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diff --git a/5387-h/5387-h.htm b/5387-h/5387-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..eb6e33e --- /dev/null +++ b/5387-h/5387-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,8581 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Celebrity, by Winston Churchill + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd7; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Celebrity, Complete, by Winston Churchill +[Author is the American Winston Churchill not the British] + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Celebrity, Complete + +Author: Winston Churchill + +Release Date: October 6, 2006 [EBook #5387] +Last Updated: February 26, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE CELEBRITY, COMPLETE *** + + + +Produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + + <h1> + THE CELEBRITY + </h1> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Winston Churchill + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> <b>VOLUME 1.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> <b>VOLUME 2.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0011"> <b>VOLUME 3.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0018"> <b>VOLUME 4.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + VOLUME 1. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I + </h2> + <p> + I was about to say that I had known the Celebrity from the time he wore + kilts. But I see I shall have to amend that, because he was not a + celebrity then, nor, indeed, did he achieve fame until some time after I + had left New York for the West. In the old days, to my commonplace and + unobserving mind, he gave no evidences of genius whatsoever. He never read + me any of his manuscripts, which I can safely say he would have done had + he written any at that time, and therefore my lack of detection of his + promise may in some degree be pardoned. But he had then none of the + oddities and mannerisms which I hold to be inseparable from genius, and + which struck my attention in after days when I came in contact with the + Celebrity. Hence I am constrained to the belief that his eccentricity must + have arrived with his genius, and both after the age of twenty-five. Far + be it from me to question the talents of one upon whose head has been set + the laurel of fame! + </p> + <p> + When I knew him he was a young man without frills or foibles, with an + excellent head for business. He was starting in to practise law in a + downtown office with the intention of becoming a great corporation lawyer. + He used to drop into my chambers once in a while to smoke, and was + first-rate company. When I gave a dinner there was generally a cover laid + for him. I liked the man for his own sake, and even had he promised to + turn out a celebrity it would have had no weight with me. I look upon + notoriety with the same indifference as on the buttons on a man's + shirt-front, or the crest on his note-paper. + </p> + <p> + When I went West, he fell out of my life. I probably should not have given + him another thought had I not caught sight of his name, in old capitals, + on a daintily covered volume in a book-stand. I had little time or + inclination for reading fiction; my days were busy ones, and my nights + were spent with law books. But I bought the volume out of curiosity, + wondering the while whether he could have written it. I was soon set at + rest, for the dedication was to a young woman of whom I had often heard + him speak. The volume was a collection of short stories. On these I did + not feel myself competent to sit in judgment, for my personal taste in + fiction, if I could be said to have had any, took another turn. The + stories dealt mainly with the affairs of aristocratic young men and + aristocratic young women, and were differentiated to fit situations only + met with in that society which does not have to send descriptions of its + functions to the newspapers. The stories did not seem to me to touch life. + They were plainly intended to have a bracing moral effect, and perhaps had + this result for the people at whom they were aimed. They left with me the + impression of a well-delivered stereopticon lecture, with characters about + as life-like as the shadows on the screen, and whisking on and off, at the + mercy of the operator. Their charm to me lay in the manner of the telling, + the style, which I am forced to admit was delightful. + </p> + <p> + But the book I had bought was a success, a great success, if the + newspapers and the reports of the sales were to be trusted. I read the + criticisms out of curiosity more than any other prompting, and no two of + them were alike: they veered from extreme negative to extreme positive. I + have to confess that it gratified me not a little to find the negatives + for the most part of my poor way of thinking. The positives, on the other + hand, declared the gifted young author to have found a manner of treatment + of social life entirely new. Other critics still insisted it was social + ridicule: but if this were so, the satire was too delicate for ordinary + detection. + </p> + <p> + However, with the dainty volume my quondam friend sprang into fame. At the + same time he cast off the chrysalis of a commonplace existence. He at once + became the hero of the young women of the country from Portland, Maine, to + Portland, Oregon, many of whom wrote him letters and asked him for his + photograph. He was asked to tell what he really meant by the vague endings + of this or that story. And then I began to hear rumors that his head was + turning. These I discredited, of course. If true, I thought it but another + proof of the undermining influence of feminine flattery, which few men, + and fewer young men, can stand. But I watched his career with interest. + </p> + <p> + He published other books, of a high moral tone and unapproachable + principle, which I read carefully for some ray of human weakness, for some + stroke of nature untrammelled by the calling code of polite society. But + in vain. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II + </h2> + <p> + It was by a mere accident that I went West, some years ago, and settled in + an active and thriving town near one of the Great Lakes. The air and + bustle and smack of life about the place attracted me, and I rented an + office and continued to read law, from force of habit, I suppose. My + experience in the service of one of the most prominent of New York lawyers + stood me in good stead, and gradually, in addition to a heterogeneous + business of mines and lumber, I began to pick up a few clients. But in all + probability I should be still pegging away at mines and lumber, and + drawing up occasional leases and contracts, had it not been for Mr. + Farquhar Fenelon Cooke, of Philadelphia. Although it has been specifically + written that promotion to a young man comes neither from the East nor the + West, nor yet from the South, Mr. Cooke arrived from the East, and in the + nick of time for me. + </p> + <p> + I was indebted to Farrar for Mr. Cooke's acquaintance, and this obligation + I have since in vain endeavored to repay. Farrar's profession was + forestry: a graduate of an eastern college, he had gone abroad to study, + and had roughed it with the skilled woodsmen of the Black Forest. Mr. + Cooke, whom he represented, had large tracts of land in these parts, and + Farrar likewise received an income from the state, whose legislature had + at last opened its eyes to the timber depredations and had begun to buy up + reserves. We had rooms in the same Elizabethan building at the corner of + Main and Superior streets, but it was more than a year before I got + farther than a nod with him. Farrar's nod in itself was a repulsion, and + once you had seen it you mentally scored him from the list of your + possible friends. Besides this freezing exterior he possessed a cutting + and cynical tongue, and had but little confidence in the human race. These + qualities did not tend to render him popular in a Western town, if indeed + they would have recommended him anywhere, and I confess to have thought + him a surly enough fellow, being guided by general opinion and superficial + observation. Afterwards the town got to know him, and if it did not + precisely like him, it respected him, which perhaps is better. And he + gained at least a few warm-friends, among whom I deem it an honor to be + mentioned. + </p> + <p> + Farrar's contempt for consequences finally brought him an unsought-for + reputation. Admiration for him was born the day he pushed O'Meara out of + his office and down a flight of stairs because he had undertaken to + suggest that which should be done with the timber in Jackson County. By + this summary proceeding Farrar lost the support of a faction, O'Meara + being a power in the state and chairman of the forestry board besides. But + he got rid of interference from that day forth. + </p> + <p> + Oddly enough my friendship with Farrar was an indirect result of the + incident I have just related. A few mornings after, I was seated in my + office trying to concentrate my mind on page twenty of volume ten of the + Records when I was surprised by O'Meara himself, accompanied by two + gentlemen whom I remembered to have seen on various witness stands. + O'Meara was handsomely dressed, and his necktie made but a faint pretence + of concealing the gorgeous diamond in his shirt-front. But his face wore + an aggrieved air, and his left hand was neatly bound in black and tucked + into his coat. He sank comfortably into my wicker chair, which creaked a + protest, and produced two yellow-spotted cigars, chewing the end of one + with much apparent relish and pushing the other at me. His two friends + remained respectfully standing. I guessed at what was coming, and braced + myself by refusing the cigar,—not a great piece of self-denial, by + the way. But a case meant much to me then, and I did seriously regret that + O'Meara was not a possible client. At any rate, my sympathy with Farrar in + the late episode put him out of the question. + </p> + <p> + O'Meara cleared his throat and began gingerly to undo the handkerchief on + his hand. Then he brought his fist down on the table so that the ink + started from the stand and his cheeks shook with the effort. + </p> + <p> + “I'll make him pay for this!” he shouted, with an oath. + </p> + <p> + The other gentlemen nodded their approval, while I put the inkstand in a + place of safety. + </p> + <p> + “You're a pretty bright young man, Mr. Crocker,” he went on, a look of + cunning coming into his little eyes, “but I guess you ain't had too many + cases to object to a big one.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you come here to tell me that?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + He looked me over queerly, and evidently decided that I meant no + effrontery. + </p> + <p> + “I came here to get your opinion,” he said, holding up a swollen hand, + “but I want to tell you first that I ought to get ten thousand, not a cent + less. That scoundrelly young upstart—” + </p> + <p> + “If you want my opinion,” I replied, trying to speak slowly, “it is that + Mr. Farrar ought to get ten thousand dollars. And I think that would be + only a moderate reward.” + </p> + <p> + I did not feel equal to pushing him into the street, as Farrar had done, + and I have now but a vague notion of what he said and how he got there. + But I remember that half an hour afterwards a man congratulated me openly + in the bank. + </p> + <p> + That night I found a new friend, although at the time I thought Farrar's + visit to me the accomplishment of a perfunctory courtesy to a man who had + refused to take a case against him. It was very characteristic of Farrar + not to mention this until he rose to go. About half-past eight he + sauntered in upon me, placing his hat precisely on the rack, and we talked + until ten, which is to say that I talked and he commented. His + observations were apt, if a trifle caustic, and it is needless to add that + I found them entertaining. As he was leaving he held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + “I hear that O'Meara called on you to-day,” he said diffidently. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” I answered, smiling, “I was sorry not to have been able to take his + case.” + </p> + <p> + I sat up for an hour or more, trying to arrive at some conclusion about + Farrar, but at length I gave it up. His visit had in it something + impulsive which I could not reconcile with his manner. He surely owed me + nothing for refusing a case against him, and must have known that my + motives for so doing were not personal. But if I did not understand him, I + liked him decidedly from that night forward, and I hoped that his advances + had sprung from some other motive than politeness. And indeed we gradually + drifted into a quasi-friendship. It became his habit, as he went out in + the morning, to drop into my room for a match, and I returned the + compliment by borrowing his coal oil when mine was out. At such times we + would sit, or more frequently stand, discussing the affairs of the town + and of the nation, for politics was an easy and attractive subject to us + both. It was only in a general way that we touched upon each other's + concerns, this being dangerous ground with Farrar, who was ever ready to + close up at anything resembling a confidence. As for me, I hope I am not + curious, but I own to having had a curiosity about Farrar's Philadelphia + patron, to whom Farrar made but slight allusions. His very name—Farquhar + Fenelon Cooke—had an odd sound which somehow betokened an odd man, + and there was more than one bit of gossip afloat in the town of which he + was the subject, notwithstanding the fact that he had never honored it + with a visit. The gossip was the natural result of Mr. Cooke's large + properties in the vicinity. It has never been my habit, however, to press + a friend on such matters, and I could easily understand and respect + Farrar's reluctance to talk of one from whom he received an income. + </p> + <p> + I had occasion, in the May of that year, to make a somewhat long business + trip to Chicago, and on my return, much to my surprise, I found Farrar + awaiting me in the railroad station. He smiled his wonted fraction by way + of greeting, stopped to buy a newspaper, and finally leading me to his + buggy, turned and drove out of town. I was completely mystified at such an + unusual proceeding. + </p> + <p> + “What's this for?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “I shan't bother you long,” he said; “I simply wanted the chance to talk + to you before you got to your office. I have a Philadelphia client, a Mr. + Cooke, of whom you may have heard me speak. Since you have been away the + railroad has brought suit against him. The row is about the lands west of + the Washita, on Copper Rise. It's the devil if he loses, for the ground is + worth the dollar bills to cover it. I telegraphed, and he got here + yesterday. He wants a lawyer, and I mentioned you.” + </p> + <p> + There came over me then in a flash a comprehension of Farrar which I had + failed to grasp before. But I was quite overcome at his suggestion. + </p> + <p> + “Isn't it rather a big deal to risk me on?” I said. “Better go to Chicago + and get Parks. He's an expert in that sort of thing.” I am afraid my + expostulation was weak. + </p> + <p> + “I merely spoke of you,” replied Farrar, coolly,—“and he has gone + around to your office. He knows about Parks, and if he wants him he'll + probably take him. It all depends upon how you strike Cooke whether you + get the case or not. I have never told you about him,” he added with some + hesitation; “he's a trifle queer, but a good fellow at the bottom. I + should hate to see him lose his land.” + </p> + <p> + “How is the railroad mixed up in it?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know much about law, but it would seem as if they had a pretty + strong case,” he answered. He went on to tell me what he knew of the + matter in his clean, pithy sentences, often brutally cynical, as though he + had not a spark of interest in any of it. Mr. Cooke's claim to the land + came from a maternal great-uncle, long since deceased, who had been a + settler in these regions. The railroad answered that they had bought the + land with other properties from the man, also deceased, to whom the old + gentleman was alleged to have sold it. Incidentally I learned something of + Mr. Cooke's maternal ancestry. + </p> + <p> + We drove back to the office with some concern on my part at the prospect + of so large a case. Sunning himself on the board steps, I saw for the + first time Mr. Farquhar Fenelon Cooke. He was dressed out in broad gaiters + and bright tweeds, like an English tourist, and his face might have + belonged to Dagon, idol of the Philistines. A silver snaffle on a heavy + leather watch guard which connected the pockets of his corduroy waistcoat, + together with a huge gold stirrup in his Ascot tie, sufficiently + proclaimed his tastes. But I found myself continually returning to the + countenance, and I still think I could have modelled a better face out of + putty. The mouth was rather small, thick-tipped, and put in at an odd + angle; the brown eyes were large, and from their habit of looking up at + one lent to the round face an incongruous solemnity. But withal there was + a perceptible acumen about the man which was puzzling in the extreme. + </p> + <p> + “How are you, old man?” said he, hardly waiting for Farrar to introduce + me. “Well, I hope.” It was pure cordiality, nothing more. He seemed to + bubble over with it. + </p> + <p> + I said I was well, and invited him inside. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he said; “I like the look of the town. We can talk business here.” + </p> + <p> + And talk business he did, straight and to the point, so fast and + indistinctly that at times I could scarcely follow him. I answered his + rapid questions briefly, and as best I knew how. He wanted to know what + chance he had to win the suit, and I told him there might be other factors + involved beside those of which he had spoken. Plainly, also, that the + character of his great-uncle was in question, an intimation which he did + not appear to resent. But that there was no denying the fact that the + railroad had a strong thing of it, and a good lawyer into the bargain. + </p> + <p> + “And don't you consider yourself a good lawyer?” he cut in. + </p> + <p> + I pointed out that the railroad lawyer was a man of twice my age, + experience, and reputation. + </p> + <p> + Without more ado, and before either Farrar or myself had time to resist, + he had hooked an arm into each of us, and we were all three marching down + the street in the direction of his hotel. If this was agony for me, I + could see that it was keener agony for Farrar. And although Mr. Farquhar + Fenelon Cooke had been in town but a scant twenty-four hours, it seemed as + if he knew more of its inhabitants than both of us put together. Certain + it is that he was less particular with his acquaintances. He hailed the + most astonishing people with an easy air of freedom, now releasing my arm, + now Farrar's, to salute. He always saluted. He stopped to converse with a + dozen men we had never seen, many of whom smelled strongly of the stable, + and he invariably introduced Farrar as the forester of his estate, and me + as his lawyer in the great quarrel with the railroad, until I began to + wish I had never heard of Blackstone. And finally he steered us into the + spacious bar of the Lake House. + </p> + <p> + The next morning the three of us were off early for a look at the + contested property. It was a twenty-mile drive, and the last eight miles + wound down the boiling Washita, still high with the melting snows of the + pine lands. And even here the snows yet slept in the deeper hollows. + unconscious of the budding green of the slopes. How heartily I wished Mr. + Farquhar Fenelon Cooke back in Philadelphia! By his eternal accounts of + his Germantown stables and of the blue ribbons of his hackneys he killed + all sense of pleasure of the scene, and set up an irritation that was + well-nigh unbearable. At length we crossed the river, climbed the + foot-hills, and paused on the ridge. Below us lay the quaint inn and + scattered cottages of Asquith, and beyond them the limitless and + foam-flecked expanse of lake: and on our right, lifting from the shore by + easy slopes for a mile at stretch, Farrar pointed out the timbered lands + of Copper Rise, spread before us like a map. But the appreciation of + beauty formed no part of Mr. Cooke's composition,—that is, beauty as + Farrar and I knew it. + </p> + <p> + “If you win that case, old man,” he cried, striking me a great whack + between the shoulder-blades, “charge any fee you like; I'll pay it! And + I'll make such a country-place out of this as was never seen west of New + York state, and call it Mohair, after my old trotter. I'll put a palace on + that clearing, with the stables just over the knoll. They'll beat the + Germantown stables a whole lap. And that strip of level,” he continued, + pointing to a thinly timbered bit, “will hold a mile track nicely.” + </p> + <p> + Farrar and I gasped: it was as if we had tumbled into the Washita. + </p> + <p> + “It will take money, Mr. Cooke,” said Farrar, “and you haven't won the + suit yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Damn the money!” said Mr. Cooke, and we knew he meant it. + </p> + <p> + Over the episodes of that interminable morning it will, be better to pass + lightly. It was spent by Farrar and me in misery. It was spent by Mr. + Farquhar Fenelon Cooke in an ecstasy of enjoyment, driving over and laying + out Mohair, and I must admit he evinced a surprising genius in his + planning, although, according to Farrar, he broke every sacred precept of + landscape gardening again and again. He displayed the enthusiasm of a + pioneer, and the energy of a Napoleon. And if he were too ignorant to + accord to nature a word of praise, he had the grace and intelligence to + compliment Farrar on the superb condition of the forests, and on the + judgment shown in laying out the roads, which were so well chosen that + even in this season they were well drained and dry. That day, too, my + views were materially broadened, and I received an insight into the + methods and possibilities of my friend's profession sufficient to instil a + deeper respect both for it and for him. The crowded spots had been + skilfully thinned of the older trees to give the younger ones a chance, + and the harmony of the whole had been carefully worked out. Now we drove + under dark pines and hemlocks, and then into a lighter relief of birches + and wild cherries, or a copse of young beeches. And I learned that the + estate had not only been paying the taxes and its portion of Farrar's + salary, but also a considerable amount into Mr. Cooke's pocket the while + it was being improved. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke made his permanent quarters at the Lake House, and soon became + one of the best-known characters about town. He seemed to enjoy his + popularity, and I am convinced that he would have been popular in spite of + his now-famous quarrel with the railroad. His easy command of profanity, + his generous use of money, his predilection for sporting characters, of + whom he was king; his ready geniality and good-fellowship alike with the + clerk of the Lake House or the Mayor, not to mention his own undeniable + personality, all combined to make him a favorite. He had his own especial + table in the dining-room, called all the waiters by their first names, and + they fought for the privilege of attending him. He likewise called the + barkeepers by their first names, and had his own particular corner of the + bar, where none dared intrude, and where he could almost invariably be + found when not in my office. From this corner he dealt out cigars to the + deserving, held stake moneys, decided all bets, and refereed all + differences. His name appeared in the personal column of one of the local + papers on the average of twice a week, or in lieu thereof one of his + choicest stories in the “Notes about Town” column. + </p> + <p> + The case was to come up early in July, and I spent most of my time, to the + detriment of other affairs, in preparing for it. I was greatly hampered in + my work by my client, who filled my office with his tobacco-smoke and that + of his friends, and he took it very much for granted that he was going to + win the suit. Fortune had always played into his hands, he said, and I had + no little difficulty in convincing him that matters had passed from his + hands into mine. In this I believe I was never entirely successful. I soon + found, too, that he had no ideas whatever on the value of discretion, and + it was only by repeated threats of absolute failure that I prevented our + secret tactics from becoming the property of his sporting fraternity and + of the town. + </p> + <p> + The more I worked on the case, the clearer it became to me that Mr. + Farquhar Fenelon Cooke's great-uncle had been either a consummate + scoundrel or a lunatic, and that our only hope of winning must be based on + proving him one or the other; it did not matter much which, for my + expectations at best were small. When I had at length settled to this + conclusion I confided it as delicately as possible to my client, who was + sitting at the time with his feet cocked up on the office table, reading a + pink newspaper. + </p> + <p> + “Which'll be the easier to prove?” he asked, without looking up. + </p> + <p> + “It would be more charitable to prove he had been out of his mind,” I + replied, “and perhaps easier.” + </p> + <p> + “Charity be damned,” said this remarkable man. “I'm after the property.” + </p> + <p> + So I decided on insanity. I hunted up and subpoenaed white-haired + witnesses for miles around. Many of them shook their heads when they spoke + of Mr. Cooke's great-uncle, and some knew more of his private transactions + than I could have wished, and I trembled lest my own witnesses should be + turned against me. I learned more of Mr. Cooke's great-uncle than I knew + of Mr. Cooke himself, and to the credit of my client be it said that none + of his relative's traits were apparent in him, with the possible exception + of insanity; and that defect, if it existed in the grand-nephew, took in + him a milder and less criminal turn. The old rascal, indeed, had so + cleverly worded his deed of sale as to obtain payment without transfer. It + was a trifle easier to avoid being specific in that country in his day + than it is now, and the document was, in my opinion, sufficiently vague to + admit of a double meaning. The original sale had been made to a man, now + dead, whom the railroad had bought out. The Copper Rise property was + mentioned among the other lands in the will in favor of Mr. Farquhar + Fenelon Cooke, and the latter had gone ahead improving them and increasing + their output in spite of the repeated threats of the railroad to bring + suit. And it was not until its present attorney had come in and + investigated the title that the railroad had resorted to the law. I + mention here, by the way, that my client was the sole heir. + </p> + <p> + But as the time of the sessions drew near, the outlook for me was anything + but bright. It is true that my witnesses were quite willing to depose that + his actions were queer and out of the common, but these witnesses were for + the most part venerable farmers and backwoodsmen: expert testimony was + deplorably lacking. In this extremity it was Mr. Farquhar Fenelon Cooke + himself who came unwittingly to my rescue. He had bought a horse,—he + could never be in a place long without one,—which was chiefly + remarkable, he said, for picking up his hind feet as well as his front + ones. However he may have differed from the ordinary run of horses, he was + shortly attacked by one of the thousand ills to which every horse is + subject. I will not pretend to say what it was. I found Mr. Cooke one + morning at his usual place in the Lake House bar holding forth with more + than common vehemence and profanity on the subject of veterinary surgeons. + He declared there was not a veterinary surgeon in the whole town fit to + hold a certificate, and his listeners nodded an extreme approval to this + sentiment. A grizzled old fellow who kept a stock farm back in the country + chanced to be there, and managed to get a word in on the subject during + one of my client's rare pauses. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he said, “that's so. There ain't one of 'em now fit to travel with + young Doctor Vane, who was here some fifteen years gone by. He weren't no + horse-doctor, but he could fix up a foundered horse in a night as good as + new. If your uncle was livin', he'd back me on that, Mr. Cooke.” + </p> + <p> + Here was my chance. I took the old man aside, and two or three glasses of + Old Crow launched him into reminiscence. + </p> + <p> + “Where is Doctor Vane now?” I asked finally. + </p> + <p> + “Over to Minneapolis, sir, with more rich patients nor he can take care + of. Wasn't my darter over there last month, and seen him? And demned if he + didn't pull up his carriage and talk to her. Here's luck to him.” + </p> + <p> + I might have heard much more of the stockraiser had I stayed, but I fear I + left him somewhat abruptly in my haste to find Farrar. Only three days + remained before the case was to come up. Farrar readily agreed to go to + Minneapolis, and was off on the first train that afternoon. I would have + asked Mr. Cooke to go had I dared trust him, such was my anxiety to have + him out of the way, if only for a time. I did not tell him about the + doctor. He sat up very late with me that night on the Lake House porch to + give me a rubbing down, as he expressed it, as he might have admonished + some favorite jockey before a sweepstake. “Take it easy, old man,” he + would say repeatedly, “and don't give things the bit before you're sure of + their wind!” + </p> + <p> + Days passed, and not a word from Farrar. The case opened with Mr. Cooke's + friends on the front benches. The excitement it caused has rarely been + equalled in that section, but I believe this was due less to its + sensational features than to Mr. Cooke, who had an abnormal though + unconscious talent for self-advertisement. It became manifest early that + we were losing. Our testimony, as I had feared, was not strong enough, + although they said we were making a good fight of it. I was racked with + anxiety about Farrar; at last, when I had all but given up hope, I + received a telegram from him dated at Detroit, saying he would arrive with + the doctor that evening. This was Friday, the fourth day of the trial. + </p> + <p> + The doctor turned out to be a large man, well groomed and well fed, with a + twinkle in his eye. He had gone to Narragansett Pier for the summer, + whither Farrar had followed him. On being introduced, Mr. Cooke at once + invited him out to have a drink. + </p> + <p> + “Did you know my uncle?” asked my client. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the doctor, “I should say I did.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor old duffer,” said Mr. Cooke, with due solemnity; “I understand he + was a maniac.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the doctor, while we listened with a breathless interest, “he + wasn't exactly a maniac, but I think I can safely say he was a lunatic.” + </p> + <p> + “Then here's to insanity!” said the irrepressible, his glass swung in + mid-air, when a thought struck him, and he put it down again and looked + hard at the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Will you swear to it?” he demanded. + </p> + <p> + “I would swear to it before Saint Peter,” said the doctor, fervently. + </p> + <p> + He swore to it before a jury, which was more to the point, and we won our + case. It did not even go to the court of appeals; I suppose the railroad + thought it cheaper to drop it, since no right of way was involved. And the + decision was scarcely announced before Mr. Farquhar Fenelon Cooke had + begun work on his new country place, Mohair. + </p> + <p> + I have oftentimes been led to consider the relevancy of this chapter, and + have finally decided to insert it. I concluded that the actual narrative + of how Mr. Cooke came to establish his country-place near Asquith would be + interesting, and likewise throw some light on that gentleman's character. + And I ask the reader's forbearance for the necessary personal history + involved. Had it not been for Mr. Cooke's friendship for me I should not + have written these pages. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III + </h2> + <p> + Events, are consequential or inconsequential irrespective of their size. + The wars of Troy were fought for a woman, and Charles VIII, of France, + bumped his head against a stone doorway and died because he did not stoop + low enough. And to descend from history down to my own poor chronicle, Mr. + Cooke's railroad case, my first experience at the bar of any gravity or + magnitude, had tied to it a string of consequences then far beyond my + guessing. The suit was my stepping-stone not only to a larger and more + remunerative practice, but also, I believe, to the position of district + attorney, which I attained shortly afterwards. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke had laid out Mohair as ruthlessly as Napoleon planned the new + Paris; though not, I regret to say, with a like genius. Fortunately Farrar + interposed and saved the grounds, but there was no guardian angel to do a + like turn for the house. Mr. Langdon Willis, of Philadelphia, was the + architect who had nominal charge of the building. He had regularly + submitted some dozen plans for Mr. Cooke's approval, which were as + regularly rejected. My client believed, in common with a great many other + people, that architects should be driven and not followed, and was plainly + resolved to make this house the logical development of many cherished + ideas. It is not strange, therefore, that the edifice was completed by a + Chicago contractor who had less self-respect than Mr. Willis, the latter + having abruptly refused to have his name tacked on to the work. + </p> + <p> + Mohair was finished and ready for occupation in July, two years after the + suit. I drove out one day before Mr. Cooke's arrival to look it over. The + grounds, where Farrar had had matters pretty much his own way, to my mind + rivalled the best private parks in the East. The stables were filled with + a score or so of Mr. Cooke's best horses, brought hither in his private + cars, and the trotters were exercising on the track. The middle of June + found Farrar and myself at the Asquith Inn. It was Farrar's custom to go + to Asquith in the summer, being near the forest properties in his charge; + and since Asquith was but five miles from the county-seat it was + convenient for me, and gave me the advantages of the lake breezes and a + comparative rest, which I should not have had in town. At that time + Asquith was a small community of summer residents from Cincinnati, + Chicago, St. Louis, and other western cities, most of whom owned cottages + and the grounds around them. They were a quiet lot that long association + had made clannish; and they had a happy faculty, so rare in summer + resorts, of discrimination between an amusement and a nuisance. Hence a + great many diversions which are accounted pleasurable elsewhere are at + Asquith set down at their true value. It was, therefore, rather with + resentment than otherwise that the approaching arrival of Mr. Cooke and + the guests he was likely to have at Mohair were looked upon. + </p> + <p> + I had not been long at Asquith before I discovered that Farrar was acting + in a peculiar manner, though I was longer in finding out what the matter + was. I saw much less of him than in town. Once in a while in the evenings, + after ten, he would run across me on the porch of the inn, or drift into + my rooms. Even after three years of more or less intimacy between us, + Farrar still wore his exterior of pessimism and indifference, the shell + with which he chose to hide a naturally warm and affectionate disposition. + In the dining-room we sat together at the end of a large table set aside + for bachelors and small families of two or three, and it seemed as though + we had all the humorists and story-tellers in that place. And Farrar as a + source of amusement proved equal to the best of them. He would wait until + a story was well under way, and then annihilate the point of it with a + cutting cynicism and set the table in a roar of laughter. Among others who + were seated here was a Mr. Trevor, of Cincinnati, one of the pioneers of + Asquith. Mr. Trevor was a trifle bombastic, with a tendency towards + gesticulation, an art which he had learned in no less a school than the + Ohio State Senate. He was a self-made man,—a fact which he took good + care should not escape one,—and had amassed his money, I believe, in + the dry-goods business. He always wore a long, shiny coat, a low, + turned-down collar, and a black tie, all of which united to give him the + general appearance of a professional pallbearer. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Trevor possessed a daughter who amply made up for his + shortcomings. She was the only one who could meet Farrar on his own + ground, and rarely a meal passed that they did not have a tilt. They + filled up the holes of the conversation with running commentaries, giving + a dig at the luckless narrator and a side-slap at each other, until one + would have given his oath they were sworn enemies. At least I, in the + innocence of my heart, thought so until I was forcibly enlightened. I had + taken rather a prejudice to Miss Trevor. I could find no better reason + than her antagonism to Farrar. I was revolving this very thing in my mind + one day as I was paddling back to the inn after a look at my client's new + pier and boat-houses, when I descried Farrar's catboat some distance out. + The lake was glass, and the sail hung lifeless. It was near lunch-time, + and charity prompted me to head for the boat and give it a tow homeward. + As I drew near, Farrar himself emerged from behind the sail and asked me, + with a great show of nonchalance, what I wanted. + </p> + <p> + “To tow you back for lunch, of course,” I answered, used to his ways. + </p> + <p> + He threw me a line, which I made fast to the stern, and then he + disappeared again. I thought this somewhat strange, but as the boat was a + light one, I towed it in and hitched it to the wharf, when, to my great + astonishment, there disembarked not Farrar, but Miss Trevor. She leaped + lightly ashore and was gone before I could catch my breath, while Farrar + let down the sail and offered me a cigarette. I had learned a lesson in + appearances. + </p> + <p> + It could not have been very long after this that I was looking over my + batch of New York papers, which arrived weekly, when my eye was arrested + by a name. I read the paragraph, which announced the fact that my friend + the Celebrity was about to sail for Europe in search of “color” for his + next novel; this was already contracted for at a large price, and was to + be of a more serious nature than any of his former work. An interview was + published in which the Celebrity had declared that a new novel was to + appear in a short time. I do not know what impelled me, but I began at + once to search through the other papers, and found almost identically the + same notice in all of them. + </p> + <p> + By one of those odd coincidents which sometimes start one to thinking, the + Celebrity was the subject of a lively discussion when I reached the table + that evening. I had my quota of information concerning his European trip, + but I did not commit myself when appealed to for an opinion. I had once + known the man (which, however, I did not think it worth while to mention) + and I did not feel justified in criticising him in public. Besides, what I + knew of him was excellent, and entirely apart from the literary merit or + demerit of his work. The others, however, were within their right when + they censured or praised him, and they did both. Farrar, in particular, + surprised me by the violence of his attacks, while Miss Trevor took up the + Celebrity's defence with equal ardor. Her motives were beyond me now. The + Celebrity's works spoke for themselves, she said, and she could not and + would not believe such injurious reports of one who wrote as he did. + </p> + <p> + The next day I went over to the county-seat, and got back to Asquith after + dark. I dined alone, and afterwards I was strolling up and down one end of + the long veranda when I caught sight of a lonely figure in a corner, with + chair tilted back and feet on the rail. A gleam of a cigar lighted up the + face, and I saw that it was Farrar. I sat down beside him, and we talked + commonplaces for a while, Farrar's being almost monosyllabic, while now + and again feminine voices and feminine laughter reached our ears from the + far end of the porch. They seemed to go through Farrar like a knife, and + he smoked furiously, his lips tightly compressed the while. I had a dozen + conjectures, none of which I dared voice. So I waited in patience. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” said he, at length, “there's a man here from Boston, Charles + Wrexell Allen; came this morning. You know Boston. Have you ever heard of + him?” + </p> + <p> + “Allen,” I repeated, reflecting; “no Charles Wrexell.” + </p> + <p> + “It is Charles Wrexell, I think,” said Farrar, as though the matter were + trivial. “However, we can go into the register and make sure.” + </p> + <p> + “What about him?” I asked, not feeling inclined to stir. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity + </p> + <p> + “Oh, nothing. An arrival is rather an occurrence, though. You can hear him + down there now,” he added, tossing his head towards the other end of the + porch, “with the women around him.” + </p> + <p> + In fact, I did catch the deeper sound of a man's voice among the lighter + tones, and the voice had a ring to it which was not wholly unfamiliar, + although I could not place it. + </p> + <p> + I threw Farrar a bait. + </p> + <p> + “He must make friends easily,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “With the women?—yes,” he replied, so scathingly that I was forced + to laugh in spite of myself. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go in and look at the register,” I suggested. “You may have his + name wrong.” + </p> + <p> + We went in accordingly. Sure enough, in bold, heavy characters, was the + name Charles Wrexell Allen written out in full. That handwriting was one + in a thousand. I made sure I had seen it before, and yet I did not know + it; and the more I puzzled over it the more confused I became. I turned to + Farrar. + </p> + <p> + “I have had a poor cigar passed off on me and deceive me for a while. That + is precisely the case here. I think I should recognize your man if I were + to see him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Farrar, “here's your chance.” + </p> + <p> + The company outside were moving in. Two or three of the older ladies came + first, carrying their wraps; then a troop of girls, among whom was Miss + Trevor; and lastly, a man. Farrar and I had walked to the door while the + women turned into the drawing-room, so that we were brought face to face + with him, suddenly. At sight of me he halted abruptly, as though he had + struck the edge of a door, changed color, and held out his hand, + tentatively. Then he withdrew it again, for I made no sign of recognition. + </p> + <p> + It was the Celebrity! + </p> + <p> + I felt a shock of disgust as I passed out. Masquerading, it must be + admitted, is not pleasant to the taste; and the whole farce, as it flashed + through my mind,—his advertised trip, his turning up here under an + assumed name, had an ill savor. Perhaps some of the things they said of + him might be true, after all. + </p> + <p> + “Who the devil is he?” said Farrar, dropping for once his indifference; + “he looked as if he knew you.” + </p> + <p> + I evaded. + </p> + <p> + “He may have taken me for some one else,” I answered with all the coolness + I could muster. “I have never met any one of his name. His voice and + handwriting, however, are very much like those of a man I used to know.” + </p> + <p> + Farrar was very poor company that evening, and left me early. I went to my + rooms and had taken down a volume of Carlyle, who can generally command my + attention, when there came a knock at the door. + </p> + <p> + “Come in,” I replied, with an instinctive sense of prophecy. + </p> + <p> + This was fulfilled at once by the appearance of the Celebrity. He was + attired—for the details of his dress forced themselves upon me + vividly—in a rough-spun suit of knickerbockers, a colored-shirt + having a large and prominent gold stud, red and brown stockings of a + diamond pattern, and heavy walking-boots. And he entered with an air of + assurance that was maddening. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Crocker,” he exclaimed, “you have no idea how delighted I am to + see you here!” + </p> + <p> + I rose, first placing a book-mark in Carlyle, and assured him that I was + surprised to see him here. + </p> + <p> + “Surprised to see me!” he returned, far from being damped by my manner. + “In fact, I am a little surprised to see myself here.” + </p> + <p> + He sank back on the window-seat and clasped his hands behind his head. + </p> + <p> + “But first let me thank you for respecting my incognito,” he said. + </p> + <p> + I tried hard to keep my temper, marvelling at the ready way he had chosen + to turn my action. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” he continued, “I suppose you want to know why I came out here.” + He easily supplied the lack of cordial solicitation on my part. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I should like to know,” I said. + </p> + <p> + Thus having aroused my curiosity, he took his time about appeasing it, + after the custom of his kind. He produced a gold cigarette case, offered + me a cigarette, which I refused, took one himself and blew the smoke in + rings toward the ceiling. Then, raising himself on his elbow, he drew his + features together in such a way as to lead me to believe he was about to + impart some valuable information. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” said he, “it's the very deuce to be famous, isn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose it is,” I replied curtly, wondering what he was driving at; “I + have never tried it.” + </p> + <p> + “An ordinary man, such as you, can't conceive of the torture a fellow in + my position is obliged to go through the year round, but especially in the + summer, when one wishes to go off on a rest. You know what I mean, of + course.” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid I do not,” I answered, in a vain endeavor to embarrass him. + </p> + <p> + “You're thicker than when I used to know you, then,” he returned with + candor. “To tell the truth, Crocker, I often wish I were back at the law, + and had never written a line. I am paying the penalty of fame. Wherever I + go I am hounded to death by the people who have read my books, and they + want to dine and wine me for the sake of showing me off at their houses. I + am heartily sick and tired of it all; you would be if you had to go + through it. I could stand a winter, but the worst comes in the summer, + when one meets the women who fire all sorts of socio-psychological + questions at one for solution, and who have suggestions for stories.” He + shuddered. + </p> + <p> + “And what has all this to do with your coming here?” I cut in, strangling + a smile. + </p> + <p> + He twisted his cigarette at an acute angle with his face, and looked at me + out of the corner of his eye. + </p> + <p> + “I'll try to be a little plainer,” he went on, sighing as one unused to + deal with people who require crosses on their t's. “I've been worried + almost out of my mind with attention—nothing but attention the whole + time. I can't go on the street but what I'm stared at and pointed out, so + I thought of a scheme to relieve it for a time. It was becoming + unbearable. I determined to assume a name and go to some quiet little + place for the summer, West, if possible, where I was not likely to be + recognized, and have three months of rest.” + </p> + <p> + He paused, but I offered no comment. + </p> + <p> + “Well, the more I thought of it, the better I liked the idea. I met a + western man at the club and asked him about western resorts, quiet ones. + 'Have you heard of Asquith?' says he. 'No,' said I; 'describe it.' He did, + and it was just the place; quaint, restful, and retired. Of course I put + him off the track, but I did not count on striking you. My man boxed up, + and we were off in twenty-four hours, and here I am.” + </p> + <p> + Now all this was very fine, but not at all in keeping with the Celebrity's + character as I had come to conceive it. The idea that adulation ever + cloyed on him was ludicrous in itself. In fact I thought the whole story + fishy, and came very near to saying so. + </p> + <p> + “You won't tell anyone who I am, will you?” he asked anxiously. + </p> + <p> + He even misinterpreted my silences. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not,” I replied. “It is no concern of mine. You might come here + as Emil Zola or Ralph Waldo Emerson and it would make no difference to + me.” + </p> + <p> + He looked at me dubiously, even suspiciously. + </p> + <p> + “That's a good chap,” said he, and was gone, leaving me to reflect on the + ways of genius. + </p> + <p> + And the longer I reflected, the more positive I became that there existed + a more potent reason for the Celebrity's disguise than ennui. As actions + speak louder than words, so does a man's character often give the lie to + his tongue. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV + </h2> + <p> + A Lion in an ass's skin is still a lion in spite of his disguise. + Conversely, the same might be said of an ass in a lion's skin. The + Celebrity ran after women with the same readiness and helplessness that a + dog will chase chickens, or that a stream will run down hill. Women differ + from chickens, however, in the fact that they find pleasure in being + chased by a certain kind of a man. The Celebrity was this kind of a man. + From the moment his valet deposited his luggage in his rooms, Charles + Wrexell Allen became the social hero of Asquith. It is by straws we are + enabled to tell which way the wind is blowing, and I first noticed his + partiality for Miss Trevor from the absence of the lively conflicts she + was wont to have with Farrar. These ceased entirely after the Celebrity's + arrival. It was the latter who now commanded the conversation at our + table. + </p> + <p> + I was truly sorry for Farrar, for I knew the man, the depth of his nature, + and the scope of the shock. He carried it off altogether too well, and + both the studied lightness of his actions and the increased carelessness + of his manner made me fear that what before was feigned, might turn to a + real bitterness. + </p> + <p> + For Farrar's sake, if the Celebrity had been content with women in + general, all would have been well; but he was unable to generalize, in one + sense, and to particularize, in another. And it was plain that he wished + to monopolize Miss Trevor, while still retaining a hold upon the others. + For my sake, had he been content with women alone, I should have had no + cause to complain. But it seemed that I had an attraction for him, second + only to women, which I could not account for. And I began to be cursed + with a great deal of his company. Since he was absolutely impervious to + hints, and would not take no for an answer, I was helpless. When he had no + engagement he would thrust himself on me. He seemed to know by intuition—for + I am very sure I never told him—what my amusement was to be the + mornings I did not go to the county-seat, and he would invariably turn up, + properly equipped, as I was making my way with judge Short to the tennis + court, or carrying my oars to the water. It was in vain that I resorted to + subterfuge: that I went to bed early intending to be away before the + Celebrity's rising hour. I found he had no particular rising hour. No + matter how early I came down, I would find him on the veranda, smoking + cigarettes, or otherwise his man would be there with a message to say that + his master would shortly join me if I would kindly wait. And at last I + began to realize in my harassed soul that all elusion was futile, and to + take such holidays as I could get, when he was off with a girl, in a + spirit of thankfulness. + </p> + <p> + Much of this persecution I might have put up with, indeed, had I not + heard, in one way or another, that he was doing me the honor of calling me + his intimate. This I could not stand, and I soberly resolved to leave + Asquith and go back to town, which I should indeed have done if + deliverance had not arrived from an unexpected quarter. + </p> + <p> + One morning I had been driven to the precarious refuge afforded by the + steps of the inn, after rejecting offers from the Celebrity to join him in + a variety of amusements. But even here I was not free from interruption, + for he was seated on a horse-block below me, playing with a fox terrier. + Judge Short had gone to town, and Farrar was off for a three days' cruise + up the lake. I was bitterly regretting I had not gone with him when the + distant notes of a coach horn reached my ear, and I descried a + four-in-hand winding its way up the inn road from the direction of Mohair. + </p> + <p> + “That must be your friend Cooke,” remarked the Celebrity, looking up. + </p> + <p> + There could be no doubt of it. With little difficulty I recognized on the + box the familiar figure of my first important client, and beside him was a + lady whom I supposed to be Mrs. Farquhar Fenelon Cooke, although I had had + no previous knowledge that such a person existed. The horses were on a + brisk trot, and Mr. Cooke seemed to be getting the best out of them for + the benefit of the sprinkling of people on the inn porch. Indeed, I could + not but admire the dexterous turn of the wrist which served Mr. Cooke to + swing his leaders into the circle and up the hill, while the liveried + guard leaned far out in anticipation of a stumble. Mr. Cooke hailed me + with a beaming smile and a flourish of the whip as he drew up and + descended from the box. + </p> + <p> + “Maria,” he exclaimed, giving me a hearty grip, “this is the man that won + Mohair. My wife, Crocker.” + </p> + <p> + I was somewhat annoyed at this effusiveness before the Celebrity, but I + looked up and caught Mrs. Cooke's eye. It was the calm eye of a general. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad of the opportunity to thank you, Mr. Crocker,” she said simply. + And I liked her from that moment. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke at once began a tirade against the residents of Asquith for + permitting a sandy and generally disgraceful condition of the roads. So + roundly did he vituperate the inn management in particular, and with such + a loud flow of words, that I trembled lest he should be heard on the + veranda. The Celebrity stood by the block, in an amazement which gave me a + wicked pleasure, and it was some minutes before I had the chance to + introduce him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke's idea of an introduction, however, was no mere word-formula: it + was fraught with a deeper and a bibulous meaning. He presented the + Celebrity to his wife, and then invited both of us to go inside with him + by one of those neat and cordial paraphrases in which he was skilled. I + preferred to remain with Mrs. Cooke, and it was with a gleam of hope at a + possible deliverance from my late persecution that I watched the two + disappear together through the hall and into the smoking-room. + </p> + <p> + “How do you like Mohair?” I asked Mrs. Cooke. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean the house or the park?” she laughed; and then, seeing my + embarrassment, she went on: “Oh, the house is just like everything else + Fenelon meddles with. Outside it's a mixture of all the styles, and inside + a hash of all the nationalities from Siamese to Spanish. Fenelon hangs the + Oriental tinsels he has collected on pieces of black baronial oak, and the + coat-of-arms he had designed by our Philadelphia jewellers is stamped on + the dining-room chairs, and even worked into the fire screens.” + </p> + <p> + There was nothing paltry in her criticism of her husband, nothing she + would not have said to his face. She was a woman who made you feel this, + for sincerity was written all over her. I could not help wondering why she + gave Mr. Cooke line in the matter of household decoration, unless it was + that he considered Mohair his own, private hobby, and that she humored + him. Mrs. Cooke was not without tact, and I have no doubt she perceived my + reluctance to talk about her husband and respected it. + </p> + <p> + “We drove down to bring you back to luncheon,” she said. + </p> + <p> + I thanked her and accepted. She was curious to hear about Asquith and its + people, and I told her all I knew. + </p> + <p> + “I should like to meet some of them,” she explained, “for we intend having + a cotillon at Mohair,—a kind of house-warming, you know. A party of + Mr. Cooke's friends is coming out for it in his car, and he thought + something of inviting the people of Asquith up for a dance.” + </p> + <p> + I had my doubts concerning the wisdom of an entertainment, the success of + which depended on the fusion of a party of Mr. Cooke's friends and a + company from Asquith. But I held my peace. She shot a question at me + suddenly: + </p> + <p> + “Who is this Mr. Allen?” + </p> + <p> + “He registers from Boston, and only came a fortnight ago,” I replied + vaguely. + </p> + <p> + “He doesn't look quite right; as though he had been set down on the wrong + planet, you know,” said Mrs. Cooke, her finger on her temple. “What is he + like?” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” I answered, at first with uncertainty, then with inspiration, “he + would do splendidly to lead your cotillon, if you think of having one.” + </p> + <p> + “So you do not dance, Mr. Crocker?” + </p> + <p> + I was somewhat set back by her perspicuity. + </p> + <p> + “No, I do not,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “I thought not,” she said, laughing. It must have been my expression which + prompted her next remark. + </p> + <p> + “I was not making fun of you,” she said, more soberly; “I do not like Mr. + Allen any better than you do, and I have only seen him once.” + </p> + <p> + “But I have not said I did not like him,” I objected. + </p> + <p> + “Of course not,” said Mrs. Cooke, quizzically. + </p> + <p> + At that moment, to my relief, I discerned the Celebrity and Mr. Cooke in + the hallway. + </p> + <p> + “Here they come, now,” she went on. “I do wish Fenelon would keep his + hands off the people he meets. I can feel he is going to make an intimate + of that man. Mark my words, Mr. Crocker.” + </p> + <p> + I not only marked them, I prayed for their fulfilment. + </p> + <p> + There was that in Mr. Cooke which, for want of a better name, I will call + instinct. As he came down the steps, his arm linked in that of the + Celebrity, his attitude towards his wife was both apologetic and defiant. + He had at once the air of a child caught with a forbidden toy, and that of + a stripling of twenty-one who flaunts a cigar in his father's face. + </p> + <p> + “Maria,” he said, “Mr. Allen has consented to come back with us for + lunch.” + </p> + <p> + We drove back to Mohair, Mr. Cooke and the Celebrity on the box, Mrs. + Cooke and I behind. Except to visit the boathouses I had not been to + Mohair since the day of its completion, and now the full beauty of the + approach struck me for the first time. We swung by the lodge, the keeper + holding open the iron gate as we passed, and into the wide driveway, hewn, + as it were, out of the virgin forest. The sandy soil had been strengthened + by a deep road-bed of clay imported from the interior, which was spread in + turn with a fine gravel, which crunched under the heavy wheels. From the + lodge to the house, a full mile, branches had been pruned to let the + sunshine sift through in splotches, but the wild nature of the place had + been skilfully retained. We curved hither and thither under the giant + trees until suddenly, as a whip straightens in the snapping, one of the + ancient tribes of the forest might have sent an arrow down the leafy + gallery into the open, and at the far end we caught sight of the palace + framed in the vista. It was a triumph for Farrar, and I wished that the + palace had been more worthy. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity did not stint his praises of Mohair, coming up the drive, + but so lavish were his comments on the house that they won for him a + lasting place in Mr. Cooke's affections, and encouraged my client to pull + up his horses in a favorable spot, and expand on the beauties of the + mansion. + </p> + <p> + “Taking it altogether,” said he, complacently, “it is rather a neat box, + and I let myself loose on it. I had all these ideas I gathered knocking + about the world, and I gave them to Willis, of Philadelphia, to put + together for me. But he's honest enough not to claim the house. Take, for + instance, that minaret business on the west; I picked that up from a + mosque in Algiers. The oriel just this side is whole cloth from Haddon + Hall, and the galleried porch next it from a Florentine villa. The conical + capped tower I got from a French chateau, and some of the features on the + south from a Buddhist temple in Japan. Only a little blending and grouping + was necessary, and Willis calls himself an architect, and wasn't equal to + it. Now,” he added, “get the effect. Did you ever see another house like + it?” + </p> + <p> + “Magnificent!” exclaimed the Celebrity. + </p> + <p> + “And then,” my client continued, warming under this generous appreciation, + “there's something very smart about those colors. They're my racing + colors. Of course the granite's a little off, but it isn't prominent. + Willis kicked hard when it came to painting the oriel yellow, but an + architect always takes it for granted he knows it all, and a—” + </p> + <p> + “Fenelon,” said Mrs. Cooke, “luncheon is waiting.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Cooke dominated at luncheon and retired, and it is certain that both + Mr. Cooke and the Celebrity breathed more freely when she had gone. If her + criticisms on the exterior of the house were just, those on the interior + were more so. Not only did I find the coat-of-arms set forth on the + chairs, fire-screens, and other prominent articles, but it was even cut + into the swinging door of the butler's pantry. The motto I am afraid my + client never took the trouble to have translated, and I am inclined to + think his jewellers put up a little joke on him when they chose it. “Be + Sober and Boast not.” + </p> + <p> + I observed that Mrs. Cooke, when she chose, could exert the subduing + effect on her husband of a soft pedal on a piano; and during luncheon she + kept, the soft pedal on. And the Celebrity, being in some degree a kindred + spirit, was also held in check. But his wife had no sooner left the room + when Mr. Cooke began on the subject uppermost in his mind. I had suspected + that his trip to Asquith that morning was for a purpose at which Mrs. + Cooke had hinted. But she, with a woman's tact, had aimed to accomplish by + degrees that which her husband would carry by storm. + </p> + <p> + “You've been at Asquith sometime, Crocker,” Mr. Cooke began, “long enough + to know the people.” + </p> + <p> + “I know some of them,” I said guardedly. But the rush was not to be + stemmed. + </p> + <p> + “How many do you think you can muster for that entertainment of mine? + Fifty? I ought to have fifty, at least. Suppose you pick out fifty, and + send me up the names. I want good lively ones, you understand, that will + stir things up.” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid there are not fifty of that kind there,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + His face fell, but brightened again instantly. He appealed to the + Celebrity. + </p> + <p> + “How about it, old man?” said he. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity answered, with becoming modesty, that the Asquithians were + benighted. They had never had any one to show them how to enjoy life. But + there was hope for them. + </p> + <p> + “That's it,” exclaimed my client, slapping his thigh, and turning + triumphantly to me, he continued, “You're all right, Crocker, and know + enough to win a damned big suit, but you're not the man to steer a + delicate thing of this kind.” + </p> + <p> + This is how, to my infinite relief, the Celebrity came to engineer the + matter of the housewarming; and to him it was much more congenial. He + accepted the task cheerfully, and went about it in such a manner as to + leave no doubt in my mind as to its ultimate success. He was a master hand + at just such problems, and this one had a double attraction. It pleased + him to be thought the arbiter of such a worthy cause, while he acquired a + prominence at Asquith which satisfied in some part a craving which he + found inseparable from incognito. + </p> + <p> + His tactics were worthy of a skilled diplomatist. Before we left Mohair + that day he had exacted as a condition that Mr. Cooke should not appear at + the inn or in its vicinity until after the entertainment. To this my + client readily pledged himself with that absolute freedom from suspicion + which formed one of the most admirable traits of his character. The + Celebrity, being intuitively quick where women were concerned, had + surmised that Mrs. Cooke did not like him; but as her interests in the + affair of the cotillon coincided with those of Mr. Cooke, she was + available as a means to an end. The Celebrity deemed her, from a social + standpoint, decidedly the better part of the Mohair establishment, and he + contrived, by a system of manoeuvres I failed to grasp, to throw her + forward while he kept Mr. Cooke in the background. + </p> + <p> + He had much to contend with; above all, an antecedent prejudice against + the Cookes, in reality a prejudice against the world, the flesh, and the + devil, natural to any quiet community, and of which Mohair and its + appurtenances were taken as the outward and visible signs. Older people + came to Asquith for simplicity and rest, and the younger ones were brought + there for these things. Nearly all had sufficient wealth to seek, if they + chose, gayety and ostentation at the eastern resorts. But Asquithians held + gayety and ostentation at a discount, and maintained there was gayety + enough at home. + </p> + <p> + If any one were fitted to overcome this prejudice, it was Mrs. Cooke. Her + tastes and manners were as simple as her gowns. The Celebrity, by arts + unknown, induced Mrs. Judge Short and two other ladies to call at Mohair + on a certain afternoon when Mr. Cooke was trying a trotter on the track. + The three returned wondering and charmed with Mrs. Cooke; they were sure + she had had no hand in the furnishing of that atrocious house. Their + example was followed by others at a time when the master of Mohair was + superintending in person the docking of some two-year-olds, and equally + invisible. These ladies likewise came back to sing Mrs. Cooke's praises. + Mrs. Cooke returned the calls. She took tea on the inn veranda, and drove + Mrs. Short around Mohair in her victoria. Mr. Cooke being seen only on + rare and fleeting occasions, there gradually got abroad a most curious + misconception of that gentleman's character, while over his personality + floated a mist of legend which the Celebrity took good care not to dispel. + Farrar, who despised nonsense, was ironical and non-committal when + appealed to, and certainly I betrayed none of my client's attributes. + Hence it came that Asquith, before the house-warming, knew as little about + Farquhar Fenelon Cooke, the man, as the nineteenth century knows about + William Shakespeare, and was every whit as curious. Like Shakespeare, Mr. + Cooke was judged by his works, and from these he was generally conceded to + be an illiterate and indifferent person of barbarous tastes and a mania + for horses. He was further described as ungentlemanly by a brace of + spinsters who had been within earshot on the veranda the morning he had + abused the Asquith roads, but their evidence was not looked upon as + damning. That Mr. Cooke would appear at the cotillon never entered any + one's head. + </p> + <p> + Thus it was, for a fortnight, Mr. Cooke maintained a most rigid seclusion. + Would that he had discovered in the shroud of mystery the cloak of fame! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + VOLUME 2. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V + </h2> + <p> + It was small wonder, said the knowing at Asquith, that Mr. Charles Wrexell + Allen should be attracted by Irene Trevor. With the lake breezes of the + north the red and the tan came into her cheeks, those boon companions of + the open who are best won by the water-winds. Perhaps they brought, too, + the spring to the step and the light under the long lashes when she + flashed a look across the table. Little by little it became plain that + Miss Trevor was gaining ground with the Celebrity to the neglect of the + other young women at Asquith, and when it was announced that he was to + lead the cotillon with her, the fact was regarded as significant. Even at + Asquith such things were talked about. Mr. Allen became a topic and a + matter of conjecture. He was, I believe, generally regarded as a good + match; his unimpeachable man-servant argued worldly possessions, of which + other indications were not lacking, while his crest was cited as a + material sign of family. Yet when Miss Brewster, one of the brace of + spinsters, who hailed from Brookline and purported to be an up-to-date + edition of the Boston Blue Book, questioned the Celebrity on this vital + point after the searching manner warranted by the gravity of the subject, + he was unable to acquit himself satisfactorily. When this conversation was + repeated in detail within the hearing of the father of the young woman in + question, and undoubtedly for his benefit, Mr. Trevor threw shame to the + winds and scandalized the Misses Brewster then and there by proclaiming + his father to have been a country storekeeper. In the eyes of Mr. Farquhar + Fenelon Cooke the apotheosis of the Celebrity was complete. The people of + Asquith were not only willing to attend the house-warming, but had been + worked up to the pitch of eagerness. The Celebrity as a matter of course + was master of ceremonies. He originated the figures and arranged the + couples, of which there were twelve from Asquith and ten additional young + women. These ten were assigned to the ten young men whom Mr. Cooke + expected in his private car, and whose appearances, heights, and + temperaments the Celebrity obtained from Mr. Cooke, carefully noted, and + compared with those of the young women. Be it said in passing that Mrs. + Cooke had nothing to do with any of it, but exhibited an almost criminal + indifference. Mr. Cooke had even chosen the favors; charity forbids that I + should say what they were. + </p> + <p> + Owing to the frequent consultations which these preparations made + necessary the Celebrity was much in the company of my client, which he + came greatly to prefer to mine, and I therefore abandoned my determination + to leave Asquith. I was settling down delightedly to my old, easy, and + unmolested existence when Farrar and I received an invitation, which + amounted to a summons, to go to Mohair and make ourselves generally + useful. So we packed up and went. We made an odd party before the arrival + of the Ten, particularly when the Celebrity dropped in for lunch or + dinner. He could not be induced to remain permanently at Mohair because + Miss Trevor was at Asquith, but he appropriated a Hempstead cart from the + Mohair stables and made the trip sometimes twice in a day. The fact that + Mrs. Cooke treated him with unqualified disapproval did not dampen his + spirits or lessen the frequency of his visits, nor, indeed, did it seem to + create any breach between husband and wife. Mr. Cooke took it for granted + that his friends should not please his wife, and Mrs. Cooke remarked to + Farrar and me that her husband was old enough to know better, and too old + to be taught. She loved him devotedly and showed it in a hundred ways, but + she was absolutely incapable of dissimulation. + </p> + <p> + Thanks to Mrs. Cooke, our visit to Mohair was a pleasant one. We were able + in many ways to help in the arrangements, especially Farrar, who had + charge of decorating the grounds. We saw but little of Mr. Cooke and the + Celebrity. + </p> + <p> + The arrival of the Ten was an event of importance, and occurred the day of + the dance. I shall treat the Ten as a whole because they did not + materially differ from one another in dress or habits or ambition or + general usefulness on this earth. It is true that Mr. Cooke had been able + to make delicate distinctions between them for the aid of the Celebrity, + but such distinctions were beyond me, and the power to make them lay only + in a long and careful study of the species which I could not afford to + give. Likewise the life of any one of the Ten was the life of all, and + might be truthfully represented by a single year, since each year was + exactly like the preceding. The ordinary year, as is well-known, begins on + the first of January. But theirs was not the ordinary year, nor the Church + year, nor the fiscal year. Theirs began in the Fall with the New York + Horse Show. And I am of the opinion, though open to correction, that they + dated from the first Horse Show instead of from the birth of Christ. It is + certain that they were much better versed in the history of the + Association than in that of the Union, in the biography of Excelsior + rather than that of Lincoln. The Dog Show was another event to which they + looked forward, when they migrated to New York and put up at the country + places of their friends. But why go farther? + </p> + <p> + The Ten made themselves very much at home at Mohair. One of them told the + Celebrity he reminded him very much of a man he had met in New York and + who had written a book, or something of that sort, which made the + Celebrity wince. The afternoon was spent in one of the stable lofts, where + Mr. Cooke had set up a mysterious L-shaped box, in one arm of which a + badger was placed by a groom, while my client's Sarah, a terrier, was sent + into the other arm to invite the badger out. His objections exceeded the + highest hopes; he dug his claws into the wood and devoted himself to + Sarah's countenance with unremitting industry. This occupation was found + so absorbing that it was with difficulty the Ten were induced to abandon + it and dress for an early dinner, and only did so after the second + peremptory message from Mrs. Cooke. + </p> + <p> + “It's always this way,” said Mr. Cooke, regretfully, as he watched Sarah + licking the accessible furrows in her face; “I never started in on + anything worth doing yet that Maria did not stop it.” + </p> + <p> + Farrar and I were not available for the dance, and after dinner we looked + about for a quiet spot in which to weather it, and where we could be + within reach if needed. Such a place as this was the Florentine galleried + porch, which ran along outside the upper windows of the ball-room; these + were flung open, for the night was warm. At one end of the room the + musicians, imported from Minneapolis by Mr. Cooke, were striking the first + discordant notes of the tuning, while at the other the Celebrity and my + client, in scarlet hunting-coats, were gravely instructing the Ten, + likewise in scarlet hunting-coats, as to their conduct and functions. We + were reviewing these interesting proceedings when Mrs. Cooke came hurrying + towards us. She held a letter in her hand. + </p> + <p> + “You know,” said she, “that Mr. Cooke is forgetful, particularly when his + mind is occupied with important matters, as it has been for some time. + Here is a letter from my niece, Miss Thorn, which he has carried in his + pocket since Monday. We expected her two weeks ago, and had given her up. + But it seems she was to leave Philadelphia on Wednesday, and will be at + that forlorn little station of Asquith at half-past nine to-night. I want + you two to go over and meet her.” + </p> + <p> + We expressed our readiness, and in ten minutes were in the station wagon, + rolling rapidly down the long drive, for it was then after nine. We passed + on the way the van of the guests from Asquith. As we reached the lodge we + heard the whistle, and we backed up against one side of the platform as + the train pulled up at the other. + </p> + <p> + Farrar and I are not imaginative; we did not picture to ourselves any + particular type for the girl we were going to meet, we were simply doing + our best to get to the station before the train. We jumped from the wagon + and were watching the people file out of the car, and I noticed that more + than one paused to look back over their shoulders as they reached the + door. Then came a maid with hand-bag and shawls, and after her a tall + young lady. She stood for a moment holding her skirt above the grimy + steps, with something of the stately pose which Richter has given his + Queen Louise on the stairway, and the light of the reflector fell full + upon her. She looked around expectantly, and recognizing Mrs. Cooke's + maid, who had stepped forward to relieve hers of the shawls, Miss Thorn + greeted her with a smile which greatly prepossessed us in her favor. + </p> + <p> + “How do you do, Jennie?” she said. “Did any one else come?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Miss Marian,” replied Jennie, abashed but pleased,—“these + gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + Farrar and I introduced ourselves, awkwardly enough, and we both tried to + explain at once how it was that neither Mr. nor Mrs. Cooke was there to + meet her. Of course we made an absolute failure of it. She scanned our + faces with a puzzled expression for a while and then broke into a laugh. + </p> + <p> + “I think I understand,” she said; “they are having the house-warming.” + </p> + <p> + “She's first-rate at guessing,” said Farrar to me as we fled precipitately + to see that the trunks were hoisted into the basket. Neither of us had + much presence of mind as we climbed into the wagon, and, what was even + stranger, could not account for the lack of it. Miss Thorn was seated in + the corner; in spite of the darkness I could see that she was laughing at + us still. + </p> + <p> + “I feel very badly that I should have taken you away from the dance,” we + heard her say. + </p> + <p> + “We don't dance,” I answered clumsily, “and we were glad to come.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we were glad to come,” Farrar chimed in. + </p> + <p> + Then we relapsed into a discomfited silence, and wished we were anywhere + else. But Miss Thorn relieved the situation by laughing aloud, and with + such a hearty enjoyment that instead of getting angry and more mortified + we began to laugh ourselves, and instantly felt better. After that we got + along famously. She had at once the air of good fellowship and the dignity + of a woman, and she seemed to understand Farrar and me perfectly. Not once + did she take us over our heads, though she might have done so with ease, + and we knew this and were thankful. We began to tell her about Mohair and + the cotillon, and of our point of observation from the Florentine + galleried porch, and she insisted she would join us there. By the time we + reached the house we were thanking our stars she had come. Mrs. Cooke came + out under the port-cochere to welcome her. + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately there is no one to dance with you, Marian,” she said; “but + if I had not by chance gone through your uncle's pockets, there would have + been no one to meet you.” + </p> + <p> + I think I had never felt my deficiency in dancing until that moment. But + Miss Thorn took her aunt's hand affectionately in hers. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Aunt Maria,” said she, “I would not dance to-night if there were + twenty to choose from. I should like nothing better than to look on with + these two. We are the best of friends already,” she added, turning towards + us, “are we not?” + </p> + <p> + “We are indeed,” we hastened to assure her. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Cooke smiled. + </p> + <p> + “You should have been a man, Marian,” she said as they went upstairs + together. + </p> + <p> + We made our way to the galleried porch and sat down, there being a lull in + the figures just then. We each took out a cigar and lighted a match; and + then looked across at the other. We solemnly blew our matches out. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps she doesn't like smoke,” said Farrar, voicing the sentiment. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not,” said I. + </p> + <p> + Silence. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder how she will get along with the Ten?” I queried. + </p> + <p> + “Better than with us,” he answered in his usual strain. “They're trained.” + </p> + <p> + “Or with Allen?” I added irresistibly. + </p> + <p> + “Women are all alike,” said Farrar. + </p> + <p> + At this juncture Miss Thorn herself appeared at the end of the gallery, + her shoulders wrapped in a gray cape trimmed with fur. She stood regarding + us with some amusement as we rose to receive her. + </p> + <p> + “Light your cigars and be sensible,” said she, “or I shall go in.” + </p> + <p> + We obeyed. The three of us turned to the window to watch the figure, the + music of which was just beginning. Mr. Cooke, with the air of an English + squire at his own hunt ball, was strutting contentedly up and down one end + of the room, now pausing to exchange a few hearty words with some + Presbyterian matron from Asquith, now to congratulate Mr. Trevor on the + appearance of his daughter. Lined against the opposite wall were the + Celebrity and his ten red-coated followers, just rising for the figure. It + was very plain that Miss Trevor was radiantly happy; she was easily the + handsomest girl in the room, and I could not help philosophizing when I + saw her looking up into the Celebrity's eyes upon the seeming + inconsistency of nature, who has armed and warned woman against all but + her most dangerous enemy. + </p> + <p> + And then a curious thing happened. The Celebrity, as if moved by a sudden + uncontrollable impulse, raised his eyes until they rested on the window in + which we were. Although his dancing was perfect, he lost the step without + apparent cause, his expression changed, and for the moment he seemed to be + utterly confused. But only for the moment; in a trice he had caught the + time again and swept Miss Trevor rapidly down the room and out of sight. I + looked instinctively at the girl beside me. She had thrown her head + forward, and in the streaming light I saw that her lips were parted in a + smile. + </p> + <p> + I resolved upon a stroke. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Allen,” I remarked, “leads admirably.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Allen!” she exclaimed, turning on me. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is Mr. Allen who is leading,” I repeated. + </p> + <p> + An expression of perplexity spread over her face, but she said nothing. My + curiosity was aroused to a high pitch, and questions were rising to my + lips which I repressed with difficulty. For Miss Thorn had displayed, + purposely or not, a reticence which my short acquaintance with her + compelled me to respect; and, besides, I was bound by a promise not to + betray the Celebrity's secret. I was, however, convinced from what had + occurred that she had met the Celebrity in the East, and perhaps known + him. + </p> + <p> + Had she fallen in love with him, as was the common fate of all young women + he met? I changed my opinion on this subject a dozen times. Now I was + sure, as I looked at her, that she was far too sensible; again, a doubt + would cross my mind as the Celebrity himself would cross my view, the girl + on his arm reduced to adoration. I followed him narrowly when in sight. + Miss Thorn was watching him, too, her eyes half closed, as though in + thought. But beyond the fact that he threw himself into the dance with a + somewhat increased fervor, perhaps, his manner betokened no uneasiness, + and not even by a glance did he betray any disturbing influence from + above. + </p> + <p> + Thus we stood silently until the figure was finished, when Miss Thorn + seated herself in one of the wicker chairs behind us. + </p> + <p> + “Doesn't it make you wish to dance?” said Farrar to her. “It is hard luck + you should be doomed to spend the evening with two such useless fellows as + we are.” + </p> + <p> + She did not catch his remark at first, as was natural in a person + preoccupied. Then she bit her lips to repress a smile. + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, Mr. Farrar,” she said with force, “I have never in my life + wished to dance as little as I do now.” + </p> + <p> + But a voice interrupted her, and the scarlet coat of the Celebrity was + thrust into the light between us. Farrar excused himself abruptly and + disappeared. + </p> + <p> + “Never wished to dance less!” cried the Celebrity. “Upon my word, Miss + Thorn, that's too bad. I came up to ask you to reconsider your + determination, as one of the girls from Asquith is leaving, and there is + an extra man.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very kind,” said Miss Thorn, quietly, “but I prefer to remain + here.” + </p> + <p> + My surmise, then, was correct. She had evidently met the Celebrity, and + there was that in his manner of addressing her, without any formal + greeting, which seemed to point to a close acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + “You know Mr. Allen, then, Miss Thorn?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “What can you mean?” she exclaimed, wheeling on me; “this is not Mr. + Allen.” + </p> + <p> + “Hang you, Crocker,” the Celebrity put in impatiently; “Miss Thorn knows + who I am as well as you do.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess it is a little puzzling,” said she; “perhaps it is because I am + tired from travelling, and my brain refuses to work. But why in the name + of all that is strange do you call him Mr. Allen?” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity threw himself into the chair beside her and asked permission + to light a cigarette. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to ask you the favor of respecting my incognito, Miss Thorn, + as Crocker has done,” he said. “Crocker knew me in the East, too. I had + not counted upon finding him at Asquith.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn straightened herself and made a gesture of impatience. + </p> + <p> + “An incognito!” she cried. “But you have taken another man's name. And you + already had his face and figure!” + </p> + <p> + I jumped. + </p> + <p> + “That is so,” he calmly returned; “the name was ready to hand, and so I + took it. I don't imagine it will make any difference to him. It's only a + whim of mine, and with me there's no accounting for a whim. I make it a + point to gratify every one that strikes me. I confess to being eccentric, + you know.” + </p> + <p> + “You must get an enormous amount of gratification out of this,” she said + dryly. “What if the other man should happen along?” + </p> + <p> + “Scarcely at Asquith.” + </p> + <p> + “I have known stranger things to occur,” said she. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity smiled and smoked. + </p> + <p> + “I'll wager, now,” he went on, “that you little thought to find me here + incognito. But it is delicious, I assure you, to lead once more a + commonplace and unmolested existence.” + </p> + <p> + “Delightful,” said Miss Thorn. + </p> + <p> + “People never consider an author apart from his work, you know, and I + confess I had a desire to find out how I would get along. And there comes + a time when a man wishes he had never written a book, and a longing to be + sought after for his own sake and to be judged on his own merits. And then + it is a great relief to feel that one is not at the beck and call of any + one and every one wherever one goes, and to know that one is free to + choose one's own companions and do as one wishes.” + </p> + <p> + “The sentiment is good,” Miss Thorn agreed, “very good. But doesn't it + seem a little odd, Mr. Crocker,” she continued, appealing to me, “that a + man should take the pains to advertise a trip to Europe in order to + gratify a whim of this sort?” + </p> + <p> + “It is indeed incomprehensible to me,” I replied, with a kind of grim + pleasure, “but you must remember that I have always led a commonplace + existence.” + </p> + <p> + Although the Celebrity was almost impervious to sarcasm, he was now + beginning to exhibit visible signs of uneasiness, the consciousness + dawning upon him that his eccentricity was not receiving the ovation it + merited. It was with a palpable relief that he heard the first warning + notes of the figure. + </p> + <p> + “Am I to understand that you wish me to do my part in concealing your + identity?” asked Miss Thorn, cutting him short as he was expressing + pleasure at her arrival. + </p> + <p> + “If you will be so kind,” he answered, and departed with a bow. There was + a mischievous mirth in her eye as she took her place in the window. Below + in the ball-room sat Miss Trevor surrounded by men, and I saw her face + lighting at the Celebrity's approach. + </p> + <p> + “Who is that beautiful girl he is dancing with?” said Miss Thorn. + </p> + <p> + I told her. + </p> + <p> + “Have you read his books?” she asked, after a pause. + </p> + <p> + “Some of them.” + </p> + <p> + “So have I.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity was not mentioned again that evening. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI + </h2> + <p> + As an endeavor to unite Mohair and Asquith the cotillon had proved a + dismal failure. They were as the clay and the brass. The next morning + Asquith was split into factions and rent by civil strife, and the porch of + the inn was covered by little knots of women, all trying to talk at once; + their faces told an ominous tale. Not a man was to be seen. The + Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Chicago papers, all of which had previously + contained elaborate illustrated accounts of Mr. Cooke's palatial park and + residence, came out that morning bristling with headlines about the ball, + incidentally holding up the residents of a quiet and retiring little + community in a light that scandalized them beyond measure. And Mr. Charles + Wrexell Allen, treasurer of the widely known Miles Standish Bicycle + Company, was said to have led the cotillon in a manner that left nothing + to be desired. + </p> + <p> + So it was this gentleman whom the Celebrity was personating! A queer whim + indeed. + </p> + <p> + After that, I doubt if the court of Charles the Second was regarded by the + Puritans with a greater abhorrence than was Mohair by the good ladies of + Asquith. Mr. Cooke and his ten friends were branded as profligates whose + very scarlet coats bore witness that they were of the devil. Mr. Cooke + himself, who particularly savored of brimstone, would much better have + remained behind the arras, for he was denounced with such energy and + bitterness that those who might have attempted his defence were silent, + and their very silence told against them. Mr. Cooke had indeed outdone + himself in hospitality. He had posted punch-bowls in every available + corner, and so industriously did he devote himself to the duties of host, + as he conceived them, that as many as four of the patriarchs of Asquith + and pillars of the church had returned home more or less insensible, while + others were quite incoherent. The odds being overwhelming, the master of + Mohair had at length fallen a victim to his own good cheer. He took post + with Judge Short at the foot of the stair, where, in spite of the protests + of the Celebrity and of other well-disposed persons, the two favored the + parting guests with an occasional impromptu song and waved genial + good-byes to the ladies. And, when Mrs. Short attempted to walk by with + her head in the air, as though the judge were in an adjoining county, he + so far forgot his judicial dignity as to chuck her under the chin, an act + which was applauded with much boyish delight by Mr. Cooke, and a remark + which it is just as well not to repeat. The judge desired to spend the + night at Mohair, but was afterwards taken home by main force, and the next + day his meals were brought up to him. It is small wonder that Mrs. Short + was looked upon as the head of the outraged party. The Ten were only + spoken of in whispers. Three of them had been unable to come to time when + the last figure was called, whereupon their partners were whisked off the + scene without so much as being allowed to pay their respects to the + hostess. Besides these offences, there were other minor barbarisms too + numerous to mention. + </p> + <p> + Although Mrs. Short's party was all-powerful at Asquith, there were some + who, for various reasons, refused to agree in the condemnation of Mr. + Cooke. Judge Short and the other gentlemen in his position were, of + course, restricted, but Mr. Trevor came out boldly in the face of severe + criticism and declared that his daughter should accept any invitation from + Mrs. Cooke that she chose, and paid but little attention to the coolness + resulting therefrom. He was fast getting a reputation for oddity. And the + Celebrity tried to conciliate both parties, and succeeded, though none but + he could have done it. At first he was eyed with suspicion and disgust as + he drove off to Mohair in his Hempstead cart, and was called many hard + names. But he had a way about him which won them in the end. + </p> + <p> + A few days later I ran over to Mohair and found my client with the colored + Sunday supplement of a Chicago newspaper spread out before him, eyeing the + page with something akin to childish delight. I discovered that it was a + picture of his own hunt ball, and as a bit of color it was marvellous, the + scarlet coats being very much in evidence. + </p> + <p> + “There, old man!” he exclaimed. “What do you think of that? Something of a + sendoff, eh?” And he pointed to a rather stout and important gentleman in + the foreground. “That's me!” he said proudly, “and they wouldn't do that + for Farquhar Fenelon Cooke in Philadelphia.” + </p> + <p> + “A prophet is without honor in his own country,” I remarked. + </p> + <p> + “I don't set up for a prophet,” said Mr. Cooke, “but I did predict that I + would start a ripple here, didn't I?” + </p> + <p> + I did not deny this. + </p> + <p> + “How do I stand over there?” he inquired, designating Asquith by a twist + of the head. “I hear they're acting all over the road; that they think I'm + the very devil.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, your stock has dropped some, I admit,” I answered. “They didn't + take kindly to your getting the judge drunk, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “They oughtn't to complain about that,” said my client; “and besides, he + wasn't drunk enough to amount to anything.” + </p> + <p> + “However that may be,” said I, “you have the credit for leading him + astray. But there is a split in your favor.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad to know that,” he said, brightening; “then I won't have to + import any more.” + </p> + <p> + “Any more what?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “People from the East to keep things moving, of course. What I have here + and those left me at the inn ought to be enough to run through the summer + with. Don't you think so?” + </p> + <p> + I thought so, and was moving off when he called me back. + </p> + <p> + “Is the judge locked up, old man?” he demanded. + </p> + <p> + “He's under rather close surveillance,” I replied, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker;” he said confidentially, “see if you can't smuggle him over here + some day soon. The judge always holds good cards, and plays a number one + hand.” + </p> + <p> + I promised, and escaped. On the veranda I came upon Miss Thorn surrounded + by some of her uncle's guests. I imagine that she was bored, for she + looked it. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker,” she called out, “you're just the man I have been wishing to + see.” + </p> + <p> + The others naturally took this for a dismissal, and she was not long in + coming to her point when we were alone. + </p> + <p> + “What is it you know about this queer but gifted genius who is here so + mysteriously?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing whatever,” I confessed. “I knew him before he thought of becoming + a genius.” + </p> + <p> + “Retrogression is always painful,” she said; “but tell me something about + him then.” + </p> + <p> + I told her all I knew, being that narrated in these pages. “Now,” said I, + “if you will pardon a curiosity on my part, from what you said the other + evening I inferred that he closely resembles the man whose name it pleased + him to assume. And that man, I learn from the newspapers, is Mr. Charles + Wrexell Allen of the 'Miles Standish Bicycle Company.'” + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn made a comic gesture of despair. + </p> + <p> + “Why he chose Mr. Allen's name,” she said, “is absolutely beyond my + guessing. Unless there is some purpose behind the choice, which I do not + for an instant believe, it was a foolish thing to do, and one very apt to + lead to difficulties. I can understand the rest. He has a reputation for + eccentricity which he feels he must keep up, and this notion of assuming a + name evidently appealed to him as an inspiration.” + </p> + <p> + “But why did he come out here?” I asked. “Can you tell me that?” + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn flushed slightly, and ignored the question. + </p> + <p> + “I met the 'Celebrity,' as you call him,” she said, “for the first time + last winter, and I saw him frequently during the season. Of course I had + heard not a little about him and his peculiarities. His name seems to have + gone the length and breadth of the land. And, like most girls, I had read + his books and confess I enjoyed them. It is not too much to say,” she + added archly, “that I made a sort of archangel out of the author.” + </p> + <p> + “I can understand that,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “But that did not last,” she continued hastily. “I see I have got beside + my story. I saw a great deal of him in New York. He came to call, and I + believe I danced with him once or twice. And then my aunt, Mrs. Rivers, + bought a place near Epsom, in Massachusetts, and had a house party there + in May. And the Celebrity was invited.” + </p> + <p> + I smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I assure you it was a mere chance,” said Miss Thorn. “I mention this + that I may tell you the astonishing part of it all. Epsom is one of those + smoky manufacturing towns one sees in New England, and the 'Miles + Standish' bicycle is made there. The day after we all arrived at my aunt's + a man came up the drive on a wheel whom I greeted in a friendly way and + got a decidedly uncertain bow in return. + </p> + <p> + “I thought it rather a strange shift from a marked cordiality, and spoke + of the circumstance to my aunt, who was highly amused. 'Why, my dear,' + said she, 'that was Mr. Allen, of the bicycle company. I was nearly + deceived myself.'” + </p> + <p> + “And is the resemblance so close as that?” I exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “So close! Believe me, they are as like as two ices from a mould. Of + course, when they are together one can distinguish the Celebrity from the + bicycle man. The Celebrity's chin is a little more square, and his nose + straighter, and there are other little differences. I believe Mr. Allen + has a slight scar on his forehead. But the likeness was remarkable, + nevertheless, and it grew to be a standing joke with us. They actually + dressed ludicrously alike. The Celebrity became so sensitive about it that + he went back to New York before the party broke up. We grew to be quite + fond of the bicycle man.” + </p> + <p> + She paused and shifted her chair, which had rocked close to mine. + </p> + <p> + “And can you account for his coming to Asquith?” I asked innocently. + </p> + <p> + She was plainly embarrassed. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I might account for it, Mr. Crocker,” she replied. Then she + added, with something of an impulse, “After all, it is foolish of me not + to tell you. You probably know the Celebrity well enough to have learned + that he takes idiotic fancies to young women.” + </p> + <p> + “Not always idiotic,” I protested. + </p> + <p> + “You mean that the young women are not always idiotic, I suppose. No, not + always, but nearly always. I imagine he got the idea of coming to + Asquith,” she went on with a change of manner, “because I chanced to + mention that I was coming out here on a visit.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” I remarked, and there words failed me. + </p> + <p> + Her mouth was twitching with merriment. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid you will have to solve the rest of it for yourself, Mr. + Crocker,” said she; “that is all of my contribution. My uncle tells me you + are the best lawyer in the country, and I am surprised that you are so + slow in getting at motives.” + </p> + <p> + And I did attempt to solve it on my way back to Asquith. The conclusion I + settled to, everything weighed, was this: that the Celebrity had become + infatuated with Miss Thorn (I was far from blaming him for that) and had + followed her first to Epsom and now to Asquith. And he had chosen to come + West incognito partly through the conceit which he admitted and gloried + in, and partly because he believed his prominence sufficient to obtain for + him an unpleasant notoriety if he continued long enough to track the same + young lady about the country. Hence he had taken the trouble to advertise + a trip abroad to account for his absence. Undoubtedly his previous + conquests had been made more easily, for my second talk with Miss Thorn + had put my mind at rest as to her having fallen a victim to his + fascinations. Her arrival at Mohair being delayed, the Celebrity had come + nearly a month too soon, and in the interval that tendency of which he was + the dupe still led him by the nose; he must needs make violent love to the + most attractive girl on the ground,—Miss Trevor. Now that one still + more attractive had arrived I was curious to see how he would steer + between the two, for I made no doubt that matters had progressed rather + far with Miss Trevor. And in this I was not mistaken. + </p> + <p> + But his choice of the name of Charles Wrexell Allen bothered me + considerably. I finally decided that he had taken it because convenient, + and because he believed Asquith to be more remote from the East than the + Sandwich Islands. + </p> + <p> + Reaching the inn grounds, I climbed the hillside to a favorite haunt of + mine, a huge boulder having a sloping back covered with soft turf. Hence I + could watch indifferently both lake and sky. Presently, however, I was + aroused by voices at the foot of the rock, and peering over the edge I + discovered a kind of sewing-circle gathered there. The foliage hid me + completely. I perceived the Celebrity perched upon the low branch of an + apple-tree, and Miss Trevor below him, with two other girls, doing + fancy-work. I shall not attempt to defend the morality of my action, but I + could not get away without discovery, and the knowledge that I had heard a + part of their conversation might prove disquieting to them. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity had just published a book, under the title of 'The + Sybarites', which was being everywhere discussed; and Asquith, where + summer reading was general, came in for its share of the debate. Why it + was called The Sybarites I have never discovered. I did not read the book + because I was sick and tired of the author and his nonsense, but I + imbibed, in spite of myself, something of the story and its moral from + hearing it talked about. The Celebrity himself had listened to arguments + on the subject with great serenity, and was nothing loth to give his + opinion when appealed to. I realized at once that 'The Sybarites' was the + present topic. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is rather an uncommon book,” he was saying languidly, “but there + is no use writing a story unless it is uncommon.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear, how I should like to meet the author!” exclaimed a voice. “He must + be a charming man, and so young, too! I believe you said you knew him, Mr. + Allen.” + </p> + <p> + “An old acquaintance,” he answered, “and I am always reminding him that + his work is overestimated.” + </p> + <p> + “How can you say he is overestimated!” said a voice. + </p> + <p> + “You men are all jealous of him,” said another. + </p> + <p> + “Is he handsome? I have heard he is.” + </p> + <p> + “He would scarcely be called so,” said the Celebrity, doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + “He is, girls,” Miss Trevor interposed; “I have seen his photograph.” + </p> + <p> + “What does he look like, Irene?” they chorused. “Men are no judges.” + </p> + <p> + “He is tall, and dark, and broad-shouldered,” Miss Trevor enumerated, as + though counting her stitches, “and he has a very firm chin, and a straight + nose, and—” + </p> + <p> + “Perfect!” they cried. “I had an idea he was just like that. I should go + wild about him. Does he talk as well as he writes, Mr. Allen?” + </p> + <p> + “That is admitting that he writes well.” + </p> + <p> + “Admitting?” they shouted scornfully, “and don't you admit it?” + </p> + <p> + “Some people like his writing, I have to confess,” said the Celebrity, + with becoming calmness; “certainly his personality could not sell an + edition of thirty thousand in a month. I think 'The Sybarites' the best of + his works.” + </p> + <p> + “Upon my word, Mr. Allen, I am disgusted with you,” said the second voice; + “I have not found a man yet who would speak a good word for him. But I did + not think it of you.” + </p> + <p> + A woman's tongue, like a firearm, is a dangerous weapon, and often strikes + where it is least expected. I saw with a wicked delight that the shot had + told, for the Celebrity blushed to the roots of his hair, while Miss + Trevor dropped three or four stitches. + </p> + <p> + “I do not see how you can expect men to like 'The Sybarites',” she said, + with some heat; “very few men realize or care to realize what a small + chance the average woman has. I know marriage isn't a necessary goal, but + most women, as well as most men, look forward to it at some time of life, + and, as a rule, a woman is forced to take her choice of the two or three + men that offer themselves, no matter what they are. I admire a man who + takes up the cudgels for women, as he has done.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course we admire him,” they cried, as soon as Miss Trevor had stopped + for breath. + </p> + <p> + “And can you expect a man to like a book which admits that women are the + more constant?” she went on. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Irene, you are quite rabid on the subject,” said the second voice; + “I did not say I expected it. I only said I had hoped to find Mr. Allen, + at least, broad enough to agree with the book.” + </p> + <p> + “Doesn't Mr. Allen remind you a little of Desmond?” asked the first voice, + evidently anxious to avoid trouble. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know whom he took for Desmond, Mr. Allen? I have an idea it was + himself.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Allen, had now recovered some of his composure. + </p> + <p> + “If so, it was done unconsciously,” he said. “I suppose an author must put + his best thoughts in the mouth of his hero.” + </p> + <p> + “But it is like him?” she insisted. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he holds the same views.” + </p> + <p> + “Which you do not agree with.” + </p> + <p> + “I have not said I did not agree with them,” he replied, taking up his own + defence; “the point is not that men are more inconstant than women, but + that women have more excuse for inconstancy. If I remember correctly, + Desmond, in a letter to Rosamond, says: 'Inconstancy in a woman, because + of the present social conditions, is often pardonable. In a man, nothing + is more despicable.' I think that is so. I believe that a man should stick + by the woman to whom he has given his word as closely as he sticks by his + friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” exclaimed the aggressive second voice, “that is all very well. But + how about the woman to whom he has not given his word? Unfortunately, the + present social conditions allow a man to go pretty far without a definite + statement.” + </p> + <p> + At this I could not refrain from looking at Miss Trevor. She was bending + over her knitting and had broken her thread. + </p> + <p> + “It is presumption for a man to speak without some foundation,” said the + Celebrity, “and wrong unless he is sure of himself.” + </p> + <p> + “But you must admit,” the second voice continued, “that a man has no right + to amuse himself with a woman, and give her every reason to believe he is + going to marry her save the only manly and substantial one. And yet that + is something which happens every day. What do you think of a man who + deserts a woman under those conditions?” + </p> + <p> + “He is a detestable dog, of course,” declared the Celebrity. + </p> + <p> + And the cock in the inn yard was silent. + </p> + <p> + “I should love to be able to quote from a book at will,” said the quieting + voice, for the sake of putting an end to an argument which bid fair to + become disagreeable. “How do you manage to do it?” + </p> + <p> + “It was simply a passage that stuck in my mind,” he answered modestly; + “when I read a book I pick them up just as a roller picks up a sod here + and there as it moves over the lawn.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think you might write, Mr. Allen, you have such an original way + of putting things!” + </p> + <p> + “I have thought of it,” returned the Celebrity, “and I may, some fine + day.” + </p> + <p> + Wherewith he thrust his hands into his pockets and sauntered off with + equanimity undisturbed, apparently unaware of the impression he had left + behind him. And the Fifth Reader story popped into my head of good King + William (or King Frederick, I forgot which), who had a royal fancy for + laying aside the gayeties of the court and straying incognito among his + plainer subjects, but whose princely origin was invariably detected in + spite of any disguise his Majesty could invent. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII + </h2> + <p> + I experienced a great surprise a few mornings afterwards. I had risen + quite early, and found the Celebrity's man superintending the hoisting of + luggage on top of a van. + </p> + <p> + “Is your master leaving?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “He's off to Mohair now, sir,” said the valet, with a salute. + </p> + <p> + At that instant the Celebrity himself appeared. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, old chap, I'm off to Mohair,” he explained. “There's more sport in a + day up there than you get here in a season. Beastly slow place, this, + unless one is a deacon or a doctor of divinity. Why don't you come up, + Crocker? Cooke would like nothing better; he has told me so a dozen + times.” + </p> + <p> + “He is very good,” I replied. I could not resist the temptation to add, “I + had an idea Asquith rather suited your purposes just now.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't quite understand,” he said, jumping at the other half of my + meaning. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, nothing. But you told me when you came here, if I am not mistaken, + that you chose Asquith because of those very qualities for which you now + condemn it.” + </p> + <p> + “Magna est vis consuetudinis,” he laughed; “I thought I could stand the + life, but I can't. I am tired of their sects and synods and sermons. By + the way,” said he pulling at my sleeve, “what a deuced pretty girl that + Miss Thorn is! Isn't she? Rollins, where's the cart? Well, good-bye, + Crocker; see you soon.” + </p> + <p> + He drove rapidly off as the clock struck six, and an uneasy glance he gave + the upper windows did not escape me. When Farrar appeared, I told him what + had happened. + </p> + <p> + “Good riddance,” he replied sententiously. + </p> + <p> + We sat in silence until the bell rang, looking at the morning sun on the + lake. I was a little anxious to learn the state of Farrar's feelings in + regard to Miss Trevor, and how this new twist in affairs had affected + them. But I might as well have expected one of King Louis's carp to + whisper secrets of the old regime. The young lady came to the + breakfast-table looking so fresh and in such high spirits that I made sure + she had not heard of the Celebrity's ignoble escape. As the meal proceeded + it was easy to mark that her eye now and again fell across his empty + chair, and glanced inquiringly towards the door. I made up my mind that I + would not be the bearer of evil news, and so did Farrar, so we kept up a + vapid small-talk with Mr. Trevor on the condition of trade in the West. + Miss Trevor, however, in some way came to suspect that we could account + for that vacant seat. At last she fixed her eye inquiringly on me, and I + trembled. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker,” she began, and paused. Then she added with a fair + unconcern, “do you happen to know where Mr. Allen is this morning?” + </p> + <p> + “He has gone over to Mohair, I believe,” I replied weakly. + </p> + <p> + “To Mohair!” she exclaimed, putting down her cup; “why, he promised to go + canoeing at ten. + </p> + <p> + “Probably he will be back by then,” I ventured, not finding it in my heart + to tell her the cruel truth. But I kept my eyes on my plate. They say a + lie has short legs. Mine had, for my black friend, Simpson, was at that + instant taking off the fruit, and overheard my remark. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Allen done gone for good,” he put in, “done give me five dollars last + night. Why, sah,” he added, scratching his head, “you was on de poch dis + mornin' when his trunks was took away!” + </p> + <p> + It was certainly no time to quibble then. + </p> + <p> + “His trunks!” Miss Trevor exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he has left us and gone to Mohair,” I said, “bag and baggage. That + is the flat truth of it.” + </p> + <p> + I suppose there is some general rule for calculating beforehand how a + young woman is going to act when news of this sort is broken. I had no + notion of what Miss Trevor would do. I believe Farrar thought she would + faint, for he laid his napkin on the table. She did nothing of the kind, + but said simply: + </p> + <p> + “How unreliable men are!” + </p> + <p> + I fell to guessing what her feelings were; for the life of me I could not + tell from her face. I was sorry for Miss Trevor in spite of the fact that + she had neglected to ask my advice before falling in love with the + Celebrity. I asked her to go canoeing with me. She refused kindly but very + firmly. + </p> + <p> + It is needless to say that the Celebrity did not come back to the inn, and + as far as I could see the desertion was designed, cold-blooded, and + complete. Miss Trevor remained out of sight during the day of his + departure, and at dinner we noticed traces of a storm about her,—a + storm which had come and gone. There was an involuntary hush as she + entered the dining-room, for Asquith had been buzzing that afternoon over + the episode. And I admired the manner in which she bore her inspection. + Already rumors of the cause of Mr. Allen's departure were in active + circulation, and I was astonished to learn that he had been seen that day + seated upon Indian rock with Miss Thorn herself. This piece of news gave + me a feeling of insecurity about people, and about women in particular, + that I had never before experienced. After holding the Celebrity up to + such unmeasured ridicule as she had done, ridicule not without a seasoning + of contempt, it was difficult to believe Miss Thorn so inconsistent as to + go alone with him to Indian rock; and she was not ignorant of Miss + Trevor's experience. But the fact was attested by trustworthy persons. + </p> + <p> + I have often wondered what prompted me to ask Miss Trevor again to go + canoeing. To do myself justice, it was no wish of mine to meddle with or + pry into her affairs. Neither did I flatter myself that my poor company + would be any consolation for that she had lost. I shall not try to analyze + my motive. Suffice it to record that she accepted this second invitation, + and I did my best to amuse her by relating a few of my experiences at the + bar, and I told that memorable story of Farrar throwing O'Meara into the + street. We were getting along famously, when we descried another canoe + passing us at some distance, and we both recognized the Celebrity at the + paddle by the flannel jacket of his college boat club. And Miss Thorn sat + in the bow! + </p> + <p> + “Do you know anything about that man, Miss Trevor?” I asked abruptly. + </p> + <p> + She grew scarlet, but replied: + </p> + <p> + “I know that he is a fraud.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything else?” + </p> + <p> + “I can't say that I do; that is, nothing but what he has told me.” + </p> + <p> + “If you will forgive my curiosity,” I said, “what has he told you?” + </p> + <p> + “He says he is the author of The Sybarites,” she answered, her lip + curling, “but of course I do not believe that, now.” + </p> + <p> + “But that happens to be true,” I said, smiling. + </p> + <p> + She clapped her hands. + </p> + <p> + “I promised him I wouldn't tell,” she cried, “but the minute I get back to + the inn I shall publish it.” + </p> + <p> + “No, don't do that just yet,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Why not? Of course I shall.” + </p> + <p> + I had no definite reason, only a vague hope that we should get some better + sort of enjoyment out of the disclosure before the summer was over. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” I said, “he is always getting into scrapes; he is that kind of + a man. And it is my humble opinion that he has put his head into a noose + this time, for sure. Mr. Allen, of the 'Miles Standish Bicycle Company,' + whose name he has borrowed for the occasion, is enough like him in + appearance to be his twin brother.” + </p> + <p> + “He has borrowed another man's name!” she exclaimed; “why, that's + stealing!” + </p> + <p> + “No, merely kleptomania,” I replied; “he wouldn't be the other man if he + could. But it has struck me that the real Mr. Allen might turn up here, or + some friend of his, and stir things a bit. My advice to you is to keep + quiet, and we may have a comedy worth seeing.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she remarked, after she had got over a little of her astonishment, + “it would be great fun to tell, but I won't if you say so.” + </p> + <p> + I came to have a real liking for Miss Trevor. Farrar used to smile when I + spoke of this, and I never could induce him to go out with us in the + canoe, which we did frequently,—in fact, every day I was at Asquith, + except of course Sundays. And we grew to understand each other very well. + She looked upon me in the same light as did my other friends,—that + of a counsellor-at-law,—and I fell unconsciously into the role of + her adviser, in which capacity I was the recipient of many confidences I + would have got in no other way. That is, in no other way save one, and in + that I had no desire to go, even had it been possible. Miss Trevor was + only nineteen, and in her eyes I was at least sixty. + </p> + <p> + “See here, Miss Trevor,” I said to her one day after we had become more or + less intimate, “of course it's none of my business, but you didn't feel + very badly after the Celebrity went away, did you?” + </p> + <p> + Her reply was frank and rather staggering. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I did. I was engaged to him, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “Engaged to him! I had no idea he ever got that far,” I exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor laughed merrily. + </p> + <p> + “It was my fault,” she said; “I pinned him down, and he had to propose. + There was no way out of it. I don't mind telling you.” + </p> + <p> + I did not know whether to be flattered or aggrieved by this avowal. + </p> + <p> + “You know,” she went on, her tone half apologetic, “the day after he came + he told me who he was, and I wanted to stop the people we passed and + inform them of the lion I was walking with. And I was quite carried away + by the honor of his attentions: any girl would have been, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose so,” I assented. + </p> + <p> + “And I had heard and read so much of him, and I doted on his stories, and + all that. His heroes are divine, you must admit. And, Mr. Crocker,” she + concluded with a charming naivety, “I just made up my mind I would have + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Woman proposes, and man disposes,” I laughed. “He escaped in spite of + you.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at me queerly. + </p> + <p> + “Only a jest,” I said hurriedly; “your escape is the one to be thankful + for. You might have married him, like the young woman in The Sybarites. + You remember, do you not, that the hero of that book sacrifices himself + for the lady who adores him, but whom he has ceased to adore?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I remember,” she laughed; “I believe I know that book by heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Think of the countless girls he must have relieved of their affections + before their eyes were opened,” I continued with mock gravity. “Think of + the charred trail he has left behind him. A man of that sort ought to be + put under heavy bonds not to break any more hearts. But a kleptomaniac + isn't responsible, you understand. And it isn't worth while to bear any + malice.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I don't bear any malice now,” she said. “I did at first, naturally. + But it all seems very ridiculous now I have had time to think it over. I + believe, Mr. Crocker, that I never really cared for him.” + </p> + <p> + “Simply an idol shattered this time,” I suggested, “and not a heart + broken.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that's it,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to hear it,” said I, much pleased that she had taken such a + sensible view. “But you are engaged to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I was.” + </p> + <p> + “You have broken the engagement, then?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I—haven't,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Then he has broken it?” + </p> + <p> + She did not appear to resent this catechism. + </p> + <p> + “That's the strange part of it,” said Miss Trevor, “he hasn't even thought + it necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “It is clear, then, that you are still engaged to him,” said I, smiling at + her blank face. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I am,” she cried. “Isn't it awful? What shall I do, Mr. + Crocker? You are so sensible, and have had so much experience.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon,” I remarked grimly. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you know what I mean: not that kind of experience, of course. But + breach of promise cases and that sort of thing. I have a photograph of him + with something written over it.” + </p> + <p> + “Something compromising?” I inquired. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you would probably call it so,” she answered, reddening. “But there + is no need of my repeating it. And then I have a lot of other things. If I + write to break off the engagement I shall lose dignity, and it will appear + as though I had regrets. I don't wish him to think that, of all things. + What shall I do?” + </p> + <p> + “Do nothing,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Just that. Do not break the engagement, and keep the photograph and other + articles for evidence. If he makes any overtures, don't consider them for + an instant. And I think, Miss Trevor, you will succeed sooner or later in + making him very uncomfortable. Were he any one else I shouldn't advise + such a course, but you won't lose any dignity and self-respect by it, as + no one will be likely to hear of it. He can't be taken seriously, and + plainly he has never taken any one else so. He hasn't even gone to the + trouble to notify you that he does not intend marrying you.” + </p> + <p> + I saw from her expression that my suggestion was favorably entertained. + </p> + <p> + “What a joke it would be!” she cried delightedly. + </p> + <p> + “And a decided act of charity,” I added, “to the next young woman on his + list.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII + </h2> + <p> + The humor of my proposition appealed more strongly to Miss Trevor than I + had looked for, and from that time forward she became her old self again; + for, even after she had conquered her love for the Celebrity, the + mortification of having been jilted by him remained. Now she had come to + look upon the matter in its true proportions, and her anticipation of a + possible chance of teaching him a lesson was a pleasure to behold. Our + table in the dining-room became again the abode of scintillating wit and + caustic repartee, Farrar bracing up to his old standard, and the demand + for seats in the vicinity rose to an animated competition. Mr. Charles + Wrexell Allen's chair was finally awarded to a nephew of Judge Short, who + could turn a story to perfection. + </p> + <p> + So life at the inn settled down again to what it had been before the + Celebrity came to disturb it. + </p> + <p> + I had my own reasons for staying away from Mohair. More than once as I + drove over to the county-seat in my buggy I had met the Celebrity on a + tall tandem cart, with one of Mr. Cooke's high-steppers in the lead, and + Miss Thorn in the low seat. I had forgotten to mention that my friend was + something of a whip. At such times I would bow very civilly and pass on; + not without a twinge, I confess. And as the result of one of these + meetings I had to retrace several miles of my road for a brief I had + forgotten. After that I took another road, several miles longer, for the + sight of Miss Thorn with him seriously disturbed my peace of mind. But at + length the day came, as I had feared, when circumstances forced me to go + to my client's place. One morning Miss Trevor and I were about stepping + into the canoe for our customary excursion when one of Mr. Cooke's footmen + arrived with a note for each of us. They were from Mrs. Cooke, and + requested the pleasure of our company that day for luncheon. “If you were + I, would you go?” Miss Trevor asked doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + “But the consequences may be unpleasant.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't let them,” I said. “Of what use is tact to a woman if not for just + such occasions?” + </p> + <p> + My invitation had this characteristic note tacked on the end of it + </p> + <p> + “DEAR CROCKER: Where are you? Where is the judge? F. F. C.” + </p> + <p> + I corralled the judge, and we started off across the fields, in no very + mild state of fear of that gentleman's wife, whose vigilance was seldom + relaxed. And thus we came by a circuitous route to Mohair, the judge + occupied by his own guilty thoughts, and I by others not less disturbing. + My client welcomed the judge with that warmth of manner which grappled so + many of his friends to his heart, and they disappeared together into the + Ethiopian card-room, which was filled with the assegais and exclamation + point shields Mr. Cooke had had made at the Sawmill at Beaverton. + </p> + <p> + I learned from one of the lords-in-waiting loafing about the hall that + Mrs. Cooke was out on the golf links, chaperoning some of the Asquith + young women whose mothers had not seen fit to ostracize Mohair. Mr. + Cooke's ten friends were with them. But this discreet and dignified + servant could not reveal the whereabouts of Miss Thorn and of Mr. Allen, + both of whom I was decidedly anxious to avoid. I was much disgusted, + therefore, to come upon the Celebrity in the smoking-room, writing + rapidly, with, sheets of manuscript piled beside him. And he was quite + good-natured over my intrusion. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said he, “don't go. It's only a short story I promised for a + Christmas number. They offered me fifteen cents a word and promised to put + my name on the cover in red, so I couldn't very well refuse. It's no + inspiration, though, I tell you that.” He rose and pressed a bell behind + him and ordered whiskeys and ginger ales, as if he were in a hotel. “Sit + down, Crocker,” he said, waving me to a morocco chair. “Why don't you come + over to see us oftener?” + </p> + <p> + “I've been quite busy,” I said. + </p> + <p> + This remark seemed to please him immensely. + </p> + <p> + “What a sly old chap you are,” said he; “really, I shall have to go back + to the inn and watch you.” + </p> + <p> + “What the deuce do you mean?” I demanded. + </p> + <p> + He looked me over in well-bred astonishment and replied: + </p> + <p> + “Hang me, Crocker, if I can make you out. You seem to know the world + pretty well, and yet when a fellow twits you on a little flirtation you + act as though you were going to black his eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “A little flirtation!” I repeated, aghast. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, well,” he said, smiling, “we won't quarrel over a definition. Call it + anything you like.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you think this a little uncalled for?” I asked, beginning to lose + my temper. + </p> + <p> + “Bless you, no. Not among friends: not among such friends as we are.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't know we were such devilish good friends,” I retorted warmly. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, we are, devilish good friends,” he answered with assurance; + “known each other from boyhood, and all that. And I say, old chap,” he + added, “you needn't be jealous of me, you know. I got out of that long + ago. And I'm after something else now.” + </p> + <p> + For a space I was speechless. Then the ludicrous side of the matter struck + me, and I laughed in spite of myself. Better, after all, to deal with a + fool according to his folly. The Celebrity glanced at the door and drew + his chair closer to mine. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” he said confidentially, “I'm glad you came here to-day. There + is a thing or two I wished to consult you about.” + </p> + <p> + “Professional?” I asked, trying to head him off. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he replied, “amateur,—beastly amateur. A bungle, if I ever + made one. The truth is, I executed rather a faux pas over there at + Asquith. Tell me,” said he, diving desperately at the root of it, “how + does Miss Trevor feel about my getting out? I meant to let her down + easier; 'pon my word, I did.” + </p> + <p> + This is a way rascals have of judging other men by themselves. + </p> + <p> + “Well;” said I, “it was rather a blow, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” he assented. + </p> + <p> + “And all the more unexpected,” I went on, “from a man who has written + reams on constancy.” + </p> + <p> + I flatter myself that this nearly struck home, for he was plainly annoyed. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, bother that!” said he. “How many gowns believe in their own sermons? + How many lawyers believe in their own arguments?” + </p> + <p> + “Unhappily, not as many as might.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't object to telling you, old chap,” he continued, “that I went in a + little deeper than I intended. A good deal deeper, in fact. Miss Trevor is + a deuced fine girl, and all that; but absolutely impossible. I forgot + myself, and I confess I was pretty close to caught.” + </p> + <p> + “I congratulate you,” I said gravely. + </p> + <p> + “That's the point of it. I don't know that I'm out of the woods yet. I + wanted to see you and find out how she was acting.” + </p> + <p> + My first impulse was to keep him in hot water. Fortunately I thought + twice. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know anything about Miss Trevor's feelings—” I began. + </p> + <p> + “Naturally not—” he interrupted, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “But I have a notion that, if she ever fancied you, she doesn't care a + straw for you to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Doesn't she now,” he replied somewhat regretfully. Here was one of the + knots in his character I never could untie. + </p> + <p> + “Understand, that is simply my guess,” I said. “You must have discovered + that it is never possible to be sure of a woman's feelings.” + </p> + <p> + “Found that out long ago,” he replied with conviction, and added: “Then + you think I need not anticipate any trouble from her?” + </p> + <p> + “I have told you what I think,” I answered; “you know better than I what + the situation is.” + </p> + <p> + He still lingered. + </p> + <p> + “Does she appear to be in,—ah,—in good spirits?” + </p> + <p> + I had work to keep my face straight. + </p> + <p> + “Capital,” I said; “I never saw her happier.” + </p> + <p> + This seemed to satisfy him. + </p> + <p> + “Downcast at first, happy now,” he remarked thoughtfully. “Yes, she got + over it. I'm much obliged to you, Crocker.” + </p> + <p> + I left him to finish his short story and walked out across the circle of + smooth lawn towards the golf links. And there I met Mrs. Cooke and her + niece coming in together. The warm red of her costume became Miss Thorn + wonderfully, and set off the glossy black of her hair. And her skin was + glowing from the exercise. An involuntary feeling of admiration for this + tall, athletic young woman swept over me, and I halted in my steps for no + other reason, I believe, than that I might look upon her the longer. + </p> + <p> + What man, I thought resentfully, would not travel a thousand miles to be + near her? + </p> + <p> + “It is Mr. Crocker,” said Mrs. Cooke; “I had given up all hope of ever + seeing you again. Why have you been such a stranger?” + </p> + <p> + “As if you didn't know, Aunt Maria,” Miss Thorn put in gayly. + </p> + <p> + “Oh yes, I know,” returned her aunt, “and I have not been foolish enough + to invite the bar without the magnet. And yet, Mr. Crocker,” she went on + playfully, “I had imagined that you were the one man in a hundred who did + not need an inducement.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn began digging up the turf with her lofter: it was a painful + moment for me. + </p> + <p> + “You might at least have tried me, Mrs. Cooke,” I said. + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn looked up quickly from the ground, her eyes searchingly upon my + face. And Mrs. Cooke seemed surprised. + </p> + <p> + “We are glad you came, at any rate,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + And at luncheon my seat was next to Miss Thorn's, while the Celebrity was + placed at the right of Miss Trevor. I observed that his face went blank + from time to time at some quip of hers: even a dull woman may be sharp + under such circumstances, and Miss Trevor had wits to spare. And I marked + that she never allowed her talk with him to drift into deep water; when + there was danger of this she would draw the entire table into their + conversation by some adroit remark, or create a laugh at his expense. As + for me, I held a discreet if uncomfortable silence, save for the few words + which passed between Miss Thorn and me. Once or twice I caught her covert + glance on me. But I felt, and strongly, that there could be no friendship + between us now, and I did not care to dissimulate merely for the sake of + appearances. Besides, I was not a little put out over the senseless piece + of gossip which had gone abroad concerning me. + </p> + <p> + It had been arranged as part of the day's programme that Mr. Cooke was to + drive those who wished to go over the Rise in his new brake. But the table + was not graced by our host's presence, Mrs. Cooke apologizing for him, + explaining that he had disappeared quite mysteriously. It turned out that + he and the judge had been served with luncheon in the Ethiopian card-room, + and neither threats nor fair words could draw him away. The judge had not + held such cards for years, and it was in vain that I talked to him of + consequences. The Ten decided to remain and watch a game which was + pronounced little short of phenomenal, and my client gave orders for the + smaller brake and requested the Celebrity to drive. And this he was + nothing loth to do. For the edification as well as the assurance of the + party Mr. Allen explained, while we were waiting under the porte cochere, + how he had driven the Windsor coach down Piccadilly at the height of the + season, with a certain member of Parliament and noted whip on the box + seat. + </p> + <p> + And, to do him justice, he could drive. He won the instant respect of Mr. + Cooke's coachman by his manner of taking up the lines, and clinched it + when he dropped a careless remark concerning the off wheeler. And after + the critical inspection of the horses which is proper he climbed up on the + box. There was much hesitation among the ladies as to who should take the + seat of honor: Mrs. Cooke declining, it was pressed upon Miss Thorn. But + she, somewhat to my surprise, declined also, and it was finally filled by + a young woman from Asquith. + </p> + <p> + As we drove off I found myself alone with Mrs. Cooke's niece on the seat + behind. + </p> + <p> + The day was cool and snappy for August, and the Rise all green with a + lavish nature. Now we, plunged into a deep shade with the boughs lacing + each other overhead, and crossed dainty, rustic bridges over the cold + trout-streams, the boards giving back the clatter of our horses' feet: or + anon we shot into a clearing, with a colored glimpse of the lake and its + curving shore far below us. I had always loved that piece of country since + the first look I had of it from the Asquith road, and the sight of it + rarely failed to set my blood a-tingle with pleasure. But to-day I + scarcely saw it. I wondered what whim had impelled Miss Thorn to get into + this seat. She paid but little attention to me during the first part of + the drive, though a mere look in my direction seemed to afford her + amusement. And at last, half way up the Rise, where the road takes to an + embankment, I got a decided jar. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Allen,” she cried to the Celebrity, “you must stop here. Do you + remember how long we tarried over this bit on Friday?” + </p> + <p> + He tightened the lines and threw a meaning glance backward. + </p> + <p> + I was tempted to say: + </p> + <p> + “You and Mr. Allen should know these roads rather well, Miss Thorn.” + </p> + <p> + “Every inch of them,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + We must have gone a mile farther when she turned upon me. + </p> + <p> + “It is your duty to be entertaining, Mr. Crocker. What in the world are + you thinking of, with your brow all puckered up, forbidding as an owl?” + </p> + <p> + “I was thinking how some people change,” I answered, with a readiness + which surprised me. + </p> + <p> + “Strange,” she said, “I had the same thing in mind. I hear decidedly queer + tales of you; canoeing every day that business does not prevent, and whole + evenings spent at the dark end of a veranda.” + </p> + <p> + “What rubbish!” I exclaimed, not knowing whether to be angered or amused. + </p> + <p> + “Come, sir,” she said, with mock sternness, “answer the charge. Guilty or + not guilty?” + </p> + <p> + “First let me make a counter-charge,” said I; “you have given me the + right. Not long ago a certain young lady came to Mohair and found there a + young author of note with whom she had had some previous acquaintance. She + did not hesitate to intimate her views on the character of this Celebrity, + and her views were not favorable.” + </p> + <p> + I paused. There was some satisfaction in seeing Miss Thorn biting her lip. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all favorable, mind you,” I went on. “And the young lady's general + appearance was such as to lead one to suppose her the sincerest of + persons. Now I am at a loss to account for a discrepancy between her words + and her actions.” + </p> + <p> + While I talked Miss Thorn's face had been gradually turning from mine + until now I saw only the dainty knot at the back of her head. Her + shoulders were quivering with laughter. But presently her face came back + all gravity, save a suspicious gleam of mirth in the eyes. + </p> + <p> + “It does seem inconsistent, Mr. Crocker; I grant you that. No doubt it is + so. But let me ask you something: did you ever yet know a woman who was + not inconsistent?” + </p> + <p> + I did not realize I had been side-tracked until I came to think over this + conversation afterwards. + </p> + <p> + “I am not sure,” I replied. “Perhaps I merely hoped that one such + existed.” + </p> + <p> + She dropped her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Then don't be surprised at my failing,” said she. “No doubt I criticised + the Celebrity severely. I cannot recall what I said. But it is upon the + better side of a character that we must learn to look. Did it ever strike + you that the Celebrity had some exceedingly fine qualities?” + </p> + <p> + “No, it did not,” I answered positively. + </p> + <p> + “Nevertheless, he has,” she went on, in all apparent seriousness. “He + drives almost as well as Uncle Farquhar, dances well, and is a capital + paddle.” + </p> + <p> + “You were speaking of qualities, not accomplishments,” I said. A horrible + suspicion that she was having a little fun at my expense crossed my mind. + </p> + <p> + “Very good, then. You must admit that he is generous to a fault, amiable; + and persevering, else he would never have attained the position he enjoys. + And his affection for you, Mr. Crocker, is really touching, considering + how little he gets in return.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, Miss Thorn,” I said severely, “this is ridiculous. I don't like + him, and never shall. I liked him once, before he took to writing drivel. + But he must have been made over since then. And what is more, with all + respect to your opinion, I don't believe he likes me.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn straightened up with dignity and said: + </p> + <p> + “You do him an injustice. But perhaps you will learn to appreciate him + before he leaves Mohair.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not likely,” I replied—not at all pleasantly, I fear. And + again I thought I observed in her the same desire to laugh she had before + exhibited. + </p> + <p> + And all the way back her talk was of nothing except the Celebrity. I tried + every method short of absolute rudeness to change the subject, and went + from silence to taciturnity and back again to silence. She discussed his + books and his mannerisms, even the growth of his popularity. She repeated + anecdotes of him from Naples to St. Petersburg, from Tokio to Cape Town. + And when we finally stopped under the porte cochere I had scarcely the + civility left to say good-bye. + </p> + <p> + I held out my hand to help her to the ground, but she paused on the second + step. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker,” she observed archly, “I believe you once told me you had + not known many girls in your life.” + </p> + <p> + “True,” I said; “why do you ask?” + </p> + <p> + “I wished to be sure of it,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + And jumping down without my assistance, she laughed and disappeared into + the house. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0011" id="link2H_4_0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + VOLUME 3. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX + </h2> + <p> + That evening I lighted a cigar and went down to sit on the outermost pile + of the Asquith dock to commune with myself. To say that I was disappointed + in Miss Thorn would be to set a mild value on my feelings. I was angry, + even aggressive, over her defence of the Celebrity. I had gone over to + Mohair that day with a hope that some good reason was at the bottom of her + tolerance for him, and had come back without any hope. She not only + tolerated him, but, wonderful to be said, plainly liked him. Had she not + praised him, and defended him, and become indignant when I spoke my mind + about him? And I would have taken my oath, two weeks before, that nothing + short of hypnotic influence could have changed her. By her own confession + she had come to Asquith with her eyes opened, and, what was more, seen + another girl wrecked on the same reef. + </p> + <p> + Farrar followed me out presently, and I had an impulse to submit the + problem as it stood to him. But it was a long story, and I did not believe + that if he were in my boots he would have consulted me. Again, I sometimes + thought Farrar yearned for confidences, though it was impossible for him + to confide. And he wore an inviting air to-night. Then, as everybody + knows, there is that about twilight and an after-dinner cigar which leads + to communication. They are excellent solvents. My friend seated himself on + the pile next to mine, and said, + </p> + <p> + “It strikes me you have been behaving rather queer lately, Crocker.” + </p> + <p> + This was clearly an invitation from Farrar, and I melted. + </p> + <p> + “I admit,” said I, “that I am a good deal perplexed over the + contradictions of the human mind.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, is that all?” he replied dryly. “I supposed it was worse. Narrower, I + mean. Didn't know you ever bothered yourself with abstract philosophy.” + </p> + <p> + “See here, Farrar,” said I, “what is your opinion of Miss Thorn?” + </p> + <p> + He stopped kicking his feet against the pile and looked up. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Thorn?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Miss Thorn,” I repeated with emphasis. I knew he had in mind that + abominable twaddle about the canoe excursions. + </p> + <p> + “Why, to tell the truth,” said he, “I never had any opinion of Miss + Thorn.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean you never formed any, I suppose,” I returned with some tartness. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is it. How darned precise you are getting, Crocker! One would + think you were going to write a rhetoric. What put Miss Thorn into your + head?” + </p> + <p> + “I have been coaching beside her this afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” said Farrar. + </p> + <p> + “Do you remember the night she came,” I asked, “and we sat with her on the + Florentine porch, and Charles Wrexell recognized her and came up?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he replied with awakened interest, “and I meant to ask you about + that.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Thorn had met him in the East. And I gathered from what she told me + that he has followed her out here.” + </p> + <p> + “Shouldn't wonder,” said Farrar. “Don't much blame him, do you? Is that + what troubles you?” he asked, in surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Not precisely,” I answered vaguely; “but from what she has said then and + since, she made it pretty clear that she hadn't any use for him; saw + through him, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “Pity her if she didn't. But what did she say?” + </p> + <p> + I repeated the conversations I had had with Miss Thorn, without revealing + Mr. Allen's identity with the celebrated author. + </p> + <p> + “That is rather severe,” he assented. + </p> + <p> + “He decamped for Mohair, as you know, and since that time she has gone + back on every word of it. She is with him morning and evening, and, to + crown all, stood up for him through thick and thin to-day, and praised + him. What do you think of that?” + </p> + <p> + “What I should have expected in a woman,” said he, nonchalantly. + </p> + <p> + “They aren't all alike,” I retorted. + </p> + <p> + He shook out his pipe, and getting down from his high seat laid his hand + on my knee. + </p> + <p> + “I thought so once, old fellow,” he whispered, and went off down the dock. + </p> + <p> + This was the nearest Farrar ever came to a confidence. + </p> + <p> + I have now to chronicle a curious friendship which had its beginning at + this time. The friendships of the other sex are quickly made, and + sometimes as quickly dissolved. This one interested me more than I care to + own. The next morning Judge Short, looking somewhat dejected after the + overnight conference he had had with his wife, was innocently and somewhat + ostentatiously engaged in tossing quoits with me in front of the inn, when + Miss Thorn drove up in a basket cart. She gave me a bow which proved that + she bore no ill-will for that which I had said about her hero. Then Miss + Trevor appeared, and away they went together. This was the commencement. + Soon the acquaintance became an intimacy, and their lives a series of + visits to each other. Although this new state of affairs did not seem to + decrease the number of Miss Thorn's 'tete-a-tetes' with the Celebrity, it + put a stop to the canoe expeditions I had been in the habit of taking with + Miss Trevor, which I thought just as well under the circumstances. More + than once Miss Thorn partook of the inn fare at our table, and when this + happened I would make my escape before the coffee. For such was the nature + of my feelings regarding the Celebrity that I could not bring myself into + cordial relations with one who professed to admire him. I realize how + ridiculous such a sentiment must appear, but it existed nevertheless, and + most strongly. + </p> + <p> + I tried hard to throw Miss Thorn out of my thoughts, and very nearly + succeeded. I took to spending more and more of my time at the county-seat, + where I remained for days at a stretch, inventing business when there was + none. And in the meanwhile I lost all respect for myself as a sensible + man, and cursed the day the Celebrity came into the state. It seemed + strange that this acquaintance of my early days should have come back into + my life, transformed, to make it more or less miserable. The county-seat + being several miles inland, and lying in the midst of hills, could get + intolerably hot in September. At last I was driven out in spite of myself, + and I arrived at Asquith cross and dusty. As Simpson was brushing me off, + Miss Trevor came up the path looking cool and pretty in a summer gown, and + her face expressed sympathy. I have never denied that sympathy was a good + thing. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Crocker,” she cried, “I am so glad you are back again! We have + missed you dreadfully. And you look tired, poor man, quite worn out. It is + a shame you have to go over to that hot place to work.” + </p> + <p> + I agreed with her. + </p> + <p> + “And I never have any one to take me canoeing any more.” + </p> + <p> + “Let's go now,” I suggested, “before dinner.” + </p> + <p> + So we went. It was a keen pleasure to be on the lake again after the + sultry court-rooms and offices, and the wind and exercise quickly brought + back my appetite and spirits. I paddled hither and thither, stopping now + and then to lie under the pines at the mouth of some stream, while Miss + Trevor talked. She was almost a child in her eagerness to amuse me with + the happenings since my departure. This was always her manner with me, in + curious contrast to her habit of fencing and playing with words when in + company. Presently she burst out: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker, why is it that you avoid Miss Thorn? I was talking of you to + her only to-day, and she says you go miles out of your way to get out of + speaking to her; that you seemed to like her quite well at first. She + couldn't understand the change.” + </p> + <p> + “Did she say that?” I exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, she did; and I have noticed it, too. I saw you leave before + coffee more than once when she was here. I don't believe you know what a + fine girl she is.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, then, does she accept and return the attentions of the Celebrity?” I + inquired, with a touch of acidity. “She knows what he is as well, if not + better, than you or I. I own I can't understand it,” I said, the subject + getting ahead of me. “I believe she is in love with him.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor began to laugh; quietly at first, and, as her merriment + increased, heartily. + </p> + <p> + “Shouldn't we be getting back?” I asked, looking at my watch. “It lacks + but half an hour of dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “Please don't be angry, Mr. Crocker,” she pleaded. “I really couldn't help + laughing.” + </p> + <p> + “I was unaware I had said anything funny, Miss Trevor,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + “Of course you didn't,” she said more soberly; “that is, you didn't intend + to. But the very notion of Miss Thorn in love with the Celebrity is + funny.” + </p> + <p> + “Evidence is stronger than argument,” said I. “And now she has even + convicted herself.” + </p> + <p> + I started to paddle homeward, rather furiously, and my companion said + nothing until we came in sight of the inn. As the canoe glided into the + smooth surface behind the breakwater, she broke the silence. + </p> + <p> + “I heard you went fishing the other day,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “And the judge told me about a big bass you hooked, and how you played him + longer than was necessary for the mere fun of the thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you will find in the feeling that prompted you to do that a clue + to the character of our sex.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Cooke had had a sloop yacht built at Far Harbor, the completion of + which had been delayed, and which was but just delivered. She was, painted + white, with brass fittings, and under her stern, in big, black letters, + was the word Maria, intended as a surprise and delicate conjugal + compliment to Mrs. Cooke. The Maria had a cabin, which was finished in + hard wood and yellow plush, and accommodations for keeping things cold. + This last Mr. Cooke had insisted upon. + </p> + <p> + The skipper Mr. Cooke had hired at Far Harbor was a God-fearing man with a + luke warm interest in his new billet and employer, and had only been + prevailed upon to take charge of the yacht for the month after the offer + of an emolument equal to half a year's sea pay of an ensign in the navy. + His son and helper was to receive a sum proportionally exorbitant. This + worthy man sighted Mohair on a Sunday morning, and at nine o'clock dropped + his anchor with a salute which caused Mr. Cooke to say unpleasant things + in his sleep. After making things ship-shape and hoisting the jack, both + father and son rowed ashore to the little church at Asquith. + </p> + <p> + Now the butler at Mohair was a servant who had learned, from long + experience, to anticipate every wish and whim of his master, and from the + moment he descried the white sails of the yacht out of the windows of the + butler's pantry his duty was clear as daylight. Such was the comprehension + and despatch with which he gave his commands that the captain returned + from divine worship to find the Maria in profane hands, her immaculate + deck littered with straw and sawdust, and covered to the coamings with + bottles and cases. This decided the captain, he packed his kit in high + dudgeon, and took the first train back to Far Harbor, leaving the yacht to + her fate. + </p> + <p> + This sudden and inconsiderate departure was a severe blow to Mr. Cooke' + who was so constituted that he cared but little about anything until there + was danger of not getting it. My client had planned a trip to Bear Island + for the following Tuesday, which was to last a week, the party to bring + tents with them and rough it, with the Maria as headquarters. It was out + of the question to send to Far Harbor for another skipper, if, indeed, one + could be found at that late period. And as luck would have it, six of Mr. + Cooke's ten guests had left but a day or so since, and among them had been + the only yacht-owner. None of the four that remained could do more than + haul aft and belay a sheet. But the Celebrity, who chanced along as Mr. + Cooke was ruefully gazing at the graceful lines of the Maria from the + wharf and cursing the fate that kept him ashore with a stiff wind blowing, + proposed a way out of the difficulty. He, the Celebrity, would gladly sail + the Maria over to Bear Island provided another man could be found to + relieve him occasionally at the wheel, and the like. He had noticed that + Farrar was a capable hand in a boat, and suggested that he be sent for. + </p> + <p> + This suggestion Mr. Cooke thought so well of that he hurried over to + Asquith to consult Farrar at once, and incidentally to consult me. We can + hardly be blamed for receiving his overtures with a moderate enthusiasm. + In fact, we were of one mind not to go when the subject was first + broached. But my client had a persuasive way about him that was + irresistible, and the mere mention of the favors he had conferred upon + both of us at different periods of our lives was sufficient. We consented. + </p> + <p> + Thus it came to pass that Tuesday morning found the party assembled on the + wharf at Mohair, the Four and the Celebrity, as well as Mr. Cooke, having + produced yachting suits from their inexhaustible wardrobes. Mr. Trevor and + his daughter, Mrs. Cooke and Miss Thorn, and Farrar and myself completed + the party. We were to adhere strictly to primeval principles: the ladies + were not permitted a maid, while the Celebrity was forced to leave his + manservant, and Mr. Cooke his chef. I had, however, thrust into my pocket + the Minneapolis papers, which had been handed me by the clerk on their + arrival at the inn, which happened just as I was leaving. 'Quod bene + notandum!' + </p> + <p> + Thereby hangs a tale! + </p> + <p> + For the northern lakes the day was rather dead: a little wind lay in the + southeast, scarcely enough to break the water, with the sky an intense + blue. But the Maria was hardly cast and under way before it became + painfully apparent that the Celebrity was much better fitted to lead a + cotillon than to sail a boat. He gave his orders, nevertheless, in a firm, + seamanlike fashion, though with no great pertinence, and thus managed to + establish the confidence of Mr. Cooke. Farrar, after setting things to + rights, joined Mrs. Cooke and me over the cabin. + </p> + <p> + “How about hoisting the spinnaker, mate?” the Celebrity shouted after him. + </p> + <p> + Farrar did not deign to answer: his eye was on the wind. And the boom, + which had been acting uneasily, finally decided to gybe, and swept + majestically over, carrying two of the Four in front of it, and all but + dropped them into the water. + </p> + <p> + “A common occurrence in a light breeze,” we heard the Celebrity reassure + Mr. Cooke and Miss Thorn. + </p> + <p> + “The Maria has vindicated her sex,” remarked Farrar. + </p> + <p> + We laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you sail, Mr. Farrar?” asked Mrs. Cooke. + </p> + <p> + “He can't do any harm in this breeze,” Farrar replied; “it isn't strong + enough to get anywhere with.” + </p> + <p> + He was right. The boom gybed twenty times that morning, and the Celebrity + offered an equal number of apologies. Mr. Cooke and the Four vanished, and + from the uproarious laughter which arose from the cabin transoms I judged + they were telling stories. While Miss Thorn spent the time profitably in + learning how to conn a yacht. At one, when we had luncheon, Mohair was + still in the distance. At two it began to cloud over, the wind fell flat, + and an ominous black bank came up from the south. Without more ado, + Farrar, calling on me to give him a hand, eased down the halliards and + began to close reef the mainsail. + </p> + <p> + “Hold on,” said the Celebrity, “who told you to do that?” + </p> + <p> + “I am very sure you didn't,” Farrar returned, as he hauled out a reef + earing. + </p> + <p> + Here a few drops of rain on the deck warned the ladies to retire to the + cabin. + </p> + <p> + “Take the helm until I get my mackintosh, will you, Farrar?” said the + Celebrity, “and be careful what you do.” + </p> + <p> + Farrar took the helm and hauled in the sheet, while the Celebrity, Mr. + Cooke, and the guests donned their rain-clothes. The water ahead was now + like blue velvet, and the rain pelting. The Maria was heeling to the + squall by the time the Celebrity appeared at the cabin door, enveloped in + an ample waterproof, a rubber cover on his yachting cap. A fool despises a + danger he has never experienced, and our author, with a remark about a + spanking breeze, made a motion to take the wheel. But Farrar, the flannel + of his shirt clinging to the muscular outline of his shoulders, gave him a + push which sent him sprawling against the lee refrigerator. Well Miss + Thorn was not there to see. + </p> + <p> + “You will have to answer for this,” he cried, as he scrambled to his feet + and clutched the weather wash-board with one hand, while he shook the + other in Farrar's face. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” said Farrar to me, coolly, “keep that idiot out of the way for + a while, or we'll all be drowned. Tie him up, if necessary.” + </p> + <p> + I was relieved from this somewhat unpleasant task. Mr. Cooke, with his + back to the rain, sat an amused witness to the mutiny, as blissfully + ignorant as the Celebrity of the character of a lake squall. + </p> + <p> + “I appeal to you, as the owner of this yacht, Mr. Cooke,” the Celebrity + shouted, “whether, as the person delegated by you to take charge of it, I + am to suffer indignity and insult. I have sailed larger yachts than this + time and again on the coast, at—” here he swallowed a portion of a + wave and was mercifully prevented from being specific. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Cooke was looking a trifle bewildered. It was hardly possible for + him to cling to the refrigerator, much less quell a mutiny. One who has + sailed the lakes well knows how rapidly they can be lashed to fury by a + storm, and the wind was now spinning the tops of the waves into a blinding + spray. Although the Maria proved a stiff boat and a seaworthy, she was not + altogether without motion; and the set expression on Farrar's face would + have told me, had I not known it, that our situation at that moment was no + joke. Repeatedly, as she was held up to it, a precocious roller would + sweep from bow to stern, until we without coats were wet and shivering. + </p> + <p> + The close and crowded cabin of a small yacht is not an attractive place in + rough weather; and one by one the Four emerged and distributed themselves + about the deck, wherever they could obtain a hold. Some of them began to + act peculiarly. Upon Mr. Cooke's unwillingness or inability to interfere + in his behalf, the Celebrity had assumed an aggrieved demeanor, but soon + the motion of the Maria became more and more pronounced, and the + difficulty of maintaining his decorum likewise increased. The ruddy color + left his face, which grew pale with effort. I will do him the justice to + say that the effort was heroic: he whistled popular airs, and snatches of + the grand opera; he relieved Mr. Cooke of his glasses (of which Mr. Cooke + had neglected to relieve himself), and scanned the sea line busily. But + the inevitable deferred is frequently more violent than the inevitable + taken gracefully, and the confusion which at length overtook the Celebrity + was utter as his humiliation was complete. We laid him beside Mr. Cooke in + the cockpit. + </p> + <p> + The rain presently ceased, and the wind hauled, as is often the case, to + the northwest, which began to clear, while Bear Island rose from the + northern horizon. Both Farrar and I were surprised to see Miss Trevor come + out; she hooked back the cabin doors and surveyed the prostrate forms with + amusement. + </p> + <p> + We asked her about those inside. + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Cooke has really been very ill,” she said, “and Miss Thorn is doing + all she can for her. My father and I were more fortunate. But you will + both catch your deaths,” she exclaimed, noticing our condition. “Tell me + where I can find your coats.” + </p> + <p> + I suppose it is natural for a man to enjoy being looked after in this way; + it was certainly a new sensation to Farrar and myself. We assured her we + were drying out and did not need the coats, but nevertheless she went back + into the cabin and found them. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Thorn says you should both be whipped,” she remarked. + </p> + <p> + When we had put on our coats Miss Trevor sat down and began to talk. + </p> + <p> + “I once heard of a man,” she began complacently, “a man that was buried + alive, and who contrived to dig himself up and then read his own epitaph. + It did not please him, but he was wise and amended his life. I have often + thought how much it might help some people if they could read their own + epitaphs.” + </p> + <p> + Farrar was very quick at this sort of thing; and now that the steering had + become easier was only too glad to join her in worrying the Celebrity. But + he, if he were conscious, gave no sign of it. + </p> + <p> + “They ought to be buried so that they could not dig themselves up,” he + said. “The epitaphs would only strengthen their belief that they had lived + in an unappreciative age.” + </p> + <p> + “One I happen to have in mind, however, lives in an appreciative age. Most + appreciative.” + </p> + <p> + “And women are often epitaph-makers.” + </p> + <p> + “You are hard on the sex, Mr. Farrar,” she answered, “but perhaps justly + so. And yet there are some women I know of who would not write an epitaph + to his taste.” + </p> + <p> + Farrar looked at her curiously. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Do not imagine I am touchy on the subject,” she replied quickly; “some of + us are fortunate enough to have had our eyes opened.” + </p> + <p> + I thought the Celebrity stirred uneasily. + </p> + <p> + “Have you read The Sybarites?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + Farrar was puzzled. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said he sententiously, “and I don't want to.” + </p> + <p> + “I know the average man thinks it a disgrace to have read it. And you may + not believe me when I say that it is a strong story of its kind, with a + strong moral. There are men who might read that book and be a great deal + better for it. And, if they took the moral to heart, it would prove every + bit as effectual as their own epitaphs.” + </p> + <p> + He was not quite sure of her drift, but he perceived that she was still + making fun of Mr. Allen. + </p> + <p> + “And the moral?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she said, “the best I can do is to give you a synopsis of the + story, and then you can judge of its fitness. The hero is called Victor + Desmond. He is a young man of a sterling though undeveloped character, who + has been hampered by an indulgent parent with a large fortune. Desmond is + a butterfly, and sips life after the approved manner of his kind,—now + from Bohemian glass, now from vessels of gold and silver. He chats with + stage lights in their dressing-rooms, and attends a ball in the Bowery or + a supper at Sherry's with a ready versatility. The book, apart from its + intention, really gives the middle classes an excellent idea of what is + called 'high-life.' + </p> + <p> + “It is some time before Desmond discovers that he possesses the gift of + Paris,—a deliberation proving his lack of conceit,—that + wherever he goes he unwittingly breaks a heart, and sometimes two or + three. This discovery is naturally so painful that he comes home to his + chambers and throws himself on a lounge before his fire in a fit of + self-deprecation, and reflects on a misspent and foolish life. This, mind + you, is where his character starts to develop. And he makes a heroic + resolve, not to cut off his nose or to grow a beard, nor get married, but + henceforth to live a life of usefulness and seclusion, which was certainly + considerate. And furthermore, if by any accident he ever again involved + the affections of another girl he would marry her, be she as ugly as sin + or as poor as poverty. Then the heroine comes in. Her name is Rosamond, + which sounds well and may be euphoniously coupled with Desmond; and, with + the single exception of a boarding-school girl, she is the only young + woman he ever thought of twice. In order to save her and himself he goes + away, but the temptation to write to her overpowers him, and of course she + answers his letter. This brings on a correspondence. His letters take the + form of confessions, and are the fruits of much philosophical reflection. + 'Inconstancy in woman,' he says, because of the present social conditions, + is often pardonable. In a man, nothing is more despicable.' This is his + cardinal principle, and he sticks to it nobly. For, though he tires of + Rosamond, who is quite attractive, however, he marries her and lives a + life of self-denial. There are men who might take that story to heart.” + </p> + <p> + I was amused that she should give the passage quoted by the Celebrity + himself. Her double meaning was, naturally, lost on Farrar, but he enjoyed + the thing hugely, nevertheless, as more or less applicable to Mr. Allen. I + made sure that gentleman was sensible of what was being said, though he + scarcely moved a muscle. And Miss Trevor, with a mirthful glance at me + that was not without a tinge of triumph, jumped lightly to the deck and + went in to see the invalids. + </p> + <p> + We were now working up into the lee of the island, whose tall pines stood + clean and black against the red glow of the evening sky. Mr. Cooke began + to give evidences of life, and finally got up and overhauled one of the + ice-chests for a restorative. Farrar put into the little cove, where we + dropped anchor, and soon had the chief sufferers ashore; and a delicate + supper, in the preparation of which Miss Thorn showed her ability as a + cook, soon restored them. For my part, I much preferred Miss Thorn's + dishes to those of the Mohair chef, and so did Farrar. And the Four, + surprising as it may seem, made themselves generally useful about the camp + in pitching the tents under Farrar's supervision. But the Celebrity + remained apart and silent. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI + </h2> + <p> + Our first, night in the Bear Island camp passed without incident, and we + all slept profoundly, tired out by the labors of the day before. After + breakfast, the Four set out to explore, with trout-rods and shot-guns. + Bear Island is, with the exception of the cove into which we had put, as + nearly round as an island can be, and perhaps three miles in diameter. It + has two clear brooks which, owing to the comparative inaccessibility of + the place, still contain trout and grayling, though there are few spots + where a fly can be cast on account of the dense underbrush. The woods + contain partridge, or ruffed grouse, and other game in smaller quantities. + I believe my client entertained some notion of establishing a preserve + here. + </p> + <p> + The insults which had been heaped upon the Celebrity on the yacht seemed + to have raised rather than lowered him in Miss Thorn's esteem, for these + two ensconced themselves among the pines above the camp with an edition de + luxe of one of his works which she had brought along. They were soon + absorbed in one of those famous short stories of his with the ending left + open to discussion. Mr. Cooke was indisposed. He had not yet recovered + from the shaking up his system had sustained, and he took to a canvas easy + chair he had brought with him and placed a decanter of Scotch and a + tumbler of ice at his side. The efficacy of this remedy was assured. And + he demanded the bunch of newspapers he spied protruding from my pocket. + </p> + <p> + The rest of us were engaged in various occupations: Mr. Trevor relating + experiences of steamboat days on the Ohio to Mrs. Cooke; Miss Trevor + buried in a serial in the Century; and Farrar and I taking an inventory of + fishing-tackle, when we were startled by a loud and profane ejaculation. + Mr. Cooke had hastily put down his glass and was staring at the newspaper + before him with eyes as large as after-dinner coffee-cups. + </p> + <p> + “Come here,” he shouted over at us. “Come here, Crocker,” he repeated, + seeing we were slow to move. “For God's sake, come here!” + </p> + <p> + In obedience to this emphatic summons I crossed the stream and drew near + to Mr. Cooke, who was busily pouring out another glass of whiskey to tide + him over this strange excitement. But, as Mr. Cooke was easily excited and + on such occasions always drank whiskey to quiet his nerves, I thought + nothing of it. He was sitting bolt upright and held out the paper to me + with a shaking hand, while he pointed to some headlines on the first page. + And this is what I read: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + TREASURER TAKES A TRIP. + + CHARLES WREXELL ALLEN, OF THE MILES STANDISH + BICYCLE COMPANY, GETS OFF WITH 100,000 DOLLARS. + + DETECTIVES BAFFLED. + + THE ABSCONDER A BACK BAY SOCIAL LEADER. +</pre> + <p> + Half way down the column was a picture of Mr. Allen, a cut made from a + photograph, and, allowing for the crudities of newspaper reproduction, it + was a striking likeness of the Celebrity. Underneath was a short + description. Mr. Allen was five feet eleven (the Celebrity's height), had + a straight nose, square chin, dark hair and eyes, broad shoulders, was + dressed elaborately; in brief, tallied in every particular with the + Celebrity with the exception of the slight scar which Allen was thought to + have on his forehead. + </p> + <p> + The situation and all its ludicrous possibilities came over me with a + jump. It was too good to be true. Had Mr. Charles Wrexell Allen arrived at + Asquith and created a sensation with the man who stole his name I should + have been amply satisfied. But that Mr. Allen had been obliging enough to + abscond with a large sum of money was beyond dreaming! + </p> + <p> + I glanced at the rest of it: a history of the well-established company + followed, with all that Mr. Allen had done for it. The picture, by the + way, had been obtained from the St. Paul agent of the bicycle. After doing + due credit to the treasurer's abilities as a hustler there followed a + summary of his character, hitherto without reproach; but his tastes were + expensive ones. Mr. Allen's tendency to extravagance had been noticed by + the members of the Miles Standish Company, and some of the older directors + had on occasions remonstrated with him. But he had been too valuable a man + to let go, and it seems as treasurer he was trusted implicitly. He was + said to have more clothes than any man in Boston. + </p> + <p> + I am used to thinking quickly, and by the time I had read this I had an + idea. + </p> + <p> + “What in hell do you make of that, Crocker?” cried my client, eyeing me + closely and repeating the question again and again, as was his wont when + agitated. + </p> + <p> + “It is certainly plain enough,” I replied, “but I should like to talk to + you before you decide to hand him over to the authorities.” + </p> + <p> + I thought I knew Mr. Cooke, and I was not mistaken. + </p> + <p> + “Authorities!” he roared. “Damn the authorities! There's my yacht, and + there's the Canadian border.” And he pointed to the north. + </p> + <p> + The others were pressing around us by this time, and had caught the + significant words which Mr. Cooke had uttered. I imagine that if my client + had stopped to think twice, which of course is a preposterous condition, + he would have confided his discovery only to Farrar and to me. It was now + out of the question to keep it from the rest of the party, and Mr. Trevor + got the headlines over my shoulder. I handed him the sheet. + </p> + <p> + “Read it, Mr. Trevor,” said Mrs. Cooke. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor, in a somewhat unsteady voice, read the headlines and began the + column, and they followed breathless with astonishment and agitation. Once + or twice the senator paused to frown upon the Celebrity with a terrible + sternness, thus directing all other eyes to him. His demeanor was a study + in itself. It may be surmised, from what I have said of him, that there + was a strain of the actor in his composition; and I am prepared to make an + affidavit that, secure in the knowledge that he had witnesses present to + attest his identity, he hugely enjoyed the sensation he was creating. That + he looked forward with a profound pleasure to the stir which the + disclosure that he was the author of The Sybarites would make. His face + wore a beatific smile. + </p> + <p> + As Mr. Trevor continued, his voice became firmer and his manner more + majestic. It was a task distinctly to his taste, and one might have + thought he was reading the sentence of a Hastings. I was standing next to + his daughter. The look of astonishment, perhaps of horror, which I had + seen on her face when her father first began to read had now faded into + something akin to wickedness. Did she wink? I can't say, never before + having had a young woman wink at me. But the next moment her vinaigrette + was rolling down the bank towards the brook, and I was after it. I heard + her close behind me. She must have read my intentions by a kind of mental + telepathy. + </p> + <p> + “Are you going to do it?” she whispered. + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” I answered. “To miss such a chance would be a downright sin.” + </p> + <p> + There was a little awe in her laugh. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Thorn is the only obstacle,” I added, “and Mr. Cooke is our hope. I + think he will go by me.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't let Miss Thorn worry you,” she said as we climbed back. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” I demanded. But she only shook her head. We were at + the top again, and Mr. Trevor was reading an appended despatch from + Buffalo, stating that Mr. Allen had been recognized there, in the latter + part of June, walking up and down the platform of the station, in a + smoking-jacket, and that he had climbed on the Chicago limited as it + pulled out. This may have caused the Celebrity to feel a trifle + uncomfortable. + </p> + <p> + “Ha!” exclaimed Mr. Trevor, as he put down the paper. “Mr. Cooke, do you + happen to have any handcuffs on the Maria?” + </p> + <p> + But my client was pouring out a stiff helping from the decanter, which he + still held in his hand. Then he approached the Celebrity. + </p> + <p> + “Don't let it worry you, old man,” said he, with intense earnestness. + “Don't let it worry you. You're my guest, and I'll see you safe out of it, + or bust.” + </p> + <p> + “Fenelon,” said Mrs. Cooke, gravely, “do you realize what you are saying?” + </p> + <p> + “You're a clever one, Allen,” my client continued, and he backed away the + better to look him over; “you had nerve to stay as long as you did.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity laughed confidently. + </p> + <p> + “Cooke,” he replied, “I appreciate your generosity,—I really do. I + know no offence is meant. The mistake is, in fact, most pardonable.” + </p> + <p> + In Mr. Cooke amazement and admiration were clamoring for utterance. + </p> + <p> + “Damn me,” he sputtered, “if you're not the coolest embezzler I ever saw.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity laughed again. Then he surveyed the circle. + </p> + <p> + “My friends,” he said, “this is certainly a most amazing coincidence; one + which, I assure you, surprises me no less than it does you. You have no + doubt remarked that I have my peculiarities. We all have. + </p> + <p> + “I flatter thyself I am not entirely unknown. And the annoyances imposed + upon me by a certain fame I have achieved had become such that some months + ago I began to crave the pleasures of the life of a private man. I + determined to go to some sequestered resort where my face was unfamiliar. + The possibility of being recognized at Asquith did not occur to me. + Fortunately I was. And a singular chance led me to take the name of the + man who has committed this crime, and who has the misfortune to resemble + me. I suppose that now,” he added impressively, “I shall have to tell you + who I am.” + </p> + <p> + He paused until these words should have gained their full effect. Then he + held up the edition de luxe from which he and Miss Thorn had been reading. + </p> + <p> + “You may have heard, Mrs. Cooke,” said he, addressing himself to our + hostess, “you may perhaps have heard of the author of this book.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Cooke was a calm woman, and she read the name on the cover. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said, “I have. And you claim to be he?” + </p> + <p> + “Ask my friend Crocker here,” he answered carelessly, no doubt exulting + that the scene was going off so dramatically. “I should indeed be in a + tight box,” he went on, “if there were not friends of mine here to help me + out.” + </p> + <p> + They turned to me. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid I cannot,” I said with what soberness I could. + </p> + <p> + “What!” says he with a start. “What! you deny me?” + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor had her tongue in her cheek. I bowed. + </p> + <p> + “I am powerless to speak, Mr. Allen,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + During this colloquy my client stood between us, looking from one to the + other. I well knew that his way of thinking would be with my testimony, + and that the gilt name on the edition de luxe had done little towards + convincing him of Mr. Allen's innocence. To his mind there was nothing + horrible or incongruous in the idea that a well-known author should be a + defaulter. It was perfectly possible. He shoved the glass of Scotch + towards the Celebrity, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Take this, old man,” he kindly insisted, “and you'll feel better. What's + the use of bucking when you're saddled with a thing like that?” And he + pointed to the paper. “Besides, they haven't caught you yet, by a damned + sight.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity waved aside the proffered tumbler. + </p> + <p> + “This is an infamous charge, and you know it, Crocker,” he cried. “If you + don't, you ought to, as a lawyer. This isn't any time to have fun with a + fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear sir,” I said, “I have charged you with nothing whatever.” + </p> + <p> + He turned his back on me in complete disgust. And he came face to face + with Miss Trevor. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Trevor, too, knows something of me,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “You forget, Mr. Allen,” she answered sweetly, “you forget that I have + given you my promise not to reveal what I know.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity chafed, for this was as damaging a statement as could well + be uttered against him. But Miss Thorn was his trump card, and she now + came forward. + </p> + <p> + “This is ridiculous, Mr. Crocker, simply ridiculous,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you most heartily, Miss Thorn,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense!” exclaimed Miss Thorn, and she drew her lips together, “pure + nonsense!” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense or not, Marian,” Mr. Cooke interposed, “we are wasting valuable + time. The police are already on the scent, I'll bet my hat.” + </p> + <p> + “Fenelon!” Mrs. Cooke remonstrated. + </p> + <p> + “And do you mean to say in soberness, Uncle Fenelon, that you believe the + author of The Sybarites to be a defaulter?” said Miss Thorn. + </p> + <p> + “It is indeed hard to believe Mr. Allen a criminal,” Mr. Trevor broke in + for the first time. “I think it only right that he should be allowed to + clear himself before he is put to further inconvenience, and perhaps + injustice, by any action we may take in the matter.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke sniffed suspiciously at the word “action.” + </p> + <p> + “What action do you mean?” he demanded. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Mr. Trevor, with some hesitation, “before we take any + steps, that is, notify the police.” + </p> + <p> + “Notify the police!” cried my client, his face red with a generous anger. + “I have never yet turned a guest over to the police,” he said proudly, + “and won't, not if I know it. I'm not that kind.” + </p> + <p> + Who shall criticise Mr. Cooke's code of morality? + </p> + <p> + “Fenelon,” said his wife, “you must remember you have never yet + entertained a guest of a larcenous character. No embezzlers up to the + present. Marian,” she continued, turning to Miss Thorn, “you spoke as if + you might, be able to throw some light upon this matter. Do you know + whether this gentleman is Charles Wrexell Allen, or whether he is the + author? In short, do you know who he is?” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity lighted a cigarette. Miss Thorn said indignantly, “Upon my + word, Aunt Maria, I thought that you, at least, would know better than to + credit this silly accusation. He has been a guest at your house, and I am + astonished that you should doubt his word.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Cooke looked at her niece perplexedly. + </p> + <p> + “You must remember, Marian,” she said gently, “that I know nothing about + him, where he came from, or who he is. Nor does any one at Asquith, except + perhaps Miss Trevor, by her own confession. And you do not seem inclined + to tell what you know, if indeed you know anything.” + </p> + <p> + Upon this Miss Thorn became more indignant still, and Mrs. Cooke went on + “Gentlemen, as a rule, do not assume names, especially other people's. + They are usually proud of their own. Mr. Allen appears among us, from the + clouds, as it were, and in due time we learn from a newspaper that he has + committed a defalcation. And, furthermore, the paper contains a portrait + and an accurate description which put the thing beyond doubt. I ask you, + is it reasonable for him to state coolly after all this that he is another + man? That he is a well-known author? It's an absurdity. I was not born + yesterday, my dear.” + </p> + <p> + “It is most reasonable under the circumstances,” replied Miss Thorn, + warmly. “Extraordinary? Of course it's extraordinary. And too long to + explain to a prejudiced audience, who can't be expected to comprehend the + character of a genius, to understand the yearning of a famous man for a + little quiet.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Cooke looked grave. + </p> + <p> + “Marian, you forget yourself,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I am tired of it, Aunt Maria,” cried Miss Thorn; “if he takes my + advice, he will refuse to discuss it farther.” + </p> + <p> + She did not seem to be aware that she had put forth no argument whatever, + save a woman's argument. And I was intensely surprised that her + indignation should have got the better of her in this way, having always + supposed her clear-headed in the extreme. A few words from her, such as I + supposed she would have spoken, had set the Celebrity right with all + except Mr. Cooke. To me it was a clear proof that the Celebrity had turned + her head, and her mind with it. + </p> + <p> + The silence was broken by an uncontrollable burst of laughter from Miss + Trevor. She was quickly frowned down by her father, who reminded her that + this was not a comedy. + </p> + <p> + “And, Mr. Allen,” he said, “if you have anything to say, or any evidence + to bring forward, now is the time to do it.” + </p> + <p> + He appeared to forget that I was the district attorney. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity had seated himself on the trunk of a tree, and was blowing + out the smoke in clouds. He was inclined to take Miss Thorn's advice, for + he made a gesture of weariness with his cigarette, in the use of which he + was singularly eloquent. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, Mr. Trevor,” said he, “why I should sit before you as a + tribunal? Why I should take the trouble to clear myself of a senseless + charge? My respect for you inclines me to the belief that you are laboring + under a momentary excitement; for when you reflect that I am a prominent, + not to say famous, author, you will realize how absurd it is that I should + be an embezzler, and why I decline to lower myself by an explanation.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor picked up the paper and struck it. + </p> + <p> + “Do you refuse to say anything in the face of such evidence as that?” he + cried. + </p> + <p> + “It is not a matter for refusal, Mr. Trevor. It is simply that I cannot + admit the possibility of having committed the crime.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” said the senator, his black necktie working out of place as + his anger got the better of him, “I am to believe, then, because you claim + to be the author of a few society novels, that you are infallible? Let me + tell you that the President of the United States himself is liable to + impeachment, and bound to disprove any charge he may be accused of. What + in Halifax do I care for your divine-right-of-authors theory? I'll + continue to think you guilty until you are shown to be innocent.” + </p> + <p> + Suddenly the full significance of the Celebrity's tactics struck Mr. + Cooke, and he reached out and caught hold of Mr. Trevor's coattails. “Hold + on, old man,” said he; “Allen isn't going to be ass enough to own up to + it. Don't you see we'd all be jugged and fined for assisting a criminal + over the border? It's out of consideration for us.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor looked sternly over his shoulder at Mr. Cooke. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean to say, sir, seriously,” he asked, “that, for the sake of a + misplaced friendship for this man, and a misplaced sense of honor, you are + bound to shield a guest, though a criminal? That you intend to assist him + to escape from justice? I insist, for my own protection and that of my + daughter, as well as for that of the others present that, since he refuses + to speak, we must presume him guilty and turn him over.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor turned to Mrs. Cooke, as if relying on her support. + </p> + <p> + “Fenelon,” said she, “I have never sought to influence your actions when + your friends were concerned, and I shall not begin now. All I ask of you + is to consider the consequences of your intention.” + </p> + <p> + These words from Mrs. Cooke had much more weight with my client than Mr. + Trevor's blustering demands. + </p> + <p> + “Maria, my dear,” he said, with a deferential urbanity, “Mr. Allen is my + guest, and a gentleman. When a gentleman gives his word that he is not a + criminal, it is sufficient.” + </p> + <p> + The force of this, for some reason, did not overwhelm his wife; and her + lip curled a little, half in contempt, half in risibility. + </p> + <p> + “Pshaw, Fenelon,” said she, “what a fraud you are. Why is it you wish to + get Mr. Allen over the border, then?” A question which might well have + staggered a worthier intellect. + </p> + <p> + “Why, my dear,” answered my client, “I wish to save Mr. Allen the + inconvenience, not to say the humiliation, of being brought East in + custody and strapped with a pair of handcuffs. Let him take a shooting + trip to the great Northwest until the real criminal is caught.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Fenelon,” replied Mrs. Cooke, unable to repress a smile, “one might + as well try to argue with a turn-stile or a weather-vane. I wash my hands + of it.” + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Trevor, who was both a self-made man and a Western politician, was + far from being satisfied. He turned to me with a sweep of the arm he had + doubtless learned in the Ohio State Senate. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker,” he cried, “are you, as attorney of this district, going to + aid and abet in the escape of a fugitive from justice?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Trevor,” said I, “I will take the course in this matter which seems + fit to me, and without advice from any one.” + </p> + <p> + He wheeled on Farrar, repeated the question, and got a like answer. + </p> + <p> + Brought to bay for a time, he glared savagely around him while groping for + further arguments. + </p> + <p> + But at this point the Four appeared on the scene, much the worse for + thickets, and clamoring for luncheon. They had five small fish between + them which they wanted Miss Thorn to cook. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII + </h2> + <p> + The Four received Mr. Cooke's plan for the Celebrity's escape to Canada + with enthusiastic acclamation, and as the one thing lacking to make the + Bear Island trip a complete success. The Celebrity was hailed with the + reverence due to the man who puts up the ring-money in a prize-fight. He + was accorded, too, a certain amount of respect as a defaulter, which the + Four would have denied him as an author, for I am inclined to the belief + that the discovery of his literary profession would have lowered him + rather than otherwise in their eyes. My client was naturally anxious to + get under way at once for the Canadian border, but was overruled in this + by his henchmen, who demanded something to eat. We sat down to an + impromptu meal, which was an odd affair indeed. Mrs. Cooke maintained her + usual serenity, but said little, while Miss Trevor and I had many a + mirthful encounter at the thought of the turn matters had taken. + </p> + <p> + At the other end of the cloth were Mr. Cooke and the Four, in wonderful + spirits and unimpaired appetite, and in their midst sat the Celebrity, + likewise in wonderful spirits. His behavior now and again elicited a loud + grunt of disapproval from Mr. Trevor, who was plying his knife and fork in + a manner emblematic of his state of mind. Mr. Allen was laughing and + joking airily with Mr. Cooke and the guests, denying, but not resenting, + their accusations with all the sang froid of a hardened criminal. He did + not care particularly to go to Canada, he said. Why should he, when he was + innocent? But, if Mr. Cooke insisted, he would enjoy seeing that part of + the lake and the Canadian side. + </p> + <p> + Afterwards I perceived Miss Thorn down by the brookside, washing dishes. + Her sleeves were drawn back to the elbow, and a dainty white apron covered + her blue skirt, while the wind from the lake had disentangled errant wisps + of her hair. I stood on the brink above, secure, as I thought, from + observation, when she chanced to look up and spied me. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker,” she called, “would you like to make yourself useful?” + </p> + <p> + I was decidedly embarrassed. Her manner was as frank and unconstrained as + though I had not been shunning her for weeks past. + </p> + <p> + “If such a thing is possible,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know a dish-cloth when you see one?” + </p> + <p> + I was doubtful. But I procured the cloth from Miss Trevor and returned. + There was an air about Miss Thorn that was new to me. + </p> + <p> + “What an uncompromising man you are, Mr. Crocker,” she said to me. “Once a + person is unfortunate enough to come under the ban of your disapproval you + have nothing whatever to do with them. Now it seems that I have given you + offence in some way. Is it not so?” + </p> + <p> + “You magnify my importance,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “No temporizing, Mr. Crocker,” she went on, as though she meant to be + obeyed; “sit down there, and let's have it out. I like you too well to + quarrel with you.” + </p> + <p> + There was no resisting such a command, and I threw myself on the pebbles + at her feet. + </p> + <p> + “I thought we were going to be great friends,” she said. “You and Mr. + Farrar were so kind to me on the night of my arrival, and we had such fun + watching the dance together.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess I thought so, too. But you expressed opinions then that I + shared. You have since changed your mind, for some unaccountable reason.” + </p> + <p> + She paused in her polishing, a shining dish in her hand, and looked down + at me with something between a laugh and a frown. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you have never regretted speaking hastily,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Many a time,” I returned, warming; “but if I ever thought a judgment + measured and distilled, it was your judgment of the Celebrity.” + </p> + <p> + “Does the study of law eliminate humanity?” she asked, with a mock + curtsey. “The deliberate sentences are sometimes the unjust ones, and men + who are hung by weighed wisdom are often the innocent.” + </p> + <p> + “That is all very well in cases of doubt. But here you have the evidences + of wrong-doing directly before you.” + </p> + <p> + Three dishes were taken up, dried, and put down before she answered me. I + threw pebbles into the brook, and wished I had held my tongue. + </p> + <p> + “What evidence?” inquired she. “Well,” said I, “I must finish, I suppose. + I had a notion you knew of what I inferred. First, let me say that I have + no desire to prejudice you against a person whom you admire.” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible.” + </p> + <p> + Something in her tone made me look up. + </p> + <p> + “Very good, then,” I answered. “I, for one, can have no use for a man who + devotes himself to a girl long enough to win her affections, and then + deserts her with as little compunction as a dog does a rat it has shaken. + And that is how your Celebrity treated Miss Trevor.” + </p> + <p> + “But Miss Trevor has recovered, I believe,” said Miss Thorn. + </p> + <p> + I began to feel a deep, but helpless, insecurity. + </p> + <p> + “Happily, yes,” I assented. + </p> + <p> + “Thanks to an excellent physician.” + </p> + <p> + A smile twitched the corners of her mouth, as though she enjoyed my + discomfiture. I remarked for the fiftieth time how strong her face was, + with its generous lines and clearly moulded features. And a suspicion + entered my soul. + </p> + <p> + “At any rate,” I said, with a laugh, “the Celebrity has got himself into + no end of a predicament now. He may go back to New York in custody.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you incapable of resentment, Mr. Crocker. How mean of you to + deny him!” + </p> + <p> + “It can do no harm,” I answered; “a little lesson in the dangers of + incognito may be salutary. I wish it were a little lesson in the dangers + of something else.” + </p> + <p> + The color mounted to her face as she resumed her occupation. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid you are a very wicked man,” she said. + </p> + <p> + Before I could reply there came a scuffling sound from the bank above us, + and the snapping of branches and twigs. It was Mr. Cooke. His descent, the + personal conduction of which he lost half-way down, was irregular and + spasmodic, and a rude concussion at the bottom knocked off a choice bit of + profanity which was balanced on the tip of his tongue. + </p> + <p> + “Tobogganing is a little out of season,” said his niece, laughing + heartily. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke brushed himself off, picked up the glasses which he had dropped + in his flight and pushed them into my hands. Then he pointed lakeward with + bulging eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker, old man,” he said in a loud whisper, “they tell me that is an + Asquith cat-boat.” + </p> + <p> + I followed his finger and saw for the first time a sail-boat headed for + the island, then about two miles off shore. I raised the glasses. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” I said, “the Scimitar.” + </p> + <p> + “That's what Farrar said,” cried he. + </p> + <p> + “And what about it?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “What about it?” he ejaculated. “Why, it's a detective come for Allen. I + knew sure as hell if they got as far as Asquith they wouldn't stop there. + And that's the fastest sail-boat he could hire there, isn't it?” + </p> + <p> + I replied that it was. He seized me by the shoulder and began dragging me + up the bank. + </p> + <p> + “What are you going to do?” I cried, shaking myself loose. + </p> + <p> + “We've got to get on the Maria and run for it,” he panted. “There is no + time to be lost.” + </p> + <p> + He had reached the top of the bank and was running towards the group at + the tents. And he actually infused me with some of his red-hot enthusiasm, + for I hastened after him. + </p> + <p> + “But you can't begin to get the Maria out before they will be in here,” I + shouted. + </p> + <p> + He stopped short, gazed at the approaching boat, and then at me. + </p> + <p> + “Is that so?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, of course,” said I, “they will be here in ten minutes.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity stood in the midst of the excited Four. His hair was parted + precisely, and he had induced a monocle to remain in his eye long enough + to examine the Scimitar, his nose at the critical elevation. This + unruffled exterior made a deep impression on the Four. Was the Celebrity + not undergoing the crucial test of a true sport? He was an example alike + to criminals and philosophers. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke hurried into the group, which divided respectfully for him, and + grasped the Celebrity by the hand. + </p> + <p> + “Something else has got to be done, old man,” he said, in a voice which + shook with emotion; “they'll be on us before we can get the Maria out.” + </p> + <p> + Farrar, who was nailing a rustic bench near by, straightened up at this, + his lip curling with a desire to laugh. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity laid his hand on my client's shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Cooke,” said he, “I'm deeply grateful for all the trouble you wish to + take, and for the solicitude you have shown. But let things be. I'll come + out of it all right.” + </p> + <p> + “Never,” cried Cooke, looking proudly around the Four as some Highland + chief might have surveyed a faithful clan. “I'd a damned sight rather go + to jail myself.” + </p> + <p> + “A damned sight,” echoed the Four in unison. + </p> + <p> + “I insist, Cooke,” said the Celebrity, taking out his eyeglass and tapping + Mr. Cooke's purple necktie, “I insist that you drop this business. I + repeat my thanks to you and these gentlemen for the friendship they have + shown, but say again that I am as innocent of this crime as a baby.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke paid no attention to this speech. His face became radiant. + </p> + <p> + “Didn't any of you fellows strike a cave, or a hollow tree, or something + of that sort, knocking around this morning?” + </p> + <p> + One man slapped his knee. + </p> + <p> + “The very place,” he cried. “I fell into it,” and he showed a rent in his + trousers corroboratively. “It's big enough to hold twenty of Allen, and + the detective doesn't live that could find it.” + </p> + <p> + “Hustle him off, quick,” said Mr. Cooke. + </p> + <p> + The mandate was obeyed as literally as though Robin Hood himself had given + it. The Celebrity disappeared into the forest, carried rather than urged + towards his destined place of confinement. + </p> + <p> + The commotion had brought Mr. Trevor to the spot. He caught sight of the + Celebrity's back between the trees, then he looked at the cat-boat + entering the cove, a man in the stern preparing to pull in the tender. + </p> + <p> + He intercepted Mr. Cooke on his way to the beach. + </p> + <p> + “What have you done with Mr. Allen?” he asked, in a menacing voice. + </p> + <p> + “Good God,” said Mr. Cooke, whose contempt for Mr. Trevor was now + infinite, “you talk as if I were the governor of the state. What the devil + could I do with him?” + </p> + <p> + “I will have no evasion,” replied Mr. Trevor, taking an imposing posture + in front of him. “You are trying to defeat the ends of justice by + assisting a dangerous criminal to escape. I have warned you, sir, and warn + you again of the consequences of your meditated crime, and I give you my + word I will do all in my power to frustrate it.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke dug his thumbs into his waistcoat pockets. Here was a + complication he had not looked for. The Scimitar lay at anchor with her + sail down, and two men were coming ashore in the tender. Mr. Cooke's + attitude being that of a man who reconsiders a rash resolve, Mr. Trevor + was emboldened to say in a moderated tone: + </p> + <p> + “You were carried away by your generosity, Mr. Cooke. I was sure when you + took time to think you would see it in another light.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke started off for the place where the boat had grounded. I did not + catch his reply, and probably should not have written it here if I had. + The senator looked as if he had been sand-bagged. + </p> + <p> + The two men jumped out of the boat and hauled it up. Mr. Cooke waved an + easy salute to one, whom I recognized as the big boatman from Asquith, + familiarly known as Captain Jay. He owned the Scimitar and several smaller + boats. The captain went through the pantomime of an introduction between + Mr. Cooke and the other, whom my client shook warmly by the hand, and + presently all three came towards us. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke led them to a bar he had improvised by the brook. A pool served + the office of refrigerator, and Mr. Cooke had devised an ingenious but + complicated arrangement of strings and labels which enabled him to extract + any bottle or set of bottles without having to bare his arm and pull out + the lot. Farrar and I responded to the call he had given, and went down to + assist in the entertainment. My client, with his back to us, was busy + manipulating the strings. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” he said, “let me make you acquainted with Mr. Drew. You all + know the captain.” + </p> + <p> + Had I not suspected Mr. Drew's profession, I think I should not have + remarked that he gave each of us a keen look as he raised his head. He had + reddish-brown hair, and a pair of bushy red whiskers, each of which + tapered to a long point. He was broad in the shoulders, and the clothes he + wore rather enhanced this breadth. His suit was gray and almost new, the + trousers perceptibly bagging at the knee, and he had a felt hat, a necktie + of the white and flowery pattern, and square-toed “Congress” boots. In + short, he was a decidedly ordinary looking person; you would meet a + hundred like him in the streets of Far Harbor and Beaverton. He might have + been a prosperous business man in either of those towns,—a + comfortable lumber merchant or mine owner. And he had chosen just the + get-up I should have picked for detective work in that region. He had a + pleasant eye and a very fetching and hearty manner. But his long whiskers + troubled me especially. I kept wondering if they were real. + </p> + <p> + “The captain is sailing Mr. Drew over to Far Harbor,” explained Mr. Cooke, + “and they have put in here for the night.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Drew was plainly not an amateur, for he volunteered nothing further + than this. The necessary bottles having been produced, Mr. Cooke held up + his glass and turned to the stranger. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome to our party, old man,” said he. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Drew drained his glass and complimented Mr. Cooke on the brand,—a + sure key to my client's heart. Whereupon he seated himself between Mr. + Drew and the captain and began a discourse on the subject of his own + cellar, on which he talked for nearly an hour. His only pauses were for + the worthy purpose of filling the detective's or the captain's glass, and + these he watched with a hospitable solicitude. The captain had the + advantage, three to one, and I made no doubt his employer bitterly + regretted not having a boatman whose principles were more strict. At the + end of the hour Captain Jay, who by nature was inclined to be taciturn and + crabbed, waxed loquacious and even jovial. He sang us the songs he had + learned in the winter lumber-camps, which Mr. Cooke never failed to encore + to the echo. My client vowed he had not spent a pleasanter afternoon for + years. He plied the captain with cigars, and explained to him the mystery + of the strings and labels; and the captain experimented until he had + broken some of the bottles. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke was not a person who made any great distinction between the + three degrees, acquaintance, friendship, and intimacy. When a stranger + pleased him, he went from one to the other with such comparative ease that + a hardhearted man, and no other, could have resented his advances. Mr. + Drew was anything but a hard-hearted man, and he did not object to my + client's familiarity. Mr. Cooke made no secret of his admiration for Mr. + Drew, and there were just two things about him that Mr. Cooke admired and + wondered at, above all else,—the bushy red whiskers. But it appeared + that these were the only things that Mr. Drew was really touchy about. I + noticed that the detective, without being impolite, did his best to + discourage these remarks; but my client knew no such word as + discouragement. He was continually saying: “I think I'll grow some like + that, old man,” or “Have those cut,” and the like,—a kind of humor + in which the captain took an incredible delight. And finally, when a + certain pitch of good feeling had been arrived at, Mr. Cooke reached out + and playfully grabbed hold of the one near him. The detective drew back. + “Mr. Cooke,” said he, with dignity, “I'll have to ask you to let my + whiskers alone.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, old man,” replied my client, anything but abashed. “You'll + pardon me, but they seemed too good to be true. I congratulate you on + them.” + </p> + <p> + I was amused as well as alarmed at this piece of boldness, but the + incident passed off without any disagreeable results, except, perhaps, a + slight nervousness noticeable in the detective; and this soon disappeared. + As the sun grew low, the Celebrity's conductors straggled in with + fishing-rods and told of an afternoon's sport, and we left the captain + peacefully but sonorously slumbering on the bank. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” said my client to me, afterwards, “they didn't feel like the + real, home-grown article. But aren't they damned handsome?” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII + </h2> + <p> + After supper, Captain Jay was rowed out and put to bed in his own bunk on + the Scimitar. Then we heaped together a huge pile of the driftwood on the + beach and raised a blazing beacon, the red light of which I doubt not + could be seen from the mainland. The men made prongs from the soft wood, + while Miss Thorn produced from the stores some large tins of marshmallows. + </p> + <p> + The memory of that evening lingers with me yet. The fire colored + everything. The waves dashed in ruby foam at our feet, and even the tall, + frowning pines at our backs were softened; the sting was gone out of the + keen night wind from the north. I found a place beside the gray cape I had + seen for the first time the night of the cotillon. I no longer felt any + great dislike for Miss Thorn, let it be known. Resentment was easier when + the distance between Mohair and Asquith separated us,—impossible on + a yachting excursion. But why should I be justifying myself? + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke and the Four, in addition to other accomplishments, possessed + excellent voices, and Mr. Drew sang a bass which added much to the melody. + One of the Four played a banjo. It is only justice to Mr. Drew to say that + he seemed less like a detective than any man I have ever met. He told a + good story and was quick at repartee, and after a while the music, by + tacit consent, was abandoned for the sake of hearing him talk. He related + how he had worked up the lake, point by point, from Beaverton to Asquith, + and lightened his narrative with snappy accounts of the different boatmen + he had run across and of the different predicaments into which he had + fallen. His sketches were so vivid that Mr. Cooke forgot to wink at me + after a while and sat spellbound, while I marvelled at the imaginative + faculty he displayed. He had us in roars of laughter. His stories were far + from incredible, and he looked less like a liar than a detective. He + showed, too, an accurate and astonishing knowledge of the lake which could + hardly have been acquired in any other way than the long-shore trip he had + described. Not once did he hint of a special purpose which had brought him + to the island, and it was growing late. The fire died down upon the + stones, and the thought of the Celebrity, alone in a dark cave in the + middle of the island, began to prey upon me. I was not designed for a + practical joker, and I take it that pity is a part of every + self-respecting man's composition. In the cool of the night season the + ludicrous side of the matter did not appeal to me quite as strongly as in + the glare of day. A joke should never be pushed to cruelty. It was in vain + that I argued I had no direct hand in the concealing of him; I felt my + responsibility quite as heavy upon me. Perhaps bears still remained in + these woods. And if a bear should devour the author of The Sybarites, + would the world ever forgive me? Could I ever repay the debt to the young + women of these United States? To speak truth, I expected every moment to + see him appear. Why, in the name of all his works, did he stay there? + Nothing worse could befall him than to go to Far Harbor with Drew, where + our words concerning his identity would be taken. And what an + advertisement this would be for the great author. The Sybarites, now + selling by thousands, would increase its sales to ten thousands. Ah, there + was the rub. The clue to his remaining in the cave was this very kink in + the Celebrity's character. There was nothing Bohemian in that character; + it yearned after the eminently respectable. Its very eccentricities were + within the limits of good form. The Celebrity shunned the biscuits and + beer of the literary clubs, and his books were bound for the boudoir. To + have it proclaimed in the sensational journals that the hands of this + choice being had been locked for grand larceny was a thought too horrible + to entertain. His very manservant would have cried aloud against it. + Better a hundred nights in a cave than one such experience! + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor's behavior that evening was so unrestful as to lead me to + believe that she, too, was going through qualms of sympathy for the + victim. As we were breaking up for the evening she pulled my sleeve. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you think we have carried our joke a little too far, Mr. Crocker?” + she whispered uneasily. “I can't bear to think of him in that terrible + place.” + </p> + <p> + “It will do him a world of good,” I replied, assuming a gayety I did not + feel. It is not pleasant to reflect that some day one's own folly might + place one in a like situation. And the night was dismally cool and windy, + now that the fire had gone out. Miss Trevor began to philosophize. + </p> + <p> + “Such practical pleasantries as this,” she said, “are like infernal + machines: they often blow up the people that start them. And they are next + to impossible to steer.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps it is just as well not to assume we are the instruments of + Providence,” I said. + </p> + <p> + Here we ran into Miss Thorn, who was carrying a lantern. + </p> + <p> + “I have been searching everywhere for you two mischief-makers,” said she. + “You ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Heaven only knows how this little + experiment will end. Here is Aunt Maria, usually serene, on the verge of + hysterics: she says he shouldn't stay in that damp cave another minute. + Here is your father, Irene, organizing relief parties and walking the + floor of his tent like a madman. And here is Uncle Fenelon insane over the + idea of getting the poor, innocent man into Canada. And here is a + detective saddled upon us, perhaps for days, and Uncle Fenelon has gotten + his boatman drunk. You ought to be ashamed of yourselves,” she repeated. + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor laughed, in spite of the gravity of these things, and so did + I. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, come, Marian,” said she, “it isn't as bad as all that. And you talk + as if you hadn't anything to be reproached for. Your own defence of the + Celebrity wasn't as strong as it might have been.” + </p> + <p> + By the light of the lantern I saw Miss Thorn cast one meaning look at Miss + Trevor. + </p> + <p> + “What are you going to do about it?” asked Miss Thorn, addressing me. + “Think of that unhappy man, without a bed, without blankets, without even + a tooth-brush.” + </p> + <p> + “He hasn't been wholly off my mind,” I answered truthfully. “But there + isn't anything we can do to-night, with that beastly detective to notice + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must go very early to-morrow morning, before the detective gets + up.” + </p> + <p> + I couldn't help smiling at the notion of getting up before a detective. + </p> + <p> + “I am only too willing,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “It must be by four o'clock,” Miss Thorn went on energetically, “and we + must have a guide we can trust. Arrange it with one of Uncle Fenelon's + friends.” + </p> + <p> + “We?” I repeated. + </p> + <p> + “You certainly don't imagine that I am going to be left behind?” said Miss + Thorn. + </p> + <p> + I made haste to invite for the expedition one of the Four, who was quite + willing to go; and we got together all the bodily comforts we could think + of and put them in a hamper, the Fraction not forgetting to add a few + bottles from Mr. Cooke's immersed bar. + </p> + <p> + Long after the camp had gone to bed, I lay on the pine-needles above the + brook, shielded from the wind by a break in the slope, and thought of the + strange happenings of that day. Presently the waning moon climbed + reluctantly from the waters, and the stream became mottled, black and + white, the trees tall blurs. The lake rose and fell with a mighty rhythm, + and the little brook hurried madly over the stones to join it. One thought + chased another from my brain. + </p> + <p> + At such times, when one's consciousness of outer things is dormant, an + earthquake might continue for some minutes without one realizing it. I did + not observe, though I might have seen from where I lay, the flap of one of + the tents drawn back and two figures emerge. They came and stood on the + bank above, under the tree which sheltered me. And I experienced a curious + phenomenon. I heard, and understood, and remembered the first part of the + conversation which passed between them, and did not know it. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to disturb you,” said one. + </p> + <p> + “Not at all,” said the other, whose tone, I thought afterwards, betokened + surprise, and no great cheerfulness. + </p> + <p> + “But I have had no other opportunity to speak with you.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the other, rather uneasily. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly my senses were alert, and I knew that Mr. Trevor had pulled the + detective out of bed. The senator had no doubt anticipated an easier time, + and he now began feeling for an opening. More than once he cleared his + throat to commence, while Mr. Drew pulled his scant clothing closer about + him, his whiskers playing in the breeze. + </p> + <p> + “In Cincinnati, Mr. Drew,” said Mr. Trevor, at length, “I am a known, if + not an influential, citizen; and I have served my state for three terms in + its Senate.” + </p> + <p> + “I have visited your city, Mr. Trevor,” answered Mr. Drew, his teeth + chattering audibly, “and I know you by reputation.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, sir,” Mr. Trevor continued, with a flourish which appeared + absolutely grotesque in his attenuated costume, “it must be clear to you + that I cannot give my consent to a flagrant attempt by an unscrupulous + person to violate the laws of this country.” + </p> + <p> + “Your feelings are to be respected, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor cleared his throat again. “Discretion is always to be observed, + Mr. Drew. And I, who have been in the public service, know the full value + of it.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor leaned forward, at the same time glancing anxiously up at the + tree, for fear, perhaps, that Mr. Cooke might be concealed therein. He + said in a stage whisper: + </p> + <p> + “A criminal is concealed on this island.” + </p> + <p> + Drew started perceptibly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Mr. Trevor, with a glance of triumph at having produced an + impression on a detective, “I thought it my duty to inform you. He has + been hidden by the followers of the unscrupulous person I referred to, in + a cave, I believe. I repeat, sir, as a man of unimpeachable standing, I + considered it my duty to tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “You have my sincere thanks, Mr. Trevor,” said Drew, holding out his hand, + “and I shall act on the suggestion.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor clasped the hand of the detective, and they returned quietly to + their respective tents. And in course of time I followed them, wondering + how this incident might affect our morning's expedition. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV + </h2> + <p> + My first thought on rising was to look for the detective. The touch of the + coming day was on the lake, and I made out the two boats dimly, riding on + the dead swell and tugging idly at their chains. The detective had been + assigned to a tent which was occupied by Mr. Cooke and the Four, and they + were sleeping soundly at my entrance. But Drew's blankets were empty. I + hurried to the beach, but the Scimitar's boat was still drawn up there + near the Maria's tender, proving that he was still on the island. + </p> + <p> + Outside of the ladies' tent I came upon Miss Thorn, stowing a large + basket. I told her that we had taken that precaution the night before. + </p> + <p> + “What did you put in?” she demanded. + </p> + <p> + I enumerated the articles as best I could. And when I had finished, she + said, + </p> + <p> + “And I am filling this with the things you have forgotten.” + </p> + <p> + I lost no time in telling her what I had overheard the night before, and + that the detective was gone from his tent. She stopped her packing and + looked at me in concern. + </p> + <p> + “He is probably watching us,” she said. “Do you think we had better go?” + </p> + <p> + I thought it could do no harm. “If we are followed,” said I, “all we have + to do is to turn back.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor came out as I spoke, and our conductor appeared, bending under + the hamper. I shouldered some blankets and the basket, and we started. We + followed a rough path, evidently cut by a camping party in some past + season, but now overgrown. The Fraction marched ahead, and I formed the + rear guard. Several times it seemed to me as though someone were pushing + after us, and more than once we halted. I put down the basket and went + back to reconnoitre. Once I believed I saw a figure flitting in the gray + light, but I set it down to my imagination. + </p> + <p> + Finally we reached a brook, sneaking along beneath the underbrush as + though fearing to show itself, and we followed its course. Branches lashed + our faces and brambles tore our clothes. And then, as the sunlight was + filtering through and turning the brook from blue to crystal, we came upon + the Celebrity. He was seated in a little open space on the bank, + apparently careless of capture. He did not even rise at our approach. His + face showed the effect of a sleepless night, and wore an expression + inimical to all mankind. The conductor threw his bundle on the bank and + laid his hand on the Celebrity's shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Halloa, old man!” said he, cheerily. “You must have had a hard night of + it. But we couldn't make you any sooner, because that hawk of an officer + had his eye on us.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity shook himself free. And in place of the gratitude for which + the Fraction had looked, and which he had every reason to expect, he got + something different. + </p> + <p> + “This outrage has gone far enough,” said the Celebrity, with a terrible + calmness. The Fraction was a man of the world. + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, old chap!” he said soothingly, “don't cut up. We'll make + things a little more homelike here.” And he pulled a bottle from the + depths of the hamper. “This will brace you up.” + </p> + <p> + He picked up the hamper and disappeared into the place of retention, while + the Celebrity threw the bottle into the brush. And just then (may I be + forgiven if I am imaginative!) I heard a human laugh come from that + direction. In the casting of that bottle the Celebrity had given vent to + some of the feelings he had been collecting overnight, and it must have + carried about thirty yards. I dived after it like a retriever puppy for a + stone; but the bottle was gone! Perhaps I could say more, but it doesn't + do to believe in yourself too thoroughly when you get up early. I had + nothing to say when I returned. + </p> + <p> + “You here, Crocker?” said the author, fixing his eye on me. “Deuced kind + of you to get up so early and carry a basket so far for me.” + </p> + <p> + “It has been a real pleasure, I assure you,” I protested. And it had. + There was a silent space while the two young ladies regarded him, softened + by his haggard and dishevelled aspect, and perplexed by his attitude. + Nothing, I believe, appeals to a woman so much as this very lack of bodily + care. And the rogue knew it! + </p> + <p> + “How long is this little game of yours to continue,—this + bull-baiting?” he inquired. “How long am I to be made a butt of for the + amusement of a lot of imbeciles?” + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn crossed over and seated herself on the ground beside him. “You + must be sensible,” she said, in a tone that she might have used to a + spoiled child. “I know it is difficult after the night you have had. But + you have always been willing to listen to reason.” + </p> + <p> + A pang of something went through me when I saw them together. “Reason,” + said the Celebrity, raising his head. “Reason, yes. But where is the + reason in all this? Because a man who happens to be my double commits a + crime, is it right that I, whose reputation is without a mark, should be + made to suffer? And why have I been made a fool of by two people whom I + had every cause to suppose my friends?” + </p> + <p> + “You will have to ask them,” replied Miss Thorn, with a glance at us. + “They are mischief-makers, I'll admit; but they are not malicious. See + what they have done this morning! And how could they have foreseen that a + detective was on his way to the island?” + </p> + <p> + “Crocker might have known it,” said he, melting. “He's so cursed smart!” + </p> + <p> + “And think,” Miss Thorn continued, quick to follow up an advantage, “think + what would have happened if they hadn't denied you. This horrid man would + have gone off with you to Asquith or somewhere else, with handcuffs on + your wrists; for it isn't a detective's place to take evidence, Mr. + Crocker says. Perhaps we should all have had to go to Epsom! And I + couldn't bear to see you in handcuffs, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you think we had better leave them alone?” I said to Miss Trevor. + </p> + <p> + She smiled and shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “You are blind as a bat, Mr. Crocker,” she said. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity had weighed Miss Thorn's words and was listening passively + now while she talked. There may be talents which she did not possess; I + will not pretend to say. But I know there are many professions she might + have chosen had she not been a woman. She would have made a name for + herself at the bar; as a public speaker she would have excelled. And had I + not been so long accustomed to picking holes in arguments I am sure I + should not have perceived the fallacies of this she was making for the + benefit of the Celebrity. He surely did not. It is strange how a man can + turn under such influence from one feeling to another. The Celebrity lost + his resentment; apprehension took its place. He became more and more + nervous; questioned me from time to time on the law; wished to know + whether he would be called upon for testimony at Allen's trial; whether + there was any penalty attached to the taking of another man's name; + precisely what Drew would do with him if captured; and the tail of his eye + was on the thicket as he made this inquiry. It may be surmised that I took + an exquisite delight in quenching this new-born thirst for knowledge. And + finally we all went into the cave. + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn unpacked the things we had brought, while I surveyed the + cavern. It was in the solid rock, some ten feet high and irregular in + shape, and perfectly dry. It was a marvel to me how cosy she made it. One + of the Maria's lanterns was placed in a niche, and the Celebrity's silver + toilet-set laid out on a ledge of the rock, which answered perfectly for a + dressing-table. Miss Thorn had not forgotten a small mirror. And as a last + office, set a dainty breakfast on a linen napkin on the rock, heating the + coffee in a chafing-dish. + </p> + <p> + “There!” she exclaimed, surveying her labors, “I hope you will be more + comfortable.” + </p> + <p> + He had already taken the precaution to brush his hair and pull himself + together. His thanks, such as they were, he gave to Miss Thorn. It is true + that she had done more than any one else. + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, old boy!” said the Fraction. “We'll come back when we get the + chance, and don't let that hundred thousand keep you awake.” + </p> + <p> + The Fraction and I covered up the mouth of the cave with brush. He became + confidential. + </p> + <p> + “Lucky dog, Allen!” he said. “They'll never get him away from Cooke. And + he can have any girl he wants for the asking. By George! I believe Miss + Thorn will elope with him if he ever reaches Canada.” + </p> + <p> + I only mention this as a sample of the Fraction's point of view. I confess + the remark annoyed me at the time. + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn lingered in the cave for a minute after Miss Trevor came out. + Then we retraced our way down the brook, which was dancing now in the + sunlight. Miss Trevor stopped now and then to rest, in reality to laugh. I + do not know what the Fraction thought of such heartless conduct. He and I + were constantly on the alert for Mr. Drew, but we sighted the camp without + having encountered him. It was half-past six, and we had trusted to slip + in unnoticed by any one. But, as we emerged from the trees, the bustling + scene which greeted our eyes filled us with astonishment. Two of the tents + were down, and the third in a collapsed condition, while confusion reigned + supreme. And in the midst of it all stood Mr. Cooke, an animated central + figure pedestalled on a stump, giving emphatic directions in a voice of + authority. He spied us from his elevated position before we had crossed + the brook. + </p> + <p> + “Here they come, Maria,” he shouted. + </p> + <p> + We climbed to the top of the slope, and were there confronted by Mrs. + Cooke and Mr. Trevor, with Mr. Cooke close behind them. + </p> + <p> + “Where the devil is Allen?” my client demanded excitedly of the Fraction. + </p> + <p> + “Allen?” repeated that gentleman, “why, we made him comfortable and left + him, of course. We had sense enough not to bring him here to be pulled.” + </p> + <p> + “But, you damfool,” cried Mr. Cooke, slightly forgetting himself, “Drew + has escaped.” + </p> + <p> + “Escaped?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, escaped,” said Mr. Cooke, as though our conductor were personally + responsible; “he got away this morning. Before we know it, we'll have the + whole police force of Far Harbor out here to jug the lot of us.” + </p> + <p> + The Fraction, being deficient for the moment in language proper to express + his appreciation of this new development, simply volunteered to return for + the Celebrity, and left in a great hurry. + </p> + <p> + “Irene,” said Mr. Trevor, “can it be possible that you have stolen away + for the express purpose of visiting this criminal?” + </p> + <p> + “If he is a criminal, father, it is no reason that he should starve.” + </p> + <p> + “It is no reason,” cried her father, hotly, “why a young girl who has been + brought up as you have, should throw every lady-like instinct to the + winds. There are men enough in this camp to keep him from starving. I will + not have my daughter's name connected with that of a defaulter. Irene, you + have set the seal of disgrace upon a name which I have labored for a + lifetime to make one of the proudest in the land. And it was my fond hope + that I possessed a daughter who—” + </p> + <p> + During this speech my anger had been steadily rising. But it was Mrs. + Cooke who interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Trevor,” said she, “perhaps you are not aware that while you are + insulting your daughter, you are also insulting my niece. It may be well + for you to know that Miss Trevor still has my respect as a woman and my + admiration as a lady. And, since she has been so misjudged by her father, + she has my deepest sympathy. But I wish to beg of you, if you have + anything of this nature to say to her, you will take her feelings into + consideration as well as ours.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor gave her one expressive look of gratitude. The senator was + effectually silenced. He had come, by some inexplicable inference, to + believe that Mrs. Cooke, while subservient to the despotic will of her + husband, had been miraculously saved from depravity, and had set her face + against this last monumental act of outlawry. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0018" id="link2H_4_0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + VOLUME 4. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV + </h2> + <p> + I am convinced that Mr. Cooke possessed at least some of the qualities of + a great general. In certain campaigns of past centuries, and even of this, + it has been hero-worship that impelled the rank and file rather than any + high sympathy with the cause they were striving for. And so it was with us + that morning. Our commander was everywhere at once, encouraging us to + work, and holding over us in impressive language the awful alternative of + capture. For he had the art, in a high degree, of inoculating his + followers with the spirit which animated him; and shortly, to my great + surprise, I found myself working as though my life depended on it. I + certainly did not care very much whether the Celebrity was captured or + not, and yet, with the prospect of getting him over the border, I had not + thought of breakfast. Farrar had a natural inclination for work of this + sort, but even he was infused somewhat with the contagious haste and + enthusiasm which filled the air; and together we folded the tents with + astonishing despatch and rowed them out to the Maria, Mr. Cooke having + gone to his knees in the water to shove the boat off. + </p> + <p> + “What are we doing this for?” said Farrar to me, as we hoisted the sail. + </p> + <p> + We both laughed. + </p> + <p> + “I have just been asking myself that question,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + “You are a nice district attorney, Crocker,” he said. “You have made a + most proper and equitable decision in giving your consent to Allen's + escape. Doesn't your conscience smart?” + </p> + <p> + “Not unbearably. I'll tell you what, Farrar,” said I, “the truth is, that + this fellow never embezzled so much as a ten-cent piece. He isn't guilty: + he isn't the man.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't the man?” repeated Farrar. + </p> + <p> + “No,” I answered; “it's a long tale, and no time to tell it now. But he is + really, as he claims to be, the author of all those detestable books we + have been hearing so much of.” + </p> + <p> + “The deuce he is!” exclaimed Farrar, dropping the stopper he was tying. + “Did he write The Sybarites?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; he wrote The Sybarites, and all the rest of that trash.” + </p> + <p> + “He's the fellow that maintains a man ought to marry a girl after he has + become engaged to her.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly,” I said, smiling at his way of putting it. + </p> + <p> + “Preaches constancy to all men, but doesn't object to stealing.” + </p> + <p> + I laughed. + </p> + <p> + “You're badly mixed,” I explained. “I told you he never stole anything. He + was only ass enough to take the man's name who is the living image of him. + And the other man took the bonds.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, come now,” said he, “tell me something improbable while you are about + it.” + </p> + <p> + “It's true,” I replied, repressing my mirth; “true as the tale of Timothy. + I knew him when he was a mere boy. But I don't give you that as a proof, + for he might have become all things to all men since. Ask Miss Trevor; or + Miss Thorn; she knows the other man, the bicycle man, and has seen them + both together.” + </p> + <p> + “Where, in India? Was one standing on the ground looking at his double go + to heaven? Or was it at one of those drawing-room shows where a medium + holds conversation with your soul, while your body sleeps on the lounge? + By George, Crocker, I thought you were a sensible man.” + </p> + <p> + No wonder I got angry. But I might have come at some proper estimation of + Farrar's incredulity by that time. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you wouldn't take a lady's word,” I growled. + </p> + <p> + “Not for that,” he said, busy again with the sail stops; “nor St. + Chrysostom's, were he to come here and vouch for it. It is too damned + improbable.” + </p> + <p> + “Stranger things than that have happened,” I retorted, fuming. + </p> + <p> + “Not to any of us,” he said. Presently he added, chuckling: “He'd better + not get into the clutches of that man Drew.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” I demanded. Farrar was exasperating at times. + </p> + <p> + “Drew will wind those handcuffs on him like tourniquets,” he laughed. + </p> + <p> + There seemed to be something behind this remark, but before I could + inquire into it we were interrupted by Mr. Cooke, who was standing on the + beach, swearing and gesticulating for the boat. + </p> + <p> + “I trust,” said Farrar, as we rowed ashore, “that this blind excitement + will continue, and that we shall have the extreme pleasure of setting down + our friend in Her Majesty's dominions with a yachting-suit and a ham + sandwich.” + </p> + <p> + We sat down to a hasty breakfast, in the middle of which the Celebrity + arrived. His appearance was unexceptionable, but his heavy jaw was set in + a manner which should have warned Mr. Cooke not to trifle with him. + </p> + <p> + “Sit down, old man, and take a bite before we start for Canada,” said my + client. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity walked up to him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Cooke,” he began in a menacing tone, “it is high time this nonsense + was ended. I am tired of being made a buffoon of for your party. For your + gratification I have spent a sleepless night in those cold, damp woods; + and I warn you that practical joking can be carried too far. I will not go + to Canada, and I insist that you sail me back to Asquith.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke winked significantly in our direction and tapped his head. + </p> + <p> + “I don't wonder you're a little upset, old man,” he said, humoringly + patting him; “but sit down for a bite of something, and you'll see things + differently.” + </p> + <p> + “I've had my breakfast,” he said, taking out a cigarette. + </p> + <p> + Then Mr. Trevor got up. + </p> + <p> + “He demands, sir, to be delivered over to the authorities,” said he, “and + you have no right to refuse him. I protest strongly.” + </p> + <p> + “And you can protest all you damn please,” retorted my client; “this isn't + the Ohio State Senate. Do you know where I would put you, Mr. Trevor? Do + you know where you ought to be? In a hencoop, sir, if I had one here. In a + hen-coop. What would you do if a man who had gone a little out of his mind + asked you for a gun to shoot himself with? Give it him, I suppose. But I + put Mr. Allen ashore in Canada, with the funds to get off with, and then + my duty's done.” + </p> + <p> + This speech, as Mr. Cooke had no doubt confidently hoped, threw the + senator into a frenzy of wrath. + </p> + <p> + “The day will come, sir,” he shouted, shaking his fist at my client, “the + day will come when you will rue this bitterly.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't get off any of your oratorical frills on me,” replied Mr. Cooke, + contemptuously; “you ought to be tied and muzzled.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor was white with anger. + </p> + <p> + “I, for one, will not go to Canada,” he cried. + </p> + <p> + “You'll stay here and starve, then,” said Mr. Cooke; “damned little I + care.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor turned to Farrar, who was biting his lip. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Farrar, I know you to be a rising young man of sound principles, and + Mr. Crocker likewise. You are the only ones who can sail. Have you + reflected that you are about to ruin your careers?” + </p> + <p> + “We are prepared to take the chances, I think,” said Farrar. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke looked us over, proudly and gratefully, as much as to say that + while he lived we should not lack the necessities of life. + </p> + <p> + At nine we embarked, the Celebrity and Mr. Trevor for the same reason that + the animals took to the ark,—because they had to. There was a + spanking breeze in the west-northwest, and a clear sky, a day of days for + a sail. Mr. Cooke produced a map, which Farrar and I consulted, and + without much trouble we hit upon a quiet place to land on the Canadian + side. Our course was north-northwest, and therefore the wind enabled us to + hold it without much trouble. Bear Island is situated some eighteen miles + from shore, and about equidistant between Asquith and Far Harbor, which + latter we had to pass on our way northward. + </p> + <p> + Although a brisk sea was on, the wind had been steady from that quarter + all night, and the motion was uniform. The Maria was an excellent + sea-boat. There was no indication, therefore, of the return of that malady + which had been so prevalent on the passage to Bear Island. Mr. Cooke had + never felt better, and looked every inch a sea-captain in his natty + yachting-suit. He had acquired a tan on the island; and, as is eminently + proper on a boat, he affected nautical manners and nautical ways. But his + vernacular savored so hopelessly of the track and stall that he had been + able to acquire no mastery over the art of marine invective. And he + possessed not so much as one maritime oath. As soon as we had swung clear + of the cove he made for the weather stays, where he assumed a posture not + unlike that in the famous picture of Farragut ascending Mobile Bay. His + leather case was swung over his shoulder, and with his glasses he swept + the lake in search of the Scimitar and other vessels of a like unamiable + character. + </p> + <p> + Although my client could have told you, offhand, Jackstraw's last mile in + a bicycle sulky, his notion of the Scimitar's speed was as vague as his + knowledge of seamanship. And when I informed him that in all probability + she had already passed the light on Far Harbor reef, some nine miles this + side of the Far Harbor police station, he went into an inordinate state of + excitement. Mr. Cooke was, indeed, that day the embodiment of an unselfish + if misdirected zeal. He was following the dictates of both heart and + conscience in his endeavor to rescue his guest from the law; and true zeal + is invariably contagious. What but such could have commanded the + unremitting labors of that morning? Farrar himself had done three men's + work before breakfast, and it was, in great part, owing to him that we + were now leaving the island behind us. He was sailing the Maria that day + as she will never be sailed again: her lee gunwale awash, and a wake like + a surveyor's line behind her. More than once I called to mind his + facetious observation about Mr. Drew, and wondered if he knew more than he + had said about the detective. + </p> + <p> + Once in the open, the Maria showed but small consideration for her + passengers, for she went through the seas rather than over them. And Mr. + Cooke, manfully keeping his station on the weather bow, likewise went + through the seas. No argument could induce him to leave the post he had + thus heroically chosen, which was one of honor rather than utility, for + the lake was as vacant of sails as the day that Father Marquette (or some + one else) first beheld it. Under such circumstances ease must be + considered as only a relative term; and the accommodations of the Maria + afforded but two comfortable spots,—the cabin, and the lea aft of + the cabin bulkhead. This being the case, the somewhat peculiar internal + relations of the party decided its grouping. + </p> + <p> + I know of no worse place than a small yacht, or than a large one for that + matter, for uncongenial people. The Four betook themselves to the cabin, + which was fortunately large, and made life bearable with a game of cards; + while Mrs. Cooke, whose adaptability and sense I had come greatly to, + admire, contented herself with a corner and a book. The ungrateful cause + of the expedition himself occupied another corner. I caught sight of him + through the cabin skylight, and the silver pencil he was holding over his + note-book showed unmistakable marks of teeth. + </p> + <p> + Outside, Mr. Trevor, his face wearing an immutable expression of defiance + for the wickedness surrounding him, had placed his daughter for + safe-keeping between himself and the only other reliable character on + board,—the refrigerator. But Miss Thorn appeared in a blue + mackintosh and a pair of heavy yachting-boots, courting rather than + avoiding a drenching. Even a mackintosh is becoming to some women. All + morning she sat behind Mr. Cooke, on the rise of the cabin, her back + against the mast and her hair flying in the wind, and I, for one, was not + sorry the Celebrity had given us this excuse for a sail. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI + </h2> + <p> + About half-past eleven Mr. Cooke's vigilance was rewarded by a glimpse of + the lighthouse on Far Harbor reef, and almost simultaneously he picked up, + to the westward, the ragged outline of the house-tops and spires of the + town itself. But as we neared the reef the harbor appeared as quiet as a + Sunday morning: a few Mackinaws were sailing hither and thither, and the + Far Harbor and Beaverton boat was coming out. My client, in view of the + peaceful aspect affairs had assumed, presently consented to relinquish his + post, and handed the glasses over to me with an injunction to be watchful. + </p> + <p> + I promised. And Mr. Cooke, feeling his way aft with more discretion than + grace, finally descended into the cabin, where he was noisily received. + And I was left with Miss Thorn. While my client had been there in front of + us, his lively conversation and naive if profane remarks kept us in + continual laughter. When with him it was utterly impossible to see any + other than the ludicrous side of this madcap adventure, albeit he himself + was so keenly in earnest as to its performance. It was with misgiving that + I saw him disappear into the hatchway, and my impulse was to follow him. + Our spirits, like those in a thermometer, are never stationary: mine were + continually being sent up or down. The night before, when I had sat with + Miss Thorn beside the fire, they went up; this morning her anxious + solicitude for the Celebrity had sent them down again. She both puzzled + and vexed me. I could not desert my post as lookout, and I remained in + somewhat awkward suspense as to what she was going to say, gazing at + distant objects through the glasses. Her remark, when it came, took me by + surprise. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” she said seriously, “that Uncle Fenelon's principles are + not all that they should be. His morality is something like his tobacco, + which doesn't injure him particularly, but is dangerous to others.” + </p> + <p> + I was more than willing to meet her on the neutral ground of Uncle + Fenelon. + </p> + <p> + “Do you think his principles contagious?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “They have not met with the opposition they deserve,” she replied. “Uncle + Fenelon's ideas of life are not those of other men,—yours, for + instance. And his affairs, mental and material, are, happily for him, such + that he can generally carry out his notions with small inconvenience. He + is no doubt convinced that he is acting generously in attempting to rescue + the Celebrity from a term in prison; what he does not realize is that he + is acting ungenerously to other guests who have infinitely more at stake.” + </p> + <p> + “But our friend from Ohio has done his best to impress this upon him,” I + replied, failing to perceive her drift; “and if his words are wasted, + surely the thing is hopeless.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not joking,” said she. “I was not thinking of Mr. Trevor, but of + you. I like you, Mr. Crocker. You may not believe it, but I do.” For the + life of me I could think of no fitting reply to this declaration. Why was + that abominable word “like” ever put into the English language? “Yes, I + like you,” she continued meditatively, “in the face of the fact that you + persist in disliking me.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of the kind.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I know. You mustn't think me so stupid as all that. It is a + mortifying truth that I like you, and that you have no use for me.” + </p> + <p> + I have never known how to take a jest from a woman. I suppose I should + have laughed this off. Instead, I made a fool of myself. + </p> + <p> + “I shall be as frank with you,” I said, “and declare that I like you, + though I should be much happier if I didn't.” + </p> + <p> + She blushed at this, if I am not mistaken. Perhaps it was unlooked for. + </p> + <p> + “At any rate,” she went on, “I should deem it my duty to warn you of the + consequences of this joke of yours. They may not be all that you have + anticipated. The consequences for you, I mean, which you do not seem to + have taken into account.” + </p> + <p> + “Consequences for me!” I exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “I fear that you will think what I am going to say uncalled for, and that + I am meddling with something that does not concern me. But it seems to me + that you are undervaluing the thing you have worked so hard to attain. + They say that you have ability, that you have acquired a practice and a + position which at your age give the highest promise for the future. That + you are to be counsel for the railroad. In short, that you are the coming + man in this section of the state. I have found this out,” said she, + cutting short my objections, “in spite of the short time I have been + here.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense!” I said, reddening in my turn. + </p> + <p> + “Suppose that the Celebrity is captured,” she continued, thrusting her + hands into the pockets of her mackintosh. “It appears that he is shadowed, + and it is not unreasonable to expect that we shall be chased before the + day is over. Then we shall be caught red-handed in an attempt to get a + criminal over the border. Please wait until I have finished,” she said, + holding up her hand at an interruption I was about to make. “You and I + know he is not a criminal; but he might as well be as far as you are + concerned. As district attorney you are doubtless known to the local + authorities. If the Celebrity is arrested after a long pursuit, it will + avail you nothing to affirm that you knew all along he was the noted + writer. You will pardon me if I say that they will not believe you then. + He will be taken East for identification. And if I know anything about + politics, and especially the state of affairs in local politics with which + you are concerned, the incident and the interval following it will be + fatal to your chances with the railroad,—to your chances in general. + You perceive, Mr. Crocker, how impossible it is to play with fire without + being burned.” + </p> + <p> + I did perceive. At the time the amazing thoroughness with which she had + gone into the subject of my own unimportant affairs, the astuteness and + knowledge of the world she had shown, and the clearness with which she had + put the situation, did not strike me. Nothing struck me but the alarming + sense of my own stupidity, which was as keen as I have ever felt it. What + man in a public position, however humble, has not political enemies? The + image of O'Meara was wafted suddenly before me, disagreeably near, and his + face wore the smile of victory. All of Mr. Cooke's money could not save + me. My spirits sank as the immediate future unfolded itself, and I even + read the article in O'Meara's organ, the Northern Lights, which was to be + instrumental in divesting me of my public trust and fair fame generally. + Yes, if the Celebrity was caught on the other side of Far Harbor, all + would be up with John Crocker! But it would never do to let Miss Thorn + discover my discomfiture. + </p> + <p> + “There is something in what you say,” I replied, with what bravado I could + muster. + </p> + <p> + “A little, I think,” she returned, smiling; “now, what I wish you to do is + to make Uncle Fenelon put into Far Harbor. If he refuses, you can go in in + spite of him, since you and Mr. Farrar are the only ones who can sail. You + have the situation in your own hands.” + </p> + <p> + There was certainly wisdom in this, also. But the die was cast now, and + pride alone was sufficient to hold me to the course I had rashly begun + upon. Pride! What an awkward thing it is, and more difficult for most of + us to swallow than a sponge. + </p> + <p> + “I thank you for this interest in my welfare, Miss Thorn,” I began. + </p> + <p> + “No fine speeches, please, sir,” she cut in, “but do as I advise.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear I cannot.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you say that? The thing is simplicity itself.” + </p> + <p> + “I should lose my self-respect as a practical joker. And besides,” I said + maliciously, “I started out to have some fun with the Celebrity, and I + want to have it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she replied, rather coolly, “of course you can do as you choose.” + </p> + <p> + We were passing within a hundred yards of the lighthouse, set cheerlessly + on the bald and sandy tip of the point. An icy silence sat between us, and + such a silence is invariably insinuating. This one suggested a horrible + thought. What if Miss Thorn had warned me in order to save the Celebrity + from humiliation? I thrust it aside, but it returned again and grinned. + Had she not practised insincerity before? And any one with half an eye + could see that she was in love with the Celebrity; even the Fraction had + remarked it. What more natural than, with her cleverness, she had hit upon + this means of terminating the author's troubles by working upon my fears? + </p> + <p> + Human weakness often proves too much for those of us who have the very + best intentions. Up to now the refrigerator and Mr. Trevor had kept the + strictest and most jealous of vigils over Irene. But at length the senator + succumbed to the drowsiness which never failed to attack him at this hour, + and he forgot the disrepute of his surroundings in a respectable sleep. + Whereupon his daughter joined us on the forecastle. + </p> + <p> + “I knew that would happen to papa if I only waited long enough,” she said. + “Oh, he thinks you're dreadful, Mr. Crocker. He says that nowadays young + men haven't any principle. I mustn't be seen talking to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I have been trying to convince Mr. Crocker that his stand in the matter + is not only immoral, but suicidal,” said Miss Thorn. “Perhaps,” she added + meaningly, “he will listen to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand,” answered Miss Trevor. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Thorn has been good enough to point out,” I explained, “that the + political machine in this section, which has the honor to detest me, will + seize upon the pretext of the Celebrity's capture to ruin me. They will + take the will for the deed.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course they will do just that,” cried Miss Trevor. “How bright of you + to think of it, Marian!” + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn stood up. + </p> + <p> + “I leave you to persuade him,” said she; “I have no doubt you will be able + to do it.” + </p> + <p> + With that she left us, quite suddenly. Abruptly, I thought. And her manner + seemed to impress Miss Trevor. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what is the matter with Marian,” said she, and leaned over the + skylight. “Why, she has gone down to talk with the Celebrity.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't that rather natural?” I asked with asperity. + </p> + <p> + She turned to me with an amused expression. + </p> + <p> + “Her conduct seems to worry you vastly, Mr. Crocker. I noticed that you + were quite upset this morning in the cave. Why was it?” + </p> + <p> + “You must have imagined it,” I said stiffly. + </p> + <p> + “I should like to know,” she said, with the air of one trying to solve a + knotty problem, “I should like to know how many men are as blind as you.” + </p> + <p> + “You are quite beyond me, Miss Trevor,” I answered; “may I request you to + put that remark in other words?” + </p> + <p> + “I protest that you are a most unsatisfactory person,” she went on, not + heeding my annoyance. “Most abnormally modest people are. If I were to + stick you with this hat-pin, for instance, you would accept the matter as + a positive insult.” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly should,” I said, laughing; “and, besides, it would be + painful.” + </p> + <p> + “There you are,” said she, exultingly; “I knew it. But I flatter myself + there are men who would go into an ecstasy of delight if I ran a hat-pin + into them. I am merely taking this as an illustration of my point.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a very fine point,” said I. “But some people take pleasure in odd + things. I can easily conceive of a man gallant enough to suffer the agony + for the sake of pleasing a pretty girl.” + </p> + <p> + “I told you so,” she pouted; “you have missed it entirely. You are + hopelessly blind on that side, and numb. Perhaps you didn't know that you + have had a hat-pin sticking in you for some time.” + </p> + <p> + I began feeling myself, nervously. + </p> + <p> + “For more than a month,” she cried, “and to think that you have never felt + it.” My action was too much for her gravity, and she fell back against the + skylight in a fit of merriment, which threatened to wake her father. And I + hoped it would. + </p> + <p> + “It pleases you to speak in parables this morning,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker,” she began again, when she had regained her speech, “shall I + tell you of a great misfortune which might happen to a girl?” + </p> + <p> + “I should be pleased to hear it,” I replied courteously. + </p> + <p> + “That misfortune, then, would be to fall in love with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Happily that is not within the limits of probability,” I answered, + beginning to be a little amused. “But why?” + </p> + <p> + “Lightning often strikes where it is least expected,” she replied archly. + “Listen. If a young woman were unlucky enough to lose her heart to you, + she might do everything but tell you, and you would never know it. I + scarcely believe you would know it if she did tell you.” + </p> + <p> + I must have jumped unconsciously. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you needn't think I am in love with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Not for a minute,” I made haste to say. + </p> + <p> + She pointed towards the timber-covered hills beyond the shore. + </p> + <p> + “Do you see that stream which comes foaming down the notch into the lake + in front of us?” she asked. “Let us suppose that you lived in a cabin + beside that brook; and that once in a while, when you went out to draw + your water, you saw a nugget of—gold washing along with the pebbles + on the bed. How many days do you think you would be in coming to the + conclusion that there was a pocket of gold somewhere above you, and in + starting in search of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Not long, surely.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you are not lacking in perception there. But if I were to tell you + that I knew of the existence of such a mine, from various proofs I have + had, and that the mine was in the possession of a certain person who was + quite willing to share it with you on application, you would not believe + me.” + </p> + <p> + “Probably not.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Miss Trevor, with a nod of finality, “I was actually about to + make such a disclosure. But I see it would be useless.” + </p> + <p> + I confess she aroused my curiosity. No coaxing, however, would induce her + to interpret. + </p> + <p> + “No,” she insisted strangely, “if you cannot put two and two together, I + fear I cannot help you. And no one I ever heard of has come to any good by + meddling.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor folded her hands across her lap. She wore that air which I am + led to believe is common to all women who have something of importance to + disclose; or at least what they consider is of importance. There was an + element of pity, too, in her expression. For she had given me my chance, + and my wits had been found wanting. + </p> + <p> + Do not let it be surmised that I attach any great value to such banter as + she had been indulging in. At the same time, however, I had an uneasy + feeling that I had missed something which might have been to my advantage. + It was in vain that I whipped my dull senses; but one conclusion was + indicated by all this inference, and I don't care even to mention that: it + was preposterous. + </p> + <p> + Then Miss Trevor shifted to a very serious mood. She honestly did her best + to persuade me to relinquish our enterprise, to go to Mr. Cooke and + confess the whole thing. + </p> + <p> + “I wish we had washed our hands of this Celebrity from the first,” she + said, with a sigh. “How dreadful if you lose your position on account of + this foolishness!” + </p> + <p> + “But I shan't,” I answered reassuringly; “we are getting near the border + now, and no sign of trouble. And besides,” I added, “I think Miss Thorn + tried to frighten me. And she very nearly succeeded. It was prettily + done.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course she tried to frighten you. I wish she had succeeded.” + </p> + <p> + “But her object was transparent.” + </p> + <p> + “Her object!” she exclaimed. “Her object was to save you.” + </p> + <p> + “I think not,” I replied; “it was to save the Celebrity.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor rose and grasped one of the sail rings to keep her balance. + She looked at me pityingly. + </p> + <p> + “Do you really believe that?” + </p> + <p> + “Firmly.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are hopeless, Mr. Crocker, totally hopeless. I give you up.” And + she went back to her seat beside the refrigerator. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII + </h2> + <h3> + “Crocker, old man, Crocker, what the devil does that mean?” + </h3> + <p> + I turned with a start to perceive a bare head thrust above the cabin roof, + the scant hair flying, and two large, brown eyes staring into mine full of + alarm and reproach. A plump finger was pointing to where the sandy reef + lay far astern of us. + </p> + <p> + The Mackinaws were flecked far and wide over the lake, and a dirty smudge + on the blue showed where the Far Harbor and Beaverton boat had gone over + the horizon. But there, over the point and dangerously close to the land, + hung another smudge, gradually pushing its way like a writhing, black + serpent, lakewards. Thus I was rudely jerked back to face the problem with + which we had left the island that morning. + </p> + <p> + I snatched the neglected glasses from the deck and hurried aft to join my + client on the overhang, but a pipe was all they revealed above the bleak + hillocks of sand. My client turned to me with a face that was white under + the tan. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” he cried, in a tragic voice, “it's a blessed police boat, or I + never picked a winner.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense,” I said; “other boats smoke beside police boats. The lake is + full of tugs.” + </p> + <p> + I was a little nettled at having been scared for a molehill. + </p> + <p> + “But I know it, sure as hell,” he insisted. + </p> + <p> + “You know nothing about it, and won't for an hour. What's a pipe and a + trail of smoke?” + </p> + <p> + He laid a hand on my shoulder, and I felt it tremble. + </p> + <p> + “Why do you suppose I came out?” he demanded solemnly. + </p> + <p> + “You were probably losing,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “I was winning.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you got tired of winning.” + </p> + <p> + But he held up a thumb within a few inches of my face, and with it a ring + I had often noticed, a huge opal which he customarily wore on the inside + of his hand. + </p> + <p> + “She's dead,” said Mr. Cooke, sadly. + </p> + <p> + “Dead?” I repeated, perplexed. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she's dead as the day I lost the two thousand at Sheepshead. She's + never gone back on me yet. And unless I can make some little arrangement + with those fellows,” he added, tossing his head at the smoke, “you and I + will put up to-night in some barn of a jail. I've never been in jail but + once,” said Mr. Cooke, “and it isn't so damned pleasant, I assure you.” I + saw that he believed every word of it; in fact, that it was his religion. + I might as well have tried to argue the Sultan out of Mohammedanism. + </p> + <p> + The pipe belonged to a tug, that was certain. Farrar said so after a look + over his shoulder, disdaining glasses, and he knew the lake better than + many who made their living by it. It was then that I made note of a + curious anomaly in the betting character; for thus far Mr. Cooke, like a + great many of his friends, was a skeptic. He never ceased to hope until + the stake had found its way into the other man's pocket. And it was for + hope that he now applied to Farrar. But even Farrar did not attempt to + account for the tug's appearance that near the land. + </p> + <p> + “She's in some detestable hurry to get up this way, that's flat,” he said; + “where she is, the channel out of the harbor is not forty feet wide.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the rest of the party were gathered behind us on the high + side of the boat, in different stages of excitement, scrutinizing the + smoke. Mr. Cooke had the glasses glued to his eyes again, his feet braced + apart, and every line of his body bespeaking the tension of his mind. I + imagined him standing thus, the stump of his cigar tightly clutched + between his teeth, following the fortunes of some favorite on the far side + of the Belmont track. + </p> + <p> + We waited without comment while the smoke crept by degrees towards the + little white spindle on the tip of the point, now and again catching a + gleam of the sun's rays from off the glass of the lantern. And presently, + against the white lather of the lake, I thought I caught sight of a black + nose pushed out beyond the land. Another moment, and the tug itself was + bobbing in the open. Barely had she reached the deep water beyond the + sands when her length began to shorten, and the dense cloud of smoke that + rose made it plain that she was firing. At the sight I reflected that I + had been a fool indeed. A scant few miles of water lay between us and + her, and if they really meant business back there, and they gave every + sign of it, we had about an hour and a half to get rid of the Celebrity. + The Maria was a good boat, but she had not been built to try conclusions + with a Far Harbor tug. + </p> + <p> + My client, in spite of the ominous condition of his opal, was not slow to + make his intentions exceedingly clear. For Mr. Cooke was first and last, + and always, a gentleman. After that you might call him anything you + pleased. Meditatively he screwed up his glasses and buckled them into the + case, and then he descended to the cockpit. It was the Celebrity he + singled out of the party. + </p> + <p> + “Allen,” said he, when he stood before him, “I want to impress on you that + my word's gold. I've stuck to you thus far, and I'll be damned now if I + throw you over, like they did Jonah.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke spoke with a fine dignity that in itself was impressive, and + when he had finished he looked about him until his eye rested on Mr. + Trevor, as though opposition were to come from that quarter. And the + senator gave every sign of another eruption. But the Celebrity, either + from lack of appreciation of my client's loyalty, or because of the + nervousness which was beginning to show itself in his demeanor, despite an + effort to hide it, returned no answer. He turned on his heel and resumed + his seat in the cabin. Mr. Cooke was visibly affected. + </p> + <p> + “I'd sooner lose my whip hand than go back on him now,” he declared. + </p> + <p> + Then Vesuvius began to rumble. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Cooke,” said the senator, “may I suggest something which seems + pertinent to me, though it does not appear to have occurred to you?” + </p> + <p> + His tone was the calm one that the heroes used in the Celebrity's novels + when they were about to drop on and annihilate wicked men. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, sir,” my client replied briskly, bringing himself up on his + way back to the overhang. + </p> + <p> + “You have announced your intention of 'standing by' Mr. Allen, as you + express it. Have you reflected that there are some others who deserve to + be consulted and considered beside Mr. Allen and yourself?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke was puzzled at this change of front, and unused, moreover, to + that veiled irony of parliamentary expression. + </p> + <p> + “Talk English, my friend,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “In plain words, sir, Mr. Allen is a criminal who ought to be locked up; + he is a menace to society. You, who have a reputation, I am given to + understand, for driving four horses, have nothing to lose by a scandal, + while I have worked all my life for the little I have achieved, and have a + daughter to think about. I will neither stand by Mr. Allen nor by you.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke was ready with a retort when the true significance of this + struck him. Things were a trifle different now. The tables had turned + since leaving the island, and the senator held it in his power to ruin our + one remaining chance of escape. Strangely enough, he missed the cause of + Mr. Cooke's hesitation. + </p> + <p> + “Look here, old man,” said my client, biting off another cigar, “I'm a + first-rate fellow when you get to know me, and I'd do the same for you as + I'm doing for Allen.” + </p> + <p> + “I daresay, sir, I daresay,” said the other, a trifle mollified; “I don't + claim that you're not acting as you think right.” + </p> + <p> + “I see it,” said Mr. Cooke, with admirable humility; “I see it. I was + wrong to haul you into this, Trevor. And the only thing to consider now + is, how to get you out of it.” + </p> + <p> + Here he appeared for a moment to be wrapped in deep thought, and checked + with his cigar an attempt to interrupt him. + </p> + <p> + “However you put it, old man,” he said at last, “we're all in a pretty bad + hole.” + </p> + <p> + “All!” cried Mr. Trevor, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, all,” asserted Mr. Cooke, with composure. “There are the police, and + here is Allen as good as run down. If they find him when they get abroad, + you don't suppose they'll swallow anything you have to say about trying to + deliver him over. No, sir, you'll be bagged and fined along with the rest + of us. And I'd be damned sorry to see it, if I do say it; and I blame + myself freely for it, old man. Now you take my advice and keep your mouth + shut, and I'll take care of you. I've got a place for Allen.” + </p> + <p> + During this somewhat remarkable speech Mr. Trevor, as it were, blew hot + and cold by turns. Although its delivery was inconsiderate, its logic was + undeniable, and the senator sat down again on the locker, and was silent. + But I marked that off and on his fingers would open and shut convulsively. + </p> + <p> + Time alone would disclose what was to happen to us; in the interval there + was nothing to do but wait. We had reached the stage where anxiety begins + to take the place of excitement, and we shifted restlessly from spot to + spot and looked at the tug. She was ploughing along after us, and to such + good purpose that presently I began to catch the white of the seas along + her bows, and the bright red with which her pipe was tipped. Farrar alone + seemed to take but slight interest in her. More than once I glanced at him + as he stood under me, but his eye was on the shuddering leach of the sail. + Then I leaned over. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of it?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “I told you this morning Drew would have handcuffs on him before night,” + he replied, without raising his head. + </p> + <p> + “Hang your joking, Farrar; I know more than you about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what's the use of asking me?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you see that I'm ruined if we're caught?” I demanded, a little + warmly. + </p> + <p> + “No, I don't see it,” he replied. “You don't suppose I think you fool + enough to risk this comedy if the man were guilty, do you? I don't believe + all that rubbish about his being the criminal's double, either. That's + something the girls got up for your benefit.” + </p> + <p> + I ignored this piece of brutality. + </p> + <p> + “But I'm ruined anyway.” + </p> + <p> + “How?” + </p> + <p> + I explained shortly what I thought our friend, O'Meara, would do under the + circumstances. An inference sufficed Farrar. + </p> + <p> + “Why didn't you say something about this before?” he asked gravely. “I + would have put into Far Harbor.” + </p> + <p> + “Because I didn't think of it,” I confessed. + </p> + <p> + Farrar pulled down the corners of his mouth with trying not to smile. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Thorn is a woman of brains,” he remarked gently; “I respect her.” + </p> + <p> + I wondered by what mysterious train of reasoning he had arrived at this + conclusion. He said nothing for a while, but toyed with the spokes of the + wheel, keeping the wind in the sail with undue nicety. + </p> + <p> + “I can't make them out,” he said, all at once. + </p> + <p> + “Then you believe they're after us?” + </p> + <p> + “I changed the course a point or two, just to try them.” + </p> + <p> + “And—” + </p> + <p> + “And they changed theirs.” + </p> + <p> + “Who could have informed?” + </p> + <p> + “Drew, of course,” I said; “who else?” + </p> + <p> + He laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Drew doesn't know anything about Allen,” said he; “and, besides, he's no + more of a detective than I am.” + </p> + <p> + “But Drew was told there was a criminal on the island.” + </p> + <p> + “Who told him?” + </p> + <p> + I repeated the conversation between Drew and Mr. Trevor which I had + overheard. Farrar whistled. + </p> + <p> + “But you did not speak of that this morning,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “No,” I replied, feeling anything but comfortable. At times when he was + facetious as he had been this morning I was wont to lose sight of the fact + that with Farrar the manner was not the man, and to forget the warmth of + his friendship. I was again to be reminded of this. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Crocker,” he said briefly, “I would willingly give up this year's + state contract to have known it.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII + </h2> + <p> + It was, accurately as I can remember, half after noon when Mr. Cooke first + caught the smoke over the point, for the sun was very high: at two our + fate had been decided. I have already tried to describe a part of what + took place in that hour and a half, although even now I cannot get it all + straight in my mind. Races, when a great deal is at stake, are more or + less chaotic: a close four miles in a college eight is a succession of + blurs with lucid but irrelevant intervals. The weary months of hard work + are forgotten, and you are quite as apt to think of your first velocipede, + or of the pie that is awaiting you in the boathouse, as of victory and + defeat. And a yacht race, with a pair of rivals on your beam, is very much + the same. + </p> + <p> + As I sat with my feet dangling over the washboard, I reflected, once or + twice, that we were engaged in a race. All I had to do was to twist my + head in order to make sure of it. I also reflected, I believe, that I was + in the position of a man who has bet all he owns, with large odds on + losing either way. But on the whole I was occupied with more trivial + matters a letter I had forgotten to write about a month's rent, a client + whose summer address I had mislaid. The sun was burning my neck behind + when a whistle aroused me to the realization that the tug was no longer a + toy boat dancing in the distance, but a stern fact but two miles away. + There could be no mistake now, for I saw the white steam of the signal + against the smoke. + </p> + <p> + I slid down and went into the cabin. The Celebrity was in the corner by + the companionway, with his head on the cushions and a book in his hand. + And forward, under the low deck beams beyond the skylight, I beheld the + crouching figure of my client. He had stripped off his coat and was busy + at some task on the floor. + </p> + <p> + “They're whistling for us to stop,” I said to him. + </p> + <p> + “How near are they, old man?” he asked, without looking up. The + perspiration was streaming down his face, and he held a brace and bit in + his hand. Under him was the trap-door which gave access to the ballast + below, and through this he had bored a neat hole. The yellow chips were + still on his clothes. + </p> + <p> + “They're not two miles away,” I answered. “But what in mystery are you + doing there?” + </p> + <p> + But he only laid a finger beside his nose and bestowed a wink in my + direction. Then he took some ashes from his cigar, wetted his finger, and + thus ingeniously removed all appearance of newness from the hole he had + made, carefully cleaning up the chips and putting them in his pocket. + Finally he concealed the brace and bit and opened the trap, disclosing the + rough stones of the ballast. I watched him in amazement as he tore a + mattress from an adjoining bunk and forced it through the opening, + spreading it fore and aft over the stones. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” he said, regaining his feet and surveying the whole with + undisguised satisfaction, “he'll be as safe there as in my new family + vault.” + </p> + <p> + “But,” I began, a light dawning upon me. + </p> + <p> + “Allen, old man,” said Mr. Cooke, “come here.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity laid down his book and looked up: my client was putting on + his coat. + </p> + <p> + “Come here, old man,” he repeated. + </p> + <p> + And he actually came. But he stopped when he caught sight of the open trap + and of the mattress beneath it. + </p> + <p> + “How will that suit you?” asked Mr. Cooke, smiling broadly as he wiped his + face with an embroidered handkerchief. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity looked at the mattress, then at me, and lastly at Mr. Cooke. + His face was a study: + </p> + <p> + “And—And you think I am going to get in there?” he said, his voice + shaking. + </p> + <p> + My client fell back a step. + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” he demanded. “It's about your size, comfortable, and all the + air you want” (here Mr. Cooke stuck his finger through the bit hole). + “Damn me, if I were in your fix, I wouldn't stop at a kennel.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you're cursed badly mistaken,” said the Celebrity, going back to his + corner; “I'm tired of being made an ass of for you and your party.” + </p> + <p> + “An ass!” exclaimed my client, in proper indignation. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, an ass,” said the Celebrity. And he resumed his book. + </p> + <p> + It would seem that a student of human nature, such as every successful + writer should be, might by this time have arrived at some conception of my + client's character, simple as it was, and have learned to overlook the + slight peculiarity in his mode of expressing himself. But here the + Celebrity fell short, if my client's emotions were not pitched in the same + key as those of other people, who shall say that his heart was not as + large or his sympathies as wide as many another philanthropist? + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Cooke was an optimist, and as such disposed to look at the best + side of his friends and ignore the worst; if, indeed, he perceived their + faults at all. It was plain to me, even now, that he did not comprehend + the Celebrity's attitude. That his guest should reject the one hope of + escape left him was, according to Mr. Cooke, only to be accounted for by a + loss of mental balance. Nevertheless, his disappointment was keen. He let + down the door and slowly led the way out of the cabin. The whistle sounded + shrilly in our ears. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke sat down and drew a wallet from his pocket. He began to count + the bills, and, as if by common consent, the Four followed suit. It was a + task which occupied some minutes, and when completed my client produced a + morocco note-book and a pencil. He glanced interrogatively at the man + nearest him. + </p> + <p> + “Three hundred and fifty.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke put it down. It was entirely a matter of course. What else was + there to be done? And when he had gone the round of his followers he + turned to Farrar and me. + </p> + <p> + “How much are you fellows equal to?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + I believe he did it because he felt we should resent being left out: and + so we should have. Mr. Cooke's instincts were delicate. + </p> + <p> + We told him. Then he paused, his pencil in the air, and his eyes + doubtfully fixed on the senator. For all this time Mr. Trevor had been + fidgeting in his seat; but now he opened his long coat, button by button, + and thrust his hand inside the flap. Oh, Falstaff! + </p> + <p> + “Father, father!” exclaimed Miss Trevor. But her tongue was in her cheek. + </p> + <p> + I have heard it stated that if a thoroughly righteous man were cast away + with ninety and nine ruffians, each of the ruffians would gain + one-one-hundredth in virtue, whilst the righteous man would sink to their + new level. I am not able to say how much better Mr. Cooke's party was for + Mr. Trevor's company, but the senator seemed to realize that something + serious had happened to him, for his voice was not altogether steady as he + pronounced the amount of his contribution. + </p> + <p> + “Trevor,” cried Mr. Cooke, with great fervor, “I take it all back. You're + a true, public-spirited old sport.” + </p> + <p> + But the senator had not yet reached that extreme of degradation where it + is pleasurable to be congratulated on wickedness. + </p> + <p> + My client added up the figures and rubbed his hands. I regret to say that + the aggregate would have bought up three small police organizations, body + and soul. + </p> + <p> + “Pull up, Farrar, old man,” he shouted. + </p> + <p> + Farrar released the wheel and threw the Maria into the wind. With the sail + cracking and the big boom dodging over our heads, we watched the tug as + she drew nearer and nearer, until we could hear the loud beating of her + engines. On one side some men were making ready to lower a boat, and then + a conspicuous figure in blue stood out by the davits. Then came the faint + tinkle of a bell, and the H Sinclair, of Far Harbor, glided up and + thrashed the water scarce a biscuit-throw away. + </p> + <p> + “Hello, there!” the man in uniform called out. It was Captain McCann, + chief of the Far Harbor police. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke waved his cigar politely. + </p> + <p> + “Is that Mr. Cooke's yacht, the Maria? + </p> + <p> + “The same,” said Mr. Cooke. + </p> + <p> + “I'm fearing I'll have to come aboard you, Mr. Cooke.” + </p> + <p> + “All right, old man, glad to have you,” said my client. + </p> + <p> + This brought a smile to McCann's face as he got into his boat. We were all + standing in the cockpit, save the Celebrity, who was just inside of the + cabin door. I had time to note that he was pale, and no more: I must have + been pale myself. A few strokes brought the chief to the Maria's stern. + </p> + <p> + “It's not me that likes to interfere with a gent's pleasure party, but + business is business,” said he, as he climbed aboard. + </p> + <p> + My client's hospitality was oriental. + </p> + <p> + “Make yourself at home, old man,” he said, a box of his largest and + blackest cigars in his hand. And these he advanced towards McCann before + the knot was tied in the painter. + </p> + <p> + Then a wave of self-reproach swept over me. Was it possible that I, like + Mr. Trevor, had been deprived of all the morals I had ever possessed? + Could it be that the district attorney was looking calmly on while Mr. + Cooke wilfully corrupted the Far Harbor chief-of-police? As agonizing a + minute as I ever had in my life was that which it took McCann to survey + those cigars. His broad features became broader still, as a huge, red hand + was reached out. I saw it close lingeringly over the box, and then Mr. + Cooke had struck a match. The chief stepped over the washboard onto the + handsome turkey-red cushions on the seats, and thus he came face to face + with me. + </p> + <p> + “Holy fathers!” he exclaimed. “Is it you who are here, Mr. Crocker?” And + he pulled off his cap. + </p> + <p> + “No other, McCann,” said I, with what I believe was a most pitiful attempt + at braggadocio. + </p> + <p> + McCann began to puff at his cigar. Clouds of smoke came out of his face + and floated down the wind. He was so visibly embarrassed that I gained a + little courage. + </p> + <p> + “And what brings you here?” I demanded. + </p> + <p> + He scrutinized me in perplexity. + </p> + <p> + “I think you're guessing, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Never a guess, McCann. You'll have to explain yourself.” + </p> + <p> + McCann had once had a wholesome respect for me. But it looked now as if + the bottom was dropping out of it. + </p> + <p> + “Sure, Mr. Crocker,” he said, “what would you be doing in such company as + I'm hunting for? Can it be that ye're helping to lift a criminal over the + border?” + </p> + <p> + “McCann,” I asked sternly, “what have you had on the tug?” + </p> + <p> + Force of habit proved too much for the man. He went back to the + apologetic. + </p> + <p> + “Never a drop, Mr. Crocker. Upon me soul!” + </p> + <p> + This reminded Mr. Cooke of something (be it recorded) that he had for once + forgotten. He lifted up the top of the refrigerator. The chief's eye + followed him. But I was not going to permit this. + </p> + <p> + “Now, McCann,” I commenced again, “if you will state your business here, + if you have any, I shall be obliged. You are delaying Mr. Cooke.” + </p> + <p> + The chief was seized with a nervous tremor. I think we were a pair in + that, only I managed to keep mine, under. When it came to the point, and + any bribing was to be done, I had hit upon a course. Self-respect demanded + a dignity on my part. With a painful indecision McCann pulled a paper from + his pocket which I saw was a warrant. And he dropped his cigar. Mr. Cooke + was quick to give him another. + </p> + <p> + “Ye come from Bear Island, Mr. Crocker?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + I replied in the affirmative. + </p> + <p> + “I hope it's news I'm telling you,” he said soberly; “I'm hoping it's news + when I say that I'm here for Mr. Charles Wrexell Allen,—that's the + gentleman's name. He's after taking a hundred thousand dollars away from + Boston.” Then he turned to Mr. Cooke. “The gentleman was aboard your boat, + sir, when you left that country place of yours,—what d'ye call it?—Mohair? + Thank you, sir.” And he wiped the water from his brow. “And they're + telling me he was on Bear Island with ye? Sure, sir, and I can't see why a + gentleman of your standing would be wanting to get him over the border. + But I must do my duty. Begging your pardon, Mr. Crocker,” he added, with a + bow to me. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, McCann,” I said. + </p> + <p> + For a space there was only the bumping and straining of the yacht and the + swish of the water against her sides. Then the chief spoke again. + </p> + <p> + “It will be saving you both trouble and inconvenience, Mr. Crocker, if you + give him up, sir.” + </p> + <p> + What did the man mean? Why in the name of the law didn't he make a move? I + was conscious that my client was fumbling in his clothes for the wallet; + that he had muttered an invitation for the chief to go inside. McCann + smoked uneasily. + </p> + <p> + “I don't want to search the boat, sir.” + </p> + <p> + At these words we all turned with one accord towards the cabin. I felt + Farrar gripping my arm tightly from behind. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity had disappeared! + </p> + <p> + It was Mr. Cooke who spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Search the boat!” he said, something between a laugh and a cry. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” the chief repeated firmly. “It's sorry I am to do it, with Mr. + Crocker here, too.” + </p> + <p> + I have always maintained that nature had endowed my client with rare + gifts; and the ease with which he now assumed a part thus unexpectedly + thrust upon him, as well as the assurance with which he carried it out, + goes far to prove it. + </p> + <p> + “If there's anything in your line aboard, chief,” he said blandly, “help + yourself!” + </p> + <p> + Some of us laughed. I thought things a little too close to be funny. Since + the Celebrity had lost his nerve and betaken himself to the place of + concealment Mr. Cooke had prepared for him, the whole composition of the + affair was changed. Before, if McCann had arrested the ostensible Mr. + Allen, my word, added to fifty dollars from my client, would probably have + been sufficient. Should he be found now, no district attorney on the face + of the earth could induce the chief to believe that he was any other than + the real criminal; nor would any bribe be large enough to compensate + McCann for the consequences of losing so important a prisoner. There was + nothing now but to carry it off with a high hand. McCann got up. + </p> + <p> + “Be your lave, Mr. Crocker,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Never you mind me, McCann,” I replied, “but you do what is right.” + </p> + <p> + With that he began his search. It might have been ludicrous if I had had + any desire to laugh, for the chief wore the gingerly air of a man looking + for a rattlesnake which has to be got somehow. And my client assisted at + the inspection with all the graces of a dancing-master. McCann poked into + the forward lockers where we kept the stores,—dropping the iron lid + within an inch of his toe,—and the clothing-lockers and the + sail-lockers. He reached under the bunks, and drew out his hand again + quickly, as though he expected to be bitten. And at last he stood by the + trap with the hole in it, under which the Celebrity lay prostrate. I could + hear my own breathing. But Mr. Cooke had his wits about him still, and at + this critical juncture he gave McCann a thump on the back which nearly + carried him off his feet. + </p> + <p> + “They say the mast is hollow, old man,” he suggested. + </p> + <p> + “Be jabers, Mr. Cooke,” said McCann, “and I'm beginning to think it is! + </p> + <p> + “He took off his cap and scratched his head. + </p> + <p> + “Well, McCann, I hope you're contented,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker,” said he, “and it's that thankful I am for you that the gent + ain't here. But with him cutting high finks up at Mr. Cooke's house with a + valet, and him coming on the yacht with yese, and the whole country in + that state about him, begorra,” said McCann, “and it's domned strange! + Maybe it's swimmin' in the water he is!” + </p> + <p> + The whole party had followed the search, and at this speech of the chief's + our nervous tension became suddenly relaxed. Most of us sat down to laugh. + </p> + <p> + “I'm asking no questions, Mr. Crocker, ye'll take notice,” he remarked, his + voice full of reproachful meaning. + </p> + <p> + “McCann,” said I, “you come outside. I want to speak to you.” + </p> + <p> + He followed me out. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” I went on, “you know me pretty well” (he nodded doubtfully), “and + if I give you my word that Charles Wrexell Allen is not on this yacht, and + never has been, is that sufficient?” + </p> + <p> + “Is it the truth you're saying, sir?” + </p> + <p> + I assured him that it was. + </p> + <p> + “Then where is he, Mr. Crocker?” + </p> + <p> + “God only knows!” I replied, with fervor. “I don't, McCann.” + </p> + <p> + The chief was satisfied. He went back into the cabin, and Mr. Cooke, in + the exuberance of his joy, produced champagne. McCann had heard of my + client and of his luxurious country place, and moreover it was the first + time he had ever been on a yellow-plush yacht. He tarried. He drank Mr. + Cooke's health and looked around him in wonder and awe, and his remarks + were worthy of record. These sayings and the thought of the author of The + Sybarites stifling below with his mouth to an auger-hole kept us in a + continual state of merriment. And at last our visitor rose to go. + </p> + <p> + As he was stepping over the side, Mr. Cooke laid hold of a brass button + and pressed a handful of the black cigars upon him. + </p> + <p> + “My regards to the detective, old man,” said he. + </p> + <p> + McCann stared. + </p> + <p> + “My regards to Drew,” my client insisted. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” said McCann, his face lighting up, “him with the whiskers, what came + from Bear Island in a cat-boat. Sure, he wasn't no detective, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “What was he? A police commissioner?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Cooke,” said McCann, disdainfully, as he got into his boat, “he + wasn't nothing but a prospector doing the lake for one of them summer + hotel companies.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX + </h2> + <p> + When the biography of the Celebrity is written, and I have no doubt it + will be some day, may his biographer kindly draw a veil over that instant + in his life when he was tenderly and obsequiously raised by Mr. Cooke from + the trap in the floor of the Maria's cabin. + </p> + <p> + It is sometimes the case that a good fright will heal a feud. And whereas, + before the arrival of the H. Sinclair, there had been much dissension and + many quarrels concerning the disposal of the quasi Charles Wrexell Allen, + when the tug steamed away to the southwards but one opinion remained,—that, + like Jonah, he must be got rid of. And no one concurred more heartily in + this than the Celebrity himself. He strolled about and smoked + apathetically, with the manner of one who was bored beyond description, + whilst the discussion was going on between Farrar, Mr. Cooke, and myself + as to the best place to land him. When considerately asked by my client + whether he had any choice in the matter, he replied, somewhat facetiously, + that he could not think of making a suggestion to one who had shown such + superlative skill in its previous management. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trevor, too, experienced a change of sentiment in Mr. Cooke's favor. + It is not too much to say that the senator's scare had been of such + thoroughness that he was willing to agree to almost anything. He had come + so near to being relieved of that most precious possession, his + respectability, that the reason in Mr. Cooke's course now appealed to him + very strongly. Thus he became a tacit assenter in wrong-doing, for + circumstances thrust this, once in a while, upon the best of our citizens. + </p> + <p> + The afternoon wore cool; nay, cold is a better word. The wind brought with + it a suggestion of the pine-clad wastes of the northwestern wilderness + whence it came, and that sure harbinger of autumn, the blue haze, settled + around the hills, and benumbed the rays of the sun lingering over the + crests. Farrar and I, as navigators, were glad to get into our overcoats, + while the others assembled in the little cabin and lighted the gasoline + stove which stood in the corner. Outside we had our pipes for consolation, + and the sunset beauty of the lake. + </p> + <p> + By six we were well over the line, and consulting our chart, we selected a + cove behind a headland on our left, which seemed the best we could do for + an anchorage, although it was shallow and full of rocks. As we were + changing our course to run in, Mr. Cooke appeared, bundled up in his + reefer. He was in the best of spirits, and was good enough to concur with + our plans. + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir,” asked Farrar, “what do you propose to do with Allen?” + </p> + <p> + But our client only chuckled. + </p> + <p> + “Wait and see, old man,” he said; “I've got that all fixed.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” Farrar remarked, when he had gone in again, “he has steered it + deuced well so far. I think we can trust him.” + </p> + <p> + It was dark when we dropped anchor, a very tired party indeed; and as the + Maria could not accommodate us all with sleeping quarters, Mr. Cooke + decided that the ladies should have the cabin, since the night was cold. + And so it might have been, had not Miss Thorn flatly refused to sleep + there. The cabin was stuffy, she said, and so she carried her point. + Leaving Farrar and one of Mr. Cooke's friends to take care of the yacht, + the rest of us went ashore, built a roaring fire and raised a tent, and + proceeded to make ourselves as comfortable as circumstances would allow. + The sense of relief over the danger passed produced a kind of + lightheartedness amongst us, and the topics broached at supper would not + have been inappropriate at a friendly dinner party. As we were separating + for the night Miss Thorn said to me: + </p> + <p> + “I am so happy for your sake, Mr. Crocker, that he was not discovered.” + </p> + <p> + For my sake! Could she really have meant it, after all? I went to sleep + thinking of that sentence, beside my client beneath the trees. And it was + first in my thoughts when I awoke. + </p> + <p> + As we dipped our faces in the brook the next morning my client laughed + softly to himself between the gasps, and I knew that he had in mind the + last consummate touch to his successful enterprise. And the revelation + came when the party were assembled at breakfast. Mr. Cooke stood up, and + drawing from his pocket a small and mysterious paper parcel he forthwith + delivered himself in the tone and manner which had so endeared him to the + familiars of the Lake House bar. + </p> + <p> + “I'm not much for words, as you all know,” said he, with becoming modesty, + “and I don't set up to be an orator. I am just what you see here,—a + damned plain man. And there's only one virtue that I lay any claim to,—no + one can say that I ever went back on a friend. I want to thank all of you + (looking at the senator) for what you have done for me and Allen. It's not + for us to talk about that hundred thousand dollars.—My private + opinion is (he seemed to have no scruples about making it public) that + Allen is insane. No, old man, don't interrupt me; but you haven't acted + just right, and that's a fact. And I won't feel square with myself until I + put him where I found him, in safety. I am sorry to say, my friends,” he + added, with emotion, “that Mr. Allen is about to leave us.” + </p> + <p> + He paused for breath, palpably satisfied with so much of it, and with the + effect on his audience. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” continued he, “we start this morning for a place which is only four + miles or so from the town of Saville, and I shall then request my esteemed + legal adviser, Mr. Crocker, to proceed to the town and buy a ready-made + suit of clothes for Mr. Allen, a slouch hat, a cheap necktie, and a stout + pair of farmer's boots. And I have here,” he said, holding up the package, + “I have here the rest of it. My friends, you heard the chief tell me that + Drew was doing the lake for a summer hotel syndicate. But if Drew wasn't a + detective you can throw me into the lake! He wasn't exactly Pinkerton, and + I flatter myself that we were too many for him,” said Mr. Cooke, with + deserved pride; “and he went away in such a devilish hurry that he forgot + his hand-bag with some of his extra things.” + </p> + <p> + Then my client opened the package, and held up on a string before our + astonished eyes a wig, a pair of moustaches, and two bushy red whiskers. + </p> + <p> + And this was Mr. Cooke's scheme! Did it electrify his hearers? Perhaps. + Even the senator was so choked with laughter that he was forced to cast + loose one of the buttons which held on his turn-down collar, and Farrar + retired into the woods. But the gravity of Mr. Cooke's countenance + remained serene. + </p> + <p> + “Old man,” he said to the Celebrity, “you'll have to learn the price of + potatoes now. Here are Mr. Drew's duplicates; try 'em on.” + </p> + <p> + This the Celebrity politely but firmly refused to do. + </p> + <p> + “Cooke,” said he, “it has never been my lot to visit so kind and + considerate a host, or to know a man who pursued his duty with so little + thought and care of his own peril. I wish to thank you, and to apologize + for any hasty expressions I may have dropped by mistake, and I would it + were possible to convince you that I am neither a maniac nor an embezzler. + But, if it's just the same to you, I believe I can get along without the + disguise you mentioned, and so save Mr. Crocker his pains. In short, if + you will set me down at Saville, I am willing to take my chances of + reaching the Canadian Pacific from that point without fear of detection.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity's speech produced a good impression on all save Mr. Cooke, + who appeared a trifle water-logged. He had dealt successfully with Mr. + Allen when that gentleman had been in defiant moods, or in moods of ugly + sarcasm. But this good-natured, turn-you-down-easy note puzzled my client + not a little. Was this cherished scheme a whim or a joke to be lightly + cast aside? Mr. Cooke thought not. The determination which distinguished + him still sat in his eye as he bustled about giving orders for the + breaking of camp. This refractory criminal must be saved from himself, + cost what it might, and responsibility again rested heavy on my client's + mind as I rowed him out to the Maria. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” he said, “if Allen is scooped in spite of us, you have got to + go East and make him out an idiot.” + </p> + <p> + He seemed to think that I had a talent for this particular defence. I + replied that I would do my best. + </p> + <p> + “It won't be difficult,” he went on; “not near as tough as that case you + won for me. You can bring in all the bosh about his claiming to be an + author, you know. And I'll stand expenses.” + </p> + <p> + This was downright generous of Mr. Cooke. We have all, no doubt, drawn our + line between what is right and what is wrong, but I have often wondered + how many of us with the world's indorsement across our backs trespass as + little on the other side of the line as he. + </p> + <p> + After Farrar and the Four got aboard it fell to my lot to row the rest of + the party to the yacht. And this was no slight task that morning. The + tender was small, holding but two beside the man at the oars, and owing to + the rocks and shallow water of which I have spoken, the Maria lay + considerably over a quarter of a mile out. Hence each trip occupied some + time. Mr. Cooke I had transferred with a load of canvas and the tent + poles, and next I returned for Mrs. Cooke and Mr. Trevor, whom I deposited + safely. Then I landed again, helped in Miss Trevor and Miss Thorn, leaving + the Celebrity for the last, and was pulling for the yacht when a cry from + the tender's stern arrested me. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker, they are sailing away without us!” + </p> + <p> + I turned in my seat. The Maria's mainsail was up, and the jib was being + hoisted, and her head was rapidly falling off to the wind. Farrar was + casting. In the stern, waving a handkerchief, I recognized Mrs. Cooke, and + beside her a figure in black, gesticulating frantically, a vision of + coat-tails flapping in the breeze. Then the yacht heeled on her course and + forged lakewards. + </p> + <p> + “Row, Mr. Crocker, row! they are leaving us!” cried Miss Trevor, in alarm. + </p> + <p> + I hastened to reassure her. + </p> + <p> + “Farrar is probably trying something,” I said. “They will be turning + presently.” + </p> + <p> + This is just what they did not do. Once out of the inlet, they went about + and headed northward, up the coast, and we remained watching them until + Mr. Trevor became a mere oscillating black speck against the sail. + </p> + <p> + “What can it mean?” asked Miss Thorn. + </p> + <p> + I had not so much as an idea. + </p> + <p> + “They certainly won't desert us, at any rate,” I said. “We had better go + ashore again and wait.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity was seated on the beach, and he was whittling. Now whittling + is an occupation which speaks of a contented frame of mind, and the + Maria's departure did not seem to have annoyed or disturbed him. + </p> + <p> + “Castaways,” says he, gayly, “castaways on a foreign shore. Two delightful + young ladies, a bright young lawyer, a fugitive from justice, no chaperon, + and nothing to eat. And what a situation for a short story, if only an + author were permitted to make use of his own experiences!” + </p> + <p> + “Only you don't know how it will end,” Miss Thorn put in. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity glanced up at her. + </p> + <p> + “I have a guess,” said he, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Is it true,” Miss Trevor asked, “that a story must contain the element of + love in order to find favor with the public?” + </p> + <p> + “That generally recommends it, especially to your sex, Miss Trevor,” he + replied jocosely. + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor appeared interested. + </p> + <p> + “And tell me,” she went on, “isn't it sometimes the case that you start + out intent on one ending, and that your artistic sense of what is fitting + demands another?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be silly, Irene,” said Miss Thorn. She was skipping flat pebbles + over the water, and doing it capitally, too. + </p> + <p> + I thought the Celebrity rather resented the question. + </p> + <p> + “That sometimes happens, of course,” said he, carelessly. He produced his + inevitable gold cigarette case and held it out to me. “Be sociable for + once, and have one,” he said. + </p> + <p> + I accepted. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know,” he continued, lighting me a match, “it beats me why you and + Miss Trevor put this thing up on me. You have enjoyed it, naturally, and + if you wanted to make me out a donkey you succeeded rather well. I used to + think that Crocker was a pretty good friend of mine when I went to his + dinners in New York. And I once had every reason to believe,” he added, + “that Miss Trevor and I were on excellent terms.” + </p> + <p> + Was this audacity or stupidity? Undoubtedly both. + </p> + <p> + “So we were,” answered Miss Trevor, “and I should be very sorry to think, + Mr. Allen,” she said meaningly, “that our relations had in any way + changed.” + </p> + <p> + It was the Celebrity's turn to flush. + </p> + <p> + “At any rate,” he remarked in his most offhand manner, “I am much obliged + to you both. On sober reflection I have come to believe that you did the + very best thing for my reputation.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX + </h2> + <p> + He had scarcely uttered these words before the reason for the Maria's + abrupt departure became apparent. The anchorage of the yacht had been at a + spot whence nearly the whole south of the lake towards Far Harbor was + open, whilst a high tongue of land hid that part from us on the shore. As + he spoke, there shot before our eyes a steaming tug-boat, and a second + look was not needed to assure me that she was the “H. Sinclair, of Far + Harbor.” They had perceived her from the yacht an hour since, and it was + clear that my client, prompt to act as to think, had decided at once to + put out and lead her a blind chase, so giving the Celebrity a chance to + make good his escape. + </p> + <p> + The surprise and apprehension created amongst us by her sudden appearance + was such that none of us, for a space, spoke or moved. She was about a + mile off shore, but it was even whether the chief would decide that his + quarry had been left behind in the inlet and turn in, or whether he would + push ahead after the yacht. He gave us an abominable five minutes of + uncertainty. For when he came opposite the cove he slowed up, apparently + weighing his chances. It was fortunate that we were hidden from his + glasses by a copse of pines. The Sinclair increased her speed and pushed + northward after the Maria. I turned to the Celebrity. + </p> + <p> + “If you wish to escape, now is your chance,” I said. + </p> + <p> + For contrariness he was more than I have ever had to deal with. Now he + crossed his knees and laughed. + </p> + <p> + “It strikes me you had better escape, Crocker,” said he. “You have more to + run for.” + </p> + <p> + I looked across at Miss Thorn. She had told him, then, of my predicament. + And she did not meet my eye. He began to whittle again, and remarked: + </p> + <p> + “It is only seventeen miles or so across these hills to Far Harbor, old + chap, and you can get a train there for Asquith.” + </p> + <p> + “Just as you choose,” said I, shortly. + </p> + <p> + With that I started off to gain the top of the promontory in order to + watch the chase. I knew that this could not last as long as that of the + day before. In less than three hours we might expect the Maria and the tug + in the cove. And, to be frank, the indisposition of the Celebrity to run + troubled me. Had he come to the conclusion that it was just as well to + submit to what seemed the inevitable and so enjoy the spice of revenge + over me? My thoughts gave zest to my actions, and I was climbing the + steep, pine-clad slope with rapidity when I heard Miss Trevor below me + calling out to wait for her. At the point of our ascent the ridge of the + tongue must have been four hundred feet above the level of the water, and + from this place of vantage we could easily make out the Maria in the + distance, and note from time to time the gain of the Sinclair. + </p> + <p> + “It wasn't fair of me, I know, to leave Marian,” said Miss Trevor, + apologetically, “but I simply couldn't resist the temptation to come up + here.” + </p> + <p> + “I hardly think she will bear you much ill will,” I answered dryly; “you + did the kindest thing possible. Who knows but what they are considering + the advisability of an elopement!” + </p> + <p> + We passed a most enjoyable morning up there, all things taken into + account, for the day was too perfect for worries. We even laughed at our + hunger, which became keen about noon, as is always the case when one has + nothing to eat; so we set out to explore the ridge for blackberries. These + were so plentiful that I gathered a hatful for our friends below, and then + I lingered for a last look at the boats. I could make out but one. Was it + the yacht? No; for there was a trace of smoke over it. And yet I was sure + of a mast. I put my hand over my eyes. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” asked Miss Trevor, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + “The tug has the Maria in tow,” I said, “and they are coming this way.” + </p> + <p> + We scrambled down, sobered by this discovery and thinking of little else. + And breaking through the bushes we came upon Miss Thorn and the Celebrity. + To me, preoccupied with the knowledge that the tug would soon be upon us, + there seemed nothing strange in the attitude of these two, but Miss Trevor + remarked something out of the common at once. How keenly a woman scents a + situation. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity was standing with his back to Miss Thorn, at the edge of the + water. His chin was in the air, and to a casual observer he looked to be + minutely interested in a flock of gulls passing over us. And Miss Thorn? + She was enthroned upon a heap of drift-wood, and when I caught sight of + her face I forgot the very existence of the police captain. Her lips were + parted in a smile. + </p> + <p> + “You are just in time, Irene,” she said calmly; “Mr. Allen has asked me to + be his wife.” + </p> + <p> + I stood, with the hatful of berries in my hand, like a stiff wax figure in + a museum. The expected had come at last; and how little do we expect the + expected when it comes! I was aware that both the young women were looking + at me, and that both were quietly laughing. And I must have cut a + ridiculous figure indeed, though I have since been informed on good + authority that this was not so. Much I cared then what happened. Then came + Miss Trevor's reply, and it seemed to shake the very foundations of my + wits. + </p> + <p> + “But, Marian,” said she, “you can't have him. He is engaged to me. And if + it's quite the same to you, I want him myself. It isn't often, you know, + that one has the opportunity to marry a Celebrity.” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity turned around: an expression of extraordinary intelligence + shot across his face, and I knew then that the hole in the well-nigh + invulnerable armor of his conceit had been found at last. And Miss Thorn, + of all people, had discovered it. + </p> + <p> + “Engaged to you?” she cried, “I can't believe it. He would be untrue to + everything he has written.” + </p> + <p> + “My word should be sufficient,” said Miss Trevor, stiffly. (May I be hung + if they hadn't acted it all out before.) “If you should wish proofs, + however, I have several notes from him which are at your service, and an + inscribed photograph. No, Marian,” she added, shaking her head, “I really + cannot give him up.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Thorn rose and confronted him, and her dignity was inspiring. “Is + this so?” she demanded; “is it true that you are engaged to marry Miss + Trevor?” + </p> + <p> + The Bone of Contention was badly troubled. He had undoubtedly known what + it was to have two women quarrelling over his hand at the same time, but I + am willing to bet that the sensation of having them come together in his + presence was new to him. + </p> + <p> + “I did not think—” he began. “I was not aware that Miss Trevor + looked upon the matter in that light, and you know—” + </p> + <p> + “What disgusting equivocation,” Miss Trevor interrupted. “He asked me + point blank to marry him, and of course I consented. He has never + mentioned to me that he wished to break the engagement, and I wouldn't + have broken it.” + </p> + <p> + I felt like a newsboy in a gallery,—I wanted to cheer. And the + Celebrity kicked the stones and things. + </p> + <p> + “Who would have thought,” she persisted, “that the author of The + Sybarites, the man who chose Desmond for a hero, could play thus idly with + the heart of woman? The man who wrote these beautiful lines: 'Inconstancy + in a woman, because of the present social conditions, is sometimes + pardonable. In a man, nothing is more despicable.' And how poetic a + justice it is that he has to marry me, and is thus forced to lead the life + of self-denial he has conceived for his hero. Mr. Crocker, will you be my + attorney if he should offer any objections?” + </p> + <p> + The humor of this proved too much for the three of us, and Miss Trevor + herself went into peals of laughter. Would that the Celebrity could have + seen his own face. I doubt if even he could have described it. But I + wished for his sake that the earth might have kindly opened and taken him + in. + </p> + <p> + “Marian,” said Miss Trevor, “I am going to be very generous. I relinquish + the prize to you, and to you only. And I flatter myself there are not many + girls in this world who would do it.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Irene,” Miss Thorn replied gravely, “much as I want him, I + could not think of depriving you.” + </p> + <p> + Well, there is a limit to all endurance, and the Celebrity had reached + his. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” he said, “how far is it to the Canadian Pacific?” + </p> + <p> + I told him. + </p> + <p> + “I think I had best be starting,” said he. + </p> + <p> + And a moment later he had disappeared into the woods. + </p> + <p> + We stood gazing in the direction he had taken, until the sound of his + progress had died away. The shock of it all had considerably muddled my + brain, and when at last I had adjusted my thoughts to the new conditions, + a sensation of relief, of happiness, of joy (call it what you will), came + upon me, and I could scarce restrain an impulse to toss my hat in the air. + He was gone at last! But that was not the reason. I was safe from O'Meara + and calumny. Nor was this all. And I did not dare to look at Miss Thorn. + The knowledge that she had planned and carried out with dignity and + success such a campaign filled me with awe. That I had misjudged her made + me despise myself. Then I became aware that she was speaking to me, and I + turned. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker, do you think there is any danger that he will lose his way?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Miss Thorn,” I replied; “he has only to get to the top of that ridge + and strike the road for Saville, as I told him.” + </p> + <p> + We were silent again until Miss Trevor remarked: + </p> + <p> + “Well, he deserved every bit of it.” + </p> + <p> + “And more, Irene,” said Miss Thorn, laughing; “he deserved to marry you.” + </p> + <p> + “I think he won't come West again for a very long time,” said I. + </p> + <p> + Miss Trevor regarded me wickedly, and I knew what was coming. + </p> + <p> + “I hope you are convinced, now, Mr. Crocker, that our sex is not as black + as you painted it: that Miss Thorn knew what she was about, and that she + is not the inconsistent and variable creature you took her to be.” + </p> + <p> + I felt the blood rush to my face, and Miss Thorn, too, became scarlet. She + went up to the mischievous Irene and grasping her arms from behind, bent + them until she cried for mercy. + </p> + <p> + “How strong you are, Marian! It is an outrage to hurt me so. I haven't + said anything.” But she was incorrigible, and when she had twisted free + she began again: + </p> + <p> + “I took it upon myself to speak a few parables to Mr. Crocker the other + day. You know, Marian, that he is one of these level-headed old fogies who + think women ought to be kept in a menagerie, behind bars, to be inspected + on Saturday afternoons. Now, I appeal to you if it wouldn't be disastrous + to fall in love with a man of such ideas. And just to let you know what a + literal old law-brief he is, when I said he had had a hat-pin sticking in + him for several weeks, he nearly jumped overboard, and began to feel + himself all over. Did you know that he actually believed you were doing + your best to get married to the Celebrity?” (Here she dodged Miss Thorn + again.) “Oh, yes, he confided in me. He used to worry himself ill over + that. I'll tell you what he said to me only—” + </p> + <p> + But fortunately at this juncture Miss Trevor was captured again, and Miss + Thorn put her hand over her mouth. Heaven only knows what she would have + said! + </p> + <p> + The two boats did not arrive until nearly four o'clock, owing to some + trouble to the tug's propeller. Not knowing what excuse my client might + have given for leaving some of his party ashore, I thought it best to go + out to meet them. Seated on the cabin roof of the Maria I beheld Mr. Cooke + and McCann in conversation, each with a black cigar too big for him. + </p> + <p> + “Hello, Crocker, old man,” shouted my client, “did you think I was never + coming back? I've had lots of sport out of this hayseed captain” (and he + poked that official playfully), “but I didn't get any grub. So we'll have + to go to Far Harbor.” + </p> + <p> + I caught the hint. Mr. Cooke had given out that he had started for Saville + to restock the larder. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he continued, “Brass Buttons didn't let me get to Saville. You see, + when he got back to town last night they told him he had been buncoed out + of the biggest thing for years, and they got it into his head that I was + child enough to run a ferry for criminals. They told him he wasn't the + sleuth he thought he was, so he came back. They'll have the laugh on him + now, for sure.” + </p> + <p> + McCann listened with admirable good-nature, gravely pulling at his cigar, + and eyeing Mr. Cooke with a friendly air of admiration. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Crocker,” he said, with melancholy humor, “it's leery I am with the + whole shooting-match. Mr. Cooke here is a gentleman, every inch of him, + and so be you, Mr. Crocker. But I'm just after taking a look at the hole + in the bottom of the boat. 'Ye have yer bunks in queer places, Mr. Cooke,' + says I. It's not for me to be doubting a gentleman's word, sir, but I'm + thinking me man is over the hills and far away, and that's true for ye.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke winked expressively. + </p> + <p> + “McCann, you've been jerked,” said he. “Have another bottle!” + </p> + <p> + The Sinclair towed us to Far Harbor for a consideration, the wind being + strong again from the south, and McCann was induced by the affable owner + to remain on the yellow-plush yacht. I cornered him before we had gone a + great distance. + </p> + <p> + “McCann,” said I, “what made you come back to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, Mr. Crocker, I don't care if I am telling you. I always had a + liking for you, sir, and bechune you and me it was that divil O'Meara what + made all the trouble. I wasn't taking his money, not me; the saints + forbid! But glory be to God, if he didn't raise a rumpus whin I come back + without Allen! It was sure he was that the gent left that place,—what + are ye calling it?—Mohair, in the Maria, and we telegraphs over to + Asquith. He swore I'd lose me job if I didn't fetch him to-day. Mr. + Crocker, sir, it's the lumber business I'll be startin' next week,” said + McCann. + </p> + <p> + “Don't let that worry you, McCann,” I answered. “I will see that you don't + lose your place, and I give you my word again that Charles Wrexell Allen + has never been aboard this yacht, or at Mohair to my knowledge. What is + more, I will prove it to-morrow to your satisfaction.” + </p> + <p> + McCann's faith was touching. + </p> + <p> + “Ye're not to say another word, sir,” he said, and he stuck out his big + hand, which I grasped warmly. + </p> + <p> + My affection for McCann still remains a strong one. + </p> + <p> + After my talk with McCann I was sitting on the forecastle propped against + the bitts of the Maria's anchor-chain, and looking at the swirling foam + cast up by the tug's propeller. There were many things I wished to turn + over in my mind just then, but I had not long been in a state of reverie + when I became conscious that Miss Thorn was standing beside me. I got to + my feet. + </p> + <p> + “I have been wondering how long you would remain in that trance, Mr. + Crocker,” she said. “Is it too much to ask what you were thinking of?” + </p> + <p> + Now it so chanced that I was thinking of her at that moment. It would + never have done to say this, so I stammered. And Miss Thorn was a young + woman of tact. + </p> + <p> + “I should not have put that to so literal a man as you,” she declared. “I + fear that you are incapable of crossing swords. And then,” she added, with + a slight hesitation that puzzled me, “I did not come up here to ask you + that,—I came to get your opinion.” + </p> + <p> + “My opinion?” I repeated. + </p> + <p> + “Not your legal opinion,” she replied, smiling, “but your opinion as a + citizen, as an individual, if you have one. To be frank, I want your + opinion of me. Do you happen to have such a thing?” + </p> + <p> + I had. But I was in no condition to give it. + </p> + <p> + “Do you think me a very wicked girl?” she asked, coloring. “You once + thought me inconsistent, I believe, but I am not that. Have I done wrong + in leading the Celebrity to the point where you saw him this morning?” + </p> + <p> + “Heaven forbid!” I cried fervently; “but you might have spared me a great + deal had you let me into the secret.” + </p> + <p> + “Spared you a great deal,” said Miss Thorn. “I—I don't quite + understand.” + </p> + <p> + “Well—” I began, and there I stayed. All the words in the dictionary + seemed to slip out of my grasp, and I foundered. I realized I had said + something which even in my wildest moments I had not dared to think of. My + secret was out before I knew I possessed it. Bad enough had I told it to + Farrar in an unguarded second. But to her! I was blindly seeking some way + of escape when she said softly: + </p> + <p> + “Did you really care?” + </p> + <p> + I am man enough, I hope, when there is need to be. And it matters not what + I felt then, but the words came back to me. + </p> + <p> + “Marian,” I said, “I cared more than you will ever learn.” + </p> + <p> + But it seems that she had known all the time, almost since that night I + had met her at the train. And how? I shall not pretend to answer, that + being quite beyond me. I am very sure of one thing, however, which is that + I never told a soul, man or woman, or even hinted at it. How was it + possible when I didn't know myself? + </p> + <p> + The light in the west was gone as we were pulled into Far Harbor, and the + lamps of the little town twinkled brighter than I had ever seen them + before. I think they must have been reflected in our faces, since Miss + Trevor, when she came forward to look for us, saw something there and + openly congratulated us. And this most embarrassing young woman demanded + presently: + </p> + <p> + “How did it happen, Marian? Did you propose to him?” + </p> + <p> + I was about to protest indignantly, but Marian laid her hand on my arm. + </p> + <p> + “Tell it not in Asquith,” said she. “Irene, I won't have him teased any + more.” + </p> + <p> + We were drawing up to the dock, and for the first time I saw that a crowd + was gathered there. The report of this chase had gone abroad. Some began + calling out to McCann when we came within distance, among others the + editor of the Northern Lights, and beside him I perceived with amusement + the generous lines: of the person of Mr. O'Meara himself. I hurried back + to give Farrar a hand with the ropes, and it was O'Meara who caught the + one I flung ashore and wound it around a pile. The people pressed around, + peering at our party on the Maria, and I heard McCann exhorting them to + make way. And just then, as he was about to cross the plank, they parted + for some one from behind. A breathless messenger halted at the edge of the + wharf. He held out a telegram. + </p> + <p> + McCann seized it and dived into the cabin, followed closely by my client + and those of us who could push after. He tore open the envelope, his eye + ran over the lines, and then he began to slap his thigh and turn around in + a circle, like a man dazed. + </p> + <p> + “Whiskey!” shouted Mr. Cooke. “Get him a glass of Scotch!” + </p> + <p> + But McCann held up his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Holy Saint Patrick!” he said, in a husky voice, “it's upset I am, bottom + upwards. Will ye listen to this?” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'Drew is your man. Reddish hair and long side whiskers, gray + clothes. Pretends to represent summer hotel syndicate. Allen at + Asquith unknown and harmless. + + “' (Signed.) Everhardt.”' +</pre> + <p> + “Sew me up,” said Mr. Cooke; “if that don't beat hell!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI + </h2> + <p> + In this world of lies the good and the bad are so closely intermingled + that frequently one is the means of obtaining the other. Therefore, I wish + very freely to express my obligations to the Celebrity for any share he + may have had in contributing to the greatest happiness of my life. + </p> + <p> + Marian and I were married the very next month, October, at my client's + palatial residence of Mohair. This was at Mr. Cooke's earnest wish: and + since Marian was Mrs. Cooke's own niece, and an orphan, there seemed no + good reason why my client should not be humored in the matter. As for + Marian and me, we did not much care whether we were married at Mohair or + the City of Mexico. Mrs. Cooke, I think, had a secret preference for + Germantown. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cooke quite over-reached himself in that wedding. “The knot was tied,” + as the papers expressed it, “under a huge bell of yellow roses.” The paper + also named the figure which the flowers and the collation and other things + cost Mr. Cooke. A natural reticence forbids me to repeat it. But, lest my + client should think that I undervalue his kindness, I will say that we had + the grandest wedding ever seen in that part of the world. McCann was + there, and Mr. Cooke saw to it that he had a punchbowl all to himself in + which to drink our healths: Judge Short was there, still followed by the + conjugal eye: and Senator Trevor, who remained over, in a new long black + coat to kiss the bride. Mr. Cooke chartered two cars to carry guests from + the East, besides those who came as ordinary citizens. Miss Trevor was of + the party, and Farrar, of course, was best man. Would that I had the flow + of words possessed by the reporter of the Chicago Sunday newspaper! + </p> + <p> + But there is one thing I must mention before Mrs. Crocker and I leave for + New York, in a shower of rice, on Mr. Cooke's own private car, and that is + my client's gift. In addition to the check he gave Marian, he presented us + with a huge, 'repousse' silver urn he had had made to order, and he + expressed a desire that the design upon it should remind us of him forever + and ever. I think it will. Mercury is duly set forth in a gorgeous + equipage, driving four horses around the world at a furious pace; and the + artist, by special instructions, had docked their tails. + </p> + <p> + From New York, Mrs. Crocker and I went abroad. And it so chanced, in + December, that we were staying a few days at a country-place in Sussex, + and the subject of The Sybarites was broached at a dinner-party. The book + was then having its sale in England. + </p> + <p> + “Crocker,” said our host, “do you happen to have met the author of that + book? He's an American.” + </p> + <p> + I looked across the table at my wife, and we both laughed. + </p> + <p> + “I happen to know him intimately,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + “Do you, now?” said the Englishman; “what a very entertaining chap he is, + is he not? I had him down in October, and, by Jove, we were laughing the + blessed time. He was telling us how he wrote his novels, and he said, 'pon + my soul he did, that he had a secretary or something of that sort to whom + he told the plot, and the secretary elaborated, you know, and wrote the + draft. And he said, 'pon my honor, that sometimes the clark wrote the plot + and all,—the whole blessed thing,—and that he never saw the + book except to sign his name to it.” + </p> + <p> + “You say he was here in October?” asked Marian, when the laugh had + subsided. + </p> + <p> + “I have the date,” answered our host, “for he left me an autograph copy of + The Sybarites when he went away.” And after dinner he showed us the book, + with evident pride. Inscribed on the fly-leaf was the name of the author, + October 10th. But a glance sufficed to convince both of us that the + Celebrity had never written it. + </p> + <p> + “John,” said Marian to me, a suspicion of the truth crossing her mind, + “John, can it be the bicycle man?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it can be,” I said; “it is.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Marian, “he's been doing a little more for our friend than we + did.” + </p> + <p> + Nor was this the last we heard of that meteoric trip through England, + which the alleged author of The Sybarites had indulged in. He did not go + up to London; not he. It was given out that he was travelling for his + health, that he did not wish to be lionized; and there were friends of the + author in the metropolis who had never heard of his secretary, and who + were at a loss to understand his conduct. They felt slighted. One of these + told me that the Celebrity had been to a Lincolnshire estate where he had + created a decided sensation by his riding to hounds, something the + Celebrity had never been known to do. And before we crossed the Channel, + Marian saw another autograph copy of the famous novel. + </p> + <p> + One day, some months afterwards, we were sitting in our little salon in a + Paris hotel when a card was sent up, which Marian took. + </p> + <p> + “John,” she cried, “it's the Celebrity.” + </p> + <p> + It was the Celebrity, in the flesh, faultlessly groomed and clothed, with + frock coat, gloves, and stick. He looked the picture of ruddy, manly + health and strength, and we saw at once that he bore no ill-will for the + past. He congratulated us warmly, and it was my turn to offer him a + cigarette. He was nothing loath to reminisce on the subject of his + experiences in the wilds of the northern lakes, or even to laugh over + them. He asked affectionately after his friend Cooke. Time had softened + his feelings, and we learned that he had another girl, who was in Paris + just then, and invited us on the spot to dine with her at “Joseph's.” Let + me say, in passing, that as usual she did credit to the Celebrity's + exceptional taste. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said he, “I have something to tell you two.” + </p> + <p> + He asked for another cigarette, and I laid the box beside him. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you reached Saville all right,” I said, anticipating. + </p> + <p> + “Seven at night,” said he, “and so hungry that I ate what they call marble + cake for supper, and a great many other things out of little side dishes, + and nearly died of indigestion afterward. Then I took a train up to the + main line. An express came along. 'Why not go West?' I asked myself, and I + jumped aboard. It was another whim—you know I am subject to them. + When I got to Victoria I wired for money and sailed to Japan; and then I + went on to India and through the Suez, taking things easy. I fell in with + some people I knew who were going where the spirit moved them, and I went + along. + </p> + <p> + “Algiers, for one place, and whom do you think I saw there, in the lobby + of a hotel?” + </p> + <p> + “Charles Wrexell Allen,” cried Marian and I together. + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity looked surprised. “How did you know?” he demanded. + </p> + <p> + “Go on with your story,” said Marian; “what did he do?” + </p> + <p> + “What did he do?” said the Celebrity; “why, the blackguard stepped up and + shook me by the hand, and asked after my health, and wanted to know + whether I were married yet. He was so beastly familiar that I took out my + glass, and I got him into a cafe for fear some one would see me with him. + 'My dear fellow,' said he, 'you did me the turn of my life.—How can + I ever repay you?' 'Hang your impudence,' said I, but I wanted to hear + what he had to say. 'Don't lose your temper, old chap,' he laughed; 'you + took a few liberties with my name, and there was no good reason why I + shouldn't take some with yours. Was there? When I think of it, the thing + was most decidedly convenient; it was the hand of Providence.' 'You took + liberties with my name,' I cried. With that he coolly called to the waiter + to fill our glasses. 'Now,' said he, 'I've got a story for you. Do you + remember the cotillon, or whatever it was, that Cooke gave? Well, that was + all in the Chicago papers, and the “Miles Standish” agent there saw it, + and he knew pretty well that I wasn't West. So he sent me the papers, just + for fun. You may imagine my surprise when I read that I had been leading a + dance out at Mohair, or some such barbarous place in the northwest. I + looked it up on the map (Asquith, I mean), and then I began to think. I + wondered who in the devil it might be who had taken my name and + occupation, and all that. You see, I had just relieved the company of a + little money, and it hit me like a clap of thunder one day that the idiot + was you. But I couldn't be sure. And as long as I had to get out very soon + anyway, I concluded to go to Mohair and make certain, and then pile things + off on you if you happened to be the man.'” + </p> + <p> + At this point Marian and I were seized with laughter, in which the + Celebrity himself joined. Presently he continued: + </p> + <p> + “'So I went,' said Allen. 'I provided myself with two disguises, as a + careful man should, but by the time I reached that outlandish hole, + Asquith, the little thing I was mixed up in burst prematurely, and the + papers were full of it that morning. The whole place was out with sticks, + so to speak, hunting for you. They told me the published description hit + you to a dot, all except the scar, and they quarrelled about that. I posed + as the promoter of resort syndicates, and I hired the Scimitar and sailed + over to Bear Island; and I didn't have a bad time that afternoon, only + Cooke insisted on making remarks about my whiskers, and I was in mortal + fear lest he might accidentally pull one off. He came cursed near it. By + the way, he's the very deuce of a man, isn't he? I knew he took me for a + detective, so I played the part. And in the night that ass of a state + senator nearly gave me pneumonia by getting me out in the air to tell me + they had hid you in a cave. So I sat up all night, and followed the relief + party in the morning, and you nearly disfigured me for life when you threw + that bottle into the woods. Then I went back to camp, and left so fast + that I forgot my extra pair of red whiskers. I had two of each disguise, + you know, so I didn't miss them. + </p> + <p> + “'I guess,' Mr. Allen went on, gleefully, 'that I got off about as cleanly + as any criminal ever did, thanks to you. If we'd fixed the thing up + between us it couldn't have been any neater, could it? Because I went + straight to Far Harbor and got you into a peck of trouble, right away, and + then slipped quietly into Canada, and put on the outfit of a travelling + salesman. And right here another bright idea struck me. Why not carry the + thing farther? I knew that you had advertised a trip to Europe (why, the + Lord only knows), so I went East and sailed for England on the Canadian + Line. And let me thank you for a little sport I had in a quiet way as the + author of The Sybarites. I think I astonished some of your friends, old + boy.'” + </p> + <p> + The Celebrity lighted another cigarette. + </p> + <p> + “So if it hadn't been for me,” he said, “the 'Miles Standish Bicycle + Company' wouldn't have gone to the wall. Can they sentence me for + assisting Allen to get away, Crocker? If they can, I believe I shall stay + over here.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you are safe,” said I. “But didn't Allen tell you any more?” + </p> + <p> + “No. A man he used to know came into the cafe, and Allen got out of the + back door. And I never saw him again.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe I can tell you a little more,” said Marian. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ...................... +</pre> + <p> + The Celebrity is still writing books of a high moral tone and + unapproachable principle, and his popularity is undiminished. I have not + heard, however, that he has given way to any more whims. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + PG EDITOR'S BOOKMARKS: + + A man's character often give the lie to his tongue + A lie has short legs + Appearance of a professional pallbearer + Architects should be driven and not followed + Consequential or inconsequential irrespective of their size + Deal with a fool according to his folly + Impervious to hints, and would not take no for an answer + Old enough to know better, and too old to be taught + That abominable word “like” + </pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's The Celebrity, Complete, by Winston Churchill + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE CELEBRITY, COMPLETE *** + +***** This file should be named 5387-h.htm or 5387-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/5/3/8/5387/ + +Produced by David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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