Now I should like to know what you want with one of my rings?' - -"'You must let Miss Wallingford examine the ring, madame,' said the -judge as he leaned over his desk and watched Lottie with eager looks. - -"Mrs. Ragland took the ring from her finger and handed it to Lottie, at -the same time casting on her a gaze of intense hate. - -"'Where and when did you lose the set out of this ring, Mrs. Ragland?' - -"'I lost it somewhere about the 1st of last February, but I do not know -where I lost it.' - -"'Would you recognize the set if you were to see it again?' - -"'I would, if I were to find it in an African desert, for it is a -genuine diamond, for which I paid three hundred dollars.' - -"'Did you ever pass through a secret opening at the back part of your -garden, and enter the street that leads near it?' - -"'Why should I pass through that way to get into the street, when we -have two gates that open into the front street?' - -"'I did not ask you _why_ you did it, but I asked you if you ever did do -it?' - -"'Very well, miss, then I answer, No!' - -"'Did you not frequently visit Mr. Bowles at his apartments?' - -"'No, I did not; and I do not thank you for propounding such questions -to me!' - -"'I am not seeking for thanks, but merely wish to get at the facts. Did -you ever have an interview with Mr. Bowles in the summer-house in your -garden?' - -"'No, I did not; what business could I have with Mr. Bowles?' - -"'That is the very thing we are trying to find out. Is this the set that -belongs to your ring?' - -"Lottie handed Mrs. Ragland a large diamond set, the same that had been -found by the detectives. - -"'La, yes, that is the very identical set that I lost; but I dare say -that the same thief who stole my shoes took the set out of my ring!' - -"'Look at this picture, madame, and tell me if you recognize it?' - -"'Oh, yes; that is a picture of Mr. Bowles.' - -"'Will you be so good as to tell the jury how it happened to be hidden -away in your bedroom bureau?' - -"'I do not know why you should choose to employ the word _hidden_ unless -you take pleasure in making insulting insinuations. I dare say the thief -who stole that picture might have taken many others from the same place -if she had tried, for I am sure there were many others there!' - -"'Did not Mr. Bowles give you this picture in exchange for yours, which -was found in his possession?' - -"'In the first place, I did not know he had my picture in his -possession, for I am sure I never gave it to him.' - -"'Now, Mrs. Ragland, don't you remember that you had your picture put in -a costly gold locket for the express purpose of presenting it to Mr. -Bowles?' - -"'I do not remember anything of the sort: Mr. Bowles may have purchased -a gold locket, and he may have bought one of my pictures, but I know he -never received one from me.' - -"'Please examine this locket, Mrs. Ragland, and then tell me whether or -not you gave it to Benjamin Bowles.' - -"'I never saw it until this moment.' - -"'You see that the words, "From Victoria to Benjamin" are engraved on -the back of this locket; now, can you explain why the name of Victoria -should appear on this locket, when you swear that your name is Helen?' - -"'Why should you expect me to be able to explain it any more than you -could, when you have just heard me say that I never saw that locket -until this moment? Mr. Bowles could very easily put my picture in any -sort of a case he pleased, and if he chooses to put it into a locket -containing another person's name, it does not in any manner disturb me.' - -"'Mrs. Ragland, do you not know that you had that locket made to order, -about two years ago, at the house of F. H. Clark?' - -"'If I ever ordered such a job, I do not now remember it.' - -"'Mrs. Ragland, don't you know that your maiden name was Victoria -Totten, and that you lived in New Orleans as the reputed wife of -Benjamin Bowles?' - -"'No, I do not know any such thing! It is my opinion that no lady would -ask a witness any such insulting question; but I suppose you are anxious -to play smart.' - -"A sweet smile played for a moment over Lottie's beautiful face, and -then resuming her usual calm, composed demeanor, she proceeded with the -examination, without evincing any signs of annoyance at the ill-natured -remarks. - -"'Mrs. Ragland, were you ever acquainted with a widow lady residing a -few miles east of the city of Vicksburg, Mississippi?' - -"'No.' - -"'Please examine this letter, and tell the jury whether you ever saw it -before or not.' - -"The letter which Lottie handed to the witness was the one that Mr. -Dabbs said he had found in the pocket of Miss Bramlett's silk dress, in -which the loan of five hundred dollars was mentioned, and the same that -was signed with the letter 'B.' and directed to 'Dear V.' As Mrs. -Ragland gazed at the mysterious letter, her hands trembled violently, -while a deathly pallor spread over her face. - -"'This is the first time I ever laid my eyes on this letter. I suppose -it was intended for Miss Bramlett, as I see that it was directed to her, -and I understand that it was found in her dress pocket.' - -"'Do you recognize the handwriting?' - -"'No.' - -"'Don't you know that it is the handwriting of Mr. Bowles?' - -"'I don't think it is, though it somewhat resembles his writing.' - -"'Here is another letter which I want you to examine, and then tell me -if you ever saw it before.' - -"Mrs. Ragland's agitation now increased until her body was shaking like -one in an ague fit, while her face lost all signs of blood, and the -letter fairly rattled in her hand as she attempted to read it. - -"'I never saw that paper until this very minute.' - -"'Now, Mrs. Ragland, if you never saw that letter before to-day, will -you be so good as to explain how it came to be concealed in the pocket -of one of your silk dresses?' - -"'How should I be expected to explain how it came there, when I did not -know it was there, and when I did not have anything to do with it? I -dare say Miss Bramlett could give you the information you seek, for if -it was found in the pocket of my dress, you may be sure she placed it -there, in order to avert suspicion from herself, and to fix it on me. -You see that the letter was directed to her, and as she was in the habit -of wearing my dresses very frequently, it may be possible that she left -it there by mistake.' - -"Lottie then, in a low whisper, requested Mr. Rockland to read the -letter to the jury. - -"'If the court please' said the iron lawyer, as he rose from his seat, -'we now offer the letter as evidence in this case, and ask permission to -read it to the jury.' - -"'Let me examine it first, if you please,' said Mr. Quillet, as he began -to exhibit signs of agitation. - -"The letter was handed to him, and after reading it carefully, he said: - -"'We object to the reading of this letter as evidence, unless it can be -clearly shown who wrote it, and wherein it can in any manner be made to -apply to the case now on trial.' - -"'We promise the court,' replied Mr. Rockland, 'that we will, at the -proper time, show who wrote it, and also make it clear that it applies -most forcibly to this case.' - -"'You may read the letter,' said the judge, 'and if you can make the -proof which you mentioned, it may be considered as competent evidence; -if you fail, then the court will direct it to be excluded.' - -"Mr. Rockland then read the letter in his deep, solemn tone of voice, -which caused a shudder to shake my body from head to foot. Here is the -mysterious letter: - - "'DEAR V.--Strychnine, as I have often told you, is the best - medicine to rid you of rats. You may depend on me to settle the - hash with the old rat, and I shall expect you to do the job for the - two young ones. Exercise caution, and success is certain; be sure - to remember that the stakes for which we play are of immense value. - Love and fortune will be ours when the task is finished. You will - be the richest lady in the land, and shall reign as the queen of - fashion, as well as queen of hearts. A gilded palace in the sunny - land of Italy shall be the dwelling place of my beauteous wife. - Burn this letter as soon as you read it; be brave, act promptly, - and we will reap a rich reward. I am dying with impatience to clasp - your dear form to my heart. Yours, and yours only, - - B.' - -"If Mrs. Ragland had been chained in a lake of liquid fire the evidence -of torture could not have been greater than that which she exhibited -while Mr. Rockland was reading that letter. Her eyeballs seemed to have -grown much larger, while a wild, frightened expression shot forth from -them, and every little jostle made by the spectators caused her to start -suddenly as if she were badly frightened. She insisted that the letter -had been placed in her dress pocket by Miss Bramlett, in order to divert -suspicion from herself. - -"'If,' said she, 'Miss Bramlett could have the heart to murder her poor -little brother, it is not at all strange that she should try to fix the -crime on some one else, in order to save her own neck.' - -"'Mrs. Ragland,' said Lottie, in a tone full of gentleness, 'did you -ever know a young man named Charles Everson?' - -"'No.' - -"'Why, then, did you give such a sudden start when I mentioned his -name?' - -"'I don't know that I did any such thing; but what if I did: is it -strange that I should be nervous and restless under the circumstances by -which I am surrounded?" - -"'Mrs. Ragland, did you at any time wear a blue silk dress that belonged -to Miss Bramlett?' - -"'No, I did not; why should I borrow any of her silk dresses when I had -plenty of my own?' - -"'That, madame, is the very strange mystery which we are endeavoring to -solve. Are you willing to state on your oath that you never at any time -wore a blue silk gown of Miss Bramlett's?' - -"'Have I not just now stated it under oath? How many times do you wish -me to say it?' - -"'Mrs. Ragland, where did you first make the acquaintance of Mr. -Bowles?' - -"'In Memphis!' - -"'Did you ever live in Mississippi?' - -"'No!' - -"'Did you ever meet Mr. Bowles at Vicksburg, Mississippi?' - -"'No!' - -"'Did you ever meet him in New Orleans?' - -"'No!' - -"'Have you ever met Mr. Bowles outside of Memphis?' - -"'No!' - -"'Were you ever engaged to be married to any other man than your present -husband?' - -"'No!' - -"'Were you ever in love with any other man than Mr. Ragland?' - -"'No!' - -"Lottie then whispered to me, and requested me to hurry to the library -room and call Mr. Everson, who had been waiting there until he should be -wanted. I met with no little difficulty in forcing my way back to where -Lottie was, but by dint of vigorous pushing and squeezing among the -densely packed masses of humanity, I at length shoved my man suddenly in -front of Mrs. Ragland. - -"As soon as she saw Mr. Everson, she sprang up from her seat, stared -wildly at him for a moment, then throwing both hands up above her head, -uttered a loud, piercing scream, fell back on her seat, and buried her -face in her hands. After holding her hands over her face a moment, she -let them drop on her lap, and I noticed that her lower jaw had dropped -down, as do those of dead persons. - -'"Catch that lady there, quick!' exclaimed the judge, 'she is going to -faint!' - -"Mr. Quillet hastened forward, but he was too late, for the helpless -body of Mrs. Ragland fell on the floor before he got to her. The -excitement among the members of the bar, as well as the spectators, -continued to increase, until the limp body of Mrs. Ragland was removed -to an adjoining room. - -"I never had seen Mr. Rockland lose his self-possession until that -moment, but he managed to let his heart have its way then. He seized -Lottie and pressed her to his breast: - -"'God bless you, my daughter! No lawyer ever displayed such skill and -shrewdness as you have, and no lawyer ever received such a fee as you -shall have in this case. My entire fortune shall be your fee!' - -"Then he seized Miss Bramlett and pressed a kiss on her brow. - -"'Poor child, how deeply you have been wronged! how you have suffered -for the sins of another person!' - -"'Sit down, papa,' said Lottie, as she caught him by the arm; 'don't you -see how all the lawyers are laughing at you?' - -"'Let them laugh, Lottie--I hope it will do them good; I wish it could -make them as happy as you have made me.' - -"I thought while the excitement was up to fever heat that I would slip -through the crowd and drop a kiss on my darling's brow, in order to show -the high appreciation I had for her great talent; but she evidently -divined my object, for she pushed me back abruptly and exclaimed: - -"'Do, pray, Edward, take a seat--don't you see papa has gone crazy? and -I do believe you are trying to follow his example!' - -"I felt quite sheepish, because I considered the rebuke well deserved; -but I took my seat, and with great difficulty managed to regain my -equanimity. Colonel Buff, who was near enough to hear what Lottie said -to me, gave me a punch under the arm with his thumb, at the same time -making a noise as a frog does when he jumps into his pond. - -"'Eh! Demar, your boat struck a snag, I see; well, never mind, old -fellow, I saw from her looks that she was not offended.' - -"'Do you wish to introduce any more witnesses, Rockland?' inquired the -judge. - -"'My daughter informs me that she wishes to introduce her brother, Harry -Wallingford, as a witness, who is now waiting in the clerk's office.' - -"'Go after brother Harry, Edward,' Lottie whispered as she caught hold -of my arm, 'and be sure to caution him about the control of his temper. -Much depends upon the manner in which he shall conduct himself on the -stand.' - -"When I entered the clerk's office, I found Wallingford seated near a -table, with his face buried in his hands; and when I spoke to him, he -started up suddenly and endeavored to conceal the tears that he had been -shedding. - -"'She is saved, Ed,' he said in tone husky with emotion, 'but she is -lost to me forever! I have played such a contemptible part in this -affair as to justify her in despising me, and to make me hate myself. I -have deeply wronged her, and I must make up my mind to lose her.' - -"'Nonsense, Harry,' said I; 'she loves you as well as ever, and will be -yours if you will only ask her; but come, Lottie sent me to bring you -in, and she told me to caution you in regard to that unfortunate temper -of yours.' - -"'I shall get along all right, unless Quillet offers me an insult; -that, you know, I will not submit to, either in or out of court.' - -"'You and your case are both gone up the spout, Quillet,' whispered -Hogjaw as I entered the room, accompanied by Wallingford. 'You are -defeated, vanquished, quashed, conquered, overthrown, trampled under, -ground up, and chopped into hash, all by a woman.' - -"'If that girl would agree to marry me,' replied Quillet, 'I think I -could forgive her, and bear my defeat with becoming fortitude; but I -tell you what it is, I mean to fight till the death, and die bravely in -the last ditch, if die I must; and - - "'"Though I hope not hence unscathed to go, - Who conquers me shall find a stubborn foe."' - -"'Proceed with the case, Mr. Rockland,' said the judge, who began to -show signs of impatience. - -"'Let Mr. Wallingford be sworn and placed under the rule until we -examine Mr. Everson,' said Mr. Rockland. - -"That young man then took the stand. He was a sad-faced young man, whose -features contained unmistakable evidence of untold sufferings endured. - -"'Mr. Everson,' said Lottie, 'were you ever acquainted with a young lady -by the name of Victoria Totten?' - -'"Yes.' - -"'Where did you know her?' - -"'At Vicksburg, Mississippi.' - -"'Were you acquainted with Benjamin Bowles at Vicksburg?' - -'"Yes.' - -"'When did you last see Victoria Totten?' - -"'I saw her a few minutes ago--she is the woman who fainted when I came -in.' - -"'Was she ever married to Mr. Bowles?' - -"'No.' - -"'If Miss Victoria Totten left Vicksburg in company with any one, please -tell who it was, and under what circumstances she left.' - -"'She eloped with Benjamin Bowles, and they went to New Orleans, where -they lived as husband and wife, though they never were married.' - -"'Were you acquainted with Victoria Totten's mother?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'Where did she reside?' - -"'Near Vicksburg; and she is now living there.' - -"'Can it be possible that you are mistaken when you say that the woman -who fainted on the stand is the same person you knew as Victoria -Totten?' - -"'No, for I have been well acquainted with her for twenty years.' - -"Mr. Quillet suffered Mr. Everson to stand aside without -cross-examination. - -"Harry Wallingford was then ordered to take the stand, which he did with -a dignified and rather haughty mien, while his eyes glanced over the -crowd with a careless look of indifference; I noticed that he was -careful to avoid the gaze of Miss Bramlett, who had her eyes eagerly -fixed on him. After gazing intently at him for a moment, her head sank -down on the table that stood in front of her, and I saw tears begin to -drop from her chin. - -"'Brother Harry,' said Lottie, 'if you are in possession of facts that -would tend to throw any light on the case now on trial, please tell them -in your own way.' - -"'I employed what I thought was an experienced detective, and set him to -work on this case; he either would not, or could not, see or believe -anything that pointed to any one else as the guilty party but Miss -Bramlett. It is with feelings of the deepest shame and mortification -that I am compelled to confess that he at one time managed to shake my -confidence in the innocence of Miss Bramlett. After becoming convinced -that it was folly to depend any longer on Mr. Dabbs, I concluded to take -the matter into my own hands. In order to enable me to accomplish my -purpose, I secured the services of a first-class locksmith, who -undertook to manufacture for me such keys as I might require. About ten -days ago I managed to enter the premises of Benjamin Bowles, disguised -as a farmer, and after letting him win a small sum of money from me, I -feigned intoxication, and was permitted by him to take a nap on a sofa -in an adjoining room; but while he thought I was sound asleep, I was -busy taking wax impressions of all the locks and keys of the apartments, -as well as all trunks, bureaus, wardrobes, etc. Having accomplished the -object of my visit, I hurried to my locksmith, and ordered him to make -the keys necessary to enable me to open the locks, which he proceeded to -do immediately. The next day I paid a visit to the residence of Mrs. -Ragland, disguised as a gardener, and was so fortunate as to secure a -job of work in her flower garden, which I managed to accomplish to her -satisfaction. She went down town shopping, taking her maid with her, -leaving no one on the premises except the cook and myself; I managed to -enter the house through a back door, which was left unlocked. I -proceeded to take wax impressions of every lock and key I could find on -the premises, and gave them to my locksmith, and soon I was prepared -with keys to fit them. Being armed with my false keys, I managed to -enter the apartments of Mr. Bowles at a time when I knew he was away -from home. I succeeded in making a thorough search of all his rooms, -trunks, bureaus, dressing cases, wardrobes, etc., and carefully examined -all of his papers. I spent three consecutive days and nights in Mr. -Bowles' establishment. In a bureau drawer that stood in his sleeping -room I found a large gold locket containing the picture of Mrs. Ragland; -on the back of the locket the words, "From Victoria to Benjamin" were -plainly engraved. After I had finished my inspection of the apartments -of Mr. Bowles, I turned my attention to the residence of Mrs. Ragland, -where I found many curious things, among which were several letters from -Benjamin Bowles. One of these letters mentioned strychnine as a good -poison for rats.' - -"'Is this the letter to which you refer?' said Lottie as she handed a -paper to her brother. - -"'Yes, I found that letter in the pocket of a silk dress which belonged -to Mrs. Ragland.' - -"'If you ever saw this boot before,' said Lottie, as she handed it to -him, 'please tell when and where you saw it!' - -"About five days ago I brought that boot from Mrs. Ragland's sleeping -room. While searching a trunk in Mrs. Ragland's bedroom, I found several -pictures of Benjamin Bowles, one of which was incased in a golden shell -handsomely inlaid with pearls. I brought the picture away, and have it -here now. This picture was wrapped up in a letter, which I have here.' - -"'Read it,' said Mr. Rockland. - - "'DEAR V.--I herewith send you my picture, according to promise, - which I had taken when you were so good as to give me the pretty - image of your dear self. I tried to make the present more - acceptable by putting it in a costly case, and if you knew how - highly I prize the dear image of your sweet self which you - condescended to give me, you would no doubt value my ugly picture - more than you do. I am sorry indeed to be compelled to tell you - that I am just now in a terrible strait for the want of funds. Luck - has been giving me the cold shoulder for the last fortnight, and - you must by all means try to wheedle Miss Bramlett out of another - thousand for me, and I shall soon be able to make a rise with it. - The little scheme that I have so often mentioned to you is a - feasible one, which will insure us a great fortune, and richly - reward us for any risk; though there can be no risk, if we exercise - caution. When rats annoy us, why not destroy them?' - -"'Have you any other facts to communicate' said Lottie; 'if you have, -please proceed.' - -"'One night, while I was concealed in a bathroom in the apartments of -Mr. Bowles, he was visited by a woman whose face I did not see, but -whose voice I readily recognized as that of Mrs. Ragland. She arrived -there about nine o'clock, and remained until after the clock struck -twelve, when she went away accompanied by Bowles. While they remained in -the room adjacent to the one in which I was concealed, I could -distinctly hear everything they said. When Mrs. Ragland first entered -the house, she threw herself into the arms of Bowles, exclaiming: - -"'"Oh, Ben, let us fly before it is too late; for Suspicion has already -begun to point her finger at me! What a fortunate thing it was that I -happened to wear Miss Bramlett's blue silk dress that night when Miss -Tadpoddle was watching me! She thinks it was Miss Bramlett, and will -swear in open court that it was she." - -"'"Yes," replied Bowles; "and that makes it necessary for us to swear -the same thing." - -"'"For Heaven's sake, Ben," replied Mrs. Ragland, "do not, I beseech -you, ask me to add the awful sin of perjury to the long list of crimes -that I have committed!" - -"'"Pshaw! Vick, we have crossed the dead line long ago, and it is too -late to talk about retreating now; never will I move an inch toward the -rear; I will win by boldness and audacity. If we were to attempt to fly -now, it would insure our destruction, for we could not escape. Do as I -tell you, dear Vick, and I will vouch for a favorable termination." - -"'"Ah, Ben, you know too well how I love you; and you also know how much -I would suffer and endure to serve and please you; but there is a -mysterious influence, which I cannot describe, that constantly whispers -strange words into my mind, telling me that my days are numbered, and -that I shall soon be called to render an account of my sinful deeds." - -"'"Come, Vick, don't be so silly! I declare, you are continually talking -about retribution and repentance!" - -"'"If all the wealth of the world belonged to me, I would willingly give -it for a clear conscience! Oh, Ben, let us quit our wicked ways, ere it -is forever too late, for I believe that I shall not live much longer--a -sort of presentiment whispers of death to me continually!" - -"'"Stop, stop! Vick, I swear I will not listen another moment to this -sentimental nonsense. Come, let us go in and take some champagne, and -then you will feel better." - -"'They then went into another room and remained until midnight, when -Mrs. Ragland went home, accompanied by Bowles.' - -"Wallingford was then turned over to Mr. Quillet for cross-examination. - -"The usual smooth temper of the attorney-general had been considerably -ruffled by the taunts and jeers that had been thrown at him by the other -members of the bar, and notwithstanding he had lost all hopes of -sustaining the prosecution, he had resolved to have his revenge, which -he thought he could best secure by handling Harry Wallingford with -gloveless hands. As soon as he commenced the cross-examination I could -tell from his manner and the tone of his voice that he meant to cut -deep; and I also knew that he was treading on very dangerous ground when -he undertook the job. - -"'Mr. Wallingford,' he said, in an imperative tone, 'I should like you -to tell us by what authority you ventured to enter the apartments of -Mrs. Ragland, and, without her knowledge or consent, carry off private -property belonging to her?' - -"'I did it, sir, by the authority which God gives to all men in order to -enable them to protect innocence and expose guilt.' - -"'Are we to understand, sir, that you had a commission direct from God, -empowering you to enter a lady's private chamber by false keys, and, -without her consent, carry off her private property?' - -"'The shape of your question, sir, carries with it an insult, and I -think it would be advisable for you to modify it.' - -"'I ask your pardon,' said Quillet, smiling sarcastically. 'I assure -you, sir, I did not think of insulting you; but really, I had a -curiosity to know what prompted you to take the law into your own hands -in such a presumptuous manner. As the shape of the question seems to -displease you, and as I should dislike very much to incur your -displeasure, I will take your advice, and change the shape of the -question: What induced you to interest yourself in Miss Bramlett's -affairs, and why did you choose to spend so much money for her?' - -"'Because I loved her, sir, and because I believed she was innocent!' - -"As Wallingford uttered those words his voice trembled slightly, while -his proud soul seemed to be standing in his eyes. - -"'Was not Miss Bramlett at one time betrothed to you?' - -"'Yes!' - -"'Is she now betrothed to you?' - -"'No!' - -"'Did you cancel the engagement?' - -"'No!' - -"'Did she do it?' - -"'Yes!' - -"'Why did she do it?' - -"'Because she found me to be unworthy of her love and respect.' - -"Miss Bramlett started as if she were going to rise from her seat, then -dropped her head back on the table. - -"'Did you concur with her views in that respect?' - -"'Yes!' - -"'Why did you continue to work in her interest after she had discarded -you?' - -"'To gratify my sister and win the approval of my conscience.' - -"'Is your conscience easy now?' - -"'No!' - -"'Why not?' - -"'Because I wronged an innocent lady by my unjust suspicions.' - -"The excitement by this time had been wrought up to fever heat, and I -could plainly see that an explosion was imminent, unless something was -done to prevent it. - -"'Stand aside, Mr. Wallingford!' exclaimed Flipout in a tone that -convinced Quillet that no further trifling would be allowed. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVI. - - -"HARRY passed out of the witness box and left the court-room without -looking toward Viola, which it was plain to see was a great -disappointment to her, for she followed him with her eyes until he -disappeared, and then gave vent to her feelings in tears. - -"'Who is your next witness?' - -"'We have sent for Mrs. Ragland's maid, as we have just been informed by -Mr. Wallingford that she is in possession of some important facts -connected with the case.' - -"Zuleka Zenobia was half French and half Spanish. - -"'How long have you been serving Mrs. Ragland?' said Lottie. - -"'Six years.' - -"'Where did you first become acquainted with her?' - -"'At New Orleans.' - -"'Who was she living with then?' - -"'She was living with Mr. Bowles.' - -"'Were they living together as husband and wife?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'Were you at Mr. Ragland's house on the night that Harry Bramlett -died?' - -"'Yes.' - -"'If you saw Mrs. Ragland in Harry Bramlett's room that night, tell all -you know about it.' - -"'About eight o'clock Miss Bramlett came into the kitchen to get some -tea for her little brother, and requested me to go after a cup and -saucer that were in young Master Bramlett's room. When I got to the head -of the stairs I saw Mrs. Ragland in the room; she had one of the blue -papers of medicine in her hand; she laid it down among the other papers -and went out through Miss Bramlett's room.' - -"'Did she see you on that occasion?' - -"'I don't think she did.' - -"'Did you ever see Mrs. Ragland dressed in one of Miss Bramlett's -gowns?' - -"'Yes, very often; I assisted her to put on a blue silk dress which -belonged to Miss Bramlett.' - -"'Where did your mistress go when she had on Miss Bramlett's blue silk -dress?' - -"'She went to meet Mr. Bowles at the summer-house and then accompanied -him to his apartments.' - -"'What was Mrs. Ragland's maiden name?' - -"'Victoria Totten.' - -"The loud report of half a dozen pistol shots in rapid succession now -came ringing through the court-room, causing a stampede among the -spectators, who made a rush for the door. - -"'Go quick, Eddie!' said Lottie, as she seized my arm, while her whole -body trembled. 'Run quick--it is Bowles and Harry fighting.' - -"Policemen came running in from all directions, shouting: - -"'Stop the thief! Catch the murderer! Shoot the villain! Where is he?' - -"'What has happened, Mr. Quillet?' demanded Flipout, who had rubbed his -nose until it was as red as fire. - -"'Ben Bowles made an attempt to assassinate Harry Wallingford; but I am -happy to inform your Honor that no serious harm has been done, though -the scoundrel, Bowles, has succeeded in effecting his escape. He met -Wallingford at the door, as he went out, and slapped him on the mouth; -then both parties began to shoot at each other, and Wallingford -received a slight flesh wound in the left arm, and Bowles fled. He -knocked a man down in the streets, and took the horse that the man was -holding, mounted and went north at full speed.' - -"'If your Honor please,' said the prosecuting officer, 'I think it is my -duty (to perform which will afford me great pleasure) to enter a _nolle -prosequi_ in this case, being convinced that this young lady is -innocent. She has suffered too much already, and I am unwilling to allow -her to spend another night in prison.' - -"'I am much obliged,' replied Mr. Rockland, 'to my honorable friend for -his kind offer, but we would prefer to have a verdict from the jury.' - -"'Very well, then,' replied Mr. Quillet, let Miss Bramlett accompany her -friends home, and she can return in the morning to hear the verdict--I -consent to any plan that will be agreeable to her and her friends.' - -"As soon as Mrs. Ragland recovered from the swoon into which she had -fallen, the judge ordered the sheriff to remove her to her home, at the -same time instructing that officer to have the premises securely guarded -until her condition should be such as to justify her imprisonment. - -"'Edward,' said Lottie, as she smiled through her tears, 'I want you to -assist Viola into the carriage--and you had better escort her home; and -when you have done so you will return here as speedily as possible, in -order to help me get Harry home. Let mother understand that Harry is not -severely hurt, and that there is no cause whatever for alarm; go now and -attend to these things as quickly as you can.' - -"After escorting Miss Bramlett home, I hurried back to help bring Harry. -We had to carry him to the carriage, as he was not able to walk without -assistance. His face was as white as it could have been if he had been -dead. - -"'Are you suffering very much, brother Harry?' Lottie inquired as she -drew his head down so as to let it rest on her bosom. - -"'Oh, no, not at all.' - -"'I want you to tell me why you did not look at, or speak to, Viola this -evening, when you came in the court-room; did you not notice how your -conduct distressed her?' - -"'My dear sister, don't you know that I could not look in that dear -girl's face, if death was to be the penalty of the refusal? You -certainly must know how deep is the feeling of contempt that she has for -me.' - -"'I am convinced that you have entirely misjudged Miss Bramlett's -feelings toward you, for I happen to know that she is anxious for a -reconciliation; and she would not hesitate to make the first advances, -if she were not afraid of being repulsed.' - -"'Sister, you seem to have lost sight of the fact that I am a pauper, -though I trust you do not expect me to be a beggar. Miss Bramlett's -great fortune has rendered any thought of a marriage between us -impossible; beside this, I do not believe I could ever be to her such a -husband as she deserves. I have lately received a letter from my -attorney at San Francisco, informing me that he has discovered evidence -which leads him to think that my Uncle Stanley made a later will, and -that, after all, there is a probability that the property was left to -me. He advises me to come there immediately, and it is my intention to -do so as soon as I am able to endure the fatigues of the journey. If it -should be my fortune to inherit my uncle's estate, I will then be in a -condition to sue for Miss Bramlett's hand.' - -"The carriage now drew up to the front gate, and Mrs. Rockland, who had -been watching for us, seized Harry in her arms and burst into tears. - -"Harry had been supported from the front gate to the house by Lottie and -me, as we thought he was too weak to walk alone; but as soon as he came -to the steps at the front portico, he suddenly disengaged himself from -us, and briskly ran up into the hall. The exertion proved too heavy a -tax on his strength, for I noticed that he began to reel. - -"Miss Bramlett, who was watching him from the parlor door, sprang -quickly forward and caught him in time to check the force of the fall, -but her strength was not sufficient to entirely prevent it. When I got -to him I discovered that he had fainted, but Miss Bramlett was sitting -on the carpet holding his head on her bosom. By this time Lottie came -running in, and snatching a bottle of hartshorn from the mantel, she -directed Miss Bramlett to hold it to his nostrils; then she moistened -her brother's pale face with eau de Cologne, and in a few moments I saw -signs of returning life appear. I was about to lift Wallingford in my -arms, with a view of placing him on a bed, when Lottie suddenly seized -me by the arm and pulled me into the nearest room. - -"'Come away, Edward,' she whispered, as she hurried me along; 'let them -alone--don't you see how tenderly she is nursing him?' - -"We took up a position in the adjacent room, where we could observe them -through an open window. - -"Wallingford opened his eyes, and as they met those of Miss Bramlett, a -convulsive shudder shook his body for a moment, then he closed them, and -remained silent a long time. When he again opened his eyes I noticed -that they were filled with tears. - -"'He is weeping,' whispered Lottie, as she gave my arm a vigorous pinch; -'thank Heaven,' she continued, 'all is safe.' - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVII. - -"SOON after the court opened next morning I was considerably surprised -to see Zuleka Zenobia come hurriedly into the room and deliver a large -yellow envelope to Mr. Rockland. - -"'My mistress requested me to deliver this paper to you immediately -after the court met this morning,' said Zuleka, as she put the envelope -in Mr. Rockland's hand. - -"The iron lawyer deliberately commenced reading the contents of the -letter. I imagined that his hands began to tremble slightly, and I -thought I could see a perceptible deepening of the color on his face. - -"'If the court please,' said he, 'I hold in my hand a most extraordinary -paper, which has just been handed to me by Mrs. Ragland's maid. This -document makes a most startling disclosure. I do not think the contents -of this letter ought to be made public, until an officer shall have been -sent to inquire about Mrs. Ragland.' - -"'Perhaps her maid can enlighten you as to the condition of her -mistress's health,' observed Flipout. - -"Mr. Rockland then asked the maid if she had seen her mistress that -morning. - -"'No,' said the maid, 'I have not seen her since eleven o'clock last -night. She rang for me at eleven, and gave me the envelope, and told me -to deliver it to Mr. Rockland at ten o'clock this morning.' - -"'Mr. Sheriff,' said Flipout, 'send a deputy to Mrs. Ragland's residence -immediately and instruct him to report her condition to the court -without delay.' - -"At last a short, dumpy little deputy with a ponderous nose and bushy hair -came dashing into the room, with a face very pale, and excited manner. - -"'If your Honor please, Mrs. Ragland is dead, sir. She has killed -herself. The door was locked on the inside, and we had to break it open -before we could get in. We found her lying on the bed cold and stiff!' - -"'With your Honor's permission,' said Mr. Rockland, 'I will now read -this letter, which will explain everything.' - -"'Read it,' said the judge. - - "'MR. ROCKLAND: - - '"DEAR SIR--When you read these lines, the hand that wrote them - will be cold in death, and my soul will have appeared before its - Creator. Perhaps God will have mercy on my sinful soul; for He - alone knows how I was tempted and betrayed; and He, I hope, will - have pity on a poor, unfortunate wretch like me. There was a time - when I was an innocent, artless, confiding girl, the petted child - of doting parents. I was the only daughter of Alexander Totten, who - died when I was thirteen, leaving a small fortune, though ample for - the support of myself and my mother. It is useless to warn other - giddy girls to avoid a fate like mine, because until men change - their natures unsuspecting girls will continue to listen to the - honeyed words of the libertine and the villain. My great fault--the - one that led me to destruction--was a love of display, and a - fondness for theatres, balls and all kinds of frivolous amusements. - Mr. Bowles drove fast horses, and spent money freely--dressed in - style, and took me with him to all the balls and other places of - amusement within reach. It would be folly to undertake to describe - the manner in which I went, step by step, from the temple of honor - to the gulf of infamy. It would merely be a reiteration of the old - story. I did not leap from the high temple of honor to the bottom - of the infamous pit at a single bound, but I went down by slow - degrees, until I was at the very bottom. - - "'I have committed a most cruel, cold-blooded murder. Oh! that I - had died when I was an innocent babe! Oh, God, have mercy on my - sinful soul. My only hope is based on the boundless mercy of Him - who knows how I was tempted. Miss Viola Bramlett is as pure as an - angel, and has suffered innocently for a crime committed by me. - When she and her little brother came to live at our house, Mr. - Bowles began to speak of the large fortune that had been left them - by their father. He told me that if the two children should happen - to die I would be the richest lady in the land. At first he spoke - of the matter cautiously, but in such a manner as to create a hope - in my mind that such a thing might happen. He informed me that my - husband's habits of dissipation would soon put him out of the way, - and that if the children were to die all the property would be - mine. - - "'This matter formed the topic of his conversation every time we - met, and it was a long time before he developed his murderous - designs. While we lived in New Orleans Mr. Bowles kept a gambling - hell, and often he induced me to entice men into it to be drugged - and robbed. Step by step he led me down--down--down--until all - conscience, all virtue, all honor was gone. I was frightened when - he first began to persuade me to ensnare his unsuspecting victims, - but I soon became familiar with crime, and embraced vice with - pleasure. How truly did Mr. Pope describe things when he said: - - "'"Vice is a monster of so frightful mien, - As to be hated, needs but to be seen; - Yet seen too oft, familiar with her face, - We first endure, then pity, then embrace." - - "'Oh, how accurately those four lines describe the circumstances in - my case! I never loved Mr. Ragland, and would not have married him, - but I thought Mr. Bowles was dead at the time I became his wife. My - love for Bowles had by no means diminished since my marriage with - Mr. Ragland; and we met very often, sometimes in the summer-house, - and frequently I went to his quarters. Miss Tadpoddle was mistaken - when she said she saw Miss Bramlett go to Mr. Bowles' apartments. - It was I, dressed in Viola's blue silk, which I had ordered my maid - to steal for me. The paper of strychnine found in the pocket of the - blue silk dress was placed there by me. The understanding between - Bowles and me was that I was to put the children out of the way, so - that my husband would inherit the great fortune; then he (Bowles) - was to dispatch Mr. Ragland, and we were to be married, and reside - in Italy. I stole into the room when I knew Miss Bramlett was in - the kitchen preparing some tea for her little brother, and finding - the child sound asleep, I hurriedly emptied the quinine out of one - of the blue papers, and put the strychnine in it, and replaced it - on the table. That was the fatal dose that killed the boy. I do not - ask or expect forgiveness from the citizens of Memphis, because it - will require a higher power to absolve me. I think I can muster - courage to die, unloved and unmourned by any; but I have not enough - to enable me to live in the face of the tornado of indignation - which I know would confront me in this community. - - "'But for the awful load of guilt that presses like a great - mountain on my soul, I would quit this cruel world without regret. - I suppose that one who has committed so many cruel crimes as I have - would not be considered a proper person to give advice to others. - But the rich man who lifted his voice up in hell was anxious that - his brothers should not come where he was; and I, who am about to - appear before my God with the stain of murder on my soul, would - gladly persuade others to shun a fate like mine. When you hear that - I have inflicted on myself the same kind of murder that I did on - Harry Bramlett, using the same deadly drug, you will doubtless - conclude that I have gone mad; but no--the hand that directs this - pen is as steady as it ever was, and the mind that manufactures - these thoughts is as clear. I would prefer to live and repent of - the awful crimes I have committed, but I know that the law would - cry aloud for my blood. - - "'The letter that was found in Miss Bramlett's dress pocket was - placed there by me; or, rather, it was left there by mistake when I - returned the dress. It was written by Mr. Bowles, and addressed to - me, instead of Miss Bramlett, as was believed by the detectives. - - "'I shall instruct my maid to deliver this communication into your - hands when court opens in the morning, and I most humbly ask you to - read it to the court and jury, in order that all suspicion of Miss - Bramlett's guilt may be removed. I am sorry that this is all the - reparation I can make for the great wrongs I have done to that - innocent girl. - - "'With a full knowledge of the fact that I shall soon stand before - my great Creator, I declare the foregoing statement to be true. - - VICTORIA RAGLAND.' - -"'Take the jury to a room, Mr. Sheriff, and let them make up their -verdict and return it into court as soon as possible.' - -"At last the jury came in, with Crookwood leading the van, while he held -the papers in his hand. - -"'Have you agreed on a verdict, gentlemen?' - -"'We have, if yer Honor please,' said Crookwood, as he wiped the water -from his eyes with the tail of his coat. - -"'Read the verdict, Mr. Clerk.' - -"'I don't think I am able to read it, sir,' said the clerk. - -"'Let me see it,' said Mr. Quillet. - -"'Read it then!' said Flipout. - -"'I'll try, but I do not agree to accomplish the task accurately.' - -"'We thee juree do agree thatt Misstress Victoree Ragglinn didd pizenn -thee pour child, annd we woosh we hadd a chans to hangg her, butt wee -kant bekase shee iz ded. Wee finde Benn Boals giltee ov merder, and -sentns himm to be hungg thee furst Fridee atter he is kotch. Wee cleer -Mis Brammlitt, annd the shurref shal paa the kost.' - -"That is the identical verdict, each word spelled just as you see it, -but here is a correct copy which the clerk was kind enough to transcribe -for me, after the orthography had been properly corrected. - -"'We the jury do agree that Mistress Victoria Ragland did poison the -poor child, and we wish we had a chance to hang her, but we can't, -because she is dead. We find Ben Bowles guilty of murder, and sentence -him to be hung on the first Friday after he is caught. We clear Miss -Bramlett, and the sheriff shall pay the cost.' - -"It was agreed between the attorney-general and Mr. Rockland that the -verdict might be so changed as to comply with the usual legal form; -consequently, the record merely shows a verdict in the following words: -_'We the jury find the defendant not guilty.'_ - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVIII. - - -"'LOTTIE,' said Mr. Rockland, one bright morning as he rose from the -breakfast table, 'I am going to bring half a dozen friends to dinner -this evening, and want you to have everything arranged in splendid -order. The Governor will be among the distinguished guests. May I depend -on you?' - -"'Give me a check for three hundred dollars, and six kisses, and then I -will discuss the matter with you.' - -"'There is the check, and you may take the kisses--there, there, don't -smother me! What are you going to do with that money?' - -"'I am going to give it to Mrs. McCay.' - -"'I inferred as much; but you had better not let her have it all at -once; give it to her in small sums, as she needs it--but what about the -dinner?' - -"'You may trust that matter entirely to me.' - -"'Very good. I shall expect a first-class dinner, to be served at six -o'clock.' - -"'It shall be done.' - -"'Give me back one of those kisses, then I will go.' - -"'Take it, dear papa, and as many more as you wish.' - -"The iron lawyer drew her fondly to his heart, stamped a kiss on her -lips, and went to his office. - -"'Now, Eddie,' said Lottie, as she took my arm, 'take this money and -spend it for Mrs. McCay, in such a manner, and in such sums, as in your -judgment will best promote her welfare. You may consider yourself -invited to dinner.' - -"'What hour shall I come?' - -"'You are a privileged guest, and may come when you please. Go along -now, and attend to Mrs. McCay, and I will arrange my plans for the -dinner.' - -"I made my appearance at Mr. Rockland's residence by five and met Lottie -at the front portico. - -"'What induced you to come so early, Edward?" - -"'I wanted to be with you--that is all; but how does it happen that you -are dressed so exquisitely this evening? I declare, you have made a -complete success of it! You look like an empress prepared to receive a -dozen kings as her guests. I never saw you looking so pretty as you do -now. What does it mean?' - -"'Read that note, and it will tell you.' - - "'DEAR LOTTIE--Prepare dinner for a dozen distinguished guests. Two - senators and their wives are with the Governor, and will dine with - us. The Honorable Cyrus Bramlett, a cousin to Viola, has just - arrived, and will sojourn with us two weeks. - - "'YOUR PAPA.' - -"'Who is Cyrus Bramlett? I never heard of him before.' - -"'He is a member of Congress from New York, and said to be an orator of -wonderful powers. He will object to a marriage between Harry and his -cousin.' - -"'Why so?' - -"'Because he will want her himself.' - -"'I hope he will leap into the arena at once, and contend for the -prize.' - -"The guests had all arrived by six, and a feeling of delight thrilled me -when I saw Lottie receiving her distinguished guests with so much -dignity and self-possession. - -"When dinner was announced, the Governor offered his arm to Lottie, Mr. -Rockland took charge of one of the senators' wives, while Flipout -escorted the other, and Mr. Bramlett gave his arm to his fair cousin; -and as the guests marched into the dining-room, I could see Wallingford -eying Mr. Bramlett in a manner which plainly showed that he was greatly -annoyed at the attentions bestowed on Miss Bramlett by her distinguished -cousin. I imagined that I could perceive signs indicative of an -approaching storm, and the thought gave rise to serious apprehensions in -my mind. The young member of Congress from New York had scarcely taken -his seat at the table when he commenced an animated conversation with -Lottie. - -"'Bramlett,' said the Governor as he promenaded the veranda with that -gentleman, a few moments after dinner, 'that Miss Wallingford is a most -extraordinary girl--she surpasses any one I have ever met, both as -respects beauty of person, and mind. They say she outwitted all the -lawyers on the trial of your cousin's case, and set a trap which caught -two of the State's witnesses.' - -"'Yes, it is true, and my pretty cousin is much indebted to Miss -Wallingford for her deliverance in that unfortunate affair. I intended -to be present at the trial myself, but was prevented by severe illness. -I have come to take my fair cousin home with me.' - -"'Yes, and to make her your wife, I suppose.' - -"'My aspirations have not dared to soar quite so high as that, though to -win such a rich gem would be a triumph worth contending for; but I -vaguely suspect that the heart of my fair cousin has already been -captured. Did you notice how she appeared to drink inspiration from -Wallingford's eyes across the table?' - -"'No, I did not, but what of that? you must remember the old threadbare -motto, "Faint heart never won fair lady." Go in and cry.' - - "'"Since the struggle must enlarge, - Thy motto be--Charge, Chester, charge!" - -"'Your excellency offers good advice, but I believe I will lay siege to -the other castle.' - -"'Ah! Bramlett, you will lose your labor there, for Demar has been -commander of that fair castle so long that the memory of man runneth not -to the contrary.' - -"'Yes, but Harry Wallingford shall not marry my fair cousin, unless he -gives his beauteous sister to me.' - -"As the dinner progressed, the flow of wit increased until every guest -began to participate in it. Politics and religion--finance and -agriculture--science and art--music and history, were all largely -discussed. - -"'Come,' said Harry as he laid his hand on my arm, 'let us go out on the -corridor and smoke a cigar.' - -"I took his arm and we began to pace up and down the floor. The weather -was quite warm, and not a breath of air could be felt. - -"'Come, let us go into the garden; I could not control myself if I -remained here. Let us sit under these vines, on this little bench--I -feel the oppressive heat more than usual.' - -"We had not been there more than twenty minutes when Quillet and Bullger -came walking slowly toward us. The night was not a very dark one, though -there was no moon, but the stars appeared to shine unusually bright. We -were completely hidden by the overhanging vines, and as we preferred to -be alone, we remained silent, hoping that the two lawyers would pass on; -but they went into the summer-house, which was not more than twenty feet -from where we sat. They were conversing in very low tones, but we could -hear every word they said. I started to rise from my seat, as I was -unwilling to play the part of an eavesdropper; but Harry caught my -sleeve and pulled me back to the seat, and in a whisper requested me to -be still and listen. - -"'What do you think of Miss Bramlett now, Bullger?' inquired Quillet. - -"'The more I see of her the better I like her; but it is no use for a -fellow to fall in love with her, for they say she is going to marry -Harry Wallingford.' - -"'Yes, and I must confess that I am astonished to hear it.' - -"'Why?' - -"'Because he was engaged to her before she got into her late trouble; -but as soon as she was put in jail, he told her to her face that he -thought she was guilty. She ordered him to leave her presence, and -commanded him never to speak to her again. He deserted her, while she -was under the cloud, and left her to paddle her own canoe; but as soon -as it appeared that she was innocent, what does he do but beg pardon and -make matters smooth again.' - -"'I suppose he loves her money better than he does the girl. I always -did despise a fortune-hunter.' - -"'Yes, and so does every honest man; but I cannot understand how such a -sensible girl could be so ready to give her hand to such a man.' - -"'Pshaw! don't you know that where a woman once loves a man, she never -forsakes him, no matter what he does?' - -"'Well, I suppose there is something in that, but Harry Wallingford is a -very brilliant young man, and I used to think he was the very soul of -honor; I did not think he would ever justly win the name of -fortune-hunter.' - -"'Neither did I, but human nature is very weak, you know, and the prize -in this case is a very tempting one, because Miss Bramlett is very -beautiful, and possessed of an amiable disposition, as well as a great -fortune.' - -"'By Jove, the bait is enough to trap anybody!' - -"'Ah! you are right there; but Lottie Wallingford is the apple of my -eye. I had rather have her for my wife than to be king of England.' - -"'Yes, no doubt you would; but there is no likelihood of your ever being -king of England or the husband of Lottie Wallingford, either, because -she belongs to Ed Demar.' - -"'Well, he is a lucky dog, anyway.' - -"'Come, let us walk back to the house; it is no use to covet our -neighbors' property--those two girls are not for us.' - -"While that conversation was going on, Harry had his hand on my arm, and -it was all I could do to keep from crying out, for his finger nails sank -down into my flesh so as to bring blood. - -"'Let go my arm, Harry; you are hurting me.' - -"'I ask pardon--I did not think what I was doing; does it not surprise -you to see me sitting quietly by your side?' - -"'No, why should I be surprised?' - -"'Do you think I would let any man talk that way about me, unless he was -telling the truth? Have I not been guilty of every charge they made -against me? Of course I have; but thank Heaven it is not too late to -make the proper atonement. Edward, it is all over with Viola and me. I -do now solemnly swear, by everything that I hold sacred, that I never -will marry her until my fortune is equal to hers; so help me Heaven!' - -"'Harry, I do believe you are a real coward.' - -"'Yes, that is certain, but there is no use to scold me about it. If -Viola will agree to wait till my fortune is made, all right; if she -refuses, let her marry her cousin, and be done with it.' - -"'As to that, you need have no fears whatever, for she worships you, and -if you forsake her, it will kill her; yes, I mean exactly what I say--it -will certainly kill her.' - -"'In the first place, I do not intend to forsake her, for I love her as -no man ever loved a woman before, and if she will wait for me, I will -make a fortune as sure as my name is Harry Wallingford.' - -"'By the by, Harry, I have a little secret to tell you.' - -"'What is it, pray?' - -"'You know that Viola bought a little bottle of strychnine, and refused -to tell why she purchased it?' - -"'I certainly do, and her refusal to tell why she bought it was the -strongest evidence against her.' - -"'True enough; well, I can tell you all about it; she got it when you -were very ill, and everybody thought you were going to die. She was -preparing to commit suicide; and if you had died, she would not have -survived you an hour.' - -"'Great Heavens! is that so?' - -"'It is; for Lottie pumped the secret out of her. Now you must be very -cautious when you inform her of your intention to go to California.' - -"'If she will only trust me, and agree to wait for me, I will never -forsake her; but let us walk back to the house, else we will be missed.' - -"Time glided on, and Harry lingered by Viola's side, strolling about the -flower garden with her arm locked in his, and dreading to make his -intentions known to her. Love was urging him to marry the girl of his -choice, and be happy, while pride was making a desperate effort to -separate him from his love. - -"Miss Bramlett and Lottie were seated on a low wooden bench in the -summer-house engaged in an earnest conversation. Harry Wallingford made -his appearance at the door. - -"'Come in, brother,' said Lottie. 'I am glad you happened here, because -I want you to join me in persuading Viola to abandon the idea of going -with her cousin to New York.' - -"'If Miss Bramlett will not yield to your solicitations, I am sure she -would not to mine. It would be unjust to her distinguished relative to -deprive him of the company of his fair cousin. The fact is, we ought not -to expect Miss Bramlett to remain among such dull people as ours, when -such brilliant members of Congress claim her company.' - -"Miss Bramlett bent her eyes toward the ground, while her cheeks were -red with anger; but she bit her lips to smother her feelings. Lottie -turned pale, and gazed at her brother with a look of astonishment, while -a painful sensation darted through her heart. She was convinced that her -brother had become jealous of Cyrus Bramlett, and she well knew that it -was without cause. - -"'Take a seat here, brother,' said Lottie, 'and arrange that bouquet for -me, while I go and gather more flowers.' - -"This was a ruse on Lottie's part to leave Harry and Viola alone, as she -thought it the best plan to insure a reconciliation between them. - -"'Miss Bramlett, I suppose if you go with your distinguished cousin, you -will spend the winter in Washington?' - -"'No; I shall remain in New York.' - -"'We shall be very far apart when you go to New York and I to San -Francisco.' - -"'What do you mean, Mr. Wallingford?' - -"'Viola, I am going to start for California in the morning, and it may -be a long time before we meet again; I wish to ask you a serious -question, and I want you to give me a serious answer.' - -"All color now instantly fled from her cheeks, and her body trembled -violently. - -"'I am going to seek my fortune in the far West, and I wish to know if -you will promise to be mine when I return?' - -"If you go to California, it is my opinion that we never shall meet -again.' - -"'Why do you think that?" - -"'There are many reasons I might mention that cause me to think it; but -if you will excuse me, I had rather not talk about such a painful -subject.' - -"'Miss Bramlett, have I been mistaken in believing that you loved me?' - -"'If we ever meet again, ask the question and you shall have a candid -answer.' - -"'Would you have me go so far away without knowing my fate?' - -"'I would not have you go at all; but it appears that your resolve is -made, and I suppose you know best what you ought to do.' - -"'I know that I am an idiot, and that I have succeeded in convincing you -of that interesting fact, and that you will rejoice to be rid of me.' - -"'This is not the first time you have unjustly suspected me, but I hope -it will be the last.' - -"'Why, then, did you so suddenly conclude to leave us and that, too, -before you knew of my intention to go to California?' - -"'Because I have no home here; in fact, I have no home anywhere, but I -have friends and relatives in New York who will give me a home.' - -"'Yes, indeed, you have one distinguished kinsman who, I dare say, will -offer you a home, and a heart to boot, and I could not blame you for -accepting such a brilliant offer.' - -"'Mr. Wallingford, your language does not afford me any pleasure, and -unless you have something else to talk about, I guess we had better -separate.' - -"'I crave your pardon--I assure you I did not mean to annoy you.' - -"Then, in a fit of anger, he abruptly walked away. - -"Harry started to California next morning, without having any other -interview with Miss Bramlett, thus letting his pride again master his -heart. - -"Ragland's body was found floating in the river, at the head of -President's Island, without any marks of violence on it, showing clearly -that he had committed suicide. Poor man! perhaps he deserved a better -fate, though he had not led the sort of a life that produces happiness. -An appetite for strong drink, and a love for the gambling table, had -ruined him before the discovery of his wife's infidelity was made. - -"Mr. Rockland received a letter from one of the trustees at New York -stating that the death of Mr. Ragland created a necessity for Miss -Bramlett to come there immediately. Within ten days after Harry had -started for California, Viola was on her way to New York, accompanied by -her cousin Cyrus. - -"Over a month had elapsed after Viola's departure, when Mr. Rockland -received a letter from a lawyer in New York, of a most startling nature, -the perusal of which plunged us all into the deepest gulf of distress. -Here is the letter--let it speak for itself: - - "'NATHANIEL ROCKLAND, ESQ.: - - "'DEAR SIR--I know you will be surprised and deeply pained to learn - that the trustees appointed by Bolivar Bramlett's will have - converted the entire estate into cash and fled to parts unknown. - Every possible effort has been made to capture them, but without - success, and it is pretty well ascertained that they have crossed - the ocean, and are safe in some foreign land. But, my dear sir, I - have not told you the serious part of the story yet--and you will - think so when I do. Miss Viola Bramlett has mysteriously - disappeared from her boarding house, and despite the efforts of the - police to discover her whereabouts, the mystery remains unsolved. A - week ago she left her boarding house on Fifth avenue, telling her - friends that she was going to A. T. Stewart's store on Broadway. - Nothing was thought about it until night, when her friends began to - make inquiries about her. She had been to the Stewart store, and - made some trifling purchases, but instead of ordering the articles - to be sent to her boarding house, as was her usual custom, she took - them with her. Three experienced detectives were employed - immediately, and up to this writing, they have failed to make any - discoveries, except that she was seen standing on the wharf near - the water's edge just before dark on the day she left her boarding - house. If she was alive, it seems to me that the detectives could - not fail to find her; therefore I fear we may expect the very - worst. Ever since her arrival in this city she has appeared to be - very unhappy, and was often found weeping. She avoided company, - rarely speaking to any one, and the only conclusion we can arrive - at is that the poor girl has committed suicide. Every possible - effort will be made to find her, and if we succeed, I will - immediately inform you by wire. - - "'Very respectfully, - - "'ALBERT DALMAXIM.' - -"I shall not trouble you with a history of our misery, produced by this -awful news, but drive on to the end of this unpleasant part of my story. -In obedience to Lottie's request I set out immediately to New York to do -all in my power to unravel the strange mystery; promising if Viola was -found to bring her home with me. I wrote a short letter to Harry, -inclosing Mr. Dalmaxim's letter, and urged him to come home without -delay. - -"When I arrived at New York I learned that no clew to the missing girl -had been discovered, and that the police and detectives had given up the -contest. I went to work in earnest, determined to exhaust every plan I -could think of to find Viola. But at the end of ten days hope died in my -breast, and I was compelled to conclude that Viola had drowned herself. -I remained in New York a month, and it was with a sad heart I started -home, when I thought of the distressing news that I would be compelled -to communicate to Lottie. I had not been back home but a short time when -Harry returned from California looking more like a ghost than a man. - -"'Is she found?' he gasped, as he staggered into my office and dropped -into a chair. - -"'No, but we still have hopes. You are ill, Harry; let me go home with -you--Lottie is looking for you.' - -"'No, I will not go home--I cannot bear to look into dear Lottie's face -now. I am going immediately on to New York, to spend the remnant of my -life in searching for poor Viola; though I have but little hope of ever -seeing her dear face again.' - -"'What about your uncle's will?' - -"'Oh! don't let us talk about that now; money has been my ruin. I am a -rich man now, but it comes too late. Fortune still continues to hurl her -deadly missiles with unerring aim at me. Everything goes wrong with me; -my uncle did make another will, and placed it in the hands of a trusted -friend, who happened to be traveling in Europe when my uncle died. If -that friend had been at home all would have been well, but my luck would -not have it so. The man with whom the will had been left fell ill and -died in Scotland, and when his administrator took charge of his effects -in San Francisco, my uncle's will came to the surface, giving his -property to Lottie and myself. Curse the will--curse the money--curses -on my luck--a double curse on my foolish pride! Why did I not take Viola -with me as my wife? Because I never was known to do anything that ought -to be done. Viola told me that if I went to California we never would -meet again. I did not understand her meaning then, but it is plain to me -now. She was contemplating suicide then, and she has since carried out -her intention. Here, Eddie, take this envelope, and when you know I am -dead you may open it. Don't stare at me that way, please--it is nothing -but my will, giving all my property to Lottie. She has the good sense to -make the proper use of it. Give my love to my darling sister, and tell -her when I find Viola she shall see me, but never until I do. Comfort my -darling sister, and don't let her grieve about her unfortunate brother. -She will make you happy, as you deserve. I would give all the world if I -had your happy disposition; but alas, it cannot be so! Good-by, old -fellow; we may meet again, but never until I find Viola.' - -"Before I could muster courage to answer, he was gone. - - * * * * * - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIX. - - -"Nearly a year has elapsed since I last parted with Harry Wallingford -under very peculiar circumstances. It was at the cemetery in the city of -New York, where I took my painful leave of him, and I never have seen -him since, though we have received several letters from him. I believe -it was on the next Monday after Wallingford set out on his journey to -New York, that Mr. Rockland received a letter from Mr. Dalmaxim, which -furnished a solution of the mystery connected with Miss Bramlett's sad -fate. In order to enlighten my audience as much as possible in -connection with that distressing affair, I will read you the letter: - - "'NATHANIEL ROCKLAND: - - "'DEAR SIR--It is with feelings of the deepest sorrow that I - perform the sad duty of conveying to you the news of Miss - Bramlett's death. The body of that unfortunate young lady was - discovered on yesterday floating in East river, where it had - evidently remained a considerable length of time, for it was in an - advanced stage of decomposition. The features were very much - disfigured, probably occasioned by being eaten by the fish, but her - friends here readily recognized the drab silk dress as the one worn - by Miss Bramlett on the day of her disappearance. A large gold ring - with a diamond set was found on one of her fingers, which was also - identified by her friends as the property of Miss Bramlett. On the - inside of the ring the letters "From Harry to Viola," appeared, - plainly engraved, which settles the question of identity beyond the - possibility of a doubt. The body was found under the wharf, where - it had been held by a large iron spike that projected from one of - the piles, which had caught in the skirt of the silk dress, thus - preventing the corpse from floating out. A white handkerchief of - very costly fabric, bordered with lace, was found in the left-hand - pocket of her dress, which was found to be marked in one corner - with the letters "V. B.," plainly wrought with green silk thread. - The handkerchief was also identified as the property of Miss - Bramlett. That the poor girl committed suicide there seems to be no - room for doubt, as upon critical examination, made by experienced - surgeons, no marks of violence could be discovered. A large number - of witnesses were examined before the jury of inquest, including - many friends and relatives of Miss Bramlett; all of them recognized - the dress, ring, and handkerchief as her property. Notwithstanding - the vigorous efforts made by Miss Bramlett's friends to ascertain - the cause that induced her to destroy herself, nothing definite has - been developed; though I hear it suggested that it was a - disappointment in a love affair with Mr. Wallingford. I am - thoroughly convinced that it was not the loss of her fortune that - caused it, for all concur in the idea that she despised money, and - was often heard to say that she regretted being a rich heiress. - With many wishes for your health and success, I am, sir, yours very - respectfully, - - "'ALBERT DALMAXIM' - -"Before Harry Wallingford arrived at New York, the remains of the -drowned girl had been deposited in the grave. - -"I was induced by Lottie to make a second trip to New York to bring -Harry home. Upon my arrival at the city, I was not a little surprised to -learn that Wallingford had caused a costly monument to be erected at the -head of the grave, with a suitable inscription made in plain Italian -letters. - -"When I inquired for Harry at his hotel, I was told by the clerk that I -would probably find him at the cemetery, as he had been in the habit of -making diurnal visits there. I encountered many difficulties in -threading my way through the city of the dead. But after making several -mistakes, and traveling many hundreds of yards unnecessarily, I at -length succeeded in finding the spot I sought. - -"Harry was busily engaged with a florist in arranging some pinks and -geraniums at the foot of the grave, and consequently did not observe me -until I had stood leaning against the palings gazing at him for several -minutes. When he looked up and saw me he dropped the trowel with which -he had been transplanting the flowers, and walked briskly toward me, -saying as he held out his hand: - -"'Ah, Edward, I have killed her at last! Here lies my poor -victim--driven into the grave by an unworthy wretch who is himself unfit -to live, and not prepared to die. You told me I would kill her, and -alas! how true it has come to pass.' - -"'I am sent by Lottie to bring you home,' I at length managed to say. -'Your sister is almost driven to despair by this distressing occurrence, -and it is your duty to go to her as speedily as possible.' - -"'No, Edward, it would only serve to increase my darling sister's sorrow -for me to be with her. Tell my beloved sister that it is my wish to -remain in New York, where I can water the grave of my victim with my -tears, and commune with her gentle spirit.' - -"Now, my good friends, here I am at the end of my awkward story, and if -I have bored you with the telling of it, I am truly sorry for it; but if -I knew I had been so fortunate as to interest you, I should be very much -gratified. To all of my good friends who have been so kind as to honor -me with their attention, I beg permission to express my grateful thanks; -and by way of winding up the entertainment, I suggest the idea that we -now adjourn to the saloon and engage in a quadrille." - -"Wait a moment, sir, if you please," said Ivanhoe, as he threw himself -in front of Ingomar, as if he was determined to force him to halt; "you -have not yet finished your story, and we do not intend to permit you to -retire until you have told us what has become of Lottie Wallingford." - -"Yes, yes, yes!" exclaimed a dozen voices at once. "Let us know what has -become of Lottie Wallingford." - -"My friends," replied Ingomar, "I pledge you my word that there is no -such person as Lottie Wallingford now living, so far as I know or -believe; but if her Majesty will remove her mask, I will be very glad to -introduce to you Mrs. Lottie Demar, my beloved wife, of whom I am -exceedingly proud." - -By the time Ingomar concluded the sentence, the mask was removed, and -Lottie stood, radiant, beautiful, and blushing before the admiring -multitude. - -For a moment the spectators gazed in breathless wonder at the angelic -loveliness of the beautiful creature who stood before them; then the -audience began to press around the charming object, eager to offer their -congratulations. Captain Quitman, in whose eyes tears of joy trembled, -leaped on a box, and brandishing his cane in the air, called out, "Three -cheers for the Barbarian Chief and his beautiful Parthenia!" Then rose -such a joyous shout as to drown the great noise caused by the machinery -of the boat. A proposition was made by Ingomar, and indorsed unanimously -by the crowd, that all disguises should instantly be laid aside. When -Don Quixote removed his mask, Lottie sprang forward, and seizing both of -his hands, exclaimed: - -"Oh, bless us! it is Doctor Plaxico, and I am so much delighted to meet -my valued friend! And here is Captain Burk, too! I am really ashamed to -acknowledge that I did not recognize either of you." - -When Scottie removed her mask, Captain Burk threw up his hands with -surprise, as he moved rapidly to her side, while his handsome features -lighted up with a delightful smile. - -"Miss Darlington," he ejaculated, "two years ago I considered you very -pretty, but now I am ready to swear on the Bible and the Koran that you -are the most beautiful girl on the globe!" - -"Captain Burk," replied Miss Darlington, as she smiled sweetly on him, -"I beg to remind you that, notwithstanding all women are fond of -flattery, they do not like to be praised in public." - -All of the maskers promptly complied with the agreement by immediately -dispensing with their disguises, except Napoleon, Navarre, and the lady -in the black domino, all three of whom abruptly retired from the deck as -soon as the proposition was made. - -Ingomar conducted Lottie down to the saloon, where they were immediately -followed by all the passengers. - -"Ladies and gentlemen," said the captain, "I have a communication to -make to you, which I am happy to believe will be heartily indorsed by my -young friends. We are now approaching a landing where we expect to take -on a large lot of cotton bales, which will detain us at least six hours; -and I have ordered the steward to prepare a picnic dinner to be served -on shore, where you will find charming scenery, cool shade, and green -turf. I have also ordered the band to be ready to make music for those -who may wish to enjoy a rustic dance." - -The spot selected for the picnic was about two hundred yards from the -river-bank, where the soft velvet turf was shaded by the thick green -leaves of innumerable tall beech-trees, whose branches were covered with -verdant vines. - -The band struck up a lively waltz, and then a dozen couples went -skipping over the greensward. - -After the amusements had been progressing about an hour, a colored woman -appeared on the grounds with a large hamper basket of flowers, which she -offered for sale. Among the flowers there was a magnificent bouquet, -containing every variety known to the South, which Demar immediately -purchased and presented to Lottie. The young people began to crowd -around Lottie, eager to behold the beautiful present, and each one, of -course, was permitted to examine it. Napoleon, although still wearing -his mask and refusing to participate in any of the amusements, -condescended to handle and admire the beautiful bouquet. It was noticed -that he retained it for a long time, apparently interested in the -delicate workmanship and ingenuity of its construction, occasionally -pulling the flowers apart, as if he wanted to see how it was held -together. After he had inspected it for five minutes he handed it back -to Lottie, who immediately held it close to her face and began to inhale -the rich perfume afforded by the rare flowers. - -"Oh! Edward," she exclaimed as she let the bouquet fall to the ground, -"the scent of those flowers has made me sick, and I must request you to -take me aboard the boat as soon as you can." - -"Darling, are you very ill! Your cheeks have suddenly turned deadly -pale! What is the matter?" - -"I do not know, Edward. I never experienced such a strange feeling -before. My throat and lungs feel as if they were full of burning fire, -and my head is as light as air! You will have to carry me to my room -immediately, for I do not believe I could walk a step unsupported." - -"Mrs. Demar," said Doctor Plaxico, as he held his fingers on her pulse, -"have you ever been subject to any sudden attacks of illness before?" - -"I have never been ill at all but one time during the last ten years." - -"If you feel able to talk, I would be glad if you would give me a minute -description of the first symptoms of the attack." - -"I was in perfect health when we went on shore--never felt better in my -life. Edward purchased a large, handsome bouquet and gave it to me, and -I buried my face among the fragrant flowers, inhaling the sweet odor -until I was seized with a sudden faintness, and would have fallen to the -ground, but Edward caught me in time to prevent it. Then my throat and -lungs began to burn with an intolerable heat, and have been growing -worse every moment. Oh! Edward, can you not give me something to quench -this blazing fire in my lungs? You know I am not childish, or in the -habit of complaining at trifles, but I cannot endure this intolerable -suffering!" - -"Plaxico, for Heaven's sake give her something to stop her sufferings!" -exclaimed Demar, as he knelt down by the bedside, wringing his hands in -despair. - -Plaxico made no reply to Demar's request--in fact, he seemed to be -perplexed, and full of hesitation, which was an unusual thing with him, -for he generally acted promptly, and with energy. - -"Doctor Plaxico," said Demar, "do you know what is the matter with my -wife?" - -"No." - -"Have you no means by which you can ascertain the nature of her -disease?" - -"No." - -"Have you no suspicions as to the cause of her sudden illness?" - -"Yes." - -"Tell me then what you suspect." - -"I shall not do it without further investigation." - -"Oh, Edward," exclaimed Lottie, as she tore the lace collar from her -neck, "do, pray, give me something to cool my throat--I cannot endure -this horrible torture much longer!" - -She tore away the fastenings that confined the dress about her throat, -and began to tear the skin with her finger nails, until the blood -commenced to gush out. - -"Plaxico," exclaimed Demar indignantly, "I am sorry to say that your -conduct on this awful occasion is to me inexplicable, and, I might say, -inexcusable. Are you going to sit here with folded hands and see my -darling die, without making an effort to save her?" - -"By Heaven! I would gladly give my life to save her!" - -"Why not give her an opiate?" - -"Because I am afraid." - -"What do you mean?" - -"Exactly what I say." - -"Doctor Plaxico, for Heaven's sake have pity on me, and quit speaking in -riddles!" - -"I am not dealing in riddles--I do not know what is the matter with your -wife." - -"Can you not suggest some harmless drug that would afford temporary -relief?" - -"Demar, why do you stare at me that way?" - -"I am full of astonishment to witness such a lack of self-confidence in -one possessing such unlimited knowledge of medical science as I know you -do." - -It did not require the eye of science to see that death would soon step -in to relieve the sufferer, unless she could be speedily relieved by -other means. This fact was now patent to Edward Demar, who was so -completely crazed with grief that he sank down by Lottie, and gave way -to despair. - -"Oh! Edward!" cried Lottie as she threw out both arms as if she were -feeling for him, "where are you? I do believe I am going blind, for I -cannot see you." - -Lottie was then seized with a frightful spasm that lasted five or six -minutes, which, when it passed off, left her in a state of exhaustion. -Her hands and feet became icy cold, while her throat and lungs were -burning up with unnatural heat. - -Captain Quitman, who had just heard of Lottie's dangerous illness, came -hurriedly into the room to make inquiries. - -"How is she?" - -"Bad enough. She will die inside of two hours unless a radical change -sets in very soon." - -"Great Providence forbid!" exclaimed the kind-hearted man. "What is the -matter with her?" - -"Don't know." - -"Have you never seen any one afflicted as she is?" - -"Yes." - -"Why not try the same remedies now that you did then?" - -"Because that other patient died." - -"What was the matter with the patient whose symptoms resembled these?" - -"Poison." - -The old captain leaped over two chairs, dashing them to the other side -of the room, and seizing Plaxico by both shoulders, fairly lifted him -off of the floor, letting him down with a slam; then in a thundering -tone exclaimed: - -"Plaxico, by the great Jupiter, tell me what you mean!" - -"I mean what I say." - -"See here, doctor, do you intend to insinuate that one of my passengers -has been poisoned?" - -"No, I insinuate nothing, for I know nothing." - -The old captain then rushed out of the room and hurried toward the cook -house to have an interview with the steward, knocking over a dozen -chairs as he went, and jostling a group of ladies who attempted to -intercept him with a view of inquiring about Lottie. - -"Dying, I believe," he muttered, as he elbowed his way among the anxious -crowd. - -Lottie's mind began to wander, and she would converse about occurrences -that had transpired in the days of her childhood. - -She suddenly regained her reason, and began to call for her husband. - -"Here I am, darling; what can I do to relieve you?" - -"Nothing, Edward; oh! I do not want to die now, because I have so much -to live for. I am not afraid to die, but I was so happy with my darling -that I wanted to remain with him; but if it is God's will that I shall -be taken away from him, I must not rebel." - -The lady in the black domino now came dashing into the room, and fell on -her knees by the bedside and burst into a violent fit of weeping. Her -conduct was so violent and mysterious that it filled the minds of all -with wonder, and caused Doctor Plaxico to whisper a request to Demar to -have her removed. - -Captain Burk now made his appearance at the door, and requested an -interview with Plaxico. - -The doctor passed through the door and taking the captain's arm, went -with him out on the guards. - -"Doctor Plaxico," said Burk, "do you know what is the matter with Mrs. -Demar?" - -"No." - -"Have you no suspicions?" - -"Yes." - -"Have you any objections to telling me what you suspect?" - -"Yes." - -"Why?" - -"Because it would do no good, and might do much harm." - -"Would you be surprised if I were to guess exactly what you suspect?" - -"Indeed, I would." - -"I have a suspicion myself, and I propose that we both write down what -we suspect and then compare notes, with the distinct understanding that -this transaction is to remain a profound secret between us." - -"Agreed." - -The two men turned their backs together and with pencils hurriedly wrote -something on their memorandum books; then facing each other, Captain -Burk handed his book to Plaxico. - -"Poison!" exclaimed Plaxico. - -"Poison!" cried Burk. - -Then both men stared wildly at each other. - -"What caused you to suspect that she was poisoned?" inquired Captain -Burk. - -"The peculiar symptoms," was the prompt reply. "What aroused your -suspicions?" - -"My poor Newfoundland dog has just died from the effects of poison; or -at least such is my belief." - -"What led you to such a conclusion?" - -"When Mrs. Demar was so suddenly taken ill, we were dancing on the green -turf, but we all immediately ceased dancing and returned to the boat; -before I had reached the shore some one of the ladies called my -attention to the beautiful bouquet which Mrs. Demar had dropped, and -requested me to bring it aboard. I was then about thirty yards from the -spot where the bouquet had been dropped, and pointing at it, I commanded -Don to fetch it to me. He started instantly, running swiftly to the -spot, seized the bouquet in his mouth and soon deposited it at my feet. -It was but a moment after he had deposited the flowers at my feet, when -he began to whine and reel, and in three minutes he was dead." - -"Merciful God! Captain Burk, some treacherous, double-damned villain has -intentionally murdered that poor lady. Where is the bouquet?" - -"In my state-room." - -"Go bring it here--quick!" - -Burk returned instantly with the flowers. - -"Now get me a dog, cat or any live animal that you can find, so we may -make a test." - -A deck hand was found who had a worthless dog that he had been trying to -hire some one to kill. The dog's nose was forced deep into the body of -the bouquet and held there three minutes, and three minutes afterward he -was dead. Then such a panic spread among the passengers as to beggar all -powers of description. Several ladies were precipitated into hysterical -fits, while brave men, who had often faced death on the battle field -unmoved by fear, now trembled like pale-faced cowards. What motive could -any one have for murdering the most beautiful, the most charming woman -aboard the boat? Suspicion soon began to point her finger at the lady in -the black domino, while the matter was discussed in low whispers by the -passengers. Meantime Lottie's condition was growing worse rapidly, and -the doctor declared that there were no grounds for hope. Despair and -horror were visible on every face, while tears began to stream from the -eyes of many strong men who did not often weep. - -"Who is the abandoned wretch?" inquired George, as he elbowed his way -through the crowd near the door; "I handled that bouquet, I buried my -face among the flowers, and for at least twenty seconds enjoyed the -fragrance, yet it did not poison me, which proves beyond doubt that the -fatal drug was placed in it after I handled it." - -"Who was the last one to handle it before it was returned to Lottie?" -exclaimed Captain Burk. - -"The lady in the black domino," replied Scottie. - -"You are mistaken there, I think, Miss Darlington," said George, "for it -is my recollection that Napoleon was the one who returned the bouquet to -Lottie. I remember distinctly that he held it in his hand a long while, -and that he kept pulling the flowers apart as if desirous to see how it -was held together." - -"It is a settled fact," said Captain Quitman, "that the one who returned -that bouquet to Mrs. Demar is the one that deposited the poison on it; -and if that person can be pointed out, we may be able to detect the -poisoner." - -When the fact that Mrs. Demar was poisoned was first announced by -Doctor Plaxico, the lady in the black domino (who had been expelled from -Lottie's room a short time before) uttered a loud, piercing scream, and -ran rapidly toward her own state-room. - -"What on earth does that mean?" exclaimed Captain Burk as the woman came -dashing past him. - -"I would risk my life on her being the poisoner," said Scottie. "She has -just now heard Doctor Plaxico say that Lottie would be dead in less than -two hours. I was present when the announcement was made, and as soon as -that woman heard it she uttered the scream and dashed away. It was not a -scream of distress, but it was a shout of joy. She is the very wretch -who deposited the poison in that bouquet, and it is my opinion that she -is in love with Demar, and that she has murdered Lottie to get her out -of the way." - -"That is the most plausible theory I have heard mentioned in connection -with this horrible affair," said Captain Burk, "for I cannot believe -that such a charming woman as Mrs. Demar could have an enemy except such -as are made by the green-eyed monster." - -Doctor Plaxico now came out of Lottie's room looking unusually serious, -and when a dozen anxious friends inquired all at once about the -condition of the patient, he shook his head and in a voice choked with -deep emotion, said: - -"Dying!" and passed on. - -As the doctor passed out the lady in the black domino was seen running -as fast as she could from her own to Lottie's room, holding a large -phial of liquid in each hand. - -"Stop, madame!" exclaimed Doctor Plaxico as he placed his back against -the door of Lottie's room; "you must not go in there." - -"By what authority do you forbid it?" - -"I am the attending physician, which confers the authority on me to -protect my patient from intruders." - -"I heard you say just now that you had abandoned all hopes of saving -your patient's life." - -"I do not deny it." - -"Then I will save her." - -"You!" - -"I." - -"Madame, did you know that suspicion was pointing at you as the -murderess?" - -"No; nor do I care where suspicion may choose to point. This is no time -to discuss suspicions, when the purest, the best and noblest lady on -earth is in great peril. Stand aside, sir, and let me go in!" - -"What stuff is contained in those two bottles? More poison, I dare say." - -"That which I hold in my left hand, sir, is an antidote for vegetable -poison, and this is a certain cure for the most deadly mineral poison. -Now let me go in, and since you have given your patient up, you cannot -deny me a chance to save her." - -"Demar, this woman is crazy beyond all question; and if you let her -administer any drug to your wife, I want you to distinctly understand -that you do it against my advice or consent." - -Demar, whose mind was overflowed with sorrow, gazed wildly at the -mysterious woman before him. - -"Madame," he groaned, "why do you wish to murder such a sweet angel as -Lottie?" - -"You are all murderers who stand here caviling about nonsense, while -your victim is dying! I can and will save Lottie's life, if you will -only let me do it." - -"Did you place the poison in the bouquet?" - -"No, but I know who did; and if you will let me, I will save Lottie's -life and then show you the poisoner." - -"How am I to know that the drug you propose to give my wife is not -poison?" - -"Give me a spoon and see me drink the same quantity that I shall offer -to your wife." - -"Your request is reasonable, and I will take the risk." - -A spoon was brought, when the strange woman took the phial and with a -steady hand measured out exactly ten drops of the liquid and instantly -swallowed it. Then pouring out ten more drops, she said: - -"Shall I administer it to your wife, or will you do it?" - -Demar hesitated a moment while he stared with a look of perplexity -toward Plaxico, who was watching the proceedings with silent contempt. - -"Demar," said he, "I want you to remember that all this nonsense is -being enacted contrary to my advice, and in the face of the fair warning -I have given you." - -"And I warn you," said the lady in the black domino firmly, "that if you -stand here halting and caviling about trifles much longer Mrs. Demar -will die, and you will be to blame for it." - -"Who are you, madame?" inquired Demar, in a hesitating tone. - -"It matters not who I am; let me be judged by what I shall do; and if I -do not save the life of that poor lady, you may plunge me into the -river, or roast me in the furnace." - -"Why did you shout with joy a moment ago when you heard Doctor Plaxico -say that Lottie was poisoned, and that she would surely die?" - -"Because when he said she was poisoned I knew I could save her life. -This antidote was given to me by a learned German surgeon who had served -in the British army for many years in India. It was my good fortune to -nurse him, in Cincinnati, through a long, lingering spell of typhus -fever, and as a reward for my services he gave me these two phials with -their contents." - -"Enough!" exclaimed Demar eagerly, "I believe and will trust you, and -may God grant you success! Approach and administer the medicine -yourself." - -Lottie's eyes were rolling wildly, while her breathing was difficult, -and all evidences of reason had disappeared. All who saw her were -convinced that she had commenced the struggle with the dreadful -destroyer. The lady in the black domino lifted Lottie's head from the -pillow and emptied the medicine into her mouth, holding her still until -she saw the patient swallow it, then laid her down gently, and waited -for the result. Plaxico stood by with one hand on the patient's pulse, -and his watch in the other, and although he had disapproved of the -experiment, he earnestly prayed in silence that it might be attended -with success. Fifteen minutes after the antidote was administered, -Lottie closed her eyes and appeared to be asleep, while the breathing -grew less labored. The pale face of Doctor Plaxico began to brighten. - -"How is she now?" Demar whispered as he seized Plaxico's arm. - -"Better!" - -"She is saved, thank Heaven!" exclaimed the lady in the black domino as -she fell on her knees by the bed and burst into tears. - -"Be still, Demar!" said Plaxico, "and let go my arm--you are hurting -me!" - -A purse of fifteen hundred dollars in money was made up among the -passengers, and a committee appointed with instructions to present it to -the lady who had saved Lottie's life; but the astonishment was boundless -when the committee reported the fact that the lady in the black domino -had politely, but firmly refused to accept the money. - -The next morning Lottie was able to rise from her bed, and when she -appeared in the saloon leaning on her husband's arm, the enthusiasm was -indescribable. Congratulations were showered on the lovely favorite, and -everybody appeared to be happy. - - - - -CHAPTER XL. - - -As soon as breakfast was over, the next morning after Lottie had been so -miraculously cured, Captain Quitman arose from the head of the table and -began to address his passengers as follows: - -"My young friends, when I purchased the 'White Rose of Memphis' and -placed her on this line, the height of my ambition was to make her the -headquarters of pleasure-seekers. It was my aim to make it to the -interest of travelers to patronize my boat, and to furnish excursion -parties with facilities for enjoyment. I had always adhered to the idea -that it was the duty of a steam-boat commander to protect his passengers -against ruffians and thieves, and I mean to do so to the utmost of my -capacity. It is with emotions of the deepest regret that I am compelled -to inform my friends that, by some means unknown to me, shrewd -pickpockets and robbers have managed to get aboard of my boat. One of my -passengers has been robbed of a large sum of money, amounting, I -believe, to something near ten thousand dollars; another has lost a -splendid gold watch; and others have been deprived of jewels and other -valuable articles. I therefore request every passenger to consent to be -searched and to permit the state-rooms to be thoroughly examined; and, -in order to prevent any attempt to conceal the stolen property, I ask -all the passengers to fall into line now. Let the ladies form on my left -and the gentlemen on my right." - -The captain had scarcely concluded his request before the two lines were -formed, the ladies promptly arranging themselves to the left and the -gentlemen on his right. A few of the passengers had retired to their -state-rooms, but as soon as the wishes of the captain were transmitted -to them they immediately appeared and took their places in the line. -Napoleon and Navarre arranged themselves side by side at the head of the -gentlemen's line. - -"That woman is the thief," whispered one of the passengers, addressing -the man on his left. - -"That is exactly the conclusion that has possessed my mind," was the -reply. - -"Let no one leave the line without permission until the search is ended; -and I request Mrs. Demar and Miss Darlington to take their places in -state-room number seven, and let the ladies go there, one at a time, and -submit to a thorough search." - -The lady in the black domino left her place in the line, and, with a -slow, measured tread, moved round and paused in front of Captain -Quitman. This movement, being a plain violation of the explicit -instructions of the captain, produced no small amount of curiosity, and -led to innumerable exclamations of surprise. - -"I would most respectfully ask you, sir, to wait a moment," said she, in -a voice which slightly trembled, but had a sweet, melancholy sound. "I -have something to communicate, which, I doubt not, will have a tendency -to change the programme which you have been pleased to mention. I must -ask you to let me see the gentleman who had the misfortune to lose his -watch." - -George Woodburry (a young man who had been personating George III.) then -promptly stepped out from the line and confronted the black domino. - -"Are you the gentleman whose watch was stolen?" - -Mr. Woodburry merely answered by a slight inclination of the head, -without opening his lips. She then drew from her pocket a large, -double-cased gold watch to which was attached a massive chain. Holding -it out toward him, she said: - -"Is this your property, sir?" - -"Yes." - -Then addressing the captain again, she requested him to produce the -gentleman whose money had been stolen. Henry of Navarre stepped from his -place in the line and confronted the black domino. - -"I am the one who has been so unlucky as to lose a large sum of money." - -"Take a seat, sir," replied the woman, "near that table there, and do me -the favor to count the contents of this pocket-book carefully, and when -you have finished inform me whose it is, and the amount of money in it." - -Navarre, taking the pocket-book, drew a chair to the table and began to -count the money. - -"Poor woman," observed Captain Burk, "she has stolen the money, and now -when she sees all chances of escape destroyed, she is going to confess -and beg for mercy." - -"For my part," replied Woodburry, "I am inclined to think she is crazy. -I have noticed her singular conduct ever since we left Memphis, and I am -unable to account for her actions upon any other theory." - -Nearly all the passengers felt a sentiment of compassion for the -unfortunate woman, and several suggested the propriety of requesting -Captain Quitman to let her off without exposure, inasmuch as she had -restored the stolen property. - -"I make a motion," said Demar, "that we jointly petition the captain not -to expose the poor unfortunate creature." - -The motion was unanimously adopted and Demar selected as commissioner to -lay the petition before Captain Quitman. Meantime Navarre finished -counting the money. - -"This is my pocket-book, madame," said he as he rose from the table, -"and I find all my money in it, just as it was when it was stolen." -Then, handing Captain Quitman a little paper box, she said: - -"In this box, sir, you will find all the other stolen articles, which -you will oblige me by returning to the owners." - -The captain received the articles and instantly delivered them to the -parties from whom they had been filched; then, addressing the mysterious -woman, he said: - -"Madame, the circumstances just developed force me to the performance of -a very painful duty which I would gladly shun, but I must place you -under arrest." - -"Captain Quitman," said Demar, as he advanced to the spot where he -stood, "I am requested by a large number of your passengers to inform -you that it is their wish that this unfortunate woman should be forgiven -and dismissed without exposure. We must remember that the most prominent -trait in our great Saviour's character was His boundless mercy toward -malefactors. When He was bleeding on the cross, suffering the agonies of -death for the sins of fallen man, He spoke the words of pardon to the -poor thief who was dying by His side. Now, in humble imitation of the -merciful example set us by our great Redeemer, let us pardon this poor -unfortunate woman, and bid her go and sin no more." - -"Doctor Demar," said Captain Quitman, "nothing would gratify me more -than to comply with the wishes of you and your friends; but the duty -which I was performing is one not to be avoided by me unless the request -shall be endorsed by the parties whose property was stolen." - -"We indorse the request most willingly," said Navarre. - -"I most heartily join in that request," said George Woodburry. - -"Madame," said the captain, "you have heard the noble expressions of -compassion which have just been made in your behalf, and I am happy to -be permitted to speak the words of pardon to you. You will be permitted -to remain in mask, and no further effort will be made to expose you, but -you must leave this boat when we arrive at Vicksburg." - -"Captain Quitman," began the strange woman, "for the manifestations of -mercy and forgiveness so generously expressed by these kind ladies and -gentlemen, I am profoundly grateful; but I must be pardoned for saying -that while I appreciate the generosity that prompts the offer, I do not -ask or wish any mercy from these good ladies and noble men. When I want -mercy, I will dispatch my supplication to a higher tribunal, where the -secrets of all hearts are known, and where good and bad deeds are -correctly recorded. I am by no means ignorant of the old legal maxim -that holds the possessor of stolen goods responsible for the theft, -until such possession is explained by competent evidence. I do not deny -the fact that a _prima facie_ case has been made out in this instance -against me; nevertheless, I am not the thief. You were correct, indeed, -when you concluded that you had a shrewd thief aboard of this boat. I -can assert of my own knowledge, that a demon is among you, whose black -soul is steeped in crime, an inhuman monster, who neither fears God, man -nor Satan. - - "'Earth gapes, Hell burns, fiends roar, saints pray, - To have him suddenly carried away; - Cancel his bond of life, dear God; I pray - That I may live to say the dog is dead.' - -"I trust that my good friends will pardon me for using such strong -language--I have borrowed it from Shakespeare's 'Richard III.' It was -suggested to my mind by the striking resemblance between the bloody King -and this diabolical monster--this lapper up of innocent blood--this -destroyer of confiding virtue--this cruel fiend whose hands are red with -blood--whose soul is stained with perjury. This false, bloody villain is -named Benjamin Bowles, and here he stands." - -As quick as thought she sprang forward before the sentence had been half -uttered and tearing away Napoleon's mask, there stood Ben Bowles, pale -but defiant as ever, while anger and hate blazed from his eyes. Half a -dozen ladies fainted, others fled to their state-rooms, while the men -stood still, perfectly stupefied with astonishment. Henry of Navarre -then slowly moved round and confronting Bowles, while his arms were -folded across his breast. - -"Mr. Bowles! you and I have met before to-day. A duty which I owe to -society and the laws of my country compels me to take a step which will -somewhat interfere with your pleasure excursion. The grand jury at -Memphis have decided that you committed a cruel murder upon a little boy -named Bramlett. Now you will have to abandon your little pleasure trip -and go with me back to Memphis. If they do not hang you for the murder -of young Bramlett, you can then stand your trial for your cowardly -attempt to assassinate Mrs. Demar. You know we can take the train at -Vicksburg, and return to Memphis." - -"I know you very well, Harry Wallingford, and am always glad to meet -you. You would be glad to create the impression that you are a man of -courage, but I happen to know that that you are a coward. I despise and -defy you, and am sorry I cannot employ words sufficiently insulting to -induce you to fight." - -"I have too much self-respect, Mr. Bowles, to resent an insult offered -by men of your sort. The fact is, I pity you, for the awful situation in -which you are placed, and so far as I am individually concerned, I mean -to place you in the hands of the law, and leave you to deal with God and -your own conscience." - -"Indeed, sir, that is exceedingly kind in you; but I must be permitted -to make some disposition of you, since you have been so mindful of my -comfort. You say you are going to place me in the hands of God--the -law--my conscience, and the grand jury, and how many other distinguished -individuals have you chosen to act as my guardian. I flatter myself that -I shall be able to make a better disposition of you, than you have -promised to make of me; because I have concluded to make hell a present -of your cowardly soul, so you will not be annoyed with so many masters. -I think I shall be able to make a better job this time than I did when I -clipped your left wing at Memphis." - -As Bowles uttered the last sentence, he snatched a large navy revolver -from under his coat, and cocking it as he brought it round, leveled it -at Wallingford's breast; but the lady in the black domino, who was -standing near, seized his arm and instantly jerked it round; a short -scuffle ensued--the loud report of the pistol rang out through the -saloon--a cloud of blue smoke gushed up--a column of red flame blazed -out--a loud scream escaped the mysterious woman's lips, and she fell -bleeding into Navarre's arms. As the body of the lady dropped forward -against Navarre's breast, he saw a crimson stream gush out from her left -side and trickle over his vest. As her head fell back across his arm her -mask fell off, and her dark brown hair dropped unconfined about his -shoulders. - -"Merciful God!" exclaimed Wallingford, "it is Viola, and the cruel -villain has killed her!" - -As soon as Bowles fired the pistol he darted quickly through a side -door, and ran rapidly toward the front end of the boat, evidently -intending to leap into the river and effect his escape by swimming to -the shore. - -When Wallingford made the startling discovery that it was Miss -Bramlett's blood that spurted against his breast, thoughts of revenge -instantly filled his mind. Gently laying the bleeding girl on a sofa, he -dashed through the saloon, reaching the head of the stairs that led from -the middle to the lower deck, just as Bowles arrived on the lower floor. -Making a tremendous spring, he leaped down in season to catch the -fugitive before he had time to leap overboard. - -As soon as Wallingford leaped on the lower deck, he seized hold of the -sleeve of Bowles' coat, and called the deck hands to assist in arresting -the murderer. A stalwart Irishman hurried forward intending to render -the aid, but Bowles, who still held the pistol in his hand, leveled it -at the man's head and fired. The bullet grazed the man's temple, -knocking him down, which induced the other deck hands to believe that -their comrade was killed; consequently they all beat a precipitate -retreat, leaving Wallingford to fight it out alone. - -Bowles knew that his only chance to effect his escape was to disable his -adversary and leap into the river before assistance could come from the -saloon; hence he attempted to shoot Wallingford, which he would have -succeeded in doing but his hand was knocked up just as his finger -touched the trigger, which caused the ball to fly harmless overhead. - -The instant Bowles succeeded in disengaging himself from Wallingford's -grasp, and just as Demar reached the floor, the fugitive leaped into the -river and began to swim toward the shore, leaving the pistol on the -floor. Wallingford seized the pistol and commenced firing at Bowles, who -kept diving under the water in order to dodge the bullets which were -whistling in close proximity to his head. - -"The White Rose" at that time was running close to the shore. Bowles was -an expert swimmer, and it was very plain that, unless prevented, he -would easily effect his escape. He had reached a point at least thirty -yards from the boat before Wallingford became convinced that all of his -shot had missed his man. Throwing off his coat and boots, still holding -the pistol in his hand, Wallingford plunged into the water, and set out -in pursuit of the escaping outlaw. - -"Turn her head in toward the shore, Mr. Haliman, as quick as you can!" -cried Captain Quitman, who stood on the hurricane deck; "don't lose a -moment; that foolish boy will be drowned if he attacks that huge villain -in the water." - -"It is somewhat dangerous, captain, to attempt to land her there," -replied Mr. Haliman; "we might get her aground." - -"Let her get aground, Mr. Haliman; I had rather sink her than to see -that boy drowned by such a monster as Bowles. Go ahead on the starboard, -and hold steady on the larboard; point her head toward that tall tree -yonder, and stick her nozzle in that sand-bank--quick, quick, Mr. -Haliman!" - -After Demar had done all he could to dissuade the rash young man from -venturing to tackle such a giant while in the water, and being unable to -recall him, he threw off his coat and plunged into the river, determined -to save the life of his kinsman, or perish with him. - -The passengers crowded the hurricane deck and watched the approaching -struggle with breathless anxiety. - -Wallingford continued to gain on his hated foe, while thoughts of -revenge crowded all prudence or fear from his breast. He was thinking of -the blood that had spouted against his breast from Viola's side. - -Mr. Haliman, owing to the treachery of the current, was encountering -some difficulty in bringing his boat round to the shore, and, despite -his vigorous efforts to drive her nozzle on the sand-bank, she swung -round and began to drift further down. - -Demar soon became convinced that he would not be able to overtake Harry -in time to render any assistance. Consequently he began to call to -Wallingford, begging him to wait until he could get to him; but the -imprudent boy dashed forward without heeding the call. He might as -readily have checked a tornado with a lady's fan as Harry Wallingford, -by reminding him of the danger into which he was rushing. - -When Bowles became convinced that he would be overtaken before he could -reach the shore, he slackened his efforts, and merely exerted sufficient -motion to keep himself on the surface, being, no doubt, conscious of the -great advantage which his superior strength would give him over his -adversary in a duel fought in the water. - -When Wallingford had arrived within twenty feet of his enemy, he began -to move obliquely to the left, so as to come up where he would have the -advantage of the current. Bowles turned round and leisurely floated on -the surface of the water, eying his pursuer as if he were anxious to get -hold of him; but Wallingford began to swim round the desperado. When he -came up within six feet of him, he made a sudden dash forward and -attempted to strike him on the head with the pistol which he still held -in his hand, but at that instant the bright blade of a long dagger -gleamed in the rays of the setting sun, as the arm of the outlaw -descended toward Wallingford's body. - -A suppressed scream escaped the lips of a dozen ladies who witnessed the -strange duel from the hurricane deck of the "White Rose," as they saw -the glittering steel being driven into Wallingford's body. - -Then commenced a hand-to-hand struggle, one using the pistol as a club, -the other striking rapidly with the dagger; every now and then both -parties would for a moment disappear under the water, then rise to the -surface, grappling each other in a deadly embrace. Stains of blood began -to appear on Wallingford's shirt, and blood was streaming over his face. - -Demar, finding that his efforts to render aid by swimming were -fruitless, turned his course and went toward the yawl. Leaping into it, -he urged the four men to pull for dear life, promising a handsome reward -to the oarsmen if they could get to the combatants in time to save -Wallingford's life. After the combat had been continued for two or three -minutes the parties separated for a moment, as if by mutual consent, in -order to get a little breath, and to maneuver for advantage. Only a few -seconds elapsed, however, before Bowles began to advance toward his -antagonist, being anxious, no doubt, to end the combat before the yawl -could come to Wallingford's assistance, which was now not very far away. -The two men now began to swim round each other, each seeking to get the -benefit of the current. A scuffle then ensued, but here Wallingford's -activity stood him in good stead, for he managed to give a sudden twist, -disappearing under the water, while Bowles swam round, watching the spot -where Harry had gone under. But no little amount of astonishment was -that which Bowles felt when he saw his wily foe rise up at least twenty -feet away. Wallingford was up the stream, which circumstance would -enable him to make a successful plunge, as he would be coming with, -instead of against, the strong current. - -The pilot had by this time succeeded in driving the nozzle of his boat -against the bank, but in consequence of the treachery of the current, he -had been compelled to strike the shore nearly a hundred yards below the -point first designated by the commander. - -The spectators were horrified to see that Wallingford's face was covered -with blood, and when he raised his body above the water they could see -the blood spouting from a dozen wounds on his neck, face and shoulders. -For several seconds he paused, as if endeavoring to take a little -breath; then, giving his head a sudden shake as if to dash the bloody -hair back from his face, he raised his body high up out of the water, -and, quick as lightning, darted on his adversary, dealing him a -tremendous blow on the back of the head with the butt end of the pistol. -The sharp point of the hammer went crashing like a bullet through the -villain's skull, and the body of Ben Bowles sank, never to rise again -until it and his soul were separated. The lifeless body of the desperate -outlaw was found ten days afterward, floating in the water thirty miles -from the spot where it and the soul parted. Wallingford, being -completely overcome with fatigue and the loss of blood, was incapable of -making any further exertion. He fell off of the piece of timber and -disappeared under the water, but as he came up a few seconds afterward, -Demar seized him by the wrist, as he was sinking the second time, and -lifted him into the yawl, when he fell insensible on the floor. The -lifeless body of the rash young man was hurriedly conveyed to a -state-room on the "White Rose," where Doctor Plaxico was instantly -summoned to take charge of the case. - -"There is where the danger lies," said Plaxico. "The dagger that -inflicted that wound penetrated the cavity of the lungs, and internal -hemorrhage has resulted." - -Lottie, who had at all times been famous for her courage and -self-possession under adverse circumstances, was now completely mastered -by her grief. As soon as she recovered her self-possession, she implored -the doctor to tell her the very worst. - -"You need not be afraid to tell me the truth, doctor. Tell me candidly, -is my brother mortally wounded or not?" - -"Mrs. Demar, it is impossible for me to give anything like a reliable -opinion just now, but, to be frank with you, I fear we may expect a -fatal result." Then, addressing Demar, he said, "Go to Miss Bramlett -without delay and examine her wound, and see if anything can be done for -her." - -"What a pity it is that such a pretty girl should be murdered by such a -fiend as Ben Bowles!" observed George Woodburry, in a whisper to Captain -Burk. - -"Yes," replied the captain; "she has lost her life in the attempt to -save Wallingford." - -"Were they not engaged to be married?" - -"Yes, though it was thought by Miss Bramlett's friends that she had -committed suicide in New York nearly a year ago. There appears to be -some strange mystery connected with this business." - -"I wonder if she knew that Navarre was Harry Wallingford in disguise?" - -"I am inclined to think she did; but I am of the opinion that he did not -know that the lady of the black domino was Miss Bramlett." - -"What a strange and fatal coincidence it is that they should have met -here, to die at the same time and place, both murdered by the same -desperate villain!" - -"Indeed it is!" - -"Is Miss Bramlett dead?" inquired Captain Quitman, who was watching -attentively near the door. - -"No," replied Demar, "and I am exceedingly glad to be able to inform you -that she is not going to die from any cause now existing. Her wound is -not at all of a serious character, though she has received a very severe -shock; she has entirely recovered from its effect, and is now soundly -sleeping, under the influence of an opiate, and I think it is safe to -predict that she will be as well as ever in less than a week. The ball -struck a rib, glancing round and making its exit just to the left of the -spine, inflicting merely a slight flesh wound." - -"Heaven bless you, Demar, for this good news!" exclaimed Captain -Quitman, as he seized the surgeon's hand. - -"Go in and see Wallingford immediately, and I pray to God to enable you -to bring us such good news from him!" - -As soon as Demar went into the room he inquired of Plaxico the condition -of the patient. - -"Bad enough, Heaven knows!" was the answer. "He is totally -unconscious--fever rising--respiration difficult--left lung gorged with -blood, and every symptom most unfavorable. That stab under the -shoulder-blade is the dangerous one. Demar, you must get some reliable -nurse to remain with Miss Bramlett all the time, and let it be -distinctly understood that she is to be closely watched--if your wife -would undertake the task, I should be very glad." - -"What do you mean, Plaxico? have I not just told you that Miss Bramlett -is scarcely hurt at all--she will be able to get up by to-morrow -morning. Where is the necessity of such vigilant nursing." - -"That poor girl will commit suicide if Wallingford dies. I think the -chances are about a thousand in favor of a fatal result, to one of -recovery. You must not lose sight of the fact that Miss Bramlett did on -a former occasion contemplate suicide, when she thought Wallingford was -hopelessly ill; and you may be assured she will again make the attempt -if he dies, which I honestly believe he will do inside of forty hours! -It would be advisable to keep her in ignorance of his condition until we -know exactly what is to be the result; and I shall depend on you and -your wife to do it." - -"I think you will find that rather a difficult task, for the very first -word she uttered after she recovered from the swoon was an inquiry about -Wallingford; and she will be sure to ask about him as soon as she -awakes." - -"We must resort to strategy; and a little deception, under the -circumstances, would be perfectly justifiable--you may tell her that I -say Wallingford is not dangerously hurt; and if the recording angel has -no worse crimes set down against me in the great Day of Judgment, I -shall not fear the result." - -Demar and Lottie watched by Miss Bramlett's bedside during the night, -while Plaxico, at his own earnest request, was left alone with Harry, -where he sat during the whole night, watching with an anxious eye every -movement of his patient. - - - - -CHAPTER XLI. - - -Soon after breakfast Miss Bramlett announced her determination to see -Wallingford, and no amount of remonstrance which Doctor Plaxico and -Demar could bring to bear against the step could prevent it. - -"Lottie, help me down on my knees, and I will pray for strength and -courage to sustain me under this trying ordeal." - -Lottie gladly rendered the assistance requested, and both girls knelt -and prayed in silence for a long time; and when they rose up, an -expression of calmness was visible on the pale, beautiful face of Miss -Bramlett. - -"Lottie dear, you can trust me now, and I fear you will think me -superstitious when I tell you that our prayers have been answered; he -will not die, and we shall all be happy again. You may let me see him -now, without any fears as to my actions; if you will let me lean on your -shoulder, I can walk very well." - -The door of Wallingford's room was thrown open, and a chair placed near -his bed. As Miss Bramlett was led to it the pallor of her cheeks -increased, but no other signs of emotion were to be seen. The wounded -man was muttering continually in a rambling way, and every now and then -thrusting his arms out as if striking at an imaginary enemy; and it was -plain to be seen that his mind was still on the combat he had had with -Bowles. - -"He is exhausting his strength very rapidly," said Plaxico, "and I have -been as yet unable to quiet him; I believe if I could keep him still -that the internal hemorrhage would cease." - -Just at that moment Harry made a sudden spring, and would have leaped -out of the bed, but Miss Bramlett caught and gently laid him down and -began to rub his brow with her hand, when he instantly became quiet, and -in three minutes was sound asleep. - -"Did you see that, Demar?" said Plaxico, in a low whisper. - -"See what?" - -"How quick he became quiet when she put her hand on his brow?" - -"Yes; I suppose it is mesmerism, magnetism, or something of the sort." - -"If we were to live a thousand years, we might learn something new every -day; this is a most wonderful occurrence! See, he is sleeping soundly; -the respiration is less labored, and his pulse much better. Now, I -imagine this strange phenomenon would furnish material for an article in -the _Lancet_, and I think I shall undertake to write it." - -The very instant Miss Bramlett removed her hand from the wounded man's -brow, he awoke and began to move restlessly from side to side; but she -immediately replaced it and he was again quiet. - -"Well!" observed Demar, "I must say that this is the strangest -occurrence that I ever saw. I believe their souls are communing -intelligently with each other, and that, notwithstanding Wallingford's -reason is dethroned, he is in some way made to know that Miss Bramlett -is near him." - -"I have often read about two souls melting into one," replied Plaxico, -"but this is the first occular demonstration of the process that has -ever been witnessed by me. There is more mystery in the anatomy of the -human body than is generally believed to exist, anyway." - -"Yes," rejoined Demar; "especially does that remark apply to the human -heart. I speak from experience, to some extent, and I dare say that the -hearts of Miss Bramlett and Wallingford are at this very moment -conversing intelligently with each other. A sort of telegraph which love -has erected is now conducting sweet messages from one heart to the -other." - -Wallingford continued to slumber undisturbed for four hours, except when -Miss Bramlett would remove her hand from his brow, and then he would -begin to show signs of restlessness, which never failed to disappear as -soon as she would replace it. The burning fever that had been raging -began to subside, and the hemorrhage ceased, curiously, while all the -symptoms took a favorable turn. - -"Demar," whispered Plaxico, after he had held his finger on the -patient's pulse for a long while; "I think Miss Bramlett's treatment has -saved our friend's life; the fact is, she has performed a most wonderful -miracle." - -It was late in the evening when Wallingford opened his eyes and began to -stare in a bewildered way at the beautiful face that hovered near him, -while evidences of restored reason unmistakably appeared in his -movements. For two or three minutes he gazed earnestly at Miss Bramlett, -then placing his hand on her head, he gently stroked her hair, and then -ran his hand over her face, and then took hold of her arm. - -"Yes," he whispered; "it is her, and it was all a dream; and such a -horrible one, too; I thought she was dead, and I dreamed that Bowles had -killed her, and then drowned me in the river. Why do you not speak to -me, Viola? Am I mistaken in thinking I see you?" - -As he uttered the last words, he placed his arm round her neck and drew -her head down until her cheek touched against his. - -"Come away, Demar," said Plaxico, as he plucked him by the sleeve; "I -shall shout with joy if I remain here another moment. That scene is -enough to make the angels weep with delight." - -It was on the morning of the fourth day after Wallingford received his -wounds, that he made his appearance in the saloon supported by Miss -Bramlett and Lottie, each one with a shoulder under his arm, fairly -lifting him along by main strength. - -Harry Wallingford was lazily reclining in a large cushioned armchair on -the hurricane-deck, listening to Lottie, who was reading Mazeppa to him, -while Miss Bramlett sat near him, gazing vacantly at the rolling waves -that dashed up behind the boat. A long pause ensued when Lottie laid the -book down and began to fondle her brother's dark-brown hair. - -"Viola," said Harry, "I want you to tell me what induced you to give -your friends in New York the dodge, leaving them to conclude that you -had committed suicide; in fact, I want you to tell me all about -everything connected with your history from the time we parted, until -the present moment." - -"There is but very little to tell, I assure you, and as I have nothing -better to do, and being anxious to amuse you, I suppose I must undertake -the task; but before I begin, you must allow me to express my thanks for -the beautiful monument you caused to be erected over my grave in New -York. Your generosity in that instance, indeed deserves my profound -gratitude, and it has convinced me that you did really care something -for me. - -"But let me leave that subject for future discussion while I proceed -with my little history. When I was, by the dishonesty of the trustees -who had control of my money, reduced to a pauper, I felt that it was my -duty to seek some means of earning an honest living. That there were -many friends and relatives of mine ready and anxious to offer me a home, -I very well knew, but I could not for a moment bear the idea of being -dependent on relatives for support. Above all things I abhor anything -like gilded bondage or idle dependence; consequently, I resolved to seek -employment. I knew very well that this step would be bitterly opposed by -my aristocratic relations, especially if I should dare to seek -employment in New York; therefore, I concluded to give them the slip and -hunt a distant home. Disguising myself completely, I went to Cincinnati -and had the good fortune to secure a position as governess in the family -of Mr. Gaterine, the kind-hearted old gentleman who is accompanying me -on this trip. - -"One evening I was passing along one of the principal streets of -Cincinnati, when I was overwhelmed with astonishment to meet Benjamin -Bowles. He was disguised, but notwithstanding that I recognized him, and -I knew in an instant, from his manner, that he was aware of the fact -that I had penetrated his deception. I hurried to the Chief of Police -and imparted the information, hoping to have him arrested; but he must -have immediately fled, as the officers could not find him. I hired a -detective to look for him, but after working a month nothing was -accomplished. But when I tell you to whom I am indebted for the -discovery of Bowles' hiding-place I know you will be greatly astonished. -Do you see that little, pale-faced, sickly-looking boy yonder, leaning -over the bannisters?" - -"Yes." - -"Very well, it is to that little hero that I owe the great obligation. -His name is Robert Spratt, son of a widow woman residing in Memphis; you -doubtless remember him, though he has changed very much in his personal -appearance since he left Memphis. They used to call him haunch-back Bob, -for his spine was diseased, causing an ugly hump to appear between his -shoulders, and seriously affecting his general health, and as I think, -greatly retarded his growth. You will notice that he is quite a child in -stature, but I can tell you he has the heart, brain and soul of a man. -He is a real gallant hero, and you could not find another such a good -detective anywhere. He is much older, though, than his little body would -indicate. - -"I prevailed on him to let me send him to an infirmary at Cincinnati, -where he was effectually cured, for which I paid one thousand dollars; -and as good luck would have it, I met my little protege on the streets -not more than ten minutes after I had met Bowles. I was delighted to see -that the ugly hump had disappeared and that my little friend was -effectually cured. I hurriedly gave him a description of Bowles, and -told him in which direction the murderer had gone, requesting him to -follow and try to find him. I did not see Robert any more, or hear a -word from him for two months, and I concluded that he had returned to -his home in Memphis; but not so, the noble little hero was tracking the -great outlaw. - -"I cannot command language to describe the surprise as well as joy I -felt when I received a telegram from my little hero, informing me that -Bowles was on his way to Mexico, and would probably stop a few days at -New Orleans, and advising me to come down there as soon as I could. He -also requested me to inquire for a dispatch that he would send to -Memphis, which would meet me there on my way to New Orleans. He was at -Friar's Point, Mississippi, where Bowles had stopped to wait for one of -his pals who had agreed to meet him there. - -"Mr. Gaterine kindly consented to go with me to New Orleans, and when I -arrived at Memphis I found the promised telegram, which informed me that -Bowles was still at Friar's Point. The 'White Rose' being the first boat -that would start for New Orleans, we concluded to take passage on her, -but learning that Lottie and Edward had been married on the day before I -reached Memphis, and that they were going on a bridal tour to the -Crescent City, I at once procured a black domino and mask to wear in -order to keep them from knowing me. I am sure that I could not have -sufficiently disguised my voice to have enabled me to deceive Lottie, -had it not been for a severe cold, which, although quite painful, I was -glad to endure as long as it would aid me in the accomplishment of my -purpose. It was my intention to leave the boat at Friar's Point, but -soon after the 'White Rose' landed I was delighted to see my little -detective come aboard. He informed me that Bowles had just come aboard, -and was going to New Orleans on the 'White Rose.' I was overjoyed at -this information. You doubtless remember that we landed at Friar's Point -in the night; if I remember correctly, it was about three o'clock in the -morning, and you must know how bitter was my disappointment next -morning, when, after a diligent search, we failed to find Bowles. I soon -ascertained from inquiries made, that the 'White Rose' had not landed -since we left Friar's Point, which led me to believe that our man was -concealed somewhere on the boat. My little detective was of the same -opinion, and I knew that if it was as we suspected, that he would soon -discover where the murderer was hidden. I do not know what it was that -caused Robert to suspect Napoleon, but nevertheless I soon learned from -him that he did suspect him of being the man we were after. It was some -time before he succeeded in convincing himself that his suspicions were -well founded. By some means which I did not care to know, he succeeded -in effecting an entrance to the state-room occupied by Napoleon, when, -sure enough, he discovered that it was Bowles. All the stolen money and -other property was found hidden in an old boot under the bed, and when I -found out that it was stolen property, I instructed my little friend to -bring it to me, which he did." - -"Yes," exclaimed Wallingford, "and I promise you now, Viola, that your -brave little friend shall never know what it is to want for anything as -long as he lives." - -"Thank you, Harry, a thousand times I thank you," replied Miss Bramlett, -as fresh tears began to trickle down her cheeks, "but you must let me -finish my story. Well, my little friend ascertained that Bowles had paid -fifty dollars to the gentleman who originally personated the Emperor -Napoleon, for his uniform and mask, and you must not blame that -gentleman for selling his costume to Bowles, because he did not know he -was aiding a cruel murderer to escape, but he was tired of the nonsense, -as he was pleased to call it, and finding a chance to get his money -back, he at once closed the trade, believing that the purchaser merely -wished to enjoy a little innocent sport by deceiving the ladies. As soon -as I ascertained the fact that the money, and other valuable things had -been stolen, I resolved to restore them to their owners, but before I -could carry out my intentions in that respect, Captain Quitman -inaugurated his plans to make a search, the result of which you already -know." - -"Yes," said Harry, "that is all very well explained, but how did the -dead woman happen to have my ring?" - -"I think I can explain that also," replied Miss Bramlett. "Soon after I -arrived in New York, I engaged a young Irish woman to serve me as -waiting maid, and soon after she entered my service, I began to miss -little articles, which I at first supposed were accidentally lost or -mislaid, but it was not long before I became convinced that they were -stolen. One of my dresses, a drab silk, mysteriously disappeared, then -my ring, and various other valuable articles were missing, and when I -became convinced that my maid was a thief I discharged her. It is clear -to my mind that the unfortunate woman was wearing my dress and ring when -she was drowned." - -"Viola!" said Wallingford in a voice choking with deep emotion, "did you -recognize me in my Navarre costume?" - -"Yes, indeed I did." - -"How could you remain near me so long without speaking to me? Do you not -know that I would have swum through lakes of fire to have found you?" - -Viola's voice now for the first time refused to obey her will, and she -was unable to make any reply. Her eyes were bent on the ground, while -the violent throbbings of her heart could be distinctly heard by Lottie, -who sat near her. - -"Viola," continued Wallingford, "will you not try to love me a little?" - -"No!" she replied in a trembling tone which seemed to be uttered with an -effort. - -"Why?" - -"Because I do not think it would be good for me to love any one more -than I have loved you for the last ten years." - -"Now stop that, Harry," exclaimed Demar, as he approached the group. -"You may embrace Miss Bramlett if you wish, but to have two women in -your arms at once is a little too much. I think you are very selfish; -you may embrace Miss Bramlett as often as she will allow it, but you -must not be quite so familiar with my wife." - -"Leave me alone with Viola immediately, I beseech you, Ed," Wallingford -whispered as he placed his mouth close to his ear. "Pray, go quick and -take Lottie with you. I think Viola is now in the notion to pardon the -past errors, and I hope and believe she will promise to marry me." - -"Come, Lottie!" said Demar, endeavoring to assume an indifferent tone, -"let us take a little stroll together, as I have a little secret to tell -you. I suppose Miss Bramlett can take care of your brother while we are -away." - -As soon as Demar and his wife were gone, an embarrassing pause ensued -while Harry and Miss Bramlett silently inspected the floor. Each one -could distinctly hear the violent throbbings of the other's heart. - -"Viola!" Harry said, after a full five minutes had been spent in -silence, "dare I ask you to forgive the great wrong that I have done to -you?" - -No answer. "I know that I do not deserve, nor have I the right to -expect your pardon, yet I am very unhappy in thinking that you must -entertain a very unfavorable opinion of the contemptible part I played -in that unfortunate affair at Memphis." - -"Harry, how could you ask me to forgive you, when you must know that my -heart is overflowing with gratitude to you for the valuable assistance -you rendered in that affair? You must indeed have a poor opinion of me, -if you could for a moment suppose that I could ever forget your noble, -generous exertions in my behalf. If I were to live a hundred years I -would remember you and your sweet sister with sentiments of the deepest -gratitude. It is I who should seek forgiveness, and I do here, now, most -sincerely declare that no act that I have ever committed has caused me -half the pain, shame, and mortification that my hateful temper caused me -to feel by inducing me to insult you that day in jail. If you can forget -and forgive me for that despicable conduct, you are indeed the most -generous, noble-hearted man living." - -"Viola, you and I have had many trials and much trouble, and suffered -much sorrow since we first met, and we have no doubt learned some -valuable lessons, which I have reason to believe will prove a blessing -in the end. The hand of a kind Providence seems to have guided our -destinies. He first used me as His instrument in saving your life many -years ago, and then enabled you to save mine, the other day. Therefore -let us agree to let by-gones be forgotten, while we endeavor to profit -by the sad lessons taught us by experience." - -"I say amen to that with all my heart." - -"Now, darling, knowing as you do the numerous faults and imperfections -that unfortunately belong to my nature, are you willing to trust your -happiness to me? Will you confirm my hopes of happiness by promising to -be mine?" - -"Are you willing to marry a pauper?" - -"Don't mention the money question, I implore you." - -"Yes, but I must mention it, because I owe at least ten thousand -dollars, and have no money to pay with." - -"I wish it was five times ten thousand, then I would have the more -pleasure in paying it." - -"Are you willing to take such a pauper, with all her faults and debts -together?" - -"I am willing to take the best, the noblest, the prettiest, and the most -charming girl in America, if she is not afraid to trust her fate to my -humble self." - -"Harry, there is my hand, and you have been the sole owner of my heart -ever since we rolled down the embankment together, when you broke your -leg to save my life. One promise I shall require you to make, and then I -am yours forever. When you were so badly wounded a few days ago, I most -solemnly promised God that if He would spare your dear life, that I -would love and serve Him all the days of my life, and that I would -endeavor to induce you to do the same. Now I promise to be your wife, if -you will promise to make good the vow I made to God." - -"I do most willingly make the promise, and may the great Creator help me -to fulfill it." - -"Did you not hear the gong sounding the summons to supper?" shouted -Lottie, as she surprised her brother in the act of embracing Miss -Bramlett. "Come along, and let us go down to supper; everybody is -anxious to have the table cleared away so the dance can begin." - - - - -CHAPTER XLII. - - -Three years after the "White Rose of Memphis" had accomplished her -memorable pleasure trip, two elegantly dressed ladies were leisurely -strolling along the graveled walks in Court Square, Memphis, Tennessee, -engaged in an earnest conversation; while two mulatto girls were pushing -a couple of silver-mounted baby carriages along just behind the two -ladies. Each one of the handsome vehicles contained a very small -specimen of sleeping humanity, richly attired in expensive and stylish -clothes. - -One of the children, a bright, blue-eyed boy, about two years old, with -bright, brown curly hair, woke up, and when he saw a large number of -pretty pet squirrels hopping about near his carriage, he became greatly -excited. Hurriedly clambering out, he hastened to where the little girl -lay soundly sleeping, and tried to wake her. - -"Dit up, Ottie," said he, as he began to tug at her gown; "see petty -pet." - -The little girl did not respond, for she was sleeping very soundly; but -he was determined to make her get up. When he found that he could not -accomplish his object by gentle means, he resorted to those of a more -vigorous nature. Seizing her left ear between his finger and thumb, he -gave it a violent twist that caused the little sleeper to start up with -a loud scream. - -"You, Harry!" exclaimed one of the ladies, as she hurried toward the -carriage; "what on earth have you been doing to Lottie?" - -She then lifted the little girl out of the vehicle and placed her on the -ground. - -The little boy made no answer, but went dashing after one of the -squirrels, and the little girl soon joined in the chase, while their -joyful shouts rang out on the air. - -"Ah, ha! here we come," exclaimed Doctor Dodson, as he came rapidly -across the park, and seizing the little boy he tossed him up and down a -dozen times. "Ah, ha! Lottie, this boy is the very image of his mother, -don't you see? yes, that is Viola's nose to a T." - -"Where did you leave Harry and Eddie, Doctor?" said Mrs. Viola -Wallingford. - -"Ah, ha! yes; they went by the post office and made me wait for them -here--yonder they come now. Ah, ha! Eddie, old boy, it took you a long -time to go to the post office." - -"We were detained at Mr. Rockland's office," replied Demar. - -"Yes," said Harry, "that is true, Doctor, and here is a packet of -letters for you; and here, Lottie, is one for you." - -"O! Viola, this is from Scottie; I know her hand." - -"Read it," said Viola; "I am anxious to hear what she has to say." - -Lottie tore off the envelope hurriedly, and read as follows: - - "'JACKSON, MISS., May 4th. - - "'DEAR LOTTIE--I received your dear letter yesterday, and hasten to - reply. I am too happy to write a long letter. Papa has at last - become reconciled with Ralleigh, and has given his consent to our - marriage, which is to be solemnized next Thursday. Ralleigh is - such a dear, good old fellow, and I do believe he loves me with all - his heart. My dear, good old papa did not like Ralleigh at first, - but he has gotten over his prejudice, and they are now the best of - friends. Ralleigh has quit politics, and is doing well at the law; - and, oh! Lottie, how I do love him. I know we shall be very happy, - for I have got my temper completely subdued, and I mean to make him - a good, devoted wife. Ralleigh told me that your daughter was the - prettiest little darling in the world. I am glad you named it - Lottie, because you know how I adore that sweet name. Ralleigh says - that Viola's boy is the very image of his mother; he also tells me - that Viola and Harry were the happiest couple he had ever seen, - except you and Eddie. Well, I am delighted to hear it. If ever - people deserved to be happy you and Viola do; because you have - suffered more than your share. I think your husband is one of the - noblest specimens of humanity I ever saw. This is saying a great - deal, but I mean it, and Ralleigh agrees with me. - - "'I must tell you what a pretty joke was put upon me by the Rev. C. - K. Marshall, a celebrated minister of Vicksburg. He had been - holding a series of meetings here, and was a frequent visitor at - our house. He is an eloquent orator, and much admired and beloved - by all who know him. My darling old papa is a member of his church, - and would swim a river any time to hear him preach. When Mr. - Marshall was about to start to his home in Vicksburg, he invited me - to accompany him. "If you will go with me," he said, "I will insure - you to hear one of the most eloquent sermons that you ever listened - to, from a mere boy, who has lately been licensed to preach." Of - course I went, as my curiosity was aroused; and Mr. Marshall took - me to church the same night we arrived at Vicksburg. Now, I had - neglected to ask the name of the boy preacher, so intent was I - engaged in drawing his picture in my mind. The church was a very - large one, and when Mr. Marshall led me in, the house was crowded, - but he succeeded in securing me a seat in one corner, some distance - from the pulpit. The music was splendid; the choir sang with deep - feeling. Then a pause, and I riveted my eyes on the pulpit, - intently watching for the appearance of this wonderful boy. After - gazing until I was tired and impatient, I picked up a hymn book, - and began to turn the leaves over, when the sweet, solemn tones of - a familiar voice fell on my ears. Looking up at the pulpit, there I - saw Harry Wallingford reading his text. If a whizzing cannon-ball - had come crashing through the house I would have been less - startled. I had never heard an intimation that Mr. Wallingford was - a preacher. I remembered him as a proud, passionate man of - ungovernable temper and rather wickedly inclined. I was shedding - tears like rain, and it cost me a great struggle to keep from - shouting aloud. Now, I mean exactly what I say when I assert that - it was the most charming, eloquent sermon that I ever heard. His - voice fell on my ears like sweet music, a feeling of delicious joy - stole over me, and I was overcome with happy emotions. He closed - his sermon with an invitation to sinners to come forward and seek - salvation, and I was one among many who accepted the invitation, - and oh! my darling friend, I do believe that God, in His great - mercy, has pardoned my sins. Mr. Wallingford delivered five sermons - here, and the result was one hundred new members to the church. - - "'Mr. Marshall thinks the world and all of Mr. Wallingford. He says - that Viola is entitled to the credit of making a preacher of her - husband, for she made him promise to serve God before she married - him. Well, how could anybody fail to go to Heaven with such an - angel to guide as Viola? Do you know that I think she is the best - woman on the earth, except one? And you know who that is, of - course. If you do not, just look into a mirror, and you will see - the one I allude to. - - "I have given my hand and heart to a (so-called) rebel, and I mean - to show him that a Yankee heart can and will love him; and I wish - all the people of the North and South loved each other as well as I - love Ralleigh; what a great and glorious nation would ours be! Now - good-by, Lottie dear, until we meet, which will be immediately - after my marriage. To visit you will be bridal tour enough for me. - Yours lovingly, - - "'KATE DARLINGTON.'" - -Doctor Dodson died in 1879. He was one of the heroic victims who -sacrificed his life while battling in the ranks of the noble Howards, -during the yellow fever epidemic. - -Mrs. Dodson expired thirty minutes before death won the victory over her -husband. She died in a room adjoining the one in which the doctor lay, -and they endeavored to conceal her death from him. His mind was as clear -as a cloudless sky, and when death began to lay his cold, icy finger on -his body, he took hold of Lottie's hand with his right, and Viola's with -his left. - -"Ah, ha! my darlings, God says I must leave you for a while--yes, I go -on before you, and I shall meet you all again, ah, ha! don't you see? -Eddie, my boy, good-by; you are sure to come to Heaven--Lottie would -fetch you, anyway--Viola, she has put Harry on the right road. You are -all safe, ah, ha!--yes, you are all safe now." - -Then he became quiet for a few moments, and they thought he was dead, -but he began to mutter strange words. - -"Ah, ha! here we come, Dolly; wait for me a moment--we will go to Heaven -together, don't you see, ah, ha! Dollary, I am coming. There she is, -Lottie, don't you see her; she is beckoning for me to come. Yes, -Dollary, I am coming--ah, ha! Dolly, here we come--here we come!" - -Then the noble soul stepped out and went with Dolly to Heaven. - -The day that Dodson and his wife died, was to have been their golden -wedding; but God had prepared for them a wedding feast of a different -sort. They were buried in one grave, over which fragrant flowers bloom -every spring, where friendly tears bedew the soil. - -If any one should be disposed to think that this world is full of -cold-hearted, selfish people, let him go and investigate the inward -history of the great epidemics of 1878 and 1879, and he will soon see -his great error. Look at the long list of those heroic physicians who -fell in the fore-front of the battle, fighting to protect suffering -humanity. Remember the large number of Protestant clergymen and Catholic -priests who walked day after day, in the very jaws of death, comforting -the sick; wrestling with the dreadful foe; and yielding up their lives, -that others might live. Historians have written, and poets sung, about -Leonidas, and his heroic band; but if I were a poet, I would find a band -of heroes at Memphis, whose brave deeds should be the theme of my song. -It is a slander to say that the world is full of selfish men; and any -one who will investigate the history of those awful times, will admit -it. - -Harry Wallingford purchased a handsome residence, situated in the midst -of a beautiful grove of native poplars, just east of Mr. Rockland's, and -not more than two hundred yards from it. Viola had her flower garden -laid off, so as to adjoin Lottie's, and they were only separated by a -clean gravel walk. Those two devoted friends would often seat themselves -on a rustic bench in the garden, spending long hours watching the two -little children as they frolicked like young lambs on the green turf of -the lawn. - -"Viola," said Lottie, "I think your boy has a disposition very much like -brother Harry's used to be." - -"Well, you ought to pity his mother," replied Viola, "for that boy is -never satisfied unless he is doing something where there is danger of -being hurt." - -"By the by, Viola, yonder comes Harry and Edward; I wonder what brought -them home so early?" - -"Ah! Lottie," replied Viola, "they wanted to be with us; don't you think -we have got the best husbands in the world?" - -"Indeed, I do; and we ought never to forget our obligations to God for -His goodness to us." - -"I shall never do that as long as life lasts." - -Doctor Demar lifted his pretty little daughter from the ground as she -came running to meet him, and seated her on his shoulder and began to -dance round with her, while Harry began to romp with his boy, who was -galloping about astraddle of a stick which he was lashing with a whip. - -"Edward," said Lottie, as she ran her hand under his arm, "how did you -manage to get here so soon? We did not expect you for two hours yet." - -"Because we were both in love with our pretty wives, and wanted to be -with them; and because we knew that our wives were in love with their -ugly old husbands. Now, darling, I demand toll for coming so early; give -me a kiss." - -"Take it, old Barbarian Chief, and hand Lottie to me." - -Mr. Rockland, whose hair had grown very white, was sitting on an easy -chair on the front portico, watching the happy group on the green lawn. - -"I thank God," he muttered, "because He was so good as to send Lottie -Wallingford to direct my steps toward Heaven, and to be my guardian -angel on earth." - - * * * * * - - -Typographical errors corrected by the etext transcriber: - -she had been inviitng=> she had been inviting {pg 44} - -and begain to whine=> and began to whine {pg 49} - -to my memtal questions=> to my mental questions {pg 90} - -held her against by heart=> held her against my heart {pg 145} - -When she become composed=> When she became composed {pg 181} - -will be table to trace=> will be able to trace {pg 217} - -then she turnd square off=> then she turned square off {pg 226} - -him wife or his mistress=> his wife or his mistress {pg 274} - -admissioin at the back=> admission at the back {pg 356} - -I was with you and brother=> I was with you and my brother {pg 377} - -witholding the proof=> withholding the proof {pg 381} - -be descanted at large=> he descanted at large {pg 413} - -Where to you reside=> Where do you reside {pg 423} - - - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The White Rose of Memphis, by William C. 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