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max-width: 100%; } - .x-ebookmaker img {max-height: 30em; max-width: 100%; } - .chapter { clear: both; page-break-before: always; } - .ol_1 li {font-size: .9em; } - .x-ebookmaker .ol_1 li {padding-left: 1em; text-indent: 0em; } - body {font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: justify; } - table {font-size: .9em; padding: 1.5em .5em 1em; page-break-inside: avoid; - clear: both; } - div.titlepage {text-align: center; page-break-before: always; - page-break-after: always; } - div.titlepage p {text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; font-weight: bold; - line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 3em; } - .ph1 { text-indent: 0em; font-weight: bold; font-size: xx-large; - margin: .67em auto; page-break-before: always; } - .ph2 { text-indent: 0em; font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large; margin: .75em auto; - page-break-before: always; } - .x-ebookmaker p.dropcap:first-letter { float: left; } -</style> - </head> - <body> -<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Princess Sukey, by Marshall Saunders</p> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Princess Sukey</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em;'>The story of a pigeon and her human friends</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Marshall Saunders</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: January 4, 2023 [eBook #69707]</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: Richard Tonsing and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)</p> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRINCESS SUKEY ***</div> - -<div class='tnotes covernote'> - -<p class='c000'><strong>Transcriber’s Note:</strong></p> - -<p class='c000'>The cover image was created by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.</p> - -</div> - -<div id='Frontispiece' class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/i_frontispiece.jpg' alt='' class='ig001'> -<div class='ic001'> -<p><span class='sc'>Princess Sukey.</span></p> -</div> -</div> - -<div class='titlepage'> - -<div> - <h1 class='c001'>Princess Sukey<br> <span class='xlarge'>THE STORY OF A PIGEON AND HER HUMAN FRIENDS</span></h1> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c002'> - <div>By</div> - <div><span class='large'>MARSHALL SAUNDERS</span></div> - <div class='c002'><span class='small'>“<i>Despite neither cats, birds, dogs, nor any member of the animal kingdom, for are not all created beings little brothers of the earth, the air, and the sea?</i>”</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='figcenter id002'> -<img src='images/i_title.jpg' alt='' class='ig001'> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> - <div class='nf-center'> - <div>NEW YORK: EATON & MAINS</div> - <div>CINCINNATI: JENNINGS & GRAHAM</div> - </div> -</div> - -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c003'> - <div><span class='small'>Copyright, 1905, by</span></div> - <div><span class='small'>EATON & MAINS.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c003'> - <div>I DEDICATE THIS STORY TO ONE WHO HAS SHOWN A KIND INTEREST IN EVERY LIVING CREATURE ON MY FARM—TO MY DEAR BROTHER-IN-LAW, CLARENCE KING MOORE, OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER</div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='c004'>MARSHALL SAUNDERS</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>MEADOW BROOK FARM</div> - <div class='line in2'>JANUARY 26, 1905</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_v'>v</span> - <h2 class='c005'>LIST OF CHAPTERS</h2> -</div> - -<table class='table0'> -<colgroup> -<col class='colwidth15'> -<col class='colwidth73'> -<col class='colwidth10'> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <th class='c006'><span class='small'>CHAPTER</span></th> - <th class='c007'> </th> - <th class='c008'><span class='small'>PAGE</span></th> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>I.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Pigeon Princess</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_1'>1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>II.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Mrs. Blodgett’s Opinion</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_15'>15</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>III.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Happy Times</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_28'>28</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>IV.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Judge’s Vow</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_36'>36</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>V.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>A Surprise for the Judge</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_58'>58</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>VI.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>In the Pigeon Loft</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_74'>74</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>VII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Birds of Heaven</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_91'>91</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>VIII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>To Adopt or Not to Adopt</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_98'>98</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>IX.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Another Surprise</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_110'>110</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>X.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The English Boy</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_124'>124</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XI.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Deceit and Forgiveness</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_142'>142</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Yellow Spotted Dog</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_155'>155</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XIII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Higby and the Owls</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_163'>163</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XIV.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>A Call from Airy</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_177'>177</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XV.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>A Drive with the Judge</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_192'>192</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XVI.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Spotted Dog Again</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_203'>203</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XVII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Titus as a Philanthropist</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_210'>210</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XVIII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Airy’s Second Call on the Judge</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_219'>219</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XIX.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Dallas Takes a Hand at Management</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_226'>226</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XX.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Cat Man and the Judge’s Family</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_235'>235</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XXI.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Mafferty Unfolds a Plot</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_248'>248</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XXII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Judge Gets a Shock</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_262'>262</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XXIII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Mrs. Everest Begins to Explain</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_275'>275</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XXIV.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Explanation Continued</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_286'>286</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XXV.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Visitors for the Judge</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_299'>299</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XXVI.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Only Son of a Widow</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_308'>308</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XXVII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Mr. Hittaker Calls on the Judge</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_324'>324</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c006'>XXVIII.</td> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>The Judge Reviews his Family</span></td> - <td class='c008'><a href='#Page_330'>330</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_vi'>vi</span> - <h2 class='c005'>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS</h2> -</div> - -<table class='table0'> -<colgroup> -<col class='colwidth78'> -<col class='colwidth21'> -</colgroup> - <tr> - <td class='c007'><span class='sc'>Princess Sukey</span></td> - <td class='c009'><a href='#Frontispiece'>Frontispiece</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>“W-w-whew!” he said after a time, “isn’t she a beauty—a real princess!”</td> - <td class='c009'>Facing page <a href='#Page_32'>32</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>“Go tell the servants that she is found,” said the Judge to Titus</td> - <td class='c009'>Facing page <a href='#i_091'>91</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>“In the middle of the hall stood the grinning colored boy and the ugly yellow spotted dog”</td> - <td class='c009'>Facing page <a href='#Page_204'>204</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c007'>“Why are you dressed like a little boy?” I asked.</td> - <td class='c009'>Facing page <a href='#Page_292'>292</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<div class='chapter ph1'> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c003'> - <div>PRINCESS SUKEY</div> - </div> -</div> - -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_1'>1</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER I<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Pigeon Princess</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Dear little Princess Sukey sitting by the fire—pretty -little pigeon—of what is she thinking as she -dreamily eyes the blazing wood? If a pigeon could -review its past life, what she has of bird mind -would be running back over the series of adventures -that she had ere she established herself in this well -ordered household.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Has she any mentality of her own, or are all -pigeons stupid as has been said? Listen to her story, -and judge for yourself.</p> - -<p class='c011'>To begin with—she is not a common street pigeon -like those who are looking in the window, and who -are probably envying her the silk cushion on which -she sits, her china bath, her lump of rock salt, and -her box of seeds. For it is a bitterly cold day. The -wind is blowing fiercely, the thermometer is away -below zero, and the ground is covered with snow. -In summer these same street pigeons seem to be -laughing at the pigeon princess on account of the abnormal -<span class='pageno' id='Page_2'>2</span>life that she leads, but just now they certainly -would change places with her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The princess is a Jacobin—a thoroughbred, with -a handsome hood that nearly hides her head, a fine -mane and chain, and her colors are red and white.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her parents were beauties—show birds with perfect -points, and they were owned by a young pigeon -fancier of the small city of Riverport, Maine.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The lad’s name was Charlie Brown, and he had -a friend called Titus Sancroft, or, more familiarly, -“Stuttering Tite,” from an unfortunate habit that -he had formed of catching his breath at the beginning -of nearly every sentence he uttered.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Now, young Titus walked most opportunely into -Charlie’s pigeon loft just a day after Princess Sukey -had been hatched.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Just before he came in the clock struck four. A -male pigeon always helps the female in the work of -incubation, and bringing up the young ones. About -ten o’clock every morning the mother pigeon leaves -her eggs, goes to get something to eat, and walks -about the loft with the other pigeons—a pigeon -rarely plays; even young ones are phlegmatic. As -she comes off her nest the male pigeon goes on and -sits there till four in the afternoon. Then the female -returns for the night.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Well, the young princess was a sickly pigeon. -There had been two sickly pigeons, for usually two -eggs are laid at a time. One had died, and the -father Jacobin, thinking that the young Sukey was -also going to die, took her in his beak, lifted her -from the nest, and gently deposited her on the floor -at the other end of the loft.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_3'>3</span>There is little sentiment among birds. They believe -in the survival of the fittest, and the weak are -calmly taken from the nest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The young pigeon was not desperately ill. However, -blind and naked as she was, she could not have -survived long, away from the warmth of the nest, -unless this boy Titus had discovered her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-hello, Charlie,” he stuttered, “here’s a squab -out of the nest.” Charlie took the bird by the legs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what are you going to do?” asked Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Strike its head against the wall.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus did not approve of this.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Wh-why don’t you put it back in the nest?” he -asked, excitedly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No good—once the old ones put it out they won’t -look at it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“C-c-can’t you feed it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Too much trouble. I did have some birds that -would feed young ones—two fine old feeders, but -I sold them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus had a mercenary little soul. “A-a pity to -throw away good money,” he said, looking at the -pigeon. “I-I should think you could worry some -food down its throat yourself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I could, but it’s an awful bother. I’ve tried it. -This is a sick thing anyway. It will be dead in five -minutes. See how it’s gasping.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-b-bet you my jackknife it won’t die,” replied -Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>So they waited five minutes, and, as good fortune -would have it, the future princess gasped them out, -and Charlie laid her in Titus’s palm. “The squab -is yours.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_4'>4</span>“B-b-blest if I know what to do with it,” remarked -Titus, turning the pigeon over in his hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Charlie smiled mischievously. “I guess your -grandfather will give you a time if he finds out.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-he shan’t find out,” said Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s mean that you can’t have pigeons or something,” -observed Charlie. “All the fellows have. -Why don’t you make tracks for another grandfather?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus grinned. His grandfather was a great trial -to him, but it was only in one respect. In other -ways he was a model grandfather.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hope it will live,” said Charlie, generously. -“Tuck some food down its throat—some feed one -way, some another—and mix some sweet oil in it. -I’ve heard that’s good when you take them from the -parents.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus stood a minute longer; then seeing that the -pigeon was near her end, and that Charlie was unconcernedly -going on with his work of feeding and -watering the other pigeons, he scampered home.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus lived with his grandfather, Judge Sancroft, -and Judge Sancroft possessed a somewhat foolish -and provoking but most devoted old family servant -man called Higby.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus ran all about the house looking for this -man. He was really forbidden to talk to him unless -he was positively forced to do so. The Judge had -commanded that Titus should only request a service -from Higby, and thank him for one rendered. -There was to be no conversation, for old Higby -stammered terribly, and the Judge feared that it -was from him Titus had caught the tiresome habit.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_5'>5</span>Finally the boy found the man in the attic superintending -some painters.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“S-s-see what I’ve got, Higby,” he said, opening -his palms, where he was keeping the pigeon warm.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A s-s-squab,” said Higby, “a-a-and and an ugly -w-w-worm of a thing it is.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what shall I do with it?” asked Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-wring it’s neck, young sir,” said Higby, -who was much worried by the painters. “’Tis a -s-s-sad world for m-m-man, woman, or pigeon.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-but it’s worth money,” said Titus. “It’s a -Jacobin—the parents cost twenty dollars.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby looked at it again. Neither he nor the lad -was much animated by sentiment in saving the life -of a bird. Then he felt the pigeon’s crop.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Th-th-there ain’t nothin’ in there, Master Titus. -You’ve got to fe-fe-feed it mighty quick.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Y-you come help me,” said the boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I ca-ca-can’t leave these workmen.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-if you don’t,” replied Titus, “I’ll tell my grandfather -that you seek me out and talk to me. Then -he’ll discharge you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby flew into a rage. As he choked and spluttered -and stammered he stepped backward. That -was his way when wrestling for words, and when he -at last got his words he struck one foot sharply on -the floor.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Young Titus, on the contrary, always stopped -stuttering when he became deeply moved about anything, -but in his excitement he had formed the -habit of stepping forward. So if he were talking to -Higby there was at the same time advance and -retreat.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_6'>6</span>The painters were nearly killing themselves laughing, -and when Higby discovered this he shuffled -downstairs after the boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus led the way to the kitchen. “Mrs. Blodgett,” -he called to the housekeeper, who was directing -the maids, “please make me some warm feed for this -pigeon.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The housekeeper stared at the bird. “O, law! -what a nasty little thing!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>By this time the future little princess was nearly -dead, and Titus in dismay called, “Hurry up.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Master Titus,” she replied, snappishly, “the girls -are preparing dinner. You’ll have to wait.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I can’t wait,” returned the boy, angrily, and he -began to step forward. “Don’t you see the bird’s -dying? Higby, you talk to her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus’s eyes were flaming, and Higby, who was -at heart a coward, and terrified of anyone in a real -rage, subdued his own disturbed feelings, and in a -wheedling voice asked Mrs. Blodgett for just a little -“ro-ro-rolled oats,” with boiling water poured on.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett frowned, and grumbled out something -about having men and boys in the kitchen at -mealtimes. However, she drew out her keys and -went to the storeroom, and in a few minutes Titus -and Higby were in a corner of the kitchen with a -cup of soft food before them, but with nothing but -their clumsy fingers to put it in the pigeon’s small -beak.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The young bird smelt and felt the food, and -nearly wriggled out of Titus’s grasp in trying to -get it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“T-t-this won’t do,” exclaimed the boy, when she -<span class='pageno' id='Page_7'>7</span>jabbed her beak against his hand, “w-w-we’ve got to -have a feather or a stick.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett gave them some turkey feathers -and some toothpicks, and between them they managed -to worry a little food into the pigeon’s beak.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You ought to h-h-have a syringe,” said Higby, -“the old birds fe-fe-feed their young ones by putting -their b-b-beaks crosswise in their mouths to pu-pu-pump -the food down.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I know, I’ve seen them,” replied Titus. “You -just run along to the drug store and get me one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby had to go, and by putting a rubber tube -in the pigeon’s beak they managed to feed her pretty -well.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When her crop was quite round and full Titus -called for a basket and cotton wool, and put her -behind the kitchen stove.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That basket is mortally in the way,” said Mrs. -Blodgett, fretfully; “it is just in the place where we -put our plates to warm.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-b-blodgieblossom,” said the boy, cajolingly, -thrusting his arm through hers, “it’s for your boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The housekeeper gave in. When young Titus -called her “Blodgieblossom,” and said he was her -boy, she would do anything for him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mind, don’t any of you knock that basket over,” -she said, turning frowningly to the maids.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus was running upstairs, when suddenly he -stopped and hurried back. They all thought he had -come to thank them for helping him, but he had not.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“L-l-look a-here!” he said, sternly, “If I catch any -of you prattling to grandfather that I’ve got a -pigeon I’ll make it hot for you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_8'>8</span>They all grinned at each other. The Judge was -a good man, but he was rather severe with his grandson -when he deceived him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge did not find out. He never entered the -kitchen, and the young pigeon grew and thrived, but -not behind the stove on the plate-warmer, for Titus, -finding that her little body was almost like a furnace -itself, appropriated a corner of one of the big kitchen -tables for her basket.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Young Titus and old Higby fed her several times -a day. One had to hold her, while the other pushed -the food down her throat, and cross enough the old -servant man was when Titus would call out, “T-t-the -goose hangs high.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus did not dare to say, “It is feeding time for -the pigeon, Higby,” for the Judge might have heard, -and Titus feared that he would be exceedingly annoyed -if he found out that a bird was being kept -in his house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was really curious that such a dislike for the -lower creation should have been imputed to a really -benevolent and kind-hearted man like Judge Sancroft. -True, he did not care particularly for animals. -He had been brought up in a city, and he -had never had any animals about him but horses -and cows. He was not actively fond of them, but -he always saw that they were well cared for. None -of his children had been fond of animals. Certainly -he was not the kind of man to have said, “No,” if -any of his young sons or daughters had come to him -years ago and said, “Father, I want a dog or a -cat.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>However, his own children were all dead, and the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_9'>9</span>opinion had strengthened with years that the Judge -did not care for dumb creatures. Titus did not know -that his grandfather would have listened with dismay -to anyone who said to him, “Sir, you have a -young grandson under your roof who is pining for -pets such as other boys have, and he is afraid to -ask you for them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was unmistakably a very good man. -His white head, large, handsome face, and portly -frame bore the marks of good temper, sound judgment, -and eminent respectability. It was rather a -wonder that he had not made himself known as a -philanthropist. However, he had in early life been -devoted to his profession, then he had had much -trouble and bereavement, and had traveled extensively, -and then his health had partly broken down, -and he had resigned his judgeship, given up most of -the active duties of life, and settled down to a -sedentary old age.</p> - -<p class='c011'>But old age did not come. Renewed health did -come, and at the time when our story opens the -somewhat bewildered Judge found himself in the -position of a man who sees the map of his life turned -upside down in his hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He really had not enough to do. He had made -enough money to live on, really more than enough, -but he began to think seriously of opening that long-closed -law office. He was only restrained by a -question of dignity. He had been so long on the -bench that he would hate to come down to office -work again—and yet he could not rust out. He -sighed sometimes as he thought of his future—sighed, -not knowing what responsibilities Providence -<span class='pageno' id='Page_10'>10</span>was preparing for him. Probably if he could -have foreseen he would have sighed more heavily. -However, the responsibilities brought also their -alleviations with them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Young Titus was not at all like his grandfather -in appearance. The Judge was a large, rotund, -handsome man, always carefully, even exquisitely, -dressed. Titus was slim and dark, loose-jointed -and always awry. His collar was shady, his clothes -tumbled. He was not in one single outward respect -like the dignified white-haired man who sat opposite -him at the table. But there was the mysterious tie -of blood between them. Apparently the elderly man -and the boy were not at all alike, but there were -points of resemblance. They both felt them, and in -their way were devoted to each other.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was a much-afflicted man. Wife, sons, -daughters, all were gone, but this one lad, and he -often looked at him wistfully. If anything should -happen to this sole grandchild the good old name -of Sancroft would die out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>A day came when it looked as if the family name -would go. A terrible thing happened to young -Titus, and his grandfather’s house was wrapped in -gloom. The lad’s unfortunate habit of stuttering -was at the root of the trouble.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge knew perfectly well that any physical -or mental peculiarity about a boy subjects him to an -intermittent martyrdom from his fellow boys, who -with respect to teasing are part savages. Therefore -he had a private teacher who wrestled with Titus -on the subject of stuttering for several hours a week. -He also was willing that Titus should have all his -<span class='pageno' id='Page_11'>11</span>lessons at home, but this the boy would not agree -to, and the Judge respected him for it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus always went down the street with his eyes -rolling about him. It was such an irresistible -temptation to the boys to imitate him that usually -the air was vocal with mocking-birds.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Fortunately, Titus was exceedingly wiry, and -utterly fearless. Otherwise he would certainly have -been cowed or injured long before our story begins.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He always marched out of school with the other -boys, never waited to walk home in the shadow of -a teacher, and if a call of derision reached him and -he could locate the boy, if he had time, he took off -his coat, intrusted it to a friend, and rushed into the -fray. The boys in his set never carried books in -the street. They had duplicate copies at home.</p> - -<p class='c011'>On one particular day, which turned out to be the -disastrous day for poor Titus, he had got halfway -home with, strange to say, not a single fight.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was not a school day but a holiday, and he had -been downtown with a companion. Suddenly, as -he strolled along beside him, a teasing voice rang -out:</p> - -<div class='lg-container-b c012'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Stuttering Tite, stuttering Tite,</div> - <div class='line in6'>O, he is a daisy!</div> - <div class='line in4'>Give him time and give him words,</div> - <div class='line in6'>And he’ll make you crazy.</div> - <div class='line'>“An S and an S, and a T and a T,</div> - <div class='line'>And a stam and a stutter, and don’t you see—”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c011'>The boy got no further. His song was so malicious, -his manner so exquisitely provoking, that -young Titus, without waiting for a single preliminary, -flew upon him like a whirlwind.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_12'>12</span>Provoker and the provoked one rolled over and -over in the middle of the street. It was a rainy, -muddy morning in the late summer, and in their -dark suits and bedaubed condition they soon had -very much the appearance of two dogs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>So thought a young man who was driving a fast -horse and talking to a lively young girl by his side. -One careless glance he gave the supposed dogs; -then, thinking that they would get out of the way, -he scarcely took pains to avoid them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Needless to say, the dogs made no effort to avoid -him. On the contrary, they rolled right in his path. -One terrified shriek he heard from Titus’s opponent, -then there was silence.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The horrified young man sprang from his buggy. -One boy was not hurt, he was only frightened. The -other lay with his dark young face turned up to the -sky. There was blood on his hands and his forehead. -The horse’s hoofs had struck him, and the -wheels of the buggy had gone over his legs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The young man did not lose his head. He asked -the uninjured lad for Titus’s name and address, he -put him in the buggy, and requesting a bystander -to notify the Judge he drove rapidly to a hospital, -his girl friend tenderly holding Titus’s injured head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The succession of troubles that Judge Sancroft had -had during his life had all been of a deliberate kind. -His wife and children had all had long illnesses, -and much suffering, so much so that death had -come as a welcome release. He did not remember -anything just as sudden as this, and his chastened -and subdued heart died within him. He feared -that he was going to lose his last treasure.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_13'>13</span>He happened to be in his club when the news -came to him, and taking a carriage he drove at once -to the hospital.</p> - -<p class='c011'>What a contrast—from the quiet luxurious rooms -of the club, from the peaceful reading or talking -men, to this abode of pain and distress.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge reverently bared his head as he entered -the door. “God pity them!” he murmured, as he -walked through the long halls and corridors to the -private room where his young grandson had been -carried.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was a white-capped nurse in the room. -The Judge bowed courteously to her, then he turned -to the bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Was that Titus—was that his lively, mischievous -grandson—that pale, quiet lad with the bandaged -head?</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stretched out both hands and laid -them on the lad’s wrists.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My boy,” he said, piteously, “my boy, don’t you -know me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He is quite unconscious, sir,” said the nurse.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Will he die?” asked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” she said, protestingly, “the operation has -not taken place—only an examination.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge sat down by the bed. Bitter, rebellious -thoughts, resigned thoughts, protesting thoughts, -chased each other through his mind.</p> - -<p class='c011'>At last he got up and went to the back of the -room. “God’s will be done,” he said, with a great -sigh.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The nurse gazed surreptitiously at him. She was -very young, and to her the Judge in his vigorous -<span class='pageno' id='Page_14'>14</span>late middle age, and with his white head, appeared -to be an old man.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And a good one,” she said to herself. Then she -listened.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was also listening. His senses were -unnaturally acute. Before her he heard the soft -footfalls and the whispering at the door. The hospital -attendants had come to take his boy to the -operating room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I shall wait here,” he said, and with a piteous -face he watched the lifting and taking away of the -quiet little body. But when the door closed he went -on his knees by the bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, Lord, spare my boy—take my life if necessary, -but spare his. I am getting old, but he is -young. Spare him, spare him, dear Lord!”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_15'>15</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER II<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Mrs. Blodgett’s Opinion</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>What was becoming of the poor princess all this -time, for that station in life had been assigned her -as soon as the delighted Titus noted her aristocratic -manners.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was now a lively bird of three weeks of age, -and though, according to well bred pigeon ways, -she had not yet left her nest she was always looking -about, and quite well aware of what took place -around her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The accident to young Titus had occurred about -noon, when he was on his way home for lunch. It -was now seven o’clock in the evening, and Princess -Sukey was inquiringly raising her pretty hooded -head from her basket to stare about her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby and the maids were serving the dinner. -Mrs. Blodgett had had a dreadful fit of hysterics -when she heard what had happened to the boy of -the household, and had disappeared, no one knew -where.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby was whispering the news. The Judge had -stayed at the hospital till dinner time. The doctors -said that there was just a bare chance of Master -Titus’s life, but they were afraid of his reason. -There had been injury to the brain.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s powerful sa-sa-sad to see the old man,” he -went on.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_16'>16</span>Higby was much older than the Judge, but still -he always called him “the old man.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He sits and ea-ea-eats,” he stammered.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Surely,” said the young rosy-faced cook, “he -aint eatin’ with the boy ’most dyin’.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did I s-s-say he was?” retorted Higby. “He’s -p-p-playin’ with his food just like a ca-ca-cat with -a mouse, only he ain’t goin’ to e-e-eat it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He feels bad inside,” said the parlor maid sympathetically. -“I know the feelin’—kind of sick -like. I had it when I lost my little brother. Not a -bite of food passed my lips for two days. What’s -the matter with that pigeon?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The unfortunate little princess was nearly starved. -Her crop was quite empty, and she was experiencing -some of the torment that the healthy young of any -kind suffer from acute hunger. Titus always fed -her at noon, and it was now night. Imperiously -agitating her long red and white wings, she made -the whistling noise which a young pigeon strives -to attract the attention of its parents.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hush, gor-gor-gormandizer,” said Higby, turning -fiercely on her. “Is this a time for st-st-stuffing -when y-young master is nearly dead?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeon understood nothing of what he said -about the boy, but she clearly saw that no food -would be forthcoming now, so she uttered a complaining -“Wee! wee!” and squatted down in her -basket.</p> - -<p class='c011'>As she did so the kitchen door leading into the -back hall was thrown violently open and Mrs. -Blodgett walked in.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was a short, stout, middle-aged woman, with -<span class='pageno' id='Page_17'>17</span>red cheeks and a skin that looked as if it were too -tight for her fat body. Her clothes, too, were tight, -giving her generally an uncomfortable appearance. -The expression of her face was often fretful. -However, she was on the whole a good sort of -woman.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Just now she was greatly excited. She untied -her bonnet strings, flung them back, and said in a -loud voice, “I’ve seen him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“S-s-seen who?” asked Higby, stopping short -with a tray in his hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The boy. Where’s the Judge?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Master T-t-titus!” exclaimed Higby, walking -backward and striking his foot.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes—hush—I’ll tell you later. Give me that -pigeon.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Before anyone could reach the princess Mrs. -Blodgett had snatched the basket from one of the -kitchen tables, and was walking toward the stairway -leading to the upper part of the house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Suddenly she turned back. “Where’s the Judge?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby stared at her. Then he said, “I-i-in his -study—he ordered co-co-coffee there. You’re not -going to s-s-see him?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why aint I?” she asked, irritably. “Why aint -I?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I d-d-don’t know,” stammered Higby. “Only -you don’t generally call on him this time of day.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Lead the way,” she said, grandly. “Step out.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby stumbled up the steps before her, the dishes -rattling as he went. When he opened the study -door Mrs. Blodgett walked in after him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was standing before the fireplace in -<span class='pageno' id='Page_18'>18</span>a melancholy attitude, with his hands behind his -back.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He looked at Mrs. Blodgett as she came in, but -did not seem surprised. His servants often came to -him with their troubles.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, Mrs. Blodgett,” he said, patiently, when -Higby poured out his cup of coffee and handed it -to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ve somewhat to say to you, sir,” she replied, -with a toss of her head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked at Higby, who went into the -hall, closing the door reluctantly behind him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett was struggling with a variety of -emotions. At last she burst out with a remark, “I’ve -seen the boy, sir!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Have you?” said the Judge, eagerly, and turning -he put his coffee cup on the mantelpiece, as if -glad of an excuse to be rid of it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, I’ve seen the boy, and he spoke to me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He spoke!” exclaimed the Judge, “but, Mrs. -Blodgett, what does this mean? No one was to be -admitted.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett smiled. She knew that the Judge -was too just to condemn her without a hearing.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It was this way, sir,” she said, gently putting -the pigeon’s basket down on the table, and taking a -handkerchief from her pocket to mop her flushed -face. “It was this way,” and as she spoke she felt -herself getting calm. There was a peaceful, judicial -atmosphere in the Judge’s study, and about the man -himself there was something genial and soothing. -“When I heard of that boy’s head run over and -smashed, the heart stood still in my body. Now, if -<span class='pageno' id='Page_19'>19</span>it had been you, sir, or me, or Higby—but that only -bit of young life about the house—it did seem too -awful. ‘I’m goin’ to see him,’ said I. ‘I’m goin’ to -see him afore he dies.’ Bells were ringin’ in my ears, -an’ my head was in a kind of fog like a ship at sea, -but I crawled out to the street, I walked to the hospital. -Many’s the hour I paced up and down waitin’ -for you to come out, for I knew you’d stop me if -you saw me. When you was out of sight I hurried -to the door—I rung the bell.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge drew a long breath, and leaned his -head slightly forward in the intensity of his interest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘Could I see the bed where Master Titus lay?’ -I asked,” continued Mrs. Blodgett. “No, I couldn’t. -I was prepared for that. But can you stop a woman -when she makes up her mind? No, sir. I sat in the -waitin’ room an’ I cried for a solid hour, and then -they said I might look in the room for one minute, -if I’d promise not to speak above my breath.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I promised, and I meant to keep it, but I didn’t. -When I walked into that quiet room, when I looked -at him lyin’ so still with them white cloths on his -black head, then, may heaven forgive me, sir, I let -a screech of ‘Master Titus, me darlin’!’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He opened them impish eyes, sir, he give me a -glance. ‘Blodgieblossom,’ says he, ‘feed the pigeon, -an’ tell grandfather.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He spoke, an’ he went to sleep again, an’ I was -hustled out into the hall, an’ my! didn’t them nurses -give me a tongue-lashin’! But I had heard my boy -speak, sir; his mind were there.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s face was disturbed and bewildered.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_20'>20</span>Mrs. Blodgett was hurrying on, though she kept -a keen eye on him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So, sir, I says to myself, ‘Go right home, tell the -Judge what the boy says. Tell him that if the Lord -in his mercy spared an innocent bird when it was -tumbled out of its nest, maybe he will spare a helpless -boy.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s face was radiant. “Then there is a -pigeon?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Indeed there be, sir,” she said, pulling at the -princess, who, perceiving herself in a new environment, -had crouched down in her basket. “Your -young grandson’s pet pigeon, hid for fear of you—O, -sir, ’tis sad to see him cravin’ dogs an’ cats, an’ -havin’ only this senseless fowl!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>This was an unkind slap at the princess, who, however, -took it good-naturedly, but the Judge looked -sharply at Mrs. Blodgett.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” she said, in an earnest voice, “I’ve been -thinkin’ of the many years I’ve served you. You’ve -been a good, kind master to me, bearin’ with my -faults an’ my temper, an’, sir, when I heard of the -boy’s mishap I blamed myself for somethin’ I’ve -often thought of doin’, but have never done.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge made no remark, but his round, full, -honest eyes were bent on her intently as she went -on.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You couldn’t get me to leave your employ, sir, -not unless you chased me out. There aint a servant -ever comes in this house that leaves on account of -you. It’s me, or Higby. An’, sir, likin’ an’ honorin’ -you, I can’t help takin’ an interest in your grandson. -There’s a soft spot in him, spite of his provokin’ -<span class='pageno' id='Page_21'>21</span>ways, an’ many’s the time I’ve shed a tear over his -motherless head. I, bein’ as it were the only woman -in the house—them senseless, gigglin’ girls, an’ you -an’ that poor foolish creature Higby, not countin’. -An’ takin’ an interest, I’ve often thought that boys -bein’ naturally fond of live stock, it’s a pity you don’t -let Master Titus have some to potter over. If he had -he’d hurry home from school like Charlie Brown, -an’ not spend so much time in loiterin’ around the -streets an’ pickin’ up quarrels.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge contracted his eyebrows.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” said the woman, solemnly, “if I’d come to -you long ago an’ said, ‘Your young grandson just -craves the pets the other boys have,’ you’d have got -him some.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Blodgett,” said the Judge, kindly, “let the -past alone.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But, sir, you’d have done it,” she said, tearfully. -“You’re that kind of a man. Young Master Titus -has always hid that set of feelin’s from you. He -pretended he didn’t want a pony or a dog. He wanted -to please you. An’, sir, the fear of the extra clutter -of work was what kep’ my mouth shut. Says I, -‘If he has rabbits and fowls I’ll have more work to -do.’ An’ when I heard of what happened this holiday -mornin’, when there was no school to take him -out, an’ when he naterally would ’a’ been with pets -if he had had ’em, I said, ‘The Lord has punished -me!’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was sobbing bitterly now, and the Judge felt -his own eyes growing moist.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Blodgett,” he said, slowly, “we all make -mistakes. With shame and contrition I acknowledge -<span class='pageno' id='Page_22'>22</span>that my life has been full of them. But tears -do not blot out errors. Turn your back on past -faults, and go forward in the new path you have -marked out. Do not waste strength in lamentations. -I see that I have done wrong not to find out a natural, -wholesome instinct in my grandson. If the Lord -spares him we shall see a different order of things. -Let us say we have done wrong—we will do better -in future.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman looked up in a kind of awe. She was -only of medium height. The Judge stood far above -her. He had straightened himself as if to take new -courage. His tall form seemed taller, his eyes were -fixed on vacancy. And this grand, good man, without -forgetting or laying aside his dignity, had before -her, a humble servant, clothed himself with humility. -He had done wrong, he said.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” she replied, with her woman’s mind rapidly -darting to a new subject, “I’ve heard say that once -the biggest lawyer, the chief of all the lawyers in -the Union—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She hesitated, and bringing back his gaze to her -the Judge said, kindly, “The chief justice of the -Supreme Court?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, I’ve heard say that he got stuck, and he -asked your opinion. Is that so?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not exactly, Mrs. Blodgett,” he said, smiling -slightly and shaking his head, “not exactly, but—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He looked at a clock on the wall. He was in trouble, -and wished to be alone, but, like the courteous -gentleman he was, did not care to dismiss her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>However, she understood him. “I ask your pardon, -sir,” she said, humbly, “for takin’ up so much -<span class='pageno' id='Page_23'>23</span>of your valuable time, but I was in sore straits about -this pigeon.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ah! that is the bird, is it?” asked the Judge, -stepping forward.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The princess rose up in her beauty. That kind -face leaning over her meant food, and shaking her -wings she uttered a pitiful “Wee! wee!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett was anxiously watching the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I take it, sir, as how the lad is thinkin’ of it in -his deliriumtries. He wants you to know about it, -an’ have it looked after. The unthinkin’ creature -has been brought up near the kitchen range, but now -that precious lamb is worryin’ about it I don’t dare -to leave it there. Suppose the girls should spill -gravy on it!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>All this talk was very fine, but in the meantime -the princess was dying of hunger, so in her distress -she did what she had never done before. Leaning -over the edge of her basket, she raised one coral -claw, held on, scrambled, then hopped out, and -trotted over the writing table toward the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She’s hungry, sir,” said Mrs. Blodgett. “If you -like, sir, I’ll bring her food here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was looking at Sukey with a most -peculiar expression. He knew nothing about birds. -How many things he had dipped into apart from -his profession, but never once had he ever felt the -slightest curiosity with regard to the lower creation. -Birds and animals existed, but he did not care to -know anything about them. Now, as he looked at -the pigeon in the light of his grandson’s interest, a -series of thoughts flashed into his mind. The creature -had the breath of life in its nostrils just as he -<span class='pageno' id='Page_24'>24</span>had, it was hungry, it could make its wants known. -How many other points of resemblance to human -beings had it?</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why is it doing that?” he asked, when the pretty -hooded head was thrust into his hand, and the pink -beak tapped his fingers.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s food, sir, she’s after. Shall I ring for Higby -to bring some?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was just about to say, “Take it away,” -when he reflected that it was Titus’s bird, and -stretching out a hand he rang the bell by the fireplace.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby came hurrying into the room with a precipitation -that told he had not been far away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Pigeon food, Higby,” said Mrs. Blodgett, grandly; -“some warm water to drink, and all Master -Titus’s syringes and things for feedin’ the fowl.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby disappeared at the wave of her hand, and -presently came back with a box full of things.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here,” said Mrs. Blodgett, clearing a place on -the Judge’s writing table, “here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby put down the things, then he stared at her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Take the pigeon,” she said, “hold it in your -hands. I’ll fix the food.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby, in surprise, did as she told him, and the -Judge, silently standing beside them, watched with -interest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Let’s see,” said Mrs. Blodgett, turning over the -things in the box, “there’s nothin’ mixed. We’ll give -her millet seed, sand, scraped cuttlefish, and soaked -bread. I’ll mix it,” and, pouring the various ingredients -in a cup, she stirred them as briskly as if -she were making a pudding.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_25'>25</span>Higby was amazed. He did not suppose that -Mrs. Blodgett knew anything about the pigeon, but -she was pretty shrewd, and had always kept one eye -on him and the boy as they took care of the princess.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, I don’t want that syringe,” she said, pushing -it away when Higby offered it to her. “To my -mind, this bird is too big for soft food. I’ll make -it pills,” and she rolled the bread and seed together. -“Now for a feedin’ stick,” she said, looking around. -“I can’t push the food down that small throat with -my fingers.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Turning her head to and fro, she espied a slender -silver penholder on the writing table. Catching it -up, she tore a strip from her handkerchief, wound -it round the tapering end of the penholder, and -pushed the pill into the princess’s beak.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That pill sticks,” she said, briskly; “I’ll dip the -next in water.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby looked at the Judge as if to say, “Isn’t she -a wonderful woman,” and the Judge in a quiet way -seemed to return the glance and say, “She is!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The poor little princess was delighted to get some -food. She flapped her wings, which had now grown -quite large, until she embraced Mrs. Blodgett’s hand -with them. She loved to feel the food slipping down -her throat, and how comfortable was her crop when -at last it was quite full, and Mrs. Blodgett was -giving her sips of water from a coffee spoon.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The princess had learned to drink in that way, -though it was very hard for her, as a pigeon, unlike -most other birds, keeps its head down while -drinking.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After Mrs. Blodgett had finished feeding the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_26'>26</span>princess she carefully wiped her beak, and put her -back in the basket.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then in a somewhat hesitating and embarrassed -manner she cleaned up some water drops from the -table, and cast scrutinizing glances at the Judge -from under her eyelids.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He did not see her. His mind was wandering. -His body was in the room, but his thoughts were at -the hospital with his cruelly injured grandson.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett waved Higby from the room. -Then, soberly depositing the basket on a corner of -the hearth rug, she too slipped out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The princess lay quietly in her basket, just keeping -one eye on the Judge. She was a discreet young -pigeon, but then all pigeons are discreet. They are -hatched with serious dispositions. Play rarely enters -into their thoughts. They want to work, to eat, and -not to be taken from their homes, for, next to cats, -pigeons love their own locality.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge never looked at the princess, and after -standing up to clean and arrange her feathers, the -last thing a well bred pigeon does at night, she went -to sleep.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The poor Judge sank into an easy-chair. Hour -after hour he sat buried there, buried in sorrow. At -midnight he got up and went to the telephone on a -desk by the window.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Give me the City Hospital,” he said, and then -he went on: “Judge Sancroft is speaking. How is -my grandson?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He groaned when he received the message: “Boy -remains the same—condition unchanged.” Then he -went back to his easy-chair.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_27'>27</span>At intervals all through the night he went from -his chair to the telephone, and back again.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His face would light up when he approached the -desk. Then as the too familiar reply came back it -would fall, his head would sink on his breast, his -shoulders would droop, and with the step of an old -and weary man he would turn away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Toward morning, when he painfully dragged himself -to the desk, his face did not light up. He was -giving up hope. However, it did light up, and with -an unearthly radiance too, when the answer this time -came to him: “Boy better—has regained consciousness, -and is asking for you. Come at once.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge sprang up like a boy. He raised his -two hands to heaven, “God be praised—if the boy -lives, a double contribution to the poor—another boy -to share his life—an end to my selfishness—if he -lives—if he lives,” and burying his face in his hands -the dear old Judge sobbed like a baby.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_28'>28</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER III<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Happy Times</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Ah! that was the beginning of happy times for -the princess.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Grandfather!” said Titus, weakly, “I have been -acting a lie, but don’t punish the bird.” That was -one of the first sentences he uttered.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hush, hush!” said the Judge, soothingly. -“Hush, my boy, your pigeon is in my study. Go -to sleep—there is nothing to worry about.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then he sat and looked blissfully and curiously -at the tired, closed eyes. What fancy was this, or, -to go deeper, what sympathy, what affinity was it -that drew the first thought of an almost mortally -wounded boy to a member of the bird world? That -pigeon was more to him than anything else, apparently.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Doctor,” he said in a low voice, getting up and -going over to the white-haired superintendent of -the hospital who happened to be at the other end -of the room, “are all lads fond of animals?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Almost all healthy, normal ones are, according -to my observation,” replied the doctor.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What is the philosophy of it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t know,” said the man, frankly. “I can -remember my own passion for animals when I was -young, but I have outgrown it. A little girl loves -her doll, a boy his dog. The woman casts aside her -doll for her daughter—”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_29'>29</span>“And the boy, or the man, has his sons,” whispered -the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The doctor nodded. “The young of any kind of -creature is interested in the young of any other. -Sometimes they keep the interest to maturity, sometimes -they don’t.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I can understand a boy’s interest in a dog,” -murmured the Judge, “but a pigeon—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Is that lad attached to a pigeon?” inquired the -doctor, with a sharp look at the bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, very much so.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And is inquiring about it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then take good care of it,” said the doctor, -“and if it dies don’t let him know.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge nodded, and went back to the bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The doctor’s advice was repeated at home in the -big stone house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Didn’t I tell you so!” exclaimed Mrs. Blodgett -in huge delight, “didn’t I tell you so!” and she -immediately went downtown and bought a new basket -for the princess, who fell into a most unaristocratic -rage when she was put into it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Pigeons is like ca-ca-cats,” remarked Higby, who -was watching Mrs. Blodgett induct the princess into -her new home. “They h-h-hate changes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But, darlin’ princess, look at the white ribbons,” -said Mrs. Blodgett, cajolingly, “an’ the pretty German -straw. Why, it’s a lovely basket.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Rookety cahoo! rookety cahoo!” said the princess, -stepping high and wrathfully shaking her hood.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Rookety cahoo! or no rookety cahoo!” said Mrs. -Blodgett, decidedly, “you’ve got to have it. No dirty -<span class='pageno' id='Page_30'>30</span>old baskets in the Judge’s study. You’ve got to be -kept as clean as clean. Higby, you clear up that -litter of straw. She aint goin’ to sit on it any more. -I’ve got a roll of scrim to make her cushions. She -drags the straw about with her claws all over the -carpet—and we aint goin’ to feed her in here any -more. She drops seeds. We’ll take her in the pantry. -I don’t want the Judge to turn her out of his -room. If anything happened to her anywhere else -we’d be blamed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The Judge don’t take n-n-no notice of her,” -grumbled Higby.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t he—that’s all you know. I see him lookin’ -at her, an’ weighin’ her actions, an’ sizin’ her up. -I’ll bet you he never knew so much about pigeons -afore.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was true that the Judge was observing Princess -Sukey. He was obliged to do so, for as soon as -Titus was allowed to talk he seemed bewitched to -get on to the subject of his pigeon. How did she -look, had she grown much—there were a few little -feathers under her wings that had not started—had -they appeared yet? and the Judge was obliged to -answer all his questions, and if his observations of -the pigeon had not been sufficiently narrow he had -to promise to make more.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The days passed by. Young Titus went steadily -forward. He never lost a step. The hospital authorities -declared that his recuperative powers were -marvelous, and the Judge, who had painfully feared -some hereditary weakness, silently bowed his head -and gave thanks.</p> - -<p class='c011'>One day Mrs. Blodgett went into the Judge’s -<span class='pageno' id='Page_31'>31</span>study, which was a beautiful room looking south, -and having large windows opening on a balcony. -She was in search of the princess, and the pigeon, -seeing her coming, hurried somewhat apprehensively -out to this balcony. She had been out of bounds, -and Mrs. Blodgett owned a little switch which she -kept hidden behind one of the bookcases.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The princess was only allowed to sit or stand in -her basket, which stood on a square of oilcloth by -the fireplace, to walk directly to the balcony, or -directly back. She must not linger in corners of -the room, or fly up on the bookcases, the tables, or -the desk.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Just now she had been loitering under one of the -tables, picking at the flowers in the carpet; therefore, -seeing Mrs. Blodgett, she took to the balcony.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett laughed good-humoredly, “I am -not going to whip you to-day. I am ordered to -take you to the hospital to see your young master, -and mind you are a good bird.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The princess submitted to being caught and put -in her basket. Mrs. Blodgett tied a piece of stout -paper firmly over her, then putting the basket on her -arm she went downstairs and out of doors to the -street, where the coachman Roblee was awaiting -her with the Judge’s carriage.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The rubber-tired wheels moved softly over the -asphalt pavement, but the princess liked neither the -confinement nor the motion, and she was a frightened-looking -bird when she reached the hospital.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus did not say much, but his black eyes sparkled -when Mrs. Blodgett put the basket down on his -bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_32'>32</span>“W-w-whew!” he said after a time, “isn’t she a -beauty—a real princess!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Sukey cared nothing for his admiration. She was -in a strange place, and raising her beautiful hooded -head she gazed apprehensively and miserably about -her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Not one sound would she utter, and when Titus -tried to caress her she would slip her soft back from -under his hand and trot toward Mrs. Blodgett.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“S-s-she has forgotten me,” said the boy, with a -chagrined air.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t you believe it, Master Titus,” replied Mrs. -Blodgett, consolingly. “She always do act that way -when you takes her in a strange place.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>However, she had forgotten Titus, or she had -transferred her affections to others. That was confirmed -when the boy returned home a few weeks -later.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His grandfather had insisted upon his staying in -the hospital until he was quite well, but everything -comes to him who waits, and at last the day arrived -when Titus’s belongings were packed. He himself -limped out of his room, and down the long halls and -staircases, and entered the carriage waiting for -him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>A nurse went with him, for his grandfather was -confined at home with a slight cold.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When the carriage drove up to the door Titus -hobbled up the steps and greeted the servants, who -were all waiting for him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-how do you do, everybody?” he called out, -cheerily, “H-h-here I am as good as new, except a -scar on my forehead, and one foot a little bit crooked. -W-where’s grandfather?” and he limped upstairs to -the Judge’s study.</p> -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/i_032.jpg' alt='' class='ig001'> -<div class='ic001'> -<p>“W-w-whew!” he said after a time, “isn’t she a beauty—a real princess!”</p> -</div> -</div> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_33'>33</span>He was not a demonstrative boy, but on this day -he gave his grandfather a bearish hug; then, as if -he were ashamed of so much expansion, he turned -on his heel and said, “Where’s the pigeon?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>His grandfather smiled. “There she is.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus looked around. The princess’s back was -toward him; she was very busy about something, -he could not tell what.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He stepped forward and recognized an enormous -pincushion, the property of Mrs. Blodgett. It was -stuck full of large, round-headed pins, and the -pigeon was amusing herself by pulling out these pins -and throwing them on her square of oilcloth.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what is she doing that for?” asked the boy, -in amazement.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“To kill time, I suppose,” replied his grandfather. -“It is my proud privilege to pick up the pins and -stick them in the cushion when she has drawn them -all out.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-well, I never!” exclaimed Titus, with open -mouth. “I never saw a pigeon play before.” Then -he said, “Sukey!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeon turned round.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“P-p-pretty bird,” he went on.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, rookety cahoo!” she said, irritably, and as he -continued to pet her she walked up and down the -oilcloth, shaking her head and setting her hood quivering.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was a lovely greenish sheen on the red neck -feathers, and Titus exclaimed admiringly, “Y-you -beauty!”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_34'>34</span>Sukey in a rage uttered a series of choking “Rookety -cahoos!” then she flew on the Judge’s shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus was awestruck. “Do you let her do that?” -he asked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I can’t help it,” said the Judge, sheepishly trying -to drive her away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She resisted him, and rapidly turning would give -Titus a wrathful glance, and would then peck lovingly -at the Judge’s ear.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ve spoiled her,” said the Judge, weakly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus sank into a chair.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here take her,” said his grandfather, reaching -up both hands, seizing the bird bodily, and depositing -her on his grandson’s knee.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy held her, and gently stroked her head. -Struggling furiously, she caught hold of his fingers, -bit them sharply until he released her, when she flew -to the Judge’s knee, and seemed to be telling him a -long story of insult and injury.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge could not help laughing, and finally -Titus laughed too. Then he said, “W-w-well, I’ve -lost my pigeon.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Never mind,” said his grandfather, “you shall -have some others for yourself. I spoke to a carpenter -the other day about making a loft up at the -stable for you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus gave his grandfather a queer look. Then -after a long silence he said, strangely, “Y-you don’t -mean it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But I do.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy was overcome, and turning round in his -chair he laid his head on his arm. To have pigeons—to -have a loft like Charlie Brown’s—to see his -<span class='pageno' id='Page_35'>35</span>very own birds strutting about in it, to buy and sell -and bargain in the way so dear to boyish hearts.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Grandfather,” he said after a time, and now he -was so much moved that he did not stutter, “I’m not -just the same as when I went into the hospital.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Indeed!” said his grandfather, kindly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir. I thought,” and he pointed a finger at -the princess, “that I’d raise and sell her, but now I -don’t want to.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why not?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t know, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I will tell you,” said his grandfather, very kindly -and very seriously, “your hard lesson has taught you -that a boy is not all legs, stomach, and brain. He -has also a heart.”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_36'>36</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER IV<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Judge’s Vow</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>The Judge often looked up at a large painting on -his study wall—“Even This Shall Pass Away.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The words were issuing from the lips of an Oriental -king who, seated on a magnificent throne, was -receiving the homage of his courtiers. A half-sad, -half-indulgent smile played about his face, and on -his uplifted hand there could be seen the words -deeply cut on a finger ring, “Even This Shall Pass -Away.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge often looked at this picture. How -many, many things had passed away in his experience—things -that apparently never would pass away! -How the time had dragged when Titus lay ill in the -hospital! It had seemed as if he would always be -ill, as if his grandfather would always be at home, -a worried and suffering man. But now only a few -weeks had gone by and Titus was at home, and -things were going on as they had before his accident.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy was going to school again—no fear of -fights now. He could stutter as much as he pleased. -The boys, half savages as some of them appeared -to be, were afraid to touch him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After breakfast the Judge read his paper, went -downtown to the post office, the bank, and his club, -then came home.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_37'>37</span>The princess was always waiting for him, in her -basket by the hearth rug if it were raining, or on -the balcony if it were fine.</p> - -<p class='c011'>As soon as he appeared in the doorway she flew -to meet him, lighted on his shoulder, rubbed her -beak gently against his ear, saying “Rookety cahoo!” -a great number of times.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When he put her on the hardwood floor she would -circle round his feet, and finally retire to her basket, -where she sat and watched him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He had become her prime favorite. She liked -Mrs. Blodgett and Higby, and she endured Titus, -but she loved the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>On this particular day, or rather evening, she was -very much disturbed. The Judge had had his nap -in the afternoon, and his drive, and his dinner, and -now in the firelight and incandescent light, when the -room was snug and cozy, he ought to be reading in -his big chair, with herself, the princess, on one arm -of it, occasionally getting her head scratched. But -instead of following the usual order of things he -was muttering to himself something about a vow, -and was pacing about the room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The princess did not like it, and showed her displeasure -by a succession of sulky “Rookety cahoos!” -uttered from her basket.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After a time the Judge rang the bell.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Jennie,” he said when the parlor maid appeared, -“ask Master Titus to come here after he finishes -studying his lessons.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Half an hour later Titus came whistling down the -hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-well, grandfather,” he said, as he came into -<span class='pageno' id='Page_38'>38</span>the study, “what do you want—a-a-a game of backgammon?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No,” said the Judge, “I want to talk to you. Sit -down.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus threw himself into a chair, and stared at -him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“When you were ill,” began the Judge, “I, in my -extremity, promised my Maker that if you were -spared to me I would show my gratitude by adopting -some poor child who had no home of his own.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-whew!” exclaimed Titus, and he drew his -black brows together.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was not surprised. He had feared that -Titus might be jealous of another lad.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He waited a minute or two, then he went on -firmly: “This was not blind impulse. I have all -my life known that it was not good for a child to -be brought up alone. Being alone tends to egotism. -We are very happy, you and I, yet I know it would -be better for you to have another lad to share your -sorrows and joys.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-he might fight me,” said Titus, gloomily.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I shall get one much younger than you,” replied -the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O-O-O!” said Titus, easily, “then I can lick -him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus,” said the Judge, “you know that there are -boys and girls in the world less favored than yourself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Y-y-yes, sir, but they are dirty and lazy, and they -have awful manners.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If we get a young child we can mold him. I -feel it my duty, boy. I have enough for you and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_39'>39</span>another lad. There is a fearful amount of suffering -in the world. We should do what we can to lessen -it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I don’t want one of those River Street cubs,” -said Titus, sharply.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I shall take the greatest pains to get a boy of -good antecedents,” said the Judge, decidedly. “You -know that my profession has brought me into contact -with crime and criminals. I have a horror of -inherited vicious tendencies.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A-a-all right, sir,” replied Titus, with a sigh. -“If you’ve promised we’ve got to do it,” and getting -up he walked over to his grandfather and threw his -arm over his shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus was a reserved boy, but just now his slim -young figure, pressed close to the chair in which the -Judge sat, was brimful of eloquence.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s lip quivered. “Titus,” he said, -slowly, “I shall never love another boy as I love you, -and, to tell the truth, I half wish now that I had not -made that vow; but I was in dire trouble, and the -Lord delivered me out of it. Should I not show -gratitude?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Y-y-yes, sir,” said Titus, hastily. “We’ve had a -hard time. I had thoughts too, sir, when I was lying -in bed so long. I’ve deceived you in lots of things. -I’m going to be more straight—I-I-I guess it’s all -right to take a kid. W-w-we’ll bring him to be just -like you and me,” and with a grin he rubbed his -black head against his grandfather’s white one, and -then scampered away to bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Now the princess was happy. With a great sigh -of relief the Judge settled himself back in his chair, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_40'>40</span>pulled the reading light toward him, and took up a -book.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Sukey flew to his side, and when he became too -much absorbed in his reading to rub her white head -she leaned over and gently pecked his hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Young Titus’s illness had extended over a long -and cold autumn and into the first part of December. -By Christmas time he was dashing about in his old -way, though he still had a slight limp. Only time -would cure that, the doctors said.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The limp did not keep him off his feet. From -morning till night he was rushing about somewhere, -and when the Christmas holidays came he was simply -omnipresent.</p> - -<p class='c011'>According to a long-established custom, he and -his grandfather went downtown every Christmas -Eve to see the shops and the people. They started -early on this Christmas Eve—just as soon as they -had had their dinner—and they both would have -been very much surprised if anyone had told them -that during this evening a chance would come for -the fulfillment of the Judge’s vow.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Ever since he had mentioned the matter to Titus -the Judge had been quietly looking about for a boy. -He had visited several orphan asylums, and he had -written to friends, but though the orphans were -plentiful he was fastidious, and so far some defect -had been found in every one proposed to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“This is a joyful season, sir,” said young Titus, -as he endeavored to stride along in a manly fashion -beside his grandfather.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge nodded, for this particular season was, -as Titus said, an ideal one. Enough snow had fallen -<span class='pageno' id='Page_41'>41</span>to make sleighing pleasant, the air was clear and -frosty, but not too sharp, and the days were cloudless -and the nights bright. It was a pleasure to be -out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The usual Christmas stir prevailed. The streets -were full of people, the shops were crowded. The -Judge and Titus had nothing to buy. The boy had -bought his presents for his grandfather and the -servants, and the Judge had his gifts all neatly done -up and labeled. They were in two of the big -drawers of one of his bookcases, and Princess Sukey, -the pigeon, had been the only one to see them as -yet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Everything was gay and cheerful. Nobody -seemed sad, nobody sorry. Boys and girls, men and -women, were laughing and talking cheerily, and -Titus was staring about, his eyes going this way and -that way, until at last his grandfather turned his -wandering gaze in one direction by saying, “What -do you suppose is the matter with that boy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus looked straight in front of him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>A small child clad in a long coat and having on a -shabby fur cap was trotting along in front of them. -Sometimes he would take several steps in a straight -and assured way, then he would falter and stagger. -Once in a while he would reel up against the shop -windows. Upon one of these occasions he pressed -his little face against the frosty glass and gazed in -at the toys.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child’s cheeks were white and dirty, his eyes -were sleepy, and Titus said in a puzzled way, “Do -you suppose anyone would give him anything to -make him stagger?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_42'>42</span>“Hardly,” said the Judge, “the little fellow must -have extraordinarily weak ankles. Watch him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child set out again, and this time he staggered -so badly that he fell on the snowy pavement. -There he sat with his little face bent, a curious smile -playing about his lips as he gazed, not at the passersby, -but down at the ice and snow.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge and Titus were the first to reach him. -“Here,” said the Judge, and he looked down at the -child, “try again,” and he set him on his feet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The little boy gave him a slow, scrutinizing -glance, then he smiled mysteriously and said, “My -little trotters slipped on the ghosts of running -things.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A-a-are you ill?” asked Titus, sharply.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child softly patted the front of his coat with -his mittened hand, “They kept me late, and Mr. Rat -is at his old tricks.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You are hungry,” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child yawned—such a tired, weak little yawn -that, to the Judge’s surprise, he tried to suppress. -Then he nodded his little head a great many times. -“There’s something in the oven for me, but it’s a -long way there.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“We are obstructing the way,” said the Judge, -and indeed many persons had stopped and were listening. -“Take his hand, Titus—here, child, come -into this restaurant.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Like one walking in sleep he gave his hand to -Titus, and allowed himself to be led into the brilliantly -lighted white and gold room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-wonder what he thinks of it?” murmured -Titus to himself. “Here, boy, take off your cap.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_43'>43</span>The little boy struggled to keep his hairy or almost -hairless headgear, but Titus was inexorable. He -finally gave it up, but he gazed at Titus with a -slightly injured air, as the bigger boy handed the -shabby fur thing to the waiter.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then with babyish vanity he put up a hand and -smoothed the thin crop of curls plastered down on -his forehead by a band of perspiration.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What will you have?” said the Judge to him -after they had seated themselves at a small table.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Cats like milk,” he said, dreamily, “and dogs -like broo.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus stared at him, then he said under his breath -to his grandfather, “I-i-is he crazy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, he is repeating a Scotch jingle. ‘Broo’ is -broth. He is terribly tired. Child,” he went on, -“would you like me to read you the <i><span lang="fr">menu</span></i>?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Please, sir,” he said, shyly, and with tired grace -he handed the Judge the bit of cardboard with which -he was playing.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge elevated his eyebrows, put on his eyeglasses, -and took the <i><span lang="fr">menu</span></i> from him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Oysters, sir,” said the child, seriously, when the -Judge had run over the list, “<i><span lang="fr">bouillon</span></i>, and Democrat-Republican -ice cream.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Democrat-Republican ice cream was a specialty -of this same first-class restaurant, and Titus, hearing -this poverty-stricken child show familiarity with its -merits, snickered aloud in his amusement.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His grandfather gave him a warning glance, but -the child had not heard him. He was wearily looking -about the pretty room with an air that said, “I -have seen all this before.” Then, while waiting for -<span class='pageno' id='Page_44'>44</span>their orders to be filled, he quietly dropped to -sleep.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Meanwhile the Judge and Titus studied his appearance.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you see,” said the Judge, “that though his -face and hands are dirty his wrists are clean. He -is only dirty outside. Look at his ragged little shirt -cuffs. They are quite white—and how nicely his -coat is darned.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus nodded, and as the Judge noted the kindly -look on the boy’s face as he surveyed the sleeping -child a light broke over his own face. He was not -romantic nor sentimental, but he was a religious -man, and he believed in the leadings of Providence.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He had been guided to this boy. What a brother -he would make for Titus—that is, and he prudently -added an afterthought, if he was without incumbrances, -and his antecedents were good—and meanwhile -the little child slept on.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-b-boy,” said Titus, presently, “wake up, and -eat your victuals.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child opened his eyes, smiled sweetly at him, -and calmly took up a fork.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He went to sleep between oysters and <i><span lang="fr">bouillon</span></i>, -and <i><span lang="fr">bouillon</span></i> and ice cream. He slept putting a piece -of bread to his mouth—indeed, he slept with such -frequency that Titus wondered how he managed to -tuck away so much food.</p> - -<p class='c011'>At last he had finished, and then he did something -that considerably mystified the Judge and Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After wiping his mouth with his napkin he put -the napkin on the table, and unbuttoning his coat -he slipped a hand in the front of it.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_45'>45</span>As he did this the sleepy look left his eyes, and a -sorrowful one came in its place. Drawing out a -small handkerchief with a border of marvelous lions -and tigers, he unrolled it, pretended to take something -out of it and put it on the table. Then he -placed crumbs of bread and cake before this imaginary -thing.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what are you doing?” asked Titus, bluntly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Feeding the little one,” said the child, solemnly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what little one? There isn’t any there.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t you see my little mouse?” he asked, impatiently.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A-a-a mouse!” exclaimed Titus, “je-whillikens! -I don’t like mice.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He’s dead,” said the child, softly; “a strange -pussy killed him—not our pussy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-how can you feed him if he’s dead?” pursued -Titus, with boyish callousness.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But he has a little ghost,” said the strange child, -gently shaking his head, “and I carry it here—have -you had enough, mousie?” and he tenderly lowered -his head to the table.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes,” he said, softly speaking to himself; then -he took up the ghost, wrapped it in his handkerchief, -and put it back in his little bosom.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge felt a strange misgiving. Another -animal enthusiast—and this one worse than Titus, -for Titus had little imagination, and interested himself -only with the live bodies of animals, not their -dead shades.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The mouse episode over, the child again became -sleepy. Titus, who had managed to dispose of some -ice cream himself, jammed the boy’s fur cap down on -<span class='pageno' id='Page_46'>46</span>his head, and guided his steps behind the Judge to -the door of the restaurant.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There the child sank down on the doorstep.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“U-u-upon my word,” stuttered Titus, “he’s saying -his prayers. T-t-this time he’ll be off for good—must -have been drugged.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s a case of natural or unnatural fatigue,” said -his grandfather. “Drugs would probably cause him -to sleep uninterruptedly. Go get a sleigh and we -will drive him home. Child,” and he bent down and -slightly shook him, “where do you live?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Forty-five River Street,” he replied, drowsily, -“at Mrs. Tingsby’s.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>When he found himself lifted in among warm -fur sleigh robes he slept more soundly than ever.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“River Street—River Street,” said the Judge. -“Poor child!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>In a short time they had left the crowded, brightly -lighted streets, and were traversing the long, dingy -narrow one that Titus so much disliked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>On one side of the street there were wharves behind -the houses. The traffic for the day was over, -and the wharves were dull and deserted, but there -was some life on the street, particularly about the -saloons and small shops.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Even River Street must have its Christmas Eve.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Forty-five,” said the driver, “here it is,” and he -stopped beside a narrow house—the middle one of -three dingy, uninviting dwellings.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mere shells of buildings,” muttered the Judge, -glancing up at the houses, “and the poor haven’t -coal to heat them, while we with well built houses -have plenty of fuel.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_47'>47</span>When the sleigh stopped, and the merry jingle -of the horses’ bells ceased, a curtain was pulled aside -from a window of number forty-five, then the door -flew open, and a thin slip of a woman in a cotton -dress ran out to meet them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, the child! the child!—don’t say death to me!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Motherly anxiety,” commented the Judge to himself, -and strange to say his heart sank. If the boy -had a mother he would never get him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He stared at the excited wisp of a woman who -was dragging the child from the fur robes, and was -violently hugging him. “O, Bethany! Bethany! you -aint dead.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dead, no,” said the Judge, “he is only asleep,” -and he proceeded to tell the woman the story of -their finding the child.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She listened to him, holding her head up, and with -a strained expression on her thin face, and after a -time the Judge stopped talking, for he discovered -that she had not heard a word of what he was saying.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’m deef!” she exclaimed, “deefer than that iron -post. Come in, come in,” and clutching the little -boy firmly by the hand she backed into a tiny hall, -and threw open the door of a small front room where -a table was set as if for a meal.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Wait for us,” said the Judge to the cabman, then -he followed her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The cloth on the table was white but threadbare, -and the appointments were all so meager that the -Judge averted his head. He had a tender heart, and -now that he was getting toward old age the awful -inequality between the lot of the rich and the poor -struck a painful sympathy to his heart.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_48'>48</span>“What makes this boy so sleepy?” he asked, pointing -to the little child.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman saw his gesture. “Ah! sir,” she said, -“it’s cruel to keep them so late. They begin work -at nine in the morning.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Work!” echoed Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His clear young voice reached the deaf woman’s -ear.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That there child,” she said, pointing to the little -boy, who was sitting on a small stool stifling yawns, -“has been at work sence nine this morning with bare -an hour for lunch—just as sure as I’m a livin’ -woman.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What work does he do?” asked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman did not hear him, but she guessed -what his question would be.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“From nine to five is the hours, and in the sight -of my Maker I vow I’d not let any child in my care -go to sech slavery, if it weren’t that I’m so hard -pressed that upon my word the soul is fairly racked -out of me to get victuals for my children.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What does he do?” roared the Judge in her ear.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do, sir—makes paper boxes. You know about -Christmas time how the rich folks must have boxes -to put their candy in. The contracts for boxes is let -out to men who swallow up the poor. There’s dozens -of poor children a-slavin’ in this city, agin’ the -law and unbeknownst to the law. I wish the Lord -had never made Christmas. It’s a good time for -the rich. You take out your fat pocketbooks an’ -order presents for each other, an’ you wait till the -last minute, an’ then the poor has to go to work.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge wrinkled his white brows.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_49'>49</span>“Look at that table, sir,” continued the woman, -“set sence five o’clock this evenin’—the time the -poor is supposed to git off. Look at the sour bread -the baker sells us, an’ the salt butter the grocer -weighs us, an’ the molasses, an’ rind of cheese. -That’s our Christmas Eve supper, but sech as it is -it’s been waitin’ for hours for my boarders.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge said nothing, but his gaze went round -the shabby room. Nothing more unlike his idea of -a boarding house could be imagined.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The little thin woman with the sharp eyes interpreted -his glance.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, I earns my livin’ by keepin’ boarders—ever -sence my husband was poisoned to death by -work in the city sewers. There’s that boarder,” and -she pointed to a plate on the table—“Matthew Jones. -He works in a fur store—overtime now, because it’s -Christmas, and some grand lady must have her set -of sables to-night. The light is poor in his workroom, -an’ his eyes is bad, but no matter—he’s got -to work or be fired. Then next to him sits Harry -Ray. He’s in the express employ. Only seventeen, -an’ an orphan. He’s drivin’ till one and two every -night now, an’ eatin’ his lunch on his seat in his -cart. He’s got an awful cold. After Christmas -he’ll likely take time to have newmania or grip. -Then there’s old man Fanley. He’s carryin’ parcels -for a small firm—poor old soul, stumblin’ round in -the cold at night when he ought to be in bed. O! -sir, we don’t hate work, we poor uns, we’ll slave all -day, but I do think the rich might let us have our -nights. We’d serve ’em better, sir, we would.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge bent his white head and nodded it -<span class='pageno' id='Page_50'>50</span>sadly. At times there seemed no joy, no pleasure -in life, only stern taskmasters and shrinking slaves.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s hardest on the children,” pursued the woman -in a lower tone. “My heart bleeds for ’em. I’ve -just got me own in bed. They’re all workin’ too, -now that it’s holiday time. I was just waitin’ for -this stray lamb,” and her glance softened as it fell -on the bobbing form of the sleeping child.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge raised his head. “Isn’t this your -child?” he asked, sharply.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman turned to Titus. “What do he say?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus repeated the question, and she intently -watched the motion of his lips.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My child!” she exclaimed. “O, law no! Look -at my hair, sir, black as a crow’s. Those curls be -quite light,” and she stepped over and laid a hand -on the child’s head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Whose child is he?” asked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman turned to Titus with an impatient -gesture. “You say it. His mustache do cover his -lips. I can’t see ’em.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“P-parents,” cried Titus, “of that boy. Who is -his mother?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mother!” repeated Mrs. Tingsby, “nay, that I -can’t say till I finds an owner for the child. ‘Susan -Tingsby,’ said his ma when she lay a-dyin’ in this -very house, ‘Susan Tingsby, you’ve been a good -friend to me. When the Lord sends some one to -take my baby tell my poor story, such as it is’—an’, -sir, I’ve kept the child these ten months. Often -I’ve hardly had bread for me own, but the child of -the stranger never suffered.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge sat quietly for a few minutes. Now -<span class='pageno' id='Page_51'>51</span>that his attention was called to the fact that the -woman was not the child’s mother he saw quite a -difference in their faces. Mrs. Tingsby’s sharp, dark -features were very unlike the pale, plump face of the -little one.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes!” she suddenly ejaculated, “the child’s fat -enough.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked at her. Though deaf she was -not stupid, and she was marvelously clever at understanding -one’s thoughts.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The children of the poor is mostly that,” she -continued. “Much sour bread puffs ’em out, an’ -likewise fresh air which they has plenty of. But -bless your heart, it aint good flesh like rich children’s. -Newmania and consumption takes ’em off -like smoke.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ask her to what station in life the boy’s mother -belonged,” said the Judge to Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-was its mother a lady?” vociferated the -boy, with a nod toward the child.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A lady! Well, I guess so,” replied Mrs. Tingsby, -indignantly, “as much as you be. She were a school-teacher—out -of New York. I know her maiden -name. Her husband’s name weren’t nothin’ remarkable. -I don’t mind sayin’ it. It were Smith.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ask her what the husband’s character was,” said -the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-husband,” continued Titus, “was he good?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He were an imp,” said Mrs. Tingsby, shortly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An imp,” murmured the Judge. “Go on, Titus, -extract some more information. You can guess -pretty well what I want to know.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what do you mean by an imp?” stuttered -<span class='pageno' id='Page_52'>52</span>the boy, speaking very slowly, and shaping his words -well with his mouth.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, young sir,” said Mrs. Tingsby, ironically, -“when you grows up and marries a wife, and goes -off an’ leaves her in a poor boardin’ place like this, -an’ only comes home once in a while, an’ takes her -an’ the child to a swell restaurant for lunch, an’ -then goes off an’ leaves her to bread and molasses -again, I’ll say you are an imp.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I don’t care much for this woman,” said the -abashed Titus under his breath to his grandfather.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Never mind, boy—she means well. Ask some -more questions. What was the husband’s business?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus grinned in an embarrassed way. “W-w-what -was the imp’s business?” he inquired.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Servin’ his master,” said the woman, shortly, and -with a glance at the now sleeping child, “an’ sometimes -gettin’ big pay, an’ sometimes poor—what’s -his business?” and she abruptly jerked a forefinger -in the Judge’s direction.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-he’s a judge,” said the boy, proudly, “retired -a few years ago—o-o-on account of ill health,” -he added; “but he’s all right now.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ah!” replied Mrs. Tingsby, and still staring at -the Judge she addressed him significantly, “maybe -you’ve seen him purfessionally.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Judge Sancroft felt an inward recoil, though he -said nothing. But he rose almost immediately, and -looked at his grandson.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby was a remarkably shrewd woman. -Under the Judge’s reserved exterior she saw plainly -that his heart had been going out to the orphan -child.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_53'>53</span>“The father is dead,” she said, briefly, “buried by -the mother—an’ she were a saint on earth, an’ is -now a saint in heaven.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge said nothing, and picking up his fur -gloves he slowly began to draw them on.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby’s strained, eager face was bent on -him. “The father of the imp were a minister of the -gospel,” she continued, “an’ the imp’s wife—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She paused an instant. The dead woman had told -her clearly not to reveal her maiden name except to -the person who would adopt her child; but Mrs. -Tingsby was so sure that this person stood before -her that she made up her mind to a slight breach -of confidence.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The mother were a Hittaker,” she said, grandly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge had never heard of the Hittakers, and -therefore did not look impressed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman in her anxiety pulled Titus by the -sleeve. “Ask him—aint he heard of Hittaker—big -soap manufacturer. Why, it’s in all the groceries.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus shook his head. He saw that his grandfather -did not know the name.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Inquire why she does not apply to these people,” -said Judge Sancroft.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus asked her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Apply to ’em! Bless you, didn’t she? What -won’t a woman do for her child. But her own parents -be dead. These Hittakers be uncle and cousin -to her, an’ they wouldn’t do a thing—sent back her -last letter.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge got up. “I’ll send some one to you,” -he said. “Titus, you tell her. I’ll report her case, -and have some aid given her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_54'>54</span>Titus in his boyish fashion rattled off a sentence. -“M-m-my grandfather will send help to you. Maybe -he can get the child a home.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby laid a lean hand on Titus, but she -looked at his grandfather. “An’ you don’t want -the orphan yourself, sir?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge shook his head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby locked her hands together. “I like -your face, sir. There has been people fancyin’ the -child, but I didn’t fancy ’em.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Judge Sancroft smiled faintly. Then his hand -went toward his pocket.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The little woman’s face flushed crimson. “I’m -no beggar, sir. I’ve no wish for money I can’t -earn.” The Judge put out a hand and took hers. -“Titus, shake hands with her,” he said.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“G-g-grandfather,” ejaculated the boy as they -stepped over the threshold of the door leading into -the little dark hall, “look at her!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby stood holding the small lamp aloft -for them, with tears running down her cheeks, -and a painful, almost terrified, expression in her -eyes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ve told a dead woman’s secret, sir,” she said -in response to the Judge’s look of inquiry. “I’ve -risked me soul, an’ it aint done no good.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman’s expression of suffering was so genuine -that the Judge stopped short. How cruel to lay -another burden on this already overburdened -back!</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was an honest woman, he could see that. He -had had a long experience in the study of human -nature, and she would not have been able to deceive -<span class='pageno' id='Page_55'>55</span>him if she had wished. Suppose he took the child -from her. With his connections and influence he -could easily find a home for it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Madam,” he said, courteously, and stepping -back, “this is Christmas Eve, and from my heart -I wish you good cheer. If it will give you pleasure, -I am willing to take the child, and to pledge myself -to find a good home for him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman again twitched Titus by the sleeve. -She had partly, but not wholly, understood.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, who was getting excited, stopped stuttering -and told her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When he finished she turned round, set the lamp -down on the table, and threw up her hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Thank the Lord! Thank the Lord! Here, -duckie, old Mother Tingsby has found you a home. -Stir up, and go with the gentleman,” and in feverish -haste she aroused the sleeping child, got him on -his feet, and put his cap on his head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, well,” said the Judge, in some hesitation, -“I did not think of taking him to-night.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The woman did not hear him, though she spoke -as if she had. “Better have it over in darkness, with -none to see and none to hear. I don’t want to drag -down that sweet woman’s child by any connection -with me. Ah! sir, she was like a sister to me. I’ll -miss her child,” and with very genuine regret she -embraced the bewildered little boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I assure you,” vociferated the Judge, “that I am -not in the habit of doing things in secret. I do not -care who knows that I have taken a poor child from -River Street.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby did not hear him, and Titus was too -<span class='pageno' id='Page_56'>56</span>excited to report, so the Judge slightly shrugged his -shoulders.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll miss my baby—I’ll miss my baby!” she cried, -“for there’s not a soul younger in the house but -the kitten—good-bye, pet—good-bye. Old Mother -Tingsby will sometimes sneak up to look in your -windows. Sir, you’ll never give up this child—you’ll -let your soul go first.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled slightly, and catching this smile -she suddenly flung up her black head and fixed two -shrewd eyes on him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir, don’t you be afraid of no fathers an’ grandfathers. -Some of my boarders was talkin’ the other -evenin’. Says one of ’em, says he, ‘I’ve been readin’ -a magazine article. It says everyone of us has had -thieves an’ robbers in our ancestors.’ Do you believe -that, sir?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, in a slightly bewildered state of mind, -was pushing his way out to the hall door, beyond -this flood of talk. He had a feeling that he would -like to reach the quiet of his own home, and think -things over. However, some sort of an answer -was due to her, so he turned once more. “I would -rather have had that boy’s father an honest -man.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby was so close on his heels, and was -listening so intently, that she caught a few words.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Boy—yes!” she exclaimed, nodding her head at -Titus, and grinning amiably, “an honest boy!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I say,” roared the Judge, stopping short, “that I -wish your little boy had had an unblemished parentage.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My boy,” she responded, sadly, “my boy—why, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_57'>57</span>sir, I have three—an’ how I’m goin’ to raise ’em the -Lord knows.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Meanwhile the child was drawing back. He was -now thoroughly roused from sleep, and his little face -was quite disturbed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mother Tingsby,” he said, pulling at the woman’s -gown, and drawing down her ear to his small -mouth, “is this the husband of the good third -mother?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, lamb, yes,” said the woman, nodding her -head a great many times, “an’ your second mother -bids you go. Be good an’ clever.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child gave her an anguished glance. He did -not wish to go with these strangers. However, he -had been trained to look forward to just such an -event, and he made no protest. Putting his little -hand in the one that Titus held out, he followed the -Judge to the street.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_58'>58</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER V<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>A Surprise for the Judge</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>No one spoke on the way home. The Judge and -Titus on the back seat of the sleigh scarcely took -their eyes from the serious, little face of the -strangely pale, quiet child opposite.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was not sleepy now. They could see the two -large brown eyes shining with the steady light of -two solemn stars.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When they reached their home on the avenue, -Titus politely assisted the child to alight, and took -his hand as they went up the long steps.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby had gone to bed, and the parlor-maid’s -face as she opened the door was a study. Nobody -explained matters to her, and in a complete state of -mystification she was sent to request Mrs. Blodgett’s -immediate presence in the parlor.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus had lifted the little stranger to a chair, and -was drawing off his cap and mittens.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Blodgett,” said the Judge, when that good -woman appeared, “I wish you to take charge of this -child. Put him to sleep at once. If he is nervous, -some one must sleep in the room with him. Don’t -give him a bath to-night. He is very tired. In the -morning dress him and bring him down to breakfast.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett, in amazement, looked down at -the shabby child. Who was this? She was not fond -<span class='pageno' id='Page_59'>59</span>of children, except her own—and poor and dirty -children she detested.</p> - -<p class='c011'>However, a little hand was stealing into hers. A -tired, unhappy face was looking trustfully up at her, -seeking the kind glances of a third mother.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett would have been less than a woman -if she could have resisted. This was probably some -child who was here only for the night.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” she said, respectfully, and with the -little boy clinging closely to her, instead of bestowing -glances on the Judge and Titus, she went -upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge and his grandson did not talk much -that night. The Judge slowly sipped his glass of -hot milk and then went to bed. He lived a quiet -life, and the adventure of the evening had given him -many problems to think over.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus was quite excited. Ordinarily the approach -of Christmas Day did not stir him very much, but -now that there was another young person in the -house he felt his pulse quickened. This strange boy -must have some presents. Should he give him some -of his new ones, or would old ones be sufficient? -He would consult his grandfather about it. He had -a lot of old toys up in the attic. To-morrow morning -he would ask Higby to get them down, or, -better still, he would take the youngster up there. -Poor little chap—how mean to make him work, -and with some hitherto unknown generous impulses -animating his sturdy young breast Titus fell -asleep.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was late for breakfast the next morning. His -grandfather had already had prayers, the servants -<span class='pageno' id='Page_60'>60</span>had scattered to their various employments, and -Higby was just taking in a second supply of coffee -to the dining room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-b-beg pardon, grandfather,” said Titus, hurrying -in after the man. “I-I-I fell asleep again after -Higby knocked at my door. M-merry Christmas -and many of them!” and seating himself at the table -he looked around in great approbation.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The long handsome room was flooded with sunlight.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“G-g-good old sun,” ejaculated Titus, approvingly. -“I-I-I can dress better when he shines on -me. I-I-I hate the dark, early part of the morning. -W-where’s the child, sir?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked toward the door. Higby was -just throwing it open for Mrs. Blodgett and her -charge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then an amusing scene took place. In the doorway -stood Mrs. Blodgett, and a pale, pretty little -girl dressed in a dainty white cloth dress trimmed -with gold braid.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge and Titus looked at Mrs. Blodgett. -They both knew that she possessed a little granddaughter -of whom she was inordinately proud. This -child sometimes came to the house, and she often -presented her to the Judge for a word or a kind -glance.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Just now he gave both—“A merry Christmas, -little one. Come here and get an orange. Mrs. -Blodgett, how is the boy this morning?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett pushed the child, who did not seem -inclined to leave her, toward the Judge, then she -said in a puzzled way, “The boy, sir?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_61'>61</span>“Yes—the boy I brought home last night,” replied -the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The boy, sir,” she repeated in amazement, while -an additional flood of color swept over her rubicund -face. “There weren’t no boy, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge gazed patiently at her. Mrs. Blodgett -was getting older. He had noticed several times -lately that she seemed a little stupid and did not -understand quickly what was said to her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You surely remember the little boy I brought -home with me last evening?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett gazed up at the ceiling, down at -the floor, under the table, and behind her out into -the hall as if seeking a lost child.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then she said, faintly, “As I am a mortal woman, -sir, I didn’t see no boy, sir. He must have slipped -off on the doorstep. I know these poor children. -They’re sneaky as foxes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, he did not slip away,” said the Judge, with -a quiet smile. “I brought him in and gave him to -you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett’s face was purple, and she turned -to Higby in quiet exasperation. “Now, if you’d -been about, instead of bein’ in bed, I’d have said it -was some of them queer tricks of yours.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do not make a scapegoat of Higby,” said the -Judge, decidedly, “but let your memory go back to -last evening. This is a serious matter, Mrs. Blodgett. -I had a young boy in my charge. I am answerable -for his safety. I brought him in the house -and gave him into your care. Now, what has become -of him?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Lawks-a-massy!” exclaimed Mrs. Blodgett, joining -<span class='pageno' id='Page_62'>62</span>her hands in embarrassment and staring wildly -about her, “Is it you, Judge Sancroft, speakin’, and -am I, Dorinda Blodgett, a-listenin’?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You seem to be listening,” remarked the Judge, -dryly, “but you certainly are not understanding. -Please go away and search your memory and the -house for that boy. Titus, what is the matter with -you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Are you crazy, too?” the Judge felt like adding, -but fortunately for himself he did not do so. While -he had been speaking the child had been creeping -shyly toward him, and Titus’s eyes were glued on -her. The Judge turned his eyes quickly on the little -girl. Now that he examined her more closely he -saw that this was no offspring from the Blodgett -stock. Where had he seen before that thin band of -curls, those big, solemn eyes?</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” Mrs. Blodgett was sniffling miserably, -while she made a ball of her pocket handkerchief, -“you aint never doubted my word afore. It’s time -for me to quit your service.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I am not doubting your word,” he said, absently, -“only—” and he again stared at the child.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where did you get this little girl?” he asked, -shortly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“’Tis the same little girl you brought in last -evenin’, sir, the same little girl what weren’t accompanied -by no boy, sure as I’m alive. Jennie, she -saw her—ask her if there were a boy too.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Upon my word!” exclaimed the Judge, bringing -his hand down on the table. “Upon my -word!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus’s eyes were absolutely sticking out of his -<span class='pageno' id='Page_63'>63</span>head. Then he began to cough, then to laugh, then -to choke.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” said Mrs. Blodgett, uneasily, “she were -dressed something like a boy outside, but inside was -such a miserable little frock that I took the liberty -of putting on her one of my grandchild, Mary Ann’s, -outgrown party ones that I’m goin’ to give to an -orphan asylum.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Still the Judge did not speak, and Mrs. Blodgett -went on. “’Pears to me, now I think of it, you did -tell me to take this little boy an’ put him to bed. -I didn’t pay no attention, sir. As much as I honors -you, I couldn’t think to change my Maker’s decrees -by makin’ a little girl a little boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, grandfather!” gasped Titus, half under the -table. “O! O! grandfather!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s face relaxed, then he looked about -him and began to smile. Then he laughed—laughed -so heartily that Mrs. Blodgett, who was no simpleton, -and who was beginning to understand, joined -in. Higby, delighted to find no share of mismanagement -attributed to him, snickered agreeably, and -even the maids who had just come up from the -kitchen and were going to their work in different -parts of the house, hearing the sound of enjoyable -laughter, echoed it light-heartedly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“This is a good Christmas joke on you and me, -Titus,” said the Judge at last, putting his handkerchief -to his face to wipe his eyes. “It is said that -one finds what one looks for. We were looking for -a boy, and we persuaded ourselves that we had -found one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did that woman try to deceive you, sir?” asked -<span class='pageno' id='Page_64'>64</span>Titus, drawing his head from under the table and -casting a comical glance at his grandfather, then at -the little girl.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, she had the appearance of an honest woman, -but her deafness prevented her from hearing us -fully. Now that I think of it, she did not once say -that the child was a boy. We jumped to that conclusion. -Why did you not tell us what you were?” -and he turned to the child.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She gave him a quiet smile that assured him that -she had not intentionally deceived him, and then -he saw that her mouth was parched and open, and -that her lips moved slightly as she looked beyond -him toward the table.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You are hungry,” he said, courteously. “Higby, -lift her to her seat.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child looked over her shoulder at Mrs. Blodgett. -She wished to sit down at the table with her, -and with a deeply gratified smile the housekeeper -stepped forward and arranged her in her chair. That -glance would be set down to the little stranger’s -credit.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I have to beg your pardon, Mrs. Blodgett,” said -the Judge. “There was a misunderstanding all -round. This little girl is an orphan. I offered to -find a home for her, thinking that she was a boy -because she was dressed like one. She has probably -had on the borrowed garments of a little boy belonging -to the kind woman who has taken care of -her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s all right, sir,” said Mrs. Blodgett. “I might -a-remembered what you said. I call back now that -you told me plainly she was a boy, but, as I said -<span class='pageno' id='Page_65'>65</span>afore, you can’t change nater,” and with another -gratified smile she waddled away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Meanwhile Titus, having recovered, or nearly recovered, -himself, for he found it necessary to drop -his napkin on the floor every two minutes and to -be a long time in picking it up, stared almost uninterruptedly -at the little girl.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was eating an orange that the Judge had -given her, eating it prettily and quietly and without -splashing the juice on her white gown, and casting -meantime curious and searching glances about the -room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy or girl problem disturbed the Judge somewhat. -He could not get it out of his head that she -was a boy. It was extremely disappointing that she -was not, for now she would be no companion for -Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Child,” he asked, kindly, “what is your name?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bethany,” she replied, in a low voice, “little -Bethany. My mamma was big Bethany.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Little Bethany,” said the Judge, “that is a nice -name. Now, what are you going to have? Will -you eat mush, cornmeal mush?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If you please, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Higby, give her some—put plenty of cream on -it—Indian corn is what our ancestors here in New -England raised and gave to their children. We -don’t eat enough of it nowadays.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, stricken with sudden shyness, would not -talk to the child. He knew nothing about girls, and -did not care for them, so the Judge felt it his duty -to keep up a conversation.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How old are you?” he asked.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_66'>66</span>“Seven, sir,” she replied.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you like that mush?” he continued, politely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She paused with spoon uplifted, “It is simply -delicious, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus got up and took a turn to the sideboard. His -grandfather eyed him warningly. He had laughed -enough.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Suddenly the clock struck ten, and as it struck -the child lost her quietly contented air and, blushing -painfully, counted the strokes as they rang out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, sir,” she cried, with a guilty start and laying -down her spoon, “I’m an hour late. I must get to -work—the boss will be <i>so</i> angry.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stared at her. The light died out of -his own eyes, an iron hand gripped his heart.</p> - -<p class='c011'>In the face of that tiny child, in her start, her -fear of consequences, he suddenly felt the pain of -the world. Outraged childhood with its bleeding -wounds stood before him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>A great lump rose in his throat. For a minute -it seemed as if his agony could not be borne.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He groaned heavily, then he threw up his head. -“Child!” he said, harshly, “your slavery is over.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>His tones were severe, and the child was frightened. -She slipped from her seat at the table and -stood pale and shrinkingly before him. “Sir, I want -to go back to Mrs. Tingsby.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus came to the rescue. “But you haven’t fed -your mouse,” he said, kindly, and with the cunning -of one young thing in understanding another. “And -we’ve got some prime German cheese. Higby—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man went to the big mahogany sideboard -and presently came back with some crumbs of cheese.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_67'>67</span>The little girl’s thoughts were turned in a new -direction. Putting her hand in her little bosom she -drew out the marvelous handkerchief, produced the -ghost of the mouse, fed it, and put it back again. -Then Titus skillfully drew her toward his grandfather’s -study. “About eleven o’clock on Christmas -morning we always have our presents in -here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was a pretty sight to see them go down the hall—the -dark boy and the pretty little white girl, so -much younger than he.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge followed closely behind them, and as -they reached the study door and paused, he paused -too.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The little girl had caught sight of Princess Sukey -sitting on her basket. She stopped short, caught -her breath, stepped close to Titus and remained -motionless.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what’s the matter?” asked the boy, bluntly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, hush,” murmured the child, in an ecstasy, -“don’t speak, don’t move, or she will vanish.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-i-indeed she won’t—she is grandfather’s bird.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then she is no ghost,” said Bethany, drawing a -long sigh of relief.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ghost, no. Watch her dance when I tickle her -feet,” and he stepped forward to the hearthrug.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The princess got out of her basket when she saw -them coming and, bowing a great many times, said, -“Rookety cahoo!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-happy Christmas,” replied Titus, politely; -“lots of seeds and the best of health. Now dance -for the little girl,” and gently touching her claws -he caused her to spin round and round.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_68'>68</span>Finally she flew over their heads to the Judge’s -shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, if I could touch her,” said the child, and she -shivered in the intensity of her emotion.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge sat down and put the pigeon on the -arm of his easy-chair.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come here, little girl,” he said, “and stroke her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany shyly approached and held out a forefinger -to the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>With another sharp pang at his heart he felt that -the tiny finger was roughened by work. Then guiding -it to the white head under the hood of feathers -he looked away from the bird and out the window. -God helping him, this child should never toil again.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When Bethany felt her hand touching the velvety -feathers she gave a long shudder of delight.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After a time, when the princess had impatiently -thrown off the little caressing finger, Bethany threw -up her hands to the ceiling. “I have seen them in -the street, I have called to them, but they never let -me touch them. I think they thought I was a cat.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what do you mean—pigeons?” asked -Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, birds—pretty birds of the air. I love them, -but they don’t love me. Only dogs, and cats, and -rats, and mice love me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-hello!” exclaimed Titus, “there goes eleven. -N-n-now we’ll have the presents.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge rang the bell, and the servants, headed -by Higby and Mrs. Blodgett, filed into the room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany’s serious brown eyes took in every detail -of the scene. The presentation of the good-sized -parcels done up in white paper, the untying of -<span class='pageno' id='Page_69'>69</span>strings, the exclamations and expressions of gratitude, -all belonged to a world that she had never -entered before.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Fur-lined gloves, mufflers, fur capes, and warm -dresses for the maids, a dressing-gown for Higby, -beautifully bound books and a new watch for Titus, -were all spread before the eyes of the astonished -child, and she surveyed the various gifts without a -suspicion of envy or jealousy. The Judge saw this -by her transparent face, and with a gesture he told -Titus to give her a small box of candy that lay unnoticed -among his many presents.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy hastened to give it to her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“For me,” she ejaculated, her now pink face -growing red, “for Bethany?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Y-y-yes, for Bethany,” said the boy, good-humoredly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, charm of novelty,” reflected the Judge, and -he looked round the room. He had as good a set -of servants as there was in the city. They were as -grateful as they could be to him for his kindly remembrance -of them, but it was the gratitude of -custom, of anticipation. They knew he would give -them handsome presents; any other well-to-do and -well disposed employer would have done the same, -but this child—he looked at her again.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was in a quiet rapture. “O, the cunning candies,” -she murmured, “each one in a little dress; -O, the pretty pink flounces.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why don’t you eat some?” inquired the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She touched them daintily with the tips of her -fingers. “O, sir, I could not eat them. I shall -keep them forever and ever and ever.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_70'>70</span>“But they will spoil; they were made to eat.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Would you like one, sir?” she asked, anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, thank you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She gazed seriously into the box and began to -count one, two, three, four, and so on. “Sir,” she -said at last, “there are just enough to go twice -round for Mrs. Tingsby’s children and the -boarders.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled. She was not a selfish child.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I could spare one for the dear bird with the -overcoat on and its collar turned up,” she said, -sweetly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked puzzled.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“S-s-she means Sukey,” explained Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Thank you, little girl; pigeons do not eat candy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then I think you had better take one,” she said, -shyly, coming toward him with the box outstretched -in her hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>O, sweet little childish face and childish grace!—and -the judge’s eyes grew moist. Once years and -years ago God had given him two little daughters—two -dream children, it seemed to him now, so many -were the years that had passed since he laid the little -childish forms away in a country churchyard. O, -children, so long lamented, yet now almost forgotten.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Little girl,” he said, gently, “I once had two -small daughters not as old as you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany looked over her shoulder, as if he were -speaking of some one present.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What do they look like?” she asked, wistfully. -“Are their faces white like mine, and have they thin -brown curls?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_71'>71</span>“My child, they have been in their graves for -many a day.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But their ghosts,” she said, with sweet impatience, -“you see them, don’t you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you believe in ghosts?” asked the Judge, -quietly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany pursed up her lips. “The air is quite, -quite full of them, sir. Every night my mamma -stands by the foot of my bed. Last night she waited -so patiently until I was undressed. When I was -all alone in the room she came forward, she sat -down beside me, she put her hand on my forehead. -She said, ‘Little daughter, do not be lonely, I am -with you.’ Do not your little girls sit beside you -at night?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, dear,” said the Judge, very gently.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How queer,” and Bethany gazed at him as if -he were a new and strange kind of puzzle. Then -she said, “Please tell me what they were like. Perhaps -I will see them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What an imagination,” murmured the Judge, -then he said aloud, “Some other time, child.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany possessed an extraordinary amount of -tact for a child of her age, and instead of pursuing -the subject she looked round the room. The servants -were wrapping up their gifts preparatory to -taking them away. Titus was deep in one of the -volumes of travel his grandfather had given him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” she said, suddenly turning to the Judge. -“There are other ghosts besides children and -mothers.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge quietly bowed his head in token of -acquiescence. He would indulge her humor.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_72'>72</span>“There is my mouse ghost,” she said, touching -her breast; “then there is the ghost of the spotted -dog with yellow eyes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Indeed,” remarked the Judge, highly amused -and interested, “and who was the spotted dog?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He is a ghost,” said the child, earnestly, “but -he really isn’t dead. He ran away. I can see him -as plain as I see these candies,” and she tightly shut -her eyes for a few instants.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Suddenly opening them, she exclaimed, “There -he is, running with a bone—quick! catch him. I -should like to tell him that Bethany still loves him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>As she spoke she started dramatically forward -and extended her hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what’s the matter?” asked Titus, lifting his -head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My spotted dog,” she cried; “my dear spotted -dog. Take care that he doesn’t bite your clothes. -He is a very peculiar dog.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The servants in alarm thought that a real dog -had entered the room by the open door and began to -tumble over each other.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby, on account of his infirmity of tongue, -tried to open his mouth as little as possible in the -presence of his employer, but now in his fright he -called out, “W-w-where is the d-d-dog?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“There,” exclaimed the little girl, “right between -your feet. Do catch him for me, but take care, -for he hates old men, and might give your coat a -snap.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby caught his foot in his highly prized dressing-gown that he was carrying across his arm and -stumbled against Titus’s heap of books. He sent -<span class='pageno' id='Page_73'>73</span>them flying; then, to recover himself he clutched one -of the maids, who shrieked with fright.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge carefully examined the child’s face. -Had she called up the spotted dog in a spirit of -mischief? No, for there were tears in her eyes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You have frightened him away,” she said, sadly. -“He has run outdoors. He may never come back,” -and, sitting down, she buried her little face in her -hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby tumbled out of the room. He believed that -the spotted dog was there yet, hidden in some corner -and waiting to bite him.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_74'>74</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER VI<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>In the Pigeon Loft</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>After lunch at half-past one, the Judge went to -his study for a nap, but he could not sleep.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The face of the strange child was ever before him. -He wondered what she was doing. Titus had taken -her up to the attic to see his old toys and to choose -some for herself. He would like to watch her expression -as Titus exhibited his cast-off playthings. -For her that attic would be a kind of treasure-house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>How like a mirror her face was, how different -from his, even from Titus’s, for the boy, young as -he was, had learned to conceal his emotions; and -now what was he going to do with her?</p> - -<p class='c011'>With a sigh he got up, went into the hall and -downstairs, put on a fur-lined coat and a fur cap, -and was just about to go out when the two children -came down the staircase, Titus not running as usual, -but soberly walking beside his little companion.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany’s eyes were shining. She had a clown -doll under one arm, a trumpet under the other, and -her hands were full of games—toy-dogs and horses, -a Noah’s ark, and a little cart.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus had a bag slung on his back.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“G-g-grandfather,” he said, “I suppose it’s all -right to give these things to the Tingsby children.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Certainly.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-how will I get them there? Are you going -to have the sleigh out to-day?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_75'>75</span>“I was not planning to do so. I am going to -walk.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“L-l-let’s take the young one for a drive,” exclaimed -Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Judge Sancroft smiled. Titus ordinarily hated -to drive. He did not care to sit still for any length -of time.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well,” he said at length.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I was just going to take her up to the stable -to see the pigeons,” said Titus. “S-s-she’s so crazy -about birds.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then tell Roblee to harness, and remember not -to keep me waiting. Don’t take the child outdoors -in that garb.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I don’t know what to put on her,” said Titus, -in a puzzled way. “S-s-she can’t put her old dirty -coat over that white rig.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge opened the hall closet. “Let us see -what we have here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus came forward and, rummaging in drawers -and on hooks, brought out a small cap.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-here, child, try this on.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany carefully put her toys on the floor and -obediently held up her head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The cap was several sizes too large, but she did -not complain, only quietly pushed it to the back of -her head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here is a scarf,” said the Judge, “wrap that -round your neck.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany did as she was told, and Titus next -brought out a short coat of his own.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-i-it’s worlds too large,” he observed, “but it -will keep her warm.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_76'>76</span>“What about her feet?” inquired the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-well, here’s a big shawl,” stuttered Titus, -bringing out a traveling rug. “I guess we’ll just -wrap that round her after she gets in the -sleigh.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It will cover all deficiencies,” said the Judge, “but -how will you get her up to the stable in those thin -slippers?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus emerged from the closet and surveyed Bethany -with a face flushed from exertion. “I guess I’ll -have to carry her up. It isn’t far. Once there she’ll -be warm enough.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled and followed slowly as the two -went down another staircase and opened a door -leading to a back veranda. From there a plank -walk led through the garden to the stable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus manfully shouldered his burden on the -veranda.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany clasped her arms about his neck and -smiled back at the Judge, who caught up to them at -the stable door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was a furnace in the stable, and the air was -warm and comfortable, so Titus allowed Bethany to -slip to the floor.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Is this where your horses live?” she asked, shyly, -looking up at the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He nodded his head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She continued to look about her. “I wish Mother -Tingsby had been born a horse; it would be better -for her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge wrinkled his forehead. Poor child—she, -too, was grappling with the mystery of the inequality -of the human lot.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_77'>77</span>“W-w-well,” said Titus, hurrying back from the -stalls where he had been to speak to Roblee. -“T-t-the sleigh will be at the door in twenty minutes. -N-n-now let us go up to see the pigeons,” and he -led the way toward a flight of steps.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany tripped behind, occasionally extricating -a hand from the long sleeve of Titus’s coat to push -back on her head the capacious cap, which persisted -in falling over her brows.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, with Charlie Brown’s help, had had a fine -place made for his pigeons. His grandfather had -allowed him to have a part of the hay loft inclosed, -some extra windows put in, and a floor of matched -pine laid.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“There isn’t a better loft in the city,” Charlie had -said when it was finished.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Clean, coarse sand had been put on the floor, movable -nest compartments had been placed against the -wall, and the latest things in feed hoppers and drinking -fountains had been bought for the boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was full of joy over his new possession, and, -as Mrs. Blodgett prophesied, most of his leisure time -was spent here, either alone or in company with -other boys.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He did all the work himself, and with a worthy -pride in the clean home of his birds he stood at the -top of the steps and eagerly waited to hear what the -little girl would say.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany came up the steps, walked through the -screen door that Titus held open, and looked about -her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was the middle of the afternoon, and in view -of the fast approaching darkness the pigeons were -<span class='pageno' id='Page_78'>78</span>bestirring themselves in order to have their last -feed before going to bed. They were all promenading -over the sanded floor, going from one rack to -another looking for the choicest grains.</p> - -<p class='c011'>They made a very pretty picture in the gloaming. -Titus had not as many varieties as his friend Charlie -had, but still he had a goodly number. There were -dark Jacobins, with nodding red hoods surrounding -their white faces; pure white Jacobins and buff Jacobins; -clean-shaped, slender magpies; graceful archangels; -shell-crested, nasal tufted priests; cobby -frill-backs with reversed feathering; swallows; tumblers; -runts; demure nuns in black and white costumes -with white hoods passing below their side -curls; and globular cropped poulters.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany surveyed them in profound silence. The -Judge, striving to read her face, could make nothing -of it but confusion.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Finally he put out a hand to steady her. The -child was swaying.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you feel ill?” he asked, gazing apprehensively -at her deathly white face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She nodded. “Yes, sir, Bethany feels sick.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He took her in his arms and carried her downstairs, -and the discomforted Titus, after a farewell -glance at his beautiful birds, followed disconsolately -behind. He had so hoped that the little girl would -like them. She had seemed to like Princess Sukey. -Well, girls were queer. Boys were much more satisfactory.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What is the matter with you?” asked the Judge -when he had set Bethany on her feet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” she said, in a whisper and looking up at -<span class='pageno' id='Page_79'>79</span>him with an awed face, “Was it heaven or were -they ghosts?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge tried to do some thinking. It was -hard for a man of his age to send himself back to -childhood—and then he had not been an imaginative -child. But he tried to think of himself as highly -strung, as having a passion for dumb creatures, as -being poor and unable to have pets about him, and -then suddenly to be confronted with a number of -beautiful specimens of the bird world.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Yes, he could just faintly picture to himself something -of Bethany’s ecstasy. The child had been overcome.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t you want to go in the house and lie -down?” he asked, gazing kindly at her white face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” she whispered. The Judge carried her -along the plank walk, while Titus lounged slowly -behind.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where is Mrs. Blodgett?” asked the Judge of a -maid when they entered the lower hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Gone out, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then you take care of this little girl while I am -away.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany made no protest. The girl smiled kindly -and put out a hand, and the child went quietly with -her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Let her lie down and have a sleep,” said the -Judge, “she is tired.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then he turned. “Well, boy, what are you for—remaining -at home or going with me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus looked at his grandfather. It was Christmas -Day, and he ought to keep with him. “I’ll go -with you, sir,” he said, brightening up.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_80'>80</span>The Judge smiled, then together they went upstairs -and out the big hall door down to the waiting -sleigh.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby carried out the toys for the Tingsby children -and tucked them under the fur robes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It did not take long for the Judge’s fast horses -to reach River Street.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The street was very quiet. It was a cold day, -and the people were mostly celebrating their Christmas -indoors.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“P-p-pretty poor pickings, I guess, some of them -have,” stuttered Titus, compassionately, and his -grandfather agreed with him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby’s house was as gray and dingy outside -by daylight as it had been by electric light the -day before, and it was apparently cold and uninhabited. -No children’s faces appeared at the windows, -no cheerful gleam of firelight shone from between -the threadbare curtains.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus jumped out and pounded on the door. After -a long time, and a liberal application of both fists, -Mrs. Tingsby herself came.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She gave them a most joyful welcome.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come in! Come in!” she screamed in her excitement, -“come in, gentlemen, come in an’ come down -to where we’re celebratin’, poor as we be. No, no—not -there,” as the Judge mechanically turned toward -the door of the small room in which they had sat -the evening before. “Here, sir, down here in the -cellar,” and she trotted before him to a dark stairway, -and with alarming celerity disappeared in the -depths of a basement, while the Judge and Titus felt -their way down after her.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_81'>81</span>“Here, here,” she called, opening a door and suddenly -allowing a streak of light to dart into the -almost pitch-dark hall, “here we be—merry as coppersmiths -after our good dinner.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“S-s-seems to me I’d rather be some other kind of -a smith,” grumbled Titus to himself, wrinkling his -nose in the goose-laden atmosphere as he followed -her, for he was preceding his grandfather, with the -charitable intention of breaking his fall if he had -one.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Merry, merry—O! so merry,” repeated the little -woman. “Here we be—all the family.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus stood aside and blinked his eyes, while the -Judge walked by him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“For warmth, sir, an’ comfort, an’ good times, -we’re all in the kitchen,” said Mrs. Tingsby. “Gen’l’men,” -and she turned to her boarders with a ridiculous -little bow, “this is the jedge that tooked -Bethany. Jedge, here be my children,” and she indicated -half a dozen poorly dressed but bright looking -children who got up from the floor and from cracker -boxes to make their best bow to the company.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, we be all here,” exclaimed Mrs. Tingsby, -a-huggin’ the fire, “which is a good one if I does say -so myself. There’s Harry Ray, the express boy, -Harry an’ his cough, which I’m glad to say is a mite -better owin’ to peppermint tea or his half holiday, -I don’t know which; Matthew Jones an’ his poor -eyes, but he aint grumblin’, because it’s Christmas; -an’ old man Fanley, glad to rest his weary legs from -parcel-carryin’—aint you, Fanley. An’ Barry Mafferty, -which is a temp’rary boarder.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked round him. From the bottom -<span class='pageno' id='Page_82'>82</span>of his heart he pitied them. At first sight it seemed -to him the height of misery to be crouching round -a medium-sized fire, breathing an atmosphere so -redolent of goose, with no comfortable seats; and -yet in a few minutes he modified his opinion.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Two of the few chairs in the kitchen had been -given to him and to Titus. As they sat in the shabby -but clean kitchen he reflected that it was warm, that -these people all looked contented, that with their -dingy clothes they would certainly not be happy in -rooms like his own.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It is very comfortable here,” he said, drawing off -his gloves and rubbing his hands, “very comfortable -after the cold outside.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If only the landlords would give the poor better -houses,” he continued, reflecting, “they would not -be so uncomfortable. Really, they are spared some -of the worries of life that we better off ones have -to endure.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>But he must listen to Mrs. Tingsby. “We’ve had -such a good Christmas,” she was exclaiming, “such -a good one. Look-a-here, an’ here,” and she took -from one child a tiny doll, from another a bag of -candy, from another a whistle, and proudly exhibited -them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Needless to say, the presents were from the boarders, -who somewhat sheepishly averted their faces -while she was praising their generosity to the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was greatly touched. They were so pitiful, -so insignificant, these little presents, and yet how -they had pleased the recipients.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ now,” called Mrs. Tingsby, “may I be forgiven -<span class='pageno' id='Page_83'>83</span>for not havin’ put her first—how is that -blessed child?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s lips formed the words, “Very well.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Aint she a darlin’! O, you’ll get to love her like -your own flesh an’ blood.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I am sorry that she is not a boy,” vociferated -the Judge; “a boy would have been more of a companion -for my grandson.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir—yes, sir,” said Mrs. Tingsby, beaming -on him, “a boy an’ a girl—just a nice family. I -always did despise two boys or two girls for a set -piece.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You tell her,” said the Judge, with a wave of his -hand toward his grandson.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus approached his lips somewhat nearer to the -little woman’s ear than they were. “M-m-my grandfather -says he is sorry the girl is not a boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Boy!” repeated Mrs. Tingsby, “O, yes, she -should have been a boy. They do get on easier -than girls, but we can’t change her now, you -know.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The semicircle of boarders, children, and the -Judge could not but agree with this statement, and -she looked approvingly round at them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tell her that even though we do not keep the -child, we shall still be interested in her,” said the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, in slight embarrassment, again cried in her -ear, “Maybe we can get her a good home somewhere -else.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good home!” replied Mrs. Tingsby, “yes, yes, I -know—the Lord will bless you for that.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I guess your mamma is pretty deaf to-day, isn’t -<span class='pageno' id='Page_84'>84</span>she?” asked Titus, patiently, of one of the older -children.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The children were all staring rather disdainfully -at him and his grandfather. They did not lack -smartness, and they had jumped to the conclusion -that the Judge’s visit meant that he was tired of -Bethany and wanted to return her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll make her hear,” said the eldest girl, grimly, -and she applied her lips to her parent’s ear, and, -without making a steam whistle of herself, as poor -Titus did, she said, in a low, blood-curdling tone, -“The gemman is tired of Bethany—wants to return -her like a parcel sent on approbation.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby, who had more of the milk of -human kindness than this particular one of her -offspring, turned to the Judge with an amazed, -reproachful air. “Be that true, sir?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No,” said the Judge, stoutly, “it isn’t.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Immediately there ensued an altercation between -him and the smart girl. To his own great confusion -and astonishment, he, Judge Sancroft, leading citizen -of Riverport, actually found himself bandying -words with a saucy little shopgirl, for such she appeared -to be—and she got the better of him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>At last he appealed to the boarders. “Can’t some -of you explain how matters are? The child is a -charming little creature. I have no wish to bring -her back. I will see that she is comfortably placed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The new temporary boarder, or visitor, Barry -Mafferty, suddenly began to laugh. The old boarders, -at the entrance of the Judge, had been suddenly -stricken with bashfulness. This poorly dressed, -brown-faced man of middle age had alone preserved -<span class='pageno' id='Page_85'>85</span>his composure. After a slight bow he had taken an -unlighted cigarette from his mouth, had calmly -looked the Judge over, from his white head to his -black overshoes, had bestowed a slight glance of admiration -on the half-open, fur-lined coat, and had -then again directed his attention to the red-hot bars -of the grate in front of the old-fashioned cooking-stove.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Now, as if irresistibly amused by the passage-at-arms -between the gentleman and the flippant child -of poverty, he did not try to conceal his amusement.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge turned to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t worry yourself, sir,” said Mafferty, easily, -“things will all come out right. Our hostess is a -good sort.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stared. Who was this man?</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Broken down gentleman,” said Mafferty, still -more easily; “lots of time to study human nature. -I have seen the child you took. I advise you to hold -on to her if you value a nice child. She belongs to -a different rank in society from these—” and he -raised his hand comprehensively at the Tingsby -children.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The smart girl immediately turned her attention -upon him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Easy now, easy,” he said, coolly, nodding his -really fine-featured head at her. “Easy, or you will -upset your basket of china.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“China,” she cried, in a fine, thin voice, curiously -like her mother’s, “what do you know of china, -you low-down, gutter-raggy, broken-weazled, shilly-shally—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mafferty began to laugh again, and such is the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_86'>86</span>power of a long drawn-out, hearty, sustained peal of -laughter in which there is nothing nervous, nothing -satirical, nothing to wound, that one by one his -listeners began to join him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge laughed, Titus laughed, the boarders -giggled, the children shrieked, and even Mrs. Tingsby, -though she had not heard a word of what was -said, laughed with the best of them, and was soon -wiping the tears from her eyes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t know what’s amusin’ you,” she gasped, -convulsively, “but it must be somethin’ powerful -funny.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>At this Mafferty redoubled his own merriment, -and presently the uproar became so loud that the -Judge rose. He really could not take part in this -any longer, though he was still laughing himself.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mafferty paid no attention to him. His eye was -on the smart girl. She alone of all the children had -not once allowed a crease of amusement to form -itself on her face. She was stubborn, disagreeable, -even ugly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Laugh, you goose, laugh,” he suddenly cried, -stopping short and snapping his fingers within an -inch of her nose. “If you don’t learn to laugh the -devil will catch you. You can’t go through life kicking -at Providence and have any sort of a good time.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The girl drew herself back and began an hysterical -giggle.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not bad to start with,” said the man, complacently. -“I’ll teach you to laugh better than that, -though, you insolent wisp of humanity.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge again stared at him. He was curiously -attracted by this man.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_87'>87</span>“Have you been on the stage?” he asked, suddenly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” said Mafferty, good-humoredly, “the -stage of the world. First as a physician, then down, -down through various stages of trampdom. Great -at deceivin’ farmers’ wives. Now imposing on society -as proprietor of a cat farm.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, you are out at Bobbety’s Island?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How can you leave your cats?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My wife is there, sir. I’ve come up to the city -to spend Christmas.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What about your wife?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, sir, women can enjoy the pleasures of solitude -better than men, and, then, she is fond of the -cats.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked disapprovingly at him, then -saying, “We must go,” he made a sign of farewell -to Mrs. Tingsby.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Beat him,” said Mafferty, nodding at Titus, “if -he doesn’t work. Don’t let him idle if you half kill -him. The devil’s real name is ‘Loafer.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge nodded significantly, and all the boarders -and children stood up as he left the kitchen.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“By the way,” he said, turning suddenly, “the -little girl sent some toys to you children.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hooray!” cried the boys and girls, who were -still hilarious—that is, all but the eldest, smart girl. -Then they pressed out of the kitchen after Titus, -who volunteered to show them where the toys were.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stood looking at Mrs. Tingsby. He -was sorry for her. She did not quite take in the -situation of affairs, and was troubled and anxious.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_88'>88</span>He turned to Mafferty as the one who would best -understand him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Explain to her, will you?” he said. “I have no -intention of again placing the child on her hands. -I cannot keep her myself, as she is not a boy, but I -shall find a suitable home for her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I will,” said the man, then he put out a -hand and touched the Judge’s coat almost lovingly. -“I once had a fur-lined coat. I suppose you haven’t -another?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I have,” said the Judge, promptly, “too -small for me—just your fit.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mafferty smiled. He knew he would get it. The -Judge gave a great sigh of relief as he passed up -the dark staircase. He had grown strangely sensitive -this Christmas season. It had seemed to him -that he could not go away comfortably and leave this -man Mafferty without doing something for him. -True, he had not half the respect for him that he -had for the honest expressman, the furrier, and the -parcel-carrier standing modestly in the background. -Those men would have died rather than beg from -him. They were workers, and Mafferty had been, -and evidently still was, a kind of drone. Yet the -cat man was of the Judge’s class. They understood -each other’s Shibboleth, and the rich man’s heart -was full of pity as he went out to the frosty -street.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Roblee had sprung out of his sleigh and had gone -to the horses’ heads.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was such a screaming and pulling from the -young Tingsbys, who were dragging at the toys and -bearing them to the house, that he was afraid of a -<span class='pageno' id='Page_89'>89</span>runaway. Titus, scarcely less excited than the poor -children, was in the thickest of the fun.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come! Come!” said the Judge, “stop this tumult,” -and he waved his hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus hurried the shrieking crew into the house -and sprang in beside his grandfather.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Home, Roblee,” said the Judge, and in a few -minutes they were before the big stone house on -Grand Avenue.</p> - -<p class='c011'>They were met by a disturbed household. Higby, -after throwing open the door, stammered and -walked backward, and stamped, and tried to ejaculate -something, which was drowned by the exclamations -of the maidservants, who had assembled in the -hall. Foremost among them was Betty, the girl into -whose care the Judge had put little Bethany.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her face was as white as death, and she was -wringing her hands. Presently the Judge made out -her exclamation, “Child lost!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The little girl, do you mean?” he asked, sternly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir; O! yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“When?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just after you left, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where were you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“In my own room. I had laid her on the bed to -go to sleep—she went off like that, sir,” and she -helplessly extended her arms.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Were you in your room when she disappeared?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir; O! no, sir. I was next door to Jennie’s -room. I just went in to borrow a fine needle.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And when you came back the child was gone?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Have you searched the house?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_90'>90</span>“Every corner, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you run out in the street?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir; we’ve been searching the neighborhood -for an hour. We were just waiting now till -you came.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stood stock still in the midst of his -apprehensive domestics. Had the little stranger -run home?</p> - -<p class='c011'>Probably, and yet—he reflected for a minute, his -face heavy with what the young lawyers of Riverport -were pleased to call his “judicial frown.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Suddenly he lifted up his head. “Have you -searched the stable?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The stable—no, sir,” ejaculated poor Betty.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come with me, Titus,” said the Judge, “that -child is a peculiar one. I do not think that she has -run away.”</p> -<div id='i_091' class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/i_091.jpg' alt='' class='ig001'> -<div class='ic001'> -<p>“Go tell the servants that she is found,” said the Judge to Titus.</p> -</div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_91'>91</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER VII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Birds of Heaven</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>The Judge walked calmly out through the house -to the garden and through the garden to the stable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Arrived in the stable, he called to Roblee, who -was unharnessing, to turn on all the electric lights -above and below. Then he and Titus went up to the -pigeon loft.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge pushed open the screen door. It was -just as he had thought. On a little stool by the -door sat Bethany sound asleep, a white owl pigeon -in her lap, another on her head. Her own head was -thrown back against the wall, one hand resting -caressingly on the beautiful creature in her lap.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The owls opened wide their large eyes and gazed -at the Judge and Titus in mild surprise. Other -pigeons eyed them from nest boxes and perches. -They were all very tame, but not all would have -allowed Bethany to handle them as did the gentle -owls.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Go tell the servants that she is found,” said the -Judge to Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy rushed down the steps, and the Judge -bent over Bethany. She had no wrap on, and the -pigeon loft was not kept very warm.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He looked at a thermometer over her head—fifty -degrees.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Child,” he said, gently shaking her, “wake up.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_92'>92</span>She drowsily opened her eyes and murmured, -“Birds of heaven.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge shook her again. “Come! Come! -Don’t you want some Christmas dinner?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She staggered to her little feet. “O! is it you, Mr. -Judge! I was dreaming of you and the birds.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled, took her hand, and conducted -her down the steps, then carried her in the house. -Upon arriving inside they found Mrs. Blodgett, who -had just come from her midday Christmas dinner, -eaten at her daughter’s. She had been overwhelming -the unfortunate Betty with reproaches. If she, -Mrs. Blodgett, had been at home the child would -not have been allowed to steal away and give everyone -such an upsetting—just like a careless, giddy -girl, and she swept away the little child to make her -toilet for dinner.</p> - -<p class='c011'>From her store of clothes she managed to unearth -another dress of the grandchild Mary Ann’s, for -Bethany appeared at the dinner table in pale blue.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Very pretty she looked as she came gently into -the dining room and allowed old Higby to lift her -to a seat beside the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The table was decorated with holly and red ribbons -and a miniature Christmas tree.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany’s eyes shone brightly. At last she was -wide awake, having had sleep enough to last her for -some time.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She said nothing, but her appreciation of her gay -and brilliant surroundings was so intense that, to -the secret amusement of the Judge and Titus, she -made up her mind to have a participator—some one -who was not used to this style of living. Instead of -<span class='pageno' id='Page_93'>93</span>waiting for the end of the meal she put up her hand -at once, drew out the ghost of the dead mouse, and -placed him behind a sprig of holly. All through the -meal, from soup to fruit, mousie had his share of -what was going. Not a course did he miss, and it -was a very stuffed and overcome ghost that the child -finally wrapped in her handkerchief when they left -the table.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The big parlor was lighted, the piano was open, -and picture books and games were laid out, but in -some way or other the trio, after dinner, drifted to -the Judge’s study. There on the hearthrug by the -fire, with Princess Sukey, the two children, or, -rather, the boy and the child, sat and talked, while -the Judge listened quietly from his armchair. Part -of the time Titus was shouting with laughter. In -some marvelous way he had got over all his bashfulness -of the morning. Bethany was such a little -girl that it did not seem worth while to be afraid -of her, and then he was in honor bound to tell her -about their visit to the Tingsbys.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy, she said, was the name of the eldest girl. -Airy, nickname for Mary, then came Annie, Rodd, -Goldie, Gibb, and Dobbie.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what’s Dobbie?” inquired Titus, “boy or -girl?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why, boy, of course,” responded Bethany, -“didn’t you see him?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Y-y-yes, I saw a baby sitting on the floor, but -I didn’t know which name belonged to him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then you had to think a name to him,” said -Bethany, dreamily.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“T-t-think a name—what’s that?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_94'>94</span>“Why, you know that everything has a name,” -said the little girl, staring at him wonderingly. -“There isn’t any ‘it’ about anything. If you don’t -know the name, you just give one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O-o-of course, everything has a name,” said the -boy, stoutly, “but if I don’t know it I don’t give -one. I wait till I find out.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t,” she replied, shaking her head. “I give -a name to everything.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you give me a name before you heard -mine?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Of course,” she replied, with dignity.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what name did you give me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You won’t be cross?” she said, surveying him -doubtfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“C-c-certainly not.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I gave you the name of Blackie,” she said, with -a glance up at his dark head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus burst into a fit of laughter. “Y-y-you did -that last night when you were so sleepy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany nodded her head. “I wasn’t too sleepy -to think.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A-a-and now—what do you give me now?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I give you your own name,” she said, patiently, -“but the other one is in the top of my mind. I -could call it down if I wanted to.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-would you give this hearthrug a name?” -asked the boy, teasingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She caressingly passed a hand over the red velvet -pile. “Yes, boy, I call this rug Red Heart.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus did not laugh this time. He stared curiously -and silently at her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge interposed a quiet question. “Did you -<span class='pageno' id='Page_95'>95</span>think me a name before you knew my real one, little -girl?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” she said, shyly, turning round to face -him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What was it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I called you Mr. White Tree because your white -hair is so soft, just like the blossoms on a little tree -in the flower shop on Broadway.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you call me by that name, now?” pursued the -Judge, curiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What do you call me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She hung her head and twisted her fingers together. -“Bethany would rather not speak that name -out loud,” she said, in a low voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It isn’t Judge Sancroft, then,” ventured her -senior, kindly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She shook her head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-whisper it,” proposed Titus, bluntly. “I’ve -seen girls whisper things when they would not speak -them out.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She mumbled something to herself that the boy -could not hear.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“G-g-go say it in his ear,” stuttered Titus, impatiently.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany looked shyly at the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come, if you want to,” he said, with a smile.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She edged up to him step by step. “It’s Daddy -Grandpa,” she whispered in his ear.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why Daddy Grandpa?” he whispered back.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“’Cause Bethany hasn’t any daddy and she hasn’t -any grandpa, and she likes to call you that.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge had noticed before that in moments of -<span class='pageno' id='Page_96'>96</span>great embarrassment Bethany often spoke of herself -in the third person, therefore he hastened to reassure -her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You may call me that name all the time, dear -child, if it will be any comfort to you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>A strange glow came over her face, apart from -the glow of the firelight. Poor little lonely heart, -craving for natural relationship and sympathy! -However, she had been schooled to restrain emotion, -and with a simple “Thank you, sir,” she went back -to the hearthrug.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“S-s-sir,” remarked Titus, “it’s getting pretty hot -here, and that pigeon is just roasting herself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge wrinkled his eyebrows. “It is most -unfortunate that that bird has contracted the habit -of sitting by the fire—most abnormal, most abnormal. -Open the window and see whether she will go -out on the balcony.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany, who had been sitting as close as possible -to Sukey’s basket, silently adoring her, moved back, -and Titus got up and went to a window.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“C-c-come, Sukey.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeon understood him perfectly well, and, -stepping out of her basket, she walked round and -round in a state of great indignation. “Rookety -cahoo! rookety cahoo!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Let her alone, boy,” said the Judge, “she won’t -go out to-night, it is too cold. If we insist, she will -stand outside and tap on the window until our nerves -are upset. There, close the window. You have -cooled the room. We will keep doing that, in order -that we may not suffer from the heat.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus concealed a smile as he looked out into the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_97'>97</span>cold night. What a change had come over his grandfather. -Who would have imagined last Christmas -that this Christmas he would have a pet pigeon in -his study?</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And now you had better go to bed, children,” -said the Judge, as the big hall clock struck ten. -“Have you had a nice Christmas, little girl?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany went and stood beside his armchair. -“Sir, it is the best Christmas I ever had. I shall -tell my mamma about it to-night.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge said nothing, but held out a hand to -her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She clasped his large fingers tightly in her tiny -ones. “Good-night, sir—may I say the name?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes—decidedly.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Daddy Grandpa,” she murmured, “good-night, -Daddy Grandpa. Now Bethany is like other little -girls. She isn’t all alone in the world, like a poor -stray cat.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stared dreamily into the fire. What -a strange child! He must take the greatest pains -to find a home suitable for her in every respect.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_98'>98</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER VIII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>To Adopt or Not to Adopt</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>“Are you going out?” asked Bethany, wistfully, -of the Judge the next morning.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She had breakfasted with the Judge. She had -disappeared afterward to visit the pigeon loft with -Titus, and then when he left the house to call on his -friend Charlie she had gone to the Judge’s study to -play with Sukey. Now she stood regretfully watching -him button on his overcoat.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I am,” he replied. “I have a call to make; -would you like to go with me?” he asked, as an -afterthought.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her little face beamed. That was just what she -wanted.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But you haven’t any wraps,” said the Judge. -“However, I can bundle you up in something, and -Roblee will drive us to Furst Brothers. There we -will find everything under one roof. Here you are,” -and, laughing like a boy, he smothered her up in the -fur coat that he intended to give Mafferty and carried -her out to the sleigh.</p> - -<p class='c011'>A quiet-living man, a man of simple pleasures, -one who rarely experienced new sensations, the trip -through Furst Brothers’ establishment was as full -of interest to the Judge as a voyage of exploration -would have been to another man.</p> - -<p class='c011'>First they visited the fur department, where Bethany -<span class='pageno' id='Page_99'>99</span>stood in rapt silence, with shining eyes which -she sometimes tightly closed, and then suddenly -opened to make sure that it was not all a dream, -while an obsequious shopwoman tried on one little -coat after another.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s choice finally fell on a white one with -a cap to match, and Bethany was clad in it. The -Judge directed the woman to let the coat hang open, -as the store was very warm. The little cap was put -on, however, and, tightly holding his hand and -occasionally glancing down to smooth the pretty blue -satin lining, Bethany walked as if in a trance to the -shoe department.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There she was fitted with several pairs of shoes -and slippers. Finally rubbers were slipped on and -a pair of warm, black, woolen gaiters buttoned over -them. Then gloves were chosen, and back they -went to the fur department to buy a little muff which -the Judge had forgotten.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“As for dresses and undergarments,” he said to -Bethany, “Mrs. Blodgett must bring you here. Now -we will go to see my friend.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>When they were again seated in the sleigh, and -Bethany, with a bright pink spot on each cheek, sat -holding her hands tightly clasped in her muff, the -Judge said, “Did you ever hear of Mrs. Tom Everest -while you were living on River Street?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child shook her head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No; you would not. Well, I must tell you that -she is a very charming and philanthropic young -woman, the granddaughter of a once eminent jurist -of this city.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany had very little idea of what her companion -<span class='pageno' id='Page_100'>100</span>meant, but she enjoyed being talked to as if she -were a young lady, and she gravely bent her head -and said, “Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Her grandfather was a much older man than I -am, but I well remember him and his admirable wife, -now also dead. Unfortunately, some time after his -death the family lost their money and went to River -Street to live. This girl Berty, or, rather, Mrs. -Tom Everest, became greatly interested in the poor -people about her, and when she married she persuaded -her husband to come and live with her instead -of moving to another part of the city. They -seem to be quite happy, and are doing much good. -I am going to see her to ask if she knows of any -nice family where you would have young children to -play with and be kindly treated.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Me, sir?” ejaculated Bethany, faintly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes; my house is not a suitable place for you. -You see, I thought you were a boy when I brought -you home.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A boy, sir?” said Bethany, still more faintly. -“O, yes, I remember.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I wanted a companion for my grandson.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I like boys, sir,” murmured the little girl, -weakly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked sharply down at her. The -lovely color had faded from her face. Large tears -were rolling down her cheeks.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You have surely not got attached to us in this -short time,” he said, wonderingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It doesn’t take much to keep me, sir,” said Bethany, -desperately. “I’ve been trying not to eat too -much—and mousie could get on with less. And I -<span class='pageno' id='Page_101'>101</span>can work, sir. Lots of times I’ve scrubbed down the -stairs for Mrs. Tingsby.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge made some kind of a noise in his -throat and looked over the shoulder farthest away -from Bethany.</p> - -<p class='c011'>They were gliding swiftly through Broadway. -O! the exquisite, clear, cold air and the lovely sunshine. -How good it was to be alive, even if one -were sixty-two; and he had just been stabbing this -faithful little heart beside him. But, pshaw! Nonsense! -A child of seven formed no strong attachments -in a day. If he sent her away she would -cling as closely to a kind stranger as she now apparently -did to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>But Bethany was talking, very weakly and brokenly, -but still talking, and he must listen.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” she murmured, “I could take care of the -birds—those beautiful birds, and if there was not -room in the house I could sleep in that lovely loft. -I would not be nervous and cry, or make any noise -to disturb the horses. Only once in a while, when -you were out, I would like to creep in the house to -see that little saint with the hood on.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The little saint was Sukey, and the Judge smiled.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Which do you love the best?” he said, sharply, -“me and my grandson or the pigeons?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The pigeons, sir,” she said, simply. “But before -my mamma died she said, ‘Bethany, when you grow -up you will love human beings better than the animals -and the birds.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then why did you not stay at home with the -birds this morning instead of coming with me? You -wanted to come, didn’t you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_102'>102</span>“Yes, sir. I don’t know what made me want to -come, but when I heard you putting on your coat I -left the lovely bird and ran in the hall. It seemed -as if I would be lonely without you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled, a somewhat puzzled smile, and -did not speak until Roblee drew up in front of a -large, old-fashioned, smartly painted house on River -Street, and said, “Mrs. Everest’s, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge started, then he turned to Bethany. -“Do you want to come in with me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I—I don’t just feel like it, sir,” she said, hesitatingly, -and the Judge saw that her cast-down face -was again wet with tears.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I will not be long,” he said, kindly, and he rang -the bell.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, Mrs. Everest was at home,” a trim little -maidservant informed him, and she ushered him into -a large room on the ground floor.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The painted floor of the room had only one rug, -on which a fat baby was sprawling. A wire screen -before a blazing fire kept in sparks and prevented -the possibility of baby’s hands being burnt, or, possibly, -baby’s precious body, for he was alone for -the moment.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Between partly open sliding doors the Judge saw -in a second large room an enormous Christmas tree -loaded with gifts.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The air of the house was sweet and wholesome. -Looking beyond the Christmas tree, and through -long windows which appeared to be old-fashioned -ones made larger, the Judge had a magnificent view -of the river.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It is possible to be comfortable even on River -<span class='pageno' id='Page_103'>103</span>Street,” he said, standing with his back to the fire -and obligingly giving one foot to the baby, who was -begging frantically for it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good morning, good morning,” said a sudden -gay voice, and a half-girlish, half-womanly figure -entered the room and took both the Judge’s outstretched -hands in her own. “The very best of -Christmas blessings on you!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And on you,” he said, heartily, “for you deserve -them if anyone does.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hush, hush,” she protested, blushingly, then motioning -him to the most comfortable of the many -comfortable chairs in the room she took the roly-poly -baby on her lap.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What do you think of Tom, junior? Isn’t he -immense? You naughty baby, your mouth is black -again. He begs like a little dog for everybody’s -feet—licks the blacking off. Just imagine! Now, -Judge, do you think there is anything servile about -me or Tom?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, I don’t.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, this baby is an absolute lackey. Cringes -and crawls to everyone—hasn’t the spirit of a mouse. -Fancy liking blacking and coal. You young rogue!” -and she shook him till the baby laughed in glee.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He is a fine child,” said the Judge, “the picture -of health. And now I must not take up your time, -for I know you are a very busy person. You may -know, or may not know, that for some time I have -been looking for an orphan boy to adopt.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest nodded her pretty black head. “Yes, -I know.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I didn’t apply to you,” said her caller, “because -<span class='pageno' id='Page_104'>104</span>I know your tender heart. You occupy yourself -mostly with the very poor. I wanted a boy of some -respectability.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Exactly. Baby, stop licking my belt. Did you -ever see such a child?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“On Christmas Eve, just two days ago,” continued -the Judge, “I happened to stumble on a child -that I thought was a boy, but perhaps you know -about it,” for Mrs. Everest was laughing heartily.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes; River Street knows what River Street -does.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then I can omit that part. You know Mrs. -Tingsby?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes—know her and esteem her. She is a -little shy of me because she is so respectable and -so self-supporting. She doesn’t want me to help -her. She thinks she would lose prestige as a boarding-house -keeper. Mafferty—Barry Mafferty, who -runs our cat farm—was in last evening. He gave a -glowing account of your visit to Mrs. Tingsby. I -wish you could hear the nice things he says about -you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Has he gone back to his farm?” asked the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, we persuaded him to go this morning. He -gets terribly bored on the Island, and comes up -occasionally to stay for a day or two at Mrs. Tingsby’s. -Then Tom and I have to watch him to see -that he does not get into the saloons.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I promised him a fur coat,” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So he told me. If you leave it here I will see -that he gets it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” said the Judge, “to come back to my -<span class='pageno' id='Page_105'>105</span>affair. I don’t want to keep this little girl. I want -to find a good home for her, where her sensitive -nature will be taken into account. I thought perhaps -you would know of such a home.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Does she want to leave you?” asked Mrs. Everest, -quickly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, no,” said the Judge, honestly, “I don’t -think she does, neither did she want to leave Mrs. -Tingsby to come to me. Children are fickle.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pretty girl-woman shook her head. “Mrs. -Tingsby’s was different. The child had been -brought up to believe that some day she would know -something better. You should have seen her mother. -She was an exquisite creature. Pale, and cold, and -quiet, and shy, and aristocratic, and making friends -only with Mrs. Tingsby. I, in vain, tried to get -acquainted with her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you know that Mrs. Tingsby allowed the -child to work at making paper boxes?” asked the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No,” said Mrs. Everest, quickly. “She would -not dare to have that get to my ears. Do you know -this to be true?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes; the child was staggering home when I -found her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest clasped her baby closer to her. “O, -these poor people, aren’t they extraordinary! Now, -that woman’s false pride won’t allow me to help her, -and yet she lets this poor child work—and her own, -too, I daresay, for she would not require of one what -she would not require of the others.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I understood her to say that they all had work of -some kind through the Christmas holidays. Can -<span class='pageno' id='Page_106'>106</span>you in any way get at the employers of this child -labor?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I shall make it my business to do so,” said Mrs. -Everest, warmly. “I shall go to see Mrs. Tingsby -to-day and question her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If you want money for prosecution, call on me,” -said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Thank you, I will. Well, what are you going -to do about the little girl if you cannot find a home? -Don’t send her back to Mrs. Tingsby’s. Give her to -me, rather.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“This would be a charming place for her,” said -the Judge, looking about him. “I never thought of -that. I don’t know anyone I would rather give the -child to than to you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I should be delighted to have her,” said Mrs. -Everest, heartily, “and would try to make her -happy; but in taking her I would not have you suppose -for one single instant that I think you are not -a very suitable and proper person to have charge of -her. Do you know, I have often wondered why you -have not done more active charitable work. You -are so eminently qualified for it, and you have always -been so generous and so sympathetic in your -donations, that we all know your heart is with -us.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge sighed. “I have had a very busy life, -and then my troubles have made me egotistical. -May I bring the little girl in for you to see her?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Certainly, or let me ring. Daisy will get her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The happy-faced little maid, upon being instructed, -quickly ran downstairs and returned with -Bethany.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_107'>107</span>Mrs. Everest put down the baby and went to meet -her. “How do you do, dear?” she said, kissing her. -Then, drawing her to the fire, she took off her gloves -and rubbed her fingers.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why, you are quite cold,” she said; “quite cold, -and you look forlorn.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She took off the fur cap, and for a few minutes -silently stroked Bethany’s pale, unhappy cheeks. -Then she whispered, “What is the matter, darling?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Not since her mother’s death had a lady, a genuine -lady, put her arm round the shrinking, sensitive -child and whispered to her in tones sweet and clear. -Something in Bethany’s heart responded. She could -not speak, but she silently returned the pressure of -Mrs. Everest’s hands and gazed into her eyes in -dumb misery.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, in the meantime, got up, walked about -the room in some embarrassment, and tried to avoid -the overtures of the too-friendly baby, who was -creeping briskly after him, gurgling in his throat, -and begging for permission to play with his feet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What is the matter?” whispered Mrs. Everest, -“is it that you don’t want to leave the Judge and -Titus?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany silently nodded her head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Would you like to come and live with me and -be my little girl?” pursued Mrs. Everest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She felt the little form shrink within her arms.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You would rather stay with the Judge?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany nodded again.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest looked over her shoulder. “What -do you call him?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_108'>108</span>“My little pet name for him is Daddy Grandpa,” -whispered the child, brokenly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then leave me, run right up to him, throw your -arms round his neck, and say, ‘Please, dear Daddy -Grandpa, don’t send me away from you.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Somewhat to Mrs. Everest’s surprise, for she did -not know what a relief the suggestion was to the -child’s breaking heart, Bethany broke from her arms -and rushed to the Judge, and, not being able to -reach his neck, clasped his coat, or as much of it as -she could grasp, and fairly shrieked in her nervousness, -“Dear Daddy Grandpa, <i>please</i> don’t send me -away from you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stopped short. His first thought was -that the active baby had risen and was seizing him. -Then he looked down into Bethany’s agitated face -and said, “What! What!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dear Daddy Grandpa,” she cried again; then her -overwrought nerves gave way, and she burst into a -frantic fit of sobbing.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She doesn’t want to live with me,” said Mrs. -Everest, shaking her black head, and as if remarking, -“I am sorry, but it is no concern -of mine,” she sat down and took up her own -baby.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany was clasping the coat and crying as if -her heart would break.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Upon my word!” ejaculated the Judge. “Upon -my word!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>This was his exclamation in moments of great -perplexity. “Little girl!” he said. “Little girl!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>This torrent of tears distressed him and made him -vaguely alarmed.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_109'>109</span>“Bethany, child,” he said, in haste, “little girl, do -you want to go home?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Home! That was the magic word that the child -wanted.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes, sir; yes, sir!” she gasped, and with a -hurried farewell to Mrs. Everest the Judge picked -up the sorrowful child in his arms and fairly ran -downstairs with her.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_110'>110</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER IX<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Another Surprise</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>The Judge’s ship had sailed into clear waters—his -venture of the other day had, so far, proved -eminently successful.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was just one week after his call on Mrs. Everest. -On his way home that day with the disturbed -Bethany nestling close to him in the sleigh he had -said to himself many times, “I don’t know what -Titus will say—I don’t know what Titus will say.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus said very little. When his grandfather -called him into his study and told him that Bethany -seemed to be greatly upset at the thought of leaving -them, Titus replied briefly, “T-t-then keep her, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But the brother for you—the boy I was going -to adopt,” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I don’t want a brother, sir,” Titus returned; -“never did want one—a-a-am glad to get rid of the -thought of one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then you like this little girl?” said the Judge, -anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“D-d-don’t like her and don’t dislike her,” Titus -replied. “She isn’t in my way—isn’t bad as girls -go.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The matter ended here as far as discussion went, -and Bethany slipped into her place as a member of -the household. She was a very good child, quiet -and well behaved, and insensibly she was becoming -<span class='pageno' id='Page_111'>111</span>a great comfort and a great amusement to the Judge. -He loved to see her down on the hearthrug playing -with the pigeon and talking to her. For it was absolutely -necessary for Bethany to have a listener. She -dreamed such wonderful dreams and saw such -astonishing visions that it took several hours a day -of some one’s time to listen to her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany felt that the pigeon was sympathetic. -She always listened with her greenish-yellow eyes -bent attentively on her, and at times she interposed -a lively “Rookety cahoo!” So at least she was not -asleep, as the Judge sometimes was, when Bethany -was relating her marvels.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She had soon got the Judge to show her the pictures -of Ellen and Susie, his two little girls that -had died, and now nearly every night Bethany fancied -that she saw them. She described them dressed -in their old-fashioned little garments, their hair -braided in little tails tied with ribbon, their talk -quaint and demure and seasoned with Bethany’s -maxims.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, touched and amused, listened to as -many of her conversations as he had time or inclination -for, then he went to sleep, and Bethany turned -to the pigeon.</p> - -<p class='c011'>On this particular day the Judge was reading his -morning’s mail.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany had gone to school—the Judge had found -a kindergarten round the corner on a quiet street—and -Titus was taking a lesson from a gentleman -who had effected a number of famous cures in cases -of stuttering, and who came all the way from Boston -to treat him.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_112'>112</span>So far he had done no good. Titus was a mild, -persistent, and consistent stutterer. He never failed -to hesitate at the beginning of a sentence unless he -was deeply moved about something—he rarely -stopped in the middle of one.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, fearing Higby’s bad example, had -spoken of sending him away, though it was with -extreme reluctance that he even spoke of discharging -so faithful a servant. Titus’s teacher did not urge -him to do so. He said that Higby was a stammerer, -while Titus, as yet, only stuttered. The boy’s -habit could be broken if he gave himself earnestly -to breaking it up. “Wait a little,” he said to the -Judge. “He does not take himself seriously yet. -Wait till something rouses him and makes him coöperate -with me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I should think that his comrades making fun of -him would arouse him,” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It probably will, but later on,” replied the teacher, -so the Judge was obliged to possess his soul in -patience.</p> - -<p class='c011'>On this morning Titus was to finish his lesson -and then go to school. At present he was in a small -sitting room, while the Judge was in his study just -across the hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Presently the master of the house took up a note -written in a dainty feminine hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was from the lady who was teaching Bethany. -The Judge read it, then he began to laugh. Mrs. -Hume was speaking of Bethany’s facility in making -paper boxes; she was a marvelous, a wonderful -child; she outdistanced all the others. She was a -prodigy.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_113'>113</span>The Judge laughed more heartily than ever. He -could fancy demure little Bethany’s slender fingers -manipulating the too familiar cardboard. The child -had evidently not told her teacher where she had -learned the art of making boxes. She was an honest -child, but she was inclined to be shy with strangers. -Just as well in this case for her to be so. Her associates -were mostly Grand Avenue children. Young -as they were, they might look strangely upon the -little girl who had been obliged to earn her living.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was very amusing, though, to the Judge to read -this lady’s gushing remarks on the subject of Bethany’s -dexterity. He laughed again, and this time -with such heartiness that he had to put up a handkerchief -to wipe the tears from his eyes. Then he -somewhat ruefully surveyed the remaining heap of -letters.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who laughs hard prepares to cry harder,” he -said, seriously. “There will be something there to -make me sad.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was. The next letter he took up caused his -jaw to drop like that of an old man.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was absolutely confounded. He sat stock -still, gazing with unseeing eyes at the pigeon, who, -sharp enough to perceive that there was something -the matter with him, flew up on the table, paraded -over his heap of letters and papers, and uttered an -inquiring “Rookety cahoo?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge did not hear her, and yet he was listening -intently. His own door was ajar, and when -a few minutes later the sitting room door opened -and Titus came out into the hall he called, weakly, -“Grandson!”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_114'>114</span>Now he never said “Grandson!” unless something -serious was the matter, so Titus hastened to -him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What is it?” he asked, forgetting to stutter as -he always did when greatly excited.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge straightened himself. “I’ve had a -blow. Read that—or listen. The writing is bad,” -and he threw himself back in his chair and, putting -on his glasses, took up the letter.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who is it from?” inquired Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you remember hearing me speak of Folsom, -an old university friend of mine?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The fellow that was so crazy about work among -the poor?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The same. Poor Folsom, he was always an enthusiast, -but I considered him reliable. He became -a clergyman and went to New York in connection -with the mission work of some church. Listen to -what he writes:</p> - -<p class='c010'>“‘<span class='sc'>My dear Sancroft</span>: What a whiff of good -times I have had this morning! I left the slums for -a call on our dear old Georgeson of the Era, into -whose pockets my hand is permitted to go pretty -freely. I found him seated in his magnificent office, -a financial king on his throne. He showed me your -letter to him about a boy to adopt. “Georgeson,” -said I, “I have just the thing.” He advised me to -correspond with you, but what need is there of -correspondence when I have the very article you -want. An English actor died in my rooms the other -day, a man of the highest respectability. He left -one lad—a jewel of a boy, fair-haired and sunny-tempered. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_115'>115</span>Just the companion you would wish for -your own lad, who, if he resembles his grandfather, -will be dark as to hair and eyes. This boy has -absolutely not a relative in the world. He is a -thorough gentleman; you will love him as a son. I -have not time to hear from you. Will put him on -one of the morning trains for Boston. You may -expect him some time Thursday. Don’t forget my -work among the poor. God has blessed you freely; -freely give.</p> - -<div class='lg-container-r'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“‘Your old friend,</div> - <div class='line in12'>“‘<span class='sc'>Ralph Folsom</span>.’”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>“Rattlebrain! Gusher! Enthusiast!” exclaimed -the Judge when he finished. His stupefaction was -over. He began to be angry.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you see he does not even ask to hear from -me what I think of this,” he went on, shaking the -letter at Titus, who sat open-mouthed. “He is so -sure he is right. He always was—rushed headlong -into every breach. I would not have had him mixed -up in this matter for a very great deal. Georgeson -is a foolish man not to keep his own council,” and -in considerable excitement the Judge got up and -paced the floor.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If I knew when he was coming I would meet him -at the station and send him right back to Folsom,” -he said at last, stopping before Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, sir,” said the boy, “he’s got to come on -the 10:30 or the 3:15. If he comes on the 10:30 -he’s here now. I’ll look out the hall window now,” -and he stepped outside.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Jiminy!” he exclaimed, rushing back, “here’s -<span class='pageno' id='Page_116'>116</span>an open sleigh coming full tilt down the avenue -with a boy in it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge wheeled round as if to go into the hall, -then he stopped short. “I can’t see him. After all, -it isn’t his fault, and he has been lately bereaved. -Do you receive him, Titus?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I was going to school,” said Titus, who, having -recovered his equilibrium, began to stutter; -“shall I take him with me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, no; I don’t care,” said the Judge. “Tell -him how things are if you get a chance. I’ll see -him at lunch.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus darted out of the room, went running and -limping down the stairs, and was beside Higby when -he opened the door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>A tall, pale, handsome lad in a thin light overcoat -stood on the threshold.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Is this Judge Sancroft’s house?” he asked, fixing -his bright blue eyes on Higby and yet casting a -glance beyond at Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby nodded.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy turned, and the driver came running up -the steps with a shabby leather bag.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy himself was carrying in his hand a small -padlocked wooden box with a perforated cover. -After paying the driver he followed Higby, who was -taking his bag into the hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, in his confusion, was saying nothing, and -the boy, turning to him, remarked courteously, “I -suppose you are Judge Sancroft’s grandson?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes,” replied Titus, simply, “I am.” Then he -continued staring at his guest, until a half smile on -the stranger’s face recalled him to himself.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_117'>117</span>“Take off your coat,” he said, suddenly, “and -come in to the fire. There isn’t any in the parlor,” -and he thrust his head in the doorway, “but come -in the dining room—there’s sure to be a good one -there.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy threw his thin coat over a hall chair, put -his small wooden box under it and his hat on top, -then followed Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Are you cold?” inquired Titus, motioning his -guest to one of the big leather-covered chairs by the -fireplace and taking the other himself.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not at all, thank you,” said the boy, but the -hands that he held out to the blaze were red and -covered with chilblains, and Titus, remembering his -thin gloves, felt sorry that he had asked the question.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I dare say you’re hungry,” observed Titus, suddenly. -“I always am when I’ve been in the train. -What would you like? It’s a good while before -lunch.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ah, thank you,” said the other, politely; “if I -might have a little meat, just a little.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Meat,” repeated Titus, “certainly. Higby,” and -he turned toward the man, who, with a face brimful -of curiosity, was coming in with some coal for the -fire, “please have some meat brought up.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And have it raw,” said the stranger, with exquisite -courtesy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus threw a glance at the boy’s pale cheeks. He -looked sick. Probably he was taking a raw-meat -cure.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What kind of m-m-meat?” inquired Higby, goggling -at the newcomer.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Any kind,” replied the boy, smoothly.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_118'>118</span>“What’s your name?” blurted Titus, in an embarrassed -manner when Higby had left the room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas de Warren.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ah!” said Titus, and he drew a long breath. -Then a succession of confused thoughts began to -pass through his brain. He was not a brilliant boy, -but he was not without shrewdness. He felt that -the lad before him, though perfectly calm and apparently -happy, had been led to expect a different welcome -from this. The enthusiastic, elderly clergyman -in New York had probably told the lad that -the two Sancrofts would fall on his neck. What -could Titus do to be more agreeable? He would -better apologize for his grandfather. The lad had -not mentioned him, but Titus felt sure that he was -thinking of him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas,” he said, bluntly, “my grandfather won’t -be down till half-past one. He is busy in his study—gets -a lot of letters in the morning.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Indeed,” replied the boy, with a movement of -his head like that of an older person, “I can fancy -that he is very much occupied. And then he would -hardly get Mr. Folsom’s letter saying I was coming -until this morning.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, he didn’t,” said Titus, “he had just got it -when you came.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then I would be a kind of surprise to him,” said -the boy, pleasantly, and his big blue eyes fixed themselves -calmly on Titus’s dark face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Sancroft boy was in torture. He felt himself -growing crimson. His cheeks would tell the -whole story.</p> - -<p class='c011'>They did. The English boy understood. He -<span class='pageno' id='Page_119'>119</span>was not wanted. However, his manner did not -change.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He coolly uncrossed his feet, put the left one -where the right one had been, so that it would get -a little more heat from the fire, and meditatively -gazed at the leaping flames.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, with a dull pain at his heart, noted that -the boy’s shoes were more than half worn. One of -them, indeed, had a hole in it. Why were things -so unequal in this world? He never used to notice -that there was a difference between other boys and -himself. Now he was beginning to see that boys -just as deserving as himself and Charlie Brown -were shabbily and insufficiently dressed. Why, this -boy, for instance, had not enough on to keep him -warm. Why was it? Why had he no rich grandfather -to clothe him?</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here is the meat, sir,” said Higby, trotting into -the room with a plate in his hand; “minced beef, -sir,” and he respectfully put it on the table near the -English boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>A shade passed over the stranger’s face. With -all his self-possession he could not help showing -that he was disappointed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What’s wrong?” asked Titus, bluntly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, nothing—nothing,” replied Dallas, with a -wave of his hand. “Only that I would have preferred -it whole. I should have said so; it was stupid -in me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Have you any more?” said Titus to Higby.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir; a whole joint.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then take that away and get an uncut piece.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The English boy’s face lighted up strangely.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_120'>120</span>“And, Higby,” said Titus, “bring crackers and -something to drink. What will you have, Dallas?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, anything,” said the boy, politely; “any kind -of wine—sherry, perhaps.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus drew his dark eyebrows together. “My -grandfather is a strict temperance man; won’t have -wine in the house, even for pudding sauces.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, indeed,” said the boy, lightly, and with veiled -amusement; “well, it doesn’t matter. Cold water -will do, or a cup of tea.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“We have homemade w-w-wines, sir,” said Higby, -insinuatingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bring him some rhubarb,” said Titus; “that is -good.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby disappeared, and Titus sank back into his -chair. There was a heavy dew of perspiration on -his lip. He did not like this business of entertaining. -What could he do to amuse his guest while -Higby was absent? Perhaps the new boy liked -pigeons.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I say,” he remarked, suddenly, “do you like any -kind of pet birds?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas scrutinized Titus’s face intently before -he replied; then he said, “I’m awfully fond of -them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What kind?” asked Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, I like canaries and robins—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus’s face was unresponsive, and the stranger -went on, tentatively, “and doves, and linnets, and -thrushes, and mocking-birds—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He had not struck the right kind of bird yet, and -he put up a hand and pushed back the light hair -from his pale forehead.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_121'>121</span>“Cage birds, do you mean?” he said, courteously, -“or yard birds?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I mean pigeons,” replied his host, dryly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, pigeons,” said Dallas, with relief; “they’re -my favorite birds. I love them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He spoke so warmly that Titus’s heart was almost -touched in one of his tenderest spots. Almost, but -not quite. He had a vague distrust of this English -boy, with his fine manners and his peculiar, lofty -accent. However, Titus felt ashamed of himself -for this distrust, and therefore said in a gruffly polite -tone, “Want to see mine? I’ve got some beauties.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The stranger’s face clouded the very least little -bit in the world.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“There are one or two things I should like -to unpack first,” he said, eyeing the tray that -Higby was bringing in. “After that I should be -delighted—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well,” said Titus, “you eat your meat and -I’ll go see what room you’re to have.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Catching sight of Mrs. Blodgett in the big upstairs -pantry he rushed in.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Blodgieblossom,” he said, “there’s a boy here—he’s -going to stay all night. Which room shall I -take him to?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bless me, Master Titus,” said the woman, withdrawing -her gaze from the china closet, “give me -a little notice. The bed has to be aired and clean -sheets put on, and dusting to be done.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I tell you, he’s got to go in it now,” said Titus, -imperiously. “I want him to hurry up and come -with me to the pigeon loft.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett smiled. She took to herself the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_122'>122</span>credit of the acquisition of so many handsome birds. -Everything had to give way to the pigeons, and, -feeling in one of the pockets of her big apron for -her bunch of keys, she said, “You can follow me, -dear lad, in five minutes to the wee clock room. -I guess that will do, won’t it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, if it’s large enough,” said Titus, doubtfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s big enough for a night or two,” she said, -easily, and she proceeded on her way upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Near the front hall door she met Higby.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Say,” he whispered, seizing her by the sleeve, -“say, I believe the Judge has ad-d-dopted another -boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett could not speak. She stared at him -silently for a few instants, then with a strange weakness -at her knees began ascending the stairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus went back to the dining room. The new -boy had eaten his crackers and drunk the wine, but -he had the plate of meat in his hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I think I will take this upstairs,” he said, pleasantly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“All right,” said Titus, and he slowly led the way -to the hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Everything was gone that belonged to the boy—leather -bag, coat, and wooden box.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His face fell, and he looked almost angry.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The servants have taken them up,” said Titus, -noticing his discomposure.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, very kind of them,” said the boy, hurriedly. -“I am so unused to be waited on,” and he went upstairs -so quickly that, although not knowing the -way, he kept ahead of Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_123'>123</span>Mrs. Blodgett and Higby were both fussing about -the little room, where a Swiss cuckoo clock hung in -the corner.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The English boy tried to subdue his impatience -as he glanced at them, and as soon as they left the -room he put his plate of meat down on the dressing -table and looked at Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Wants to eat alone like a dog,” thought the -latter to himself, and saying, “I’ll wait for you outside,” -he walked toward the door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He threw a glance over his shoulder before he -went out and saw the English lad go fussily toward -the little padlocked wooden box that he had been -carrying in his hand when he arrived and carefully -lift it to the table beside the plate of meat.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Must have some treasure in it,” murmured Titus, -and he went on his way to lounge about the halls, -wipe the perspiration from his face, and wonder -what his grandfather would say to the English boy.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_124'>124</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER X<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The English Boy</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Bethany came home from school that day full -of glee. She had gained a little prize for good work.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What kind of work?” inquired the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany looked up at him and smiled—such a -demure, knowing little smile. Then she pressed his -hand to her lips. “Making boxes, Daddy Grandpa.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was swinging on the Judge’s hand, leading -him down to the lunch table. Every day she ran -up to his study at one o’clock when she came from -school. That gave her time for a little chat with -him and a play with Sukey before the bell rang for -lunch.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She noticed that the Judge was graver than usual -to-day, and she said suddenly, “Are you ill, Daddy -Grandpa?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, child,” he said, slowly, but he immediately -lapsed into gravity. He always felt deeply mortified -and ashamed of himself after any indulgence -in excitement or annoyance. He had been greatly -disturbed this morning—foolishly so. There was -no necessity for annoyance. All that he had to do -was to take the affair calmly and to send the boy -back.</p> - -<p class='c011'>So it was really with kindness and sympathy that -he shook the hand of the orphan lad standing beside -Titus in the dining room.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_125'>125</span>The English boy was somewhat puzzled. At first -he had been sure that this old gentleman did not -want him. Now he was not so sure about it, so -fatherly was the Judge’s manner.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany was the life of the table. She was not -a chatterbox, but she possessed a peculiar mind, and -what she said often amused the Judge and always -amused Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The English boy was greatly taken with her. His -glance rested often upon her pretty brown head, -and he secretly and bitterly envied her. Here, he -thought, in ignorance of her past life, is a child born -to affluence and delightful surroundings. How little -she knows of the cold world and the struggling for -existence there.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany was prattling about ghosts, one of her -favorite subjects. Last night she had talked with -Ellen and Susie, the Judge’s two little daughters.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-what were they doing?” said Titus, seriously. -He did not dare to jest upon such a subject, -though sometimes his boyish soul was sorely -tempted to do so.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ellen, she had a little basket in her hands, and -she was going to pick blueberries,” replied Bethany. -“She said, ‘Bethany, come with us.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And did you go?” asked Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“’Course I did; I, and Ellen, and Susie set out. -We hadn’t gone far when we met a lion.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A-a-a lion!” ejaculated Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, a truly lion,” said Bethany, smiling enough -to show two rows of white little teeth; “a kind Mr. -Lion. Said he, ‘Little girls, come with me. I’ll -show you where the blueberries grow.’ Ellen said, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_126'>126</span>‘Mr. Lion, how do you know where the blueberries -grow, because we haven’t any lions in America.’ -Mr. Lion said he had run away from a circus because -the men beat him and fired pistols at him, and -he was living on blueberries, and they were very -sweet.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“N-n-now, Bethany,” interposed Titus, “a lion -is a meat-eating animal; it couldn’t live on berries.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But, boy,” she replied (she often called him -boy), with an obstinate little shake of her head, -“this was a ghost lion.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A dream lion, you mean,” said Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She turned her clear eyes on the Judge. “You -understand me, Daddy Grandpa?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her faith in him was so great that he would not -have had the heart to shake it even if he had wished -to do so. Therefore he nodded kindly, and Bethany -proceeded:</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The dear ghost lion took us on his back—Ellen -and Susie and me—and we hadn’t gone far before -we met a bear.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A-a-a bear!” said Titus, in pretended surprise.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, a bad, bad bear. Said the bad, bad bear, -‘I am looking for little girls.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Said the dear ghost lion, with a sweet roar, -‘What kind bf little girls?’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Said the big black bear, ‘Little girls who haven’t -any home. I eat them up, or I take them to my cubs -in my den.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Said the good ghost lion, ‘Why don’t you eat -little girls that have good homes?’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘’Cause,’ he said, ‘’cause the fathers and mothers -would be so, so angry. They would come and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_127'>127</span>hunt me and kill my dear baby cubs. I’m only -looking for little orphan girls. Answer my question -quick: Have those little girls on your back got any -parents?’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘No,’ said the dear lion, ‘but they have the next -best thing—they have a Daddy Grandpa. He’ll kill -you and eat your cubs if you dare to touch them. -Stand aside, wretch!’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, at this quietly dramatic command of the -lion, became so convulsed with amusement that -Bethany, in confusion, stopped, and would not go -on.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, recovering himself, begged her pardon, but -she was inexorable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“’Ceptin’ Daddy Grandpa, no boy shall ever -know what became of the good lion and the bad -bear,” she said, firmly, but without the slightest -resentment, for she immediately went on talking to -Titus on other subjects.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She did not seem to show much curiosity with -regard to the English boy, though he was gazing -at her with the greatest amusement and interest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her prattle soothed the Judge; she was beginning -to be a great comfort to him. A little girl about -the house was more company than a boy, and she was -quieter. He liked boys, and yet there were times -when he would just as soon have a whirlwind in -his study as his dear grandson Titus. Bethany was -never noisy, never violent. She crept about the -house after him like a little mouse.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, dear,” he said; “what is it?” for she was -patiently waiting for him to answer some question. -“May you go to drive with me this afternoon? Certainly; -<span class='pageno' id='Page_128'>128</span>it is much pleasanter to have a little girl than -to go alone.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then, for they had all finished eating, he got up -from the table.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I want to speak to you, my lad,” he said, laying -a hand on the shoulder of the English boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus looked pityingly after Dallas as the Judge -led the way to the large, handsome parlor—the -one room that they all disliked, since there was no -woman in the house to give it a homelike air.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge closed the door after him, then he -turned to Dallas.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My boy,” he said, kindly, “I am very sorry to -inform you that you have come here through a -mistake. Mr. Folsom was not authorized to send -you. I do not see anything for you to do but to -go back.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Whatever the English boy’s feelings were, he -bravely surmounted them and, quietly bowing his -head, he said, respectfully, “very well; I will do as -you wish.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You look pale,” said the Judge, kindly. “I do -not think the air of New York is good for growing -lads, so if you wish I will allow you to stay here -a few days before going back to Mr. Folsom.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy’s face flushed gratefully. “I am greatly -pleased to accept your offer, sir; I will stay gladly.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I will advise Mr. Folsom of my decision,” said -the Judge, “so that he can be making other arrangements -for you. In the meantime, amuse yourself -as best you can. My grandson will, I know, do all -he can to entertain you,” and the Judge paused and -glanced delicately at the lad’s thin suit of clothes.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_129'>129</span>“I will take you to my tailor’s this afternoon.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas’s face became as red as fire. “I would -rather not, sir; if I am not to stay here I can accept -no favors.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Nonsense, my boy,” replied the Judge. “By -staying a few days you are accepting a favor, and -you are not suitably dressed for this cold weather. -If I were a poor boy, and you a well-to-do man, -would you not give me a suit of clothes?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, indeed,” he said, earnestly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then think no more about it. It is no disgrace -to be poor. It is a disgrace to suffer when friends -are willing to relieve you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge paused, and the interview was closed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas went away, and Titus was informed by -his grandfather of what had occurred.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I want you to entertain him for a few days,” the -Judge said.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well, sir,” replied the boy, submissively, but -there was no pleasure on his face, nor graciousness -in his manner.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t you like this boy?” asked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t know him,” said Titus, gruffly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge pondered. Titus was not stuttering; -he was disturbed in some way.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He speaks peculiarly,” remarked the Judge, “at -least to our ears. We do not hear very much that -broad sound of the ‘a’ here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus maintained a grim silence.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Suppose you were alone in the world?” suggested -the Judge, softly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll take care of him, sir,” said Titus, almost -roughly, and he hurried away.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_130'>130</span>He kept his word. For five days he was just as -attentive to the stranger as one lad could be to another. -They were scarcely separated one hour, and -there was not a hint of discord between them. The -Judge saw very little of them except at meal times. -He was struck by the exquisite and unfailing courtesy -of the newcomer. Nothing ruffled him, nothing -caused him to forget his good manners. They really -seemed to be a part of him. Sometimes the Judge -felt a vague uneasiness that all this politeness hid -something that ought to have been revealed—that -the boy was too agreeable to be genuine. He was -pretty sure that Titus agreed with him in this, although -he had never heard him discuss his new -friend with anyone.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus,” he said one day when Dallas happened -to be away with Charlie Brown, “Dallas’s visit is -drawing to a close. I hope that he considers it a -successful one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus gave him a peculiar look. “I think he does, -sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The servants have been respectful to him, I -hope.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They’ve got to be,” said Titus, grimly; “he has -a way with him—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What kind of a way?” inquired the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hard inside and soft out,” replied the boy, “and -his blood is blue. Theirs is only red.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Is he proud of his culture?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He’s got a pedigree,” said Titus, gloomily, “a -pedigree as long as your arm, and he carries it in -that old leather bag. It takes the de Warrens away -back to William the Conqueror.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_131'>131</span>“Why, so have you a pedigree for that matter,” -and the Judge smiled.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus looked up quickly, and the Judge opened -one of his table drawers. “When I was in England -last I went to a heraldic office. I knew that Sancroft -was an old English name, and I wished authentic -information respecting our descent. There I saw -our armorial bearings and got the pedigree. Here -it is.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy eagerly took the long slip of paper.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you see,” said the Judge, “you can trace your -ancestry back to a viking of Norway.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hooray!” said Titus, suddenly brandishing the -paper as if it were a weapon, “farther back than his. -May I show this to Dallas?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Certainly.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy stopped on his way out of the room and -said in an injured voice, “Why didn’t you show me -this before, sir?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I didn’t know that you would be interested,” said -the Judge, in much amusement. “We pay, or have -paid, so little attention to such matters in America. -However, you are typical. The younger generation -is thinking more about ancestral descent than -ever the older ones have thought.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus ran away, and the Judge gazed thoughtfully -out of the window. Sukey was on the balcony nodding -and bowing very energetically at a number of -common street pigeons who were very anxious to -perch beside her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby had put her bath out in the sun, and it -looked very attractive to them, but she was determined -that they should not bathe in her china bowl.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_132'>132</span>One male pigeon lighted on the railing, and, strutting -and talking to the princess, at last persuaded -himself that she was favorably inclined toward him. -He flew boldly on the edge of the dish. Whereupon -Sukey ran forward, seized him by the short, soft -feathers of the neck, and in a most unprincesslike -rage shook him and dragged him about, until at -last he was glad to get away from her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled and stepped out on the balcony.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He looked down on a calm, homelike scene. All -about him were handsome houses standing in their -own grounds. The snow lay thickly over everything -now, even the trees were laden with it, but -the winter scene had a beauty of its own. The day -was not cold; it was barely freezing. Roblee was -sweeping the concrete in front of the stable in his -shirt sleeves. Two of the maids were brushing a -rug at the back door, and Mrs. Blodgett was standing -in the sunshine watching them, with nothing -but an apron thrown over her head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Presently Dallas came through the stable and -down the walk to the house. The Judge noticed -what a kind smile he threw each of the servants as -he passed them and how respectfully they eyed him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He waited till he heard the lad coming up the -stairs and through the hall outside his study, then -he stepped out to meet him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>How well the boy looked! His new clothes had -come the day before. In deference to his wishes, -the Judge had ordered black for him. Dallas had -been very much touched—indeed, he had almost -broken down—and he had confided the information -to the Judge that his inability to put on mourning -<span class='pageno' id='Page_133'>133</span>for his beloved father had been a great grief to -him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas,” said the Judge, kindly, “Mr. Folsom -expects you to-morrow evening. You must take the -early morning train from here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>A quick, heavy shadow passed over the boy’s face, -but he said, composedly, “Very well, sir. I shall be -ready.” Then he passed on to his room upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>With a strange sinking of the heart the Judge -paced slowly up and down the hall. He was sorry -to send the lad away, very sorry indeed, for he -feared that he did not want to go.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Presently he paused in his walk and went to the -big hall window overlooking the street. Where -was Bethany? The mild afternoon was drawing -to a close. It would soon be dark; she ought to be -in. Just after dinner she had gone for a drive with -him, then had asked permission to take some flowers -to a sick child a few doors away, but she should -have returned by this time. Ah! there she was, -crossing the street. But what was the child doing?</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s eyes were affectionately fastened on -the little white-fur figure coming toward the house. -In the middle of the snowy avenue she had paused. -A coal cart, lately passing, had shaken off some -black lumps on the street. Bethany was surveying -these lumps with interest. “Now, what has she -got in her little head?” thought the Judge with -amusement.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Suddenly the child bent over. She carefully set -down the little pink beribboned basket in which she -had carried the flowers to the sick playmate, drew -a tiny handkerchief from her pocket, and spreading -<span class='pageno' id='Page_134'>134</span>it in the basket she took off her gloves and was carefully -lifting the lumps of coal one by one, when she -had two interruptions. The first came from two -ladies, neighbors, who were going to their homes -near by. The Judge saw them stop and speak to -Bethany, then he opened the window.</p> - -<p class='c011'>In unconcealed amusement they were asking her -what she was going to do with the coal.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She seemed to be shyly evading their questions, -and as they passed on the Judge heard one of them -say, in a clear voice, “How curious it is that a black, -dirty thing like coal should have such a fascination -for the average child!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany’s second interruption was not so easily -put off. Mrs. Blodgett, whose keen eyes surveyed -not only the interior of the Judge’s mansion but also -its exterior and the avenue on which it was situated, -had espied the stray lamb, and the Judge saw her -fat figure descending the steps with considerable -agility and pouncing upon Bethany.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here, dear child,” she said, “come into the house -this minute.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany protested slightly, but Mrs. Blodgett -calmly seized the basket, turned it upside down, took -her by the hand, and led her into the house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Just before they arrived outside his study the -Judge closed the window and went inside beside his -fire.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” said Mrs. Blodgett, knocking on the half-open -door, “can you speak to this little girl?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come in,” he said, and Mrs. Blodgett walked in, -still holding Bethany, who looked disturbed and a -little rebellious.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_135'>135</span>“Now, sir,” said Mrs. Blodgett, decidedly, “I -wish you would speak to this little girl, for she don’t -mind me. I’m tellin’ her all the time that, though -you don’t like wastefulness, yet meanness is hateful -to you, and she do the strangest things. She picks -up coal and little bits of sticks for the fire, an’ she -goes round an’ smells the soap—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Smells the soap?” repeated the Judge, in bewilderment.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir; I caught her the other day. She were -in your room. You know, sir, you has in your bathroom -sandalwood soap. Master Titus, he have pure -Castile; the strange boy he have common toilet; in -the kitchen we have Hittaker’s.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ah! Hittaker’s,” interposed the Judge, “is that -a good soap?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Fine, sir, for a cheap soap. But what I was -goin’ to say is this: This here little girl loves good -soap, and, young as she be, she knows the difference. -She rolled your cake in these weeny hands, she put -it to that little nose, she wanted it herself, but what -do she do? She slips into your dish the little bit -of sandalwood that I’d given her, she goes to the -upper hall closet an’ takes a cake of Hittaker to her -own room.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well!” observed the Judge, patiently. He did -not understand what all this talk about coal, and -sticks, and soap meant, and he did not like to see -the sensitive child stand there looking like a culprit.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” said Mrs. Blodgett, solemnly, “she be -a-tryin’ to save.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge started. This threw a new light on the -subject.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_136'>136</span>“Yes,” Mrs. Blodgett continued, “I know that this -little girl has been a poor little girl, but her mother -were a lady. I can tell by her ways, an’ I’m tired -of tellin’ her that you don’t want her to be a poor -little girl no longer, a pickin’, tradin’, savin’ little -girl. You does the business. She has only to be -good an’ not wasteful, but also not beggarlike. -What’s what in one place isn’t what’s what in another. -She have mentioned River Street. Now, -River Street aint Grand Avenue.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well, Mrs. Blodgett,” said the Judge, with -a reassuring nod, “I will talk to her,” and in great -relief the fat woman surrendered the culprit to him -and went away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After the housekeeper’s departure Bethany advanced -somewhat timidly to the fire, and, taking off -her cap, coat, and gloves, placed them in a neat little -heap on a chair. Then she looked up apprehensively -at the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You’re not angry with Bethany, are you, Daddy -Grandpa?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No,” he said, “I’m not angry.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“We used to do it at Mrs. Tingsby’s,” she said, -spreading her little hands to the blaze. “Annie, and -Rodd, and Goldie, and I used to take little pails -and go round the streets; on barge days we got lots.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What do you mean by barge days,” asked the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Days when the barges came up the river with -coal. Then the trucks took it round the city. We -followed the trucks. We could keep the kitchen fire -going for days. Lots of children did it, Daddy -Grandpa.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_137'>137</span>The Judge was ominously silent, and Bethany -went on in a depreciatory way. “Mrs. Tingsby was -very good to me. When my mamma died she said, -‘You must do all you can to help her, but do not -go round to the hotels with her.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“To the hotels?” repeated the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir; to the back doors. They give poor -people leavings from plates. Mrs. Tingsby used to -get quite nice things sometimes, such as turkey -slices, broken cake, perhaps even whole mutton -chops, fish heads and tails, cut apples, decayed bananas, -melted ice cream, lumps of pudding—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Stop!” implored the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany looked up at him quietly, for she had -been gazing at the fire and speaking in a dreamy -fashion.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They were very good, sir. Once I found a little -turnover in a pail Mrs. Tingsby brought home—the -sweetest little turnover I ever ate. There were -lots of surprises. You know Jimmy Fox, the dog -man, don’t you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, I don’t know him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, he has lots of dogs, and he lives out the -back road near the iron works. Jimmy always carried -a bag; Mrs. Tingsby, she took a pail. One night -Jimmy got a whole rabbit. He was so pleased; but -Mrs. Tingsby said there must have been something -the matter with that rabbit, or they wouldn’t have -given him a whole one. However, Jimmy didn’t -die, and he ate it. She saw him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge tried to smile, but he could not. -He did not find Bethany’s reminiscences at all -amusing.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_138'>138</span>“Child,” he said, suddenly, “promise me that you -won’t pick up any more coal.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany looked at him in surprise. “Why, course -not, Daddy Grandpa, if you don’t want me to.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And take the soap Mrs. Blodgett gives you; -don’t use Hittaker’s.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well, Daddy Grandpa,” she replied, quietly. -“Has Bethany been a bad girl?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, child, no; but it is not necessary for you to -be so economical.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t know what that means.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It means saving. Do you think that Titus ought -to go and pick up sticks for the fire?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why not?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Because he isn’t a little poor boy. He is your -very own child.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, he is my very own grandson, and you are -my very own granddaughter.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She took a quick step toward him, and in her -excitement made one of her rare slips in speaking. -“But he was borned that way.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And you are made that way,” said the Judge, -firmly. “I make you my little granddaughter. Unless -the Lord takes my money away from me, you -will never have to pick up coal again.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I didn’t think you would send me back to River -Street, Daddy Grandpa,” she said, earnestly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was silent, not knowing what turn her -thoughts would take.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I thought I was your little girl,” she went on, -earnestly, “your little poor girl. I picked up sticks -and coal to help you. It is a good deal for you to -<span class='pageno' id='Page_139'>139</span>take a little poor girl when you have a rich boy to -keep up.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Child,” said the Judge, firmly, “I don’t wish any -distinction to be made. You and Titus are on the -same footing.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany made a little obstinate movement of her -neck. “My mamma told me all about it, sir. She -said, ‘Bethany, when I am dead, remember a -’dopted child isn’t like a real child. She must be -sweet, and good, because people are watching her. -She must save everything, even a pin. She must say -every day, “Lord, keep me gentle like a lamb.”’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, somewhat disconcerted, said hastily, -“I wish your mother had not told you that.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany shook her head patiently. “You are very -kind, sir, but you can’t change me—I’m only -’dopted. I’m not borned your really grandchild.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her companion was silent for a few minutes, -musing on the enormous power of early impressions -and maternal influence. At last he said, somewhat -impatiently, “Then I suppose that as I am not your -real grandfather you do not care much for me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany had begun to carefully stack her little -arms with her wraps to take upstairs, but she suddenly -laid them down again.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” she said, facing him once more, “last night -I said to Ellen and Susie, said I, ‘Girls, you must -have been dreadful fond of your dear grandpa, who -was your real grandpa, when I am only his play -grandchild, and I just love him—just love him,’” -she repeated, earnestly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked down at the little face glowing -in the firelight.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_140'>140</span>“You are a good child,” he said, softly, and he -bent over and kissed her forehead; “whatever you -say, you are my own dear granddaughter after this.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She smiled happily, then bent in a reproving way -over the pigeon, who had come in and was pecking -at one of her gloves that had fallen on the hearthrug.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Little saint, you must not soil Bethany’s glove. -You are a rich bird, and do not understand that -poor little girls have to be careful of their clothes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Sukey seized the glove and did her best to toss -it into the ashes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany patiently took it from her, then she -looked round. “Daddy Grandpa, where is Sukey’s -pincushion? She wants something to play with.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge took the cushion from a drawer and -put it on the hearthrug, and the pigeon, trotting -over to it, began to pull out the large-headed pins -and throw them about the carpet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll pick them up,” said Bethany, “just as soon -as I put my things away,” and she again filled her -arms with her wraps, the Judge agreeably placing -the cap on the top of the pile.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-bye,” she said, sweetly, “I’ll soon be back.” -Then she bent forward and looked mysteriously out -into the hall, which Higby, strange to say, had not -yet lighted.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What do you see?” asked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The yellow, spotted dog,” she replied, in a whisper. -“I just caught one little glimpse of his tail. -He’s running upstairs. Maybe I’ll find him under -my bed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge watched her toiling up the staircase. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_141'>141</span>What a strange child! He had never heard her express -any fear of the darkness. Indeed, it was so -peopled with ghosts and fancies that he doubted if -it had any terrors for her. It was rather filled with -companionship. He often heard her talking to Ellen -and Susie, to her mother and the yellow, spotted -dog. Then he must also take into consideration -that she was the child of poverty. Children nursed -in the lap of luxury can afford to have nerves. The -children of the poor must steel themselves to privations. -Bethany had never been accustomed to -lighted halls till she came here.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dear little child! What kind of a woman would -she make; and as the Judge went back into his study -he put up a fervent prayer, “O! Lord, let me live -till I see what is to become of my own child and the -child of my adoption.”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_142'>142</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XI<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Deceit and Forgiveness</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Every morning before breakfast Titus went out -to see his pigeons. He really had not time to do -much more than look at them, for he was not an -early riser. His real work in taking care of them -was accomplished in the afternoon, at the close of -school.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany had found out about this habit of his of -visiting the pigeon loft, and when he left his room -in the morning he always found her loitering outside, -waiting for an invitation to visit the “dear -birds.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come on,” Titus always said, and taking her -hand he would run out to the stable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeons knew her as well as they knew him, -and he often allowed her to give them a few handfuls -of hemp seed. This seed, being of an oily nature, -was not fed continuously to them, but they -dearly loved it, and when Bethany stretched out her -palms the pigeons flocked round her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She shivered with delight when she felt their soft -necks against her fingers, and she never laughed -lest she should frighten them, although Titus, standing -in the background, was often convulsed with -amusement.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeons, in their anxiety to get the seed, -would crowd each other. Then there would be -<span class='pageno' id='Page_143'>143</span>fights. The combatants, withdrawing from the -others, would seize each other by the heads and drag -each other about, finally coming back to find all the -seeds gone. Their rueful faces when they contemplated -Bethany’s empty palms were very amusing, -and with a foolish air they always listened to the -little girl’s gentle reproaches on the subject of quarreling.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Sometimes they had dances. That was their -nearest approach to play. If they were particularly -hungry when they saw Bethany coming with the -hemp seed, they would all flap their wings and dance -about her, often lifting themselves off their feet and -turning round and round.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Since Dallas had come to Riverport he, too, had -formed the habit of going out to see the pigeons, -but on the morning of the day on which he was to -leave, Titus and Bethany did not find him waiting -for them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I don’t expect him,” said Titus. “I hope—I -mean, I think—he’s packing. His train leaves in -an hour and a half. Come on in, Bethany. I’ll -run up and see if I can’t help him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany trotted into the house and went into the -dining room. The Judge was just entering it, and -presently the servants filed in for prayers.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After prayers came breakfast, and then as the -Judge and Bethany sat at the table Titus entered -with a slow step and a rueful face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas is ill, grandfather,” he said, slowly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked up. “What is the matter with -him?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t know, sir,” said Titus, in a peculiar manner. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_144'>144</span>“His face is red, and he keeps his head under -the bedclothes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He was quite well last evening,” said the Judge, -and his mind ran back to the night before, when, to -his great relief, the English boy had been cheerful -and entertaining, instead of moping, as he had -feared he would do when he was informed that he -must go back to New York.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” said Titus, “he played those games fast -enough.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Perhaps he has taken cold,” said the Judge; “I -will go up and see,” and, throwing his napkin on -the table, he went slowly upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas was red and feverish, and his eyes were -bright.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Have you a headache?” asked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A splitting one,” replied the boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And a pain in your back?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Fearful pain,” and the boy groaned.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I will send for a doctor,” said the Judge. “Will -you eat anything?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, no, no; thank you,” and he shook his -head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge went downstairs and telephoned to his -physician. Then he went back to the dining room -and finished his breakfast.</p> - -<p class='c011'>As he left the dining room the doctor arrived. -Not his own family physician, to the Judge’s disappointment, -but his assistant.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I wished to see Dr. Moberly,” he said to the -young man, who pleasantly informed him that Dr. -Moberly was in New York.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge said nothing, but on accompanying -<span class='pageno' id='Page_145'>145</span>him to the English boy’s room he saw that the young -man was considerably puzzled by the case.</p> - -<p class='c011'>One minute he said he thought the lad was sickening -for measles, then he inclined to scarlet fever, -then to a feverish cold.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge kindly but firmly told him that he -would not require him to prescribe for the case, and, -bowing him out, he again went to his telephone.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He would request the superintendent of the City -Hospital to call. He had been greatly impressed -by his knowledge of boys.</p> - -<p class='c011'>An hour later Dr. Reynald drove up.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Against my rules, you know,” he said, shaking -his head at the Judge; “no private practice, but I -couldn’t refuse you. What do you want?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge told him. “I have an English boy -staying with me. He was to have gone to New -York this morning. He is ill and can’t go; won’t -eat, and I am anxious about him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Take me to him,” said Dr. Reynald.</p> - -<p class='c011'>They went upstairs together, and Dr. Reynald, -after giving a sharp glance round his patient’s room, -went to the windows and pulled back the curtains. -Then he sat down by the bed and fixed his bright, -gray eyes on the boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas became a more furious red than ever under -his glance, and when the doctor said, “Let me feel -your pulse,” he half hesitated.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dr. Reynald, however, gave a peremptory tap on -the bedclothes, and the boy put out his hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was only detained a short time. The doctor -bent over him, passed a hand over his forehead, -whispered a question, to which the boy gave a reluctant -<span class='pageno' id='Page_146'>146</span>reply, then, getting up, he nodded to the -Judge and went out of the room, followed by an -ashamed, despairing glance from his patient.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge took him in his study and shut the -door. “Nothing dangerous, I hope; not smallpox, -for example.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Worse than that,” replied Dr. Reynald, shortly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Worse? What can it be?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A touch of moral leprosy—the boy is shamming.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Shamming!” exclaimed the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes. I don’t know the reason; perhaps you can -tell me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He looks sick,” said the Judge, uneasily. “I -don’t want to distrust your word, but is it possible -that you are mistaken?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not possible. We sometimes have such cases -at the hospital. Then I made him confess himself -that he was. Tell me something about this -boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge immediately told him all that he knew, -and he had only uttered a few sentences when he became -convinced that Dr. Reynald was right.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s the old, old story,” he said, when he had -finished what he knew of Dallas’s antecedents. “I -ought to know it better than most people. It is -easier to do wrong than to do right.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dr. Reynald smiled. “Yes, you ought to know; -and yet I envy you your beautiful faith in human -nature which you have kept, in spite of your profession.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“God knows I have tried to hold on to it,” said -the Judge, earnestly. “I would be willing to lie -<span class='pageno' id='Page_147'>147</span>down and die if for a moment I gave up my belief -that there is good in every human heart.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“This is not a heinous case,” said Dr. Reynald. -“In fact, it is rather flattering. That storm-tossed -lad finds this a quiet haven. He dreads to leave it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But his duplicity,” said the Judge. “I must be -severe with him for that. Now, evidently last evening -when I told him he must leave he was much -shocked. Yet he hid his real feelings.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He was thinking out a plan,” said Dr. Reynald. -“He is a skillful diplomat. What are you going to -do with him?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tell him to get up and take the train for New -York,” said the Judge, firmly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And let him come back again next week.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come, now,” said Dr. Reynald, “confess that -you are slightly pleased—an old fellow like you finding -a slip of young life clinging to you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge laughed outright. “Ah! doctor, it is -my environment that the boy likes. His poor young -soul craves comfort.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not altogether,” and Dr. Reynald shook his head -obstinately. “I’ve seen luxurious interiors where a -boy slip would not want to take root. There’s something -about you, Judge, attractive to young life. -You ought to have a dozen youngsters.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>His friend stretched out his hands. “Heaven -forbid! but I will confess it caused me a pang to -send this boy back to the New York whirlpool. Perhaps -I am not sorry to shelter him for a time. -Something else may turn up for him. Would you -like him?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_148'>148</span>“No, thank you,” said Dr. Reynald, politely. “A -hospital home and an old bachelor father would be -cold comforts for your boy. No, keep him, but try -to break him of that iniquitous habit of shamming.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you suppose he has been deceiving in other -things?” asked the Judge, anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You said he had eaten no breakfast?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I did. He has eaten nothing this morning.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He has been cramming himself with soda crackers. -I smelt them on his breath.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But I cannot bring up such a boy as this with -Titus,” remarked the Judge, indignantly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you think he can deceive your grandson -as easily as he deceives you?” asked the doctor, -sharply. “Ah! the <i><span lang="fr">finesse</span></i> of youth—nothing equals -it but the equal understanding of youth.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge reflected for a minute. Titus’s manner -had been very peculiar when he announced -Dallas’s illness. He had also gone off to school -without showing any particular concern about the -English boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I believe Titus knew,” exclaimed the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I believe he did,” said Dr. Reynald, coolly, -“from what I know of Titus. Don’t distress yourself -about a little lying. Children all take to it as -ducks to water. The main thing is to get them out -of it, before they get their feathers wet—and it takes -a lot of soaking to wet them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus is no story-teller,” said the Judge, thoughtfully, -“though he does other provoking things.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How old is he?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Fourteen.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then if he has not acquired the habit of lying -<span class='pageno' id='Page_149'>149</span>he won’t get it now. Don’t be afraid of the English -boy, Judge. Give him a chance. It’s an awful -world for motherless and fatherless lads. I see them -on the rocks every day.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But I ought to send him back to New York,” -said the Judge, weakly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No such thing. Go upstairs, give him a tremendous -scolding, then forgive him. You’re not bound -to keep him if he proves outrageous. But he won’t. -He’s a delicate slip; he’s looking for some soft -corner to creep into like a sick cat or dog. Put -yourself in his place, Judge; put yourself in his -place.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge did, and he shivered. “I will let him -stay,” he said, suddenly, “on your recommendation, -but he must be talked to.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-bye,” said Dr. Reynald, with a mischievous -face, “good-bye. Let me know when you have -a serious case again,” and he hurried out into the -hall and downstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge went thoughtfully up to Dallas’s bedroom.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy was half dressed, and when his friend -and protector came into the room he sank on the -bed in an attitude of the deepest dejection.</p> - -<p class='c011'>From the depths of his good, kind heart the man -was glad to see that the boy was desperately -ashamed of himself.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas,” he said, kindly, “what have you to say -for yourself?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Nothing, sir, nothing,” said the lad, turning his -face away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You have deceived me,” said the Judge, softly.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_150'>150</span>“Yes, I have deceived you,” said the boy, in a -dull voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You feel badly about it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t know,” said Dallas, wearily. “I suppose -I do. I am so tired, sir. I have heard my father -speak of hunting in England. The fox turns and -twists; he does not know where to go.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy’s attitude was so listless, his manner so -utterly dejected, that the Judge’s heart was touched -with pity. No frantic protestations of regret, no -tears would have appealed to him as did this simple -hopelessness. The boy was done with stratagems.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas,” he said, gently, “do you like my grandson?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Pretty well, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You have pretended to like him better than you -do?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I have.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You have been making yourself agreeable, hoping -that I would change my mind about adopting -you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I have,” he replied, bitterly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And when you found you had to go back to New -York, what did you plan to do?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I didn’t plan to do anything,” said the boy, in -a low, fierce tone. “What could I do? Your friend, -the clergyman, is as poor as a church mouse; he -couldn’t keep me. I’d have to work in some low, -dirty place. O, Lord! I wish I had strength enough -of mind to poison myself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas,” said the Judge, “are you a lazy boy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Is it laziness to hate smelling, poverty-stricken -people and their queer ways, to dread to rub elbows -<span class='pageno' id='Page_151'>151</span>all the time with men and boys that talk horrid, -vulgar talk, and that don’t understand you?” asked -the boy, almost rudely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I asked you whether you disliked work,” said -the Judge, firmly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy stared at him. “I like to study, to handle -nice, clean books and hear nice, clean language; but -what does it matter what I like? You have washed -your hands of me,” and, dropping his head, he miserably -toyed with an open penknife that he held in -his hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The knife was red and stained, and the Judge -eyed it suspiciously. “Dallas,” he went on, decidedly, -“deceit is easier to some natures than to others. -I want you to tell me in just how many ways you -have tried to make things appear other than they -are since you have been here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy got up in a tired way, sauntered to a -closet, and opened the door. “There!” he said, -bringing out a small box and setting it down on the -floor. “I’ve deceived you all about these ever since -I came,” and taking a little key from his pocket he -opened the padlock on the box and threw back the -perforated lid.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge started. There on a perch in the box -sat two tiny owls—the softest, grayest little owls -he had ever seen. They sat close to each other, -seemingly not at all afraid, but fixing their large, -beautiful round eyes on Dallas they uttered a -simultaneous and soft “Too whoo, whoo, whoo -whoo!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well!” exclaimed the Judge, “well!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They are California screech owls,” said the boy, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_152'>152</span>in a dull voice; “my father’s pets. He loved birds, -and bought these once in San Francisco when he was -touring. When he died he asked me to take care of -them, and I have done so for his sake, though I -hate them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You hate them!” said the Judge. Was it possible -that he had at last found a young person that -did not like birds?</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I hate them,” said the boy, energetically. -“I hate all birds. I’ve been pretending to like -pigeons to curry favor with your grandson. It -doesn’t matter about speaking the truth now that I -am going away.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked from the bits of raw meat in -the box to Dallas’s red penknife.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where do you get food for them?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I buy meat or beg it; and, in fact, all the family -but Titus think that I’m taking a raw-meat cure. -Titus caught on to me, though I don’t know whether -he understands what kind of creatures I’m feeding.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I hope you don’t keep them in that little box at -night?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, no; I let them fly about my room at night. -They sleep all day.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge put on his eyeglasses and stared at the -little feathered creatures, who were sleepily blinking -their eyes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Would they fly away if you let them out?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t think so, sir. My father used to let them -out at night, and they would catch sparrows and -bring them to our room and eat them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How curious!” remarked the Judge. Then he -<span class='pageno' id='Page_153'>153</span>went on, “We have no cats about the house. Let -them have their liberty, but give them plenty of -meat. We have not too many sparrows here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas looked sharply at him, but the Judge, taking -no notice of his glance, calmly put his glasses -in their case and returned them to his pocket. Then -he said, irrelevantly, “Dallas, are you wholly English?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir; only on my father’s side. My mother -was a Western girl.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Has she any relatives living?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Only distant ones, and all poor as poverty.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How long has your father been dead?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Three months.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You missed him when he died?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy gave him a look, such a look of utter, -hopeless grief, of unavailing, stifled grief, that the -Judge’s kind heart ached with a sudden ache of pity -and comprehension.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Boy,” he said, “you want a new father.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ah! that is something I shall never have,” exclaimed -Dallas, his whole soul rising in a protest -of misery and revolt.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here is an unworthy substitute,” said the Judge, -quietly tapping his breast. “Stay with me, Dallas; -be my boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The lad once more looked at him. He was more -demonstrative than Titus. If conditions had been -a little different he would have thrown himself on -the neck of the kind man before him, he would have -sobbed out some of his unhappiness to sympathetic -ears. But the Judge was a comparative stranger to -him, and he was so miserable, and so ashamed of -<span class='pageno' id='Page_154'>154</span>himself, that it seemed as if he could not be happy -for a time at least.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Get back into bed,” said the Judge, softly. “You -are tired and worn out from mental stress and -worry. Your meals will be served here to-day. -To-morrow, if you feel like it, come downstairs and -take your place among us. Only one thing I ask -of you—be honest with me, Dallas. Will you, my -boy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The lad turned and threw himself full length on -the bed. His whole frame was shaking, and he -could not utter a word.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge did not insist, for he was a wise man. -Softly closing the door, and gently shaking his head, -he went slowly downstairs.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_155'>155</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Yellow Spotted Dog</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>“I wonder what Titus will say?” muttered the -Judge to himself. “I wonder what Titus will say? -Perhaps I should have waited to ask him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus,” he said, when his grandson returned -home from school, “what do you think of the English -boy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus grinned, then he said, “How is he?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you think he was very ill?” inquired the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You’re going to keep him,” said Titus, bluntly. -“I knew you would. I knew he would get round -you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you like him?” asked the Judge, anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not I,” said Titus, contemptuously. “I think -he’s a great, big fraud.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge sighed. Titus’s manner was cool, but -he must be greatly stirred about the matter, for he -was not stuttering at all, and at each reply he made -to his grandfather he stepped slightly forward.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Finding himself crowded against the parlor door, -the Judge opened it and went in.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Grandson,” he said to Titus, who was still advancing, -“I want you to do more good in the world -than I have done.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll be satisfied to do half as much,” replied Titus, -dryly.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_156'>156</span>“You liked the boy when he came,” said the -Judge, uneasily.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ve never liked him for one single minute,” said -Titus, striking an inlaid table with his fist. “I’ve -pretended to like him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So you pretend, too?” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If I didn’t pretend a bit,” said Titus, energetically, -“I’d be fighting from morning till night, with -no stops for meals. Suppose I told half the fellows -in school what I think of them?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Suppose I told half the men downtown what I -think of them?” reflected the Judge, with inward -shrinking.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But there’s different kinds of pretense,” said -Titus, still with animation and still pursuing his -grandfather, who, occasionally looking over his -shoulder, was stepping cautiously round the room. -“I saw the fellow was going to stay here. I -wasn’t going to block him. I can keep out of his -way.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then you are not prepared to receive him as a -brother?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Brother—nonsense,” said Titus, disrespectfully. -“I tell you, grandfather, it’s easier to father a boy -than to brother him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He is going to be honest now,” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Moonshine!” exclaimed Titus, angrily stamping -his foot. “He’s a born actor, like his father.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus,” said the Judge, mildly, from a corner -where he had taken refuge, “I never saw you do -that before. You have been a respectful—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, I don’t feel respectful now,” said the boy, -furiously. “How can I respect you when I see every -<span class='pageno' id='Page_157'>157</span>Tom, Dick, and Harry pulling the wool over your -eyes?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Our interview is at an end,” said the Judge, -“and if you will step back a little I will move toward -the door. I am sure that upon thinking this matter -over you will see an apology is due to me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus sulkily dragged himself from the room. -With a sinking of the heart the Judge noticed that -his limp was more perceptible than usual.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Grandson,” he called after him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus turned round. His grandfather’s face was -glowing.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How can you ever think for an instant,” said -the Judge, “that any boy or any girl can take the -place of my only dear child?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus’s sullen face melted.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I want to make a noble man of you, my boy,” -continued the older man, advancing with both hands -outstretched. “I want you to have a great, generous -heart, to get out into the huge world and make -thousands of souls happy. You cannot expect all -those souls to be responsive. You have got to make -them happy, in spite of themselves; and how can -you hope to influence thousands when you shrink -from only one, and only a slightly uncongenial soul, -at your own fireside? O, my dear grandson, love -everybody, love everybody!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>It would have taken a sterner soul than Titus’s to -resist such words, such ambitious and loving affection.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Grandfather,” he said, slowly, “I’m sorry.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge caught his outstretched hand. “My -dear boy,” he said, “my dear boy,” and he pressed -<span class='pageno' id='Page_158'>158</span>the black head to his heart. “My <i>own</i> dear -boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus uttered a grunt of delight, and ran away. -That <i>own</i> was for him. Fifty thousand English -boys could not come between him and his grandfather.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hello, chickie,” he said, catching up Bethany -and her big school bag as they appeared in the doorway. -“Hello, chickie,” and he carried her and the -bag up the first of the long staircases.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Laughing and catching her breath with delight, -Bethany, after she was set down on her feet, threw -a kiss after Titus and then mounted the next staircase -to her room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus, pursuing a joyous pilgrimage to the stable, -encountered Higby, and gave the old fellow a playful -dig in the ribs, which sent him into his pantry -with a crease of delight forming itself about his -lips. Mrs. Blodgett, pursing her lips over a spoiled -pudding, was restored to good humor by a playful -pinch and a teasing “Hello, Blodgieblossom!” She -forgot to scold further, and Martha the cook bent -over the dish in question with a relieved smile.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dashing through the kitchen, Titus tossed Jennie’s -apron under the table, then scampered out to -tease and comfort Roblee.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany, as usual, hurried to put away her things, -then, kneeling on a chair before her big basin, she -washed her little face and hands and trotted downstairs -to have her before-luncheon chat with the -Judge and the pigeon.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was astonishing how little waiting on the child -required. The Judge had been ready and willing -<span class='pageno' id='Page_159'>159</span>to engage a youthful maid to attend her, but Mrs. -Blodgett had begged him not to do so, saying that -an extra servant would only be in the way, and that -Bethany really required such a small amount of -attention that any of the present maidservants felt -it a pleasure to give it to her. Therefore Bethany -had a small room all to herself between Mrs. Blodgett’s -and Dallas’s.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Not finding the Judge in his study, Bethany devoted -herself to the princess.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I have been learning a new song about you,” she -said, prettily. “Now, listen,” and taking her red -dress in her hands she made a little curtsey and -began:</p> - -<div class='lg-container-b c012'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“This is the birdie I love the best,</div> - <div class='line in2'>This is the Sukey I love to caress.</div> - <div class='line'>This is the birdie I love the best,</div> - <div class='line in2'>This is my darling Sukey.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c011'>In the midst of her bowing and singing the Judge -came into the room. Sukey was standing with one -claw uplifted, a pair of attentive eyes fixed on Bethany, -and an expression that seemed to say, “Very -pretty, indeed; please sing some more.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where did you learn that, little girl?” inquired -the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I just changed it, Daddy Grandpa,” said Bethany, -wheeling round. “It is really and truly a dolly -song, but I put in ‘birdie.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was looking intently at her. Was she -not going to inquire about the English boy? She -had known that he was ill when she went to school.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t you want to know how Dallas is?” he -said, suggestively.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_160'>160</span>“O, yes, poor Dallas. Is he a sick boy yet?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, he is better. He is going to stay here, Bethany.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She looked up quickly. “To be your other boy—the -boy you were looking for when you found me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes—exactly so.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She made no reply, but, sitting down in the little -rocking-chair that the Judge kept in his study for -her, she thoughtfully took Sukey on her lap and -began to stroke her pretty hood.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Are you glad?” inquired the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I would rather have had Charlie Brown,” she -said, frankly. “Couldn’t the Browns take Dallas, -and let us have Charlie?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge did not reply. What a mysterious -thing was child nature. Bethany was sweet and -kind with Dallas, but she did not like him as she -did Titus and Charlie Brown.</p> - -<p class='c011'>What was it about the English boy that did not -harmonize with the natures of either Bethany or -Titus? It could not be a racial difference, for the -boy was half American. Probably Bethany and -Titus, being essentially honest, felt that there was -something about the stranger that was hidden from -them. They did not quite trust him. Now, if -Dallas were to turn over a new leaf and try to be -strictly honorable, to try to mean just what he said, -their slight aversion might change to real liking.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Daddy Grandpa,” asked Bethany, suddenly, -“must I call Dallas ‘Brother’?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, you must,” said the Judge, firmly. He -would do his best to reconcile these strong young -natures.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_161'>161</span>Bethany’s face became dreamy. Her fingers -stopped stroking the pigeon; she was wandering off -into her spirit land as she often did when things -in her material world went contrary with her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, who had been standing watching her, -walked back and forth, and finally extended his -promenade to the hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When he approached the doorway or entered the -study he could catch sentences from Bethany.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yellow, spotted dog, you must not bite clothes. -Be a good, gentle dog, or boys will throw stones at -you. Brick, will you let poor doggie sleep in your -hogshead to-night? He is lonely all by himself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So the colored boy slept in a hogshead,” murmured -the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hark,” said Bethany, suddenly, “I hear his bark, -his sweet, sweet bark. O, my dear Bylow, my lovely -spotted dog, I could hug you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, happening to be near the hall window, -and happening to hear a dog bark, instinctively -looked out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>To his amazement a colored boy with a dog was -passing on the opposite side of the street—and the -dog was spotted.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bethany,” he said, suddenly, “is your colored -boy very black?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She threw up her little head, and, losing her -thoughtful expression, came back to earth. “No, -sir; Brick is a kind of a red-brown boy—like bricks. -That is why the boys called him Brick.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge involuntarily stretched out a hand. -He felt like hailing the dirty-looking mulatto boy -now getting out of sight.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_162'>162</span>“There goes Bylow again,” exclaimed Bethany, -“hear his sweet little voice, Sukey.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge started. The dog in the street had -just uttered a succession of barks as he turned the -corner—most unmelodious and ugly barks, to tell -the truth, but then Bethany’s geese were all swans.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Child,” he said, “I thought that dog was a ghost -dog.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So he is a ghost dog,” she remonstrated, gently, -“but don’t you know I told you he was a real dog, -too. He isn’t dead. He is only losted.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And when he barked just now was he barking -as a ghost or a real dog?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He is a ghost,” she said, thoughtfully, “because -I never see him in the streets now, but I guess his -bark must have been real—it sounded so <i><span lang="fr">naturelle</span></i>. -Perhaps he is in the air,” and she looked up at the -ceiling.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge laughed and resumed his walk, but the -dog question interested him considerably, especially -later on when he took to meeting the same colored -boy about town with a spotted dog at his heels. The -dog had yellow eyes, and the Judge, knowing that -if the boy remained in Riverport it would only be a -question of time as to his meeting with Bethany, -shuddered and shrank within himself, for he knew -what the little girl would do.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_163'>163</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XIII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Higby and the Owls</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Until the coming of Bethany and Dallas the -Judge had never seen Titus in contact with other -boys and girls.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy had been brought up alone; when he -wanted playmates he went abroad to seek them. He -very seldom brought a boy home to play with him. -The Judge had often remarked this, and had attributed -the absence of children from his own house as -an outward sign of Mrs. Blodgett’s inward dislike -of “clutter.” However, since his adoption of Bethany -and Dallas he had noticed that boys and girls -came about the house quite freely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was therefore some other reason for their -previous absence; and in his new interest in boy -and girl study he decided that one child alone in a -home is not a sufficient nucleus for a play place. -He cannot gather round himself as great a variety -of interests as several children can.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Another thing the Judge marveled at was the -amazing strength of youthful character. Titus -when alone had been submissive, patient, self-effacing. -As soon as these other children had been -introduced into the house he became self-assertive, -particular as to his rights, and yet not -disagreeable.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_164'>164</span>Even little Bethany had a strong character. Little -men and women—grown people in miniature, -the Judge often thought to himself as he gazed at -the three young heads about his table.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas’ success as a member of his family had so -far exceeded his most sanguine expectations. The -Judge had written a rather amusing letter to Mr. -Folsom on the subject of his adoption of the boy, -and had told him firmly that although he was keeping -Dallas he was to be the last child of adoption. -He wished no others. Alas! the Judge was no -prophet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mr. Folsom, in his delight, had come to Riverport, -and had had a three-days’ visit at the Judge’s and -many long conversations with Dallas. The Judge -could not but acknowledge that Dallas was in part -a changed boy. He could not expect him to make -himself over all at once, but the lad was certainly -more sincere. He was still polite, exceedingly polite, -but he did not bore himself and other people by -doing things that were against his nature.</p> - -<p class='c011'>For instance, he had given up his ceaseless companionship -of Titus. The two went their respective -ways. They did not quarrel, neither did they harmonize -and to the Judge’s amusement they even -went to school at separate times.</p> - -<p class='c011'>If there was a question of championship Titus -was at Dallas’ side, and one day the Judge did -hear a species of altercation between the two boys—an -altercation that had ended in a reconciliation. -Titus had Dallas penned in a corner out in the -garden under the Judge’s study balcony.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Look here, if you don’t try to drop your blamed -<span class='pageno' id='Page_165'>165</span>old English accent I’ll stop fighting for you,” he -said. “I ’most got my nose broken to-day. Can’t -you say ‘fast’? It isn’t ‘fost.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Fast, fast,” said Dallas, submissively.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now say ‘last.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas said “last” and “mast” and many other -words, until at last he got out of patience and rebelled. -“I don’t want to lose my English accent. -I am proud of being English.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then you do your own fighting,” said Titus, -furiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What makes you think I can’t fight,” said Dallas, -and his pale cheeks grew pink. “I’m taller than -you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Taller,” sneered Titus; “you’re soft like a stick -of candy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He began his sentence on his feet, but finished it -on his back in a bank of snow.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was up like a flash and standing before Dallas, -who was ejaculating, “You little black lead -pencil.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus’s wrath was all gone, to the Judge’s amazement, -and he was gurgling in his throat: “How did -you do it? Teach me that trick—come on, Dallas, -teach me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The English boy’s contempt faded, and he smiled -complacently at the changed face before him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I will tell you something,” he said, grandly. -“Once my father was to figure in a wrestling match -on the stage. Now, he was a good all-round athlete, -but he was not satisfied with himself. We were -in New York at the time. You have heard of Billy -McGee, the trainer?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_166'>166</span>Titus caught his breath. “O, yes—yes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, he got Billy McGee to come and train him. -It cost a fearful sum, but father gave it. Billy -taught my father, and my father taught me. So you -needn’t fight my battles any more.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus’s face was glowing. “I say,” and he linked -his arm in Dallas’s, “tell me some of those tricks -of throwing. I don’t know a thing.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge groaned. The boys were walking -away together arm in arm. “O, this glorification -of brute strength,” he muttered, “the bane of the -rising generation,” and holding out a finger to the -pigeon, who was bowing and cooing to him, he -stepped into the house. He must talk to these boys -on the subject of fighting, and seating himself in his -favorite chair he began to prepare a fatherly or -grandfatherly speech.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany came in and, seeing that he did not wish -to be disturbed, sat down on the rug with Sukey.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby brought in the afternoon mail, and with a -stifled yawn laid it on the table and departed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Poor old Higby! He was a very early riser, and -at the close of every day he began to get sleepy, -and immediately after the seven o’clock dinner of the -household he retired to his room. Jennie, the parlor -maid, took upon herself his duty of going to the -hall door when there was a ring.</p> - -<p class='c011'>On this particular day the Judge composed his -speech, then went down to dinner with Bethany. -Somewhat to his dismay, somewhat to his relief, -and just a little to his amusement, Titus and Dallas -came to the table like two brothers. Their eyes -were on each other, their attentions were for -<span class='pageno' id='Page_167'>167</span>each other; they scarcely saw the Judge and Bethany.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Ah! the enthusiasm of youth, and shaking his -head the Judge requested them both to accompany -him to his study after dinner. Upon arriving there -he talked to them very seriously on the evil of picking -quarrels with other boys and the demoralizing -effects of an appeal to brute force.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boys were listening attentively and respectfully, -when their minds were most forcibly withdrawn -by a succession of blood-curdling shrieks -from the floor above.</p> - -<p class='c011'>With one accord they all sprang to their feet and -ran out to the hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-b-burglars! Th-th-thieves! F-f-fire! M-m-murderers!” -rang out in stammering tones.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Poor old Higby, in the fine dressing-gown that -the Judge had given him at Christmas, and in a -pair of bedroom slippers to match that Mrs. Blodgett -had made for him, was running downstairs, -screaming at the top of his voice, and with eyes -starting from his head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“R-r-ring up the police,” he went on, “c-c-catch -them alive!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Higby,” commanded the Judge, firmly, “calm -yourself and tell us what is the matter.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man gained some degree of composure -upon arriving in the hall and seeing himself surrounded -by friends.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They ’m-m-most killed me,” he said, wildly, -stepping up and down and clasping his head with -his hands. “They t-t-tried to dig their knives in -me, but I r-r-ran like a fox.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_168'>168</span>Though considerably older than the Judge, his -head was not white, but was covered with a thin -crop of grizzled hair.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, blood!” he moaned, miserably, bringing down -one hand and extending it toward the Judge, “blood! -blood!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>There were red streaks on his hands, and the -Judge looked at them seriously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Higby, begin from the first. What has happened -to you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The man began to step backward and to stammer -violently.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“S-s-sir, I was in m-m-my room, b-b-back through -the upper hall in the L.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Turn him round, some one,” called Mrs. Blodgett, -who was hurrying up from below. “He’s backing -downstairs.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus sprang forward, took him by the sleeve, and -led him past the group of frightened maids to a safe -corner by the hall window.</p> - -<p class='c011'>From there he went on with his story.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-was in m-m-my room in my bed, s-s-sound -asleep, d-dreaming of home and m-m-mother. -S-s-sir,” and he turned to the Judge, “w-w-we lived -in a little house b-b-by a running brook, n-n-near -a w-w-wood. I woke up, s-s-sir, c-c-crying. Then -I heard a s-s-sound, sir, l-l-like the sounds of o-o-old -times.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well?” said the Judge, encouragingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I got up, sir; I put on m-m-my gown a-a-and -s-s-slippers; I-I-I went out in the h-h-hall, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what happened?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Th-th-the burglars must h-h-have been waiting, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_169'>169</span>s-s-sir. They j-j-jumped on me from behind. -Th-th-they struck me on the h-h-head with their -sharp knives, s-s-sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you see them?” asked the Judge, sharply.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I thought I saw one, sir. He was all in -b-b-black, sir, and he d-d-dug his knife in me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked mystified. If it had been the -middle of the night he would have believed Higby’s -story, but early in the evening he could not for a -moment suppose that any thieves would rush out -and attack a person who was simply walking along a -hall. However, he turned to the boys.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come upstairs with me and we will make a -thorough search.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Wait a minute, please, sir,” said Dallas. “May -I ask Higby what the sound was that drew him -from his bed?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“T-t-the sound of owls, sir,” stammered Higby, -“of little ow-ow-owls sittin’ on the trees an’ -hootin.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas gave Titus a queer look, and the latter -immediately burst out laughing.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“’Pon my word; poor old Higby,” gasped Titus. -“You’ve been fooled.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The manservant looked at him indignantly, while -Dallas turned to the Judge, who was waiting for -an explanation.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You told me not to keep my birds so closely, sir, -so I let them do pretty much as they please. I open -my window every night at dusk. They must have -got in through some other window into the hall. -It is a habit of owls to pounce on anything furry -or hairy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_170'>170</span>“I know that,” said the Judge, with a hearty -laugh. “I’ve heard of their descending on the fur -caps of hunters. Well! well! poor old Higby,” and -he turned to him. “Come, now, get over your fright. -Those were only little birds that attacked you—Master -Dallas’s little owls.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby was in a speechless rage. He did not dare -to get angry with the Judge, but he did not for a -moment believe that his assailant had been a bird.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come, come,” said the Judge, humoring him; -“to satisfy you we will make a search.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Quite a procession moved up the stairway—the -Judge, holding Bethany’s hand, in advance, the two -boys and the servants following.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Upon arriving in the upper hall and traversing -it to the L beyond, where the servants’ bedrooms -were over the kitchen and pantries, Dallas kept -looking sharply about.</p> - -<p class='c011'>One peculiarity of the Judge was that he liked -plenty of light. At night the electric lights were -turned on in every hall and every room, whether -occupied or not.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I do not see the culprits,” said Dallas, “but I -will call,” and he gave a tentative “Too whoo, whoo, -whoo whoo!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Too whoo, whoo, whoo whoo,” said two little -soft voices near them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas stuck his head out a window. “Ah, there -are the miscreants, sitting on the limb of that tree.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The branches of the big, leafless old elm brushed -the hall window, and the little owls sitting there were -calmly contemplating a rising moon.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge let Bethany look at them, then he -<span class='pageno' id='Page_171'>171</span>said: “See, Higby, there are your burglars. There -are no traces of any others here. No man would -be bold enough to pass through this lighted house, -and if he did why should he attack you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I saw him,” burst from Higby, “a b-b-big -black man.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked down at Bethany. She was -tightly clasping his hand, and the expression of her -face was doubtful.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They were owls that attacked you, Higby,” he -said, decidedly; “don’t let me hear any more nonsense -about a burglar. Come downstairs, children,” -and he turned about.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany would not let go his hand, even when -they entered the study.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I will read aloud a little to compose her thoughts -before she goes to bed,” the Judge reflected. “No -fairy tales to stimulate her imagination, but something -that she will not understand,” and he took -from his bookshelves a volume of Milton’s -works.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He seated himself by the table, drew his reading -light toward him, and began. After a time he -looked down at the little figure sitting on the stool -at his feet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I suppose you don’t understand this, Bethany,” -he said, patronizingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, don’t speak, don’t speak, Daddy Grandpa,” -she said, impatiently; “please go on.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She had lifted her head. Her face had lost its -dreamy expression. It was glowing, radiant, and -intensely interested. The Judge went on mechanically:</p> - -<div class='lg-container-b c012'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_172'>172</span>“‘There the companions of his fall, o’erwhelmed</div> - <div class='line'>With floods and whirlwinds of tempestuous fire—’”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c011'>Why, the child was understanding what he read, -he reflected with surprise, or, rather, she was putting -her own interpretation upon it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bethany,” he asked after a time and slowly -closing the book, “what do you make of all -this?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, I think,” she said, eloquently, “that Satan -must be the father of that bad black man that struck -Higby, and his home must be in the fiery gulf.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled. “Bethany, those were Dallas’s -owls that attacked Higby. There was no black man -there.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But, Daddy Grandpa,” she said, incredulously, -“little birds could not be so bad.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I fear they were bad, Bethany. Birds are not all -good. They are like children. Some are good, -some bad; but come, it is your bedtime.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It doesn’t feel my bedtime,” she said, quickly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But it is. Little girls ought to get to bed early.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sometimes I sat up late when my mamma was -alive,” she said, coaxingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I think you would better go,” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“There is no one up there that I know,” she replied, -drearily.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How about Ellen and Susie; you tell me they -live in the wall beside your bed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They have gone to the country to see the place -where they are buried,” she said, quickly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was silent. Sometimes his studies of -childhood mystified him. Just now he was afraid -that Higby’s foolish story had caused this heretofore -<span class='pageno' id='Page_173'>173</span>fearless child suddenly to become afraid to -go upstairs to bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>While he was thinking she silently caressed the -pigeon, which had hopped up into her lap, but after -a time she put up one of her tiny hands and convulsively -seized his large one. “Daddy Grandpa, -read some more. You have a honey voice.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled broadly, then he took up a -magazine from the table. What would best put a -little girl to sleep? Ah! the political situation in the -far East, and this time Bethany did go to sleep. -Her head was against his knee so he could not move, -but through the doorway he hailed Dallas, who was -coming out of the sitting room opposite, where he -and Titus prepared their lessons.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas, send Mrs. Blodgett here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Blodgett,” he said, when she came puffing -up the stairway and stood before him, “have a -bed moved in this little girl’s room and let one of -the maids sleep there in future. I don’t think that -it is good for her to be alone so much.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett nodded her head. “Just what I’ve -been a-thinkin’, sir. I’m willin’, I’m sure, to take -her in my own room next door.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, no; you need your sleep,” said the Judge. -“You are getting older, and you have brought up -one family. Let one of the girls attend to this -child.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She do talk a lot to herself in her room, sir. -I hears her laughin’ and chattin’ with them two -blessed little girls of yours.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Doesn’t she talk of other children?” asked the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_174'>174</span>“O, bless you, yes, sir, an’ she also talks to tables, -an’ chairs, an’ carpets, an’ that ghost mouse. She -do have a name for everything in her room, an’ -you’d think she had a whole menagerie to hear her -growl an’ bark.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Must be the spotted dog,” said the Judge to -himself with a smile, and he again took up his -magazine.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett waddled away. “Sure an’ it’s a -wonderful thing how at his age he do take on the -ways of a family man. He ought to ’a’ had a -dozen children.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was instinctively a model person at -managing children. To begin with, he loved them; -and to end with, he did not fuss over them. Just -now he was becoming intensely uncomfortable on -account of this solid little lump against his slightly -rheumatic knee. If he took her up and laid her -on the sofa he might wake her, so he gave her a -cautious little push. She gently rolled over. He -guided her head and assisted the indignant pigeon -to fly away. Now Bethany was comfortably -stretched on the floor sleeping soundly, her pretty -mouth wide open, after the fashion of civilized -children.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge had heard of Indian mothers closing -the mouths of their babes, so he bent over and gently -brought the child’s lips together. To his delight -they stayed closed, and with a sigh of relief he -stretched out his long legs, took up his magazine, -and looked enjoyably about him before he went on -with his reading.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was intensely fond of his books; indeed, reading -<span class='pageno' id='Page_175'>175</span>was almost a passion with him, and the evening -hours were the pleasantest part of the day.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Work was over, the children were safely in the -house—for since Titus’s accident he always had a -little anxiety about boys and girls absent from their -own rooftrees—and he was free to amuse himself in -this most delightful of ways.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Alas for the Judge! He had not read five sentences -when he heard a shrill, insistent voice, not in -this upper hall, but in the one below, away down -by the front door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I tell you I must see the Jedge. I hevn’t got no -message.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Strange to say, the voice, which was shrill and -uncultured rather than noisy, woke Bethany like -the sound of a trumpet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Instantly rousing herself she sat up and looked -composedly at the Judge. There was not the slightest -sign of confusion about her, or any bewildered -look as of a child hastily aroused from sleep.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Daddy Grandpa,” she said, quickly, “I’m the -yellow spotted dog,” and beginning to growl and -snap horribly she went down on hands and feet and -crawled under a big table in a corner—a favorite -play place because it had a long, heavy cover whose -sheltering folds concealed a castle, a ship, a railway -train, an ogre’s cavern, or any other fancy that Bethany -chose to indulge in.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked after her submissively. His -part was not to rebel, but to await developments.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then he turned his head to the doorway.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” said Jennie, in a puzzled voice, “there’s -a little poor girl craving to see you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_176'>176</span>“Bring her up,” said the Judge, promptly, and he -tried to think where he had heard that shrill voice -before.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Two minutes later he knew, for Airy Tingsby, -the smart, pert girl, the head of the Tingsby clan, -and the one who had been so saucy and impertinent -to him, now stood within a few feet of his chair.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_177'>177</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XIV<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>A Call from Airy</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>The Judge was a gentleman, and he was in his -own house, so he got up, motioned her to a seat, -and said, politely, “Good evening.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-night,” she said, curtly, then she looked -about her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>O, the bitter envy and discontent of her face! -The Judge averted his eyes. It was not pleasant -to see that expression on the face of a child, for she -was scarcely more.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why hev you got all this?” she said, suddenly, -“and why hev I nothin’?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge made no reply except that of a mournful -shake of his head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And why,” she went on, leaning eagerly forward -from her chair and pinching the thin sleeve of her -jacket, “do I hev to wear shoddy cloth an’ you wear -broadcloth?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Only Oxford cloth,” said the Judge, protestingly, -“only Oxford in this house suit.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How much did you pay for it?” she asked, -grimly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He made no reply, and she continued. “How -much did you lay out on that diamond neck pin; -how much did your house cost and this fine furniture?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_178'>178</span>The Judge discreetly evaded an answer by a protesting -wave of his hand, and at the same time -thought that a few months previous to this he would -have bowed the saucy little girl from the room. -Now, although he wanted to get back to his reading, -and he gazed wistfully at the heap of new literature -on his table, he was really anxious to hear -what the girl had to say. Something lay under -this—so much he had learned of youthful ways. -How the little wretches understood that he was -interested in their confidences. They were as sharp -as grown people.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My girl,” he said, kindly, “what have you come -here for?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Before she answered him she pointed half angrily, -half curiously at Sukey. “What’s that, an’ what’s -it starin’ at me for, like as if I had no right to be -here?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeon, to the Judge’s amusement, had resented -Airy’s entrance as much as Bethany had done, -but instead of retreating she advanced, stepping -high, and curling each pink claw with indignation. -The look on her high-bred face was delicious, coming -from a pigeon. Her greenish-yellow eyes were -stony, every feather in her hood quivered and -seemed to close more protectingly about the little -white head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Once or twice before, the Judge had seen her act -so in the presence of poor people, and he had laid -her indignation down to a sense of smell, like that -of the average dog, who hates a poor or dirty person. -But Airy was a very clean child. The Judge -knew what kind of a mother Mrs. Tingsby was, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_179'>179</span>so his theory of smell would scarcely hold good in -this case.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Possibly Sukey was sympathizing with Bethany, -whom she had got to love devotedly. Anyway, the -Judge must answer the child, so he said, kindly, -“The bird is a pigeon; she is called a Jacobin.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She’s an ugly thing, anyway,” replied Airy, -sulkily, “an’ she hates me. Shoo!” and she clapped -her hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The indignant Sukey, who was no heroine, turned -tail and scuttled under Bethany’s table, where the -Judge heard a low growl of welcome greet her. -Then, his two pets safely disposed of, he looked -expectantly at Airy, hoping that she would remember -his question as to her motive for calling on him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She did remember, and, sinking back in her chair -with a weary gesture, she said, “I’ve come to tell -you that I wants to be a lady.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Poor child!” murmured the Judge, involuntarily. -Then he tried to realize the enormity of the question -thrust upon him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why warn’t I born a lady?” pursued Airy, -uncompromisingly. “Why warn’t I born your -darter?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” said the Judge, hesitatingly, “well, I suppose -it pleased Providence to place you in another -sphere.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sphere!” she repeated, sneeringly, “that’s no -word I ever heard. ’Pears to me you rich folks -make up words to suit yourselves. But if I don’t -know ‘sphere,’ I do not know one word, an’ that’s -‘Fiddlesticks!’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” replied the Judge, with a polite movement -<span class='pageno' id='Page_180'>180</span>of his head, “your word is a good old English -one used by Southey, Thackeray, and others, though -I believe it is unknown just how and why it became -an expression of contempt.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t know what you’re drivin’ at,” replied -Airy, wearily, “but I’m goin’ to say my proposition -over again: I wants to be a lady!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, having heard the announcement before, -bore it this time with fortitude.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ what’s more,” she went on, “I wants you to -help me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What can I do?” inquired the Judge, in mild -surprise.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You can gab a bit with me now an’ then,” she -said, earnestly. “Why, I took to you the first time -I see you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you,” replied the Judge. “Well—ahem!—I -fancied that you were not much taken with -me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I was mad with you,” she said, frankly, “mad -because I figgered that you was returnin’ Bethany -on us. Then I was mad to think you didn’t get -mad.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you get mad easily?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Awful easy. I’m mad ’most all the time. You -see, I’m kind of sickly, an’ I hevn’t much relish -for what I eats, an’ nothin’ makes you mad like -pickin’ at yer food.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Poor child!” said the Judge, sympathetically.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But I’m goin’ to be a lady,” she said, and her -little sharp face hardened, “if I lives. If I dies it -don’t matter.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was silent for a few seconds, being employed -<span class='pageno' id='Page_181'>181</span>in a search among her patched and darned but clean -garments for a rag of a handkerchief, as white as -the morsel of linen peeping from the Judge’s own -pocket.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what steps have you taken in the matter?” -inquired the Judge, knowing that he was expected -to take an interest in this question of ladyhood.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Fust of all, I’ve quit work,” she replied. “What -air you laughin’ at?” for the Judge was unable to -conceal his amusement.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just at the idea of a lazy lady,” he replied; “go -on, please.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did I say I was goin’ to be lazy?” she returned, -fiercely. “I’ve just stopped shopgirlin’ it, but I’m -a-studyin’ like sixty.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, going to school?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir. Onct before I went, before I got into -Moses & Brown’s big Dry Goods Emporium—all -the latest fashions in ladies’ neckwear, underwear, -street wear, house wear, weddin’ wear, funeral wear, -summer wear, winter wear, an’ so on.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge drew a long breath. “Indeed!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I’m a-schoolin’ it. I tell you, when I saw -where Bethany had come, an’ when that boy of yours -come hurryin’ down River Street with books an’ -things for us an’ hurryin’ off again like as we was -poisoned, I begun to think, ‘It’s time I was lookin’ -higher.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>A doubtful expression passed over the Judge’s -face, but instead of resenting it she went hurriedly -on: “So the next time Barry Mafferty comes in, says -I to him, ‘Barry, I wants to be a lady.’ Says he, -‘Then quit yer shop an’ go to school, an’ I’ll teach -<span class='pageno' id='Page_182'>182</span>you Latin an’ French, ’cause you’ll not get them in -the fust grades of the public.’ An’ he gave me a -book. I can say <i><span lang="la">mensa</span></i> now—<span lang="la"><i>mensa</i>, <i>mensæ</i>, <i>mensæ</i>, -<i>mensam</i>, <i>mensa</i>, <i>mensa</i>. <i>Mensæ</i>, <i>mensarum</i>, <i>mensis</i>, -<i>mensas</i>, <i>mensæ</i>, <i>mensis</i></span>. An’ <i><span lang="la">musa</span></i>, too,” and she -glibly rattled off the declension of <i><span lang="la">musa</span></i>.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And do you know what <i><span lang="la">musa</span></i> means?” inquired -the Judge, somewhat helplessly, when she at last -paused for want of breath.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“<i><span lang="la">Musa</span></i>, amuse,” she replied, quickly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what is a muse?” pursued the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You don’t know what amuse is at your time of -life!” she said, sharply. “Come on, now, you’re -just foolin’ me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ask Mafferty to tell you about the Muses the -next time you go to him,” said the Judge. “At -present you have a wrong idea of the meaning of -the word.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hev I?” she said, sharply. “I’ll find out better. -Want to hear some French?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If you like,” replied the Judge, politely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“<i>Javvey</i>, <i>tavvey</i>, <i>lavvey</i>, <i>nouzaviong</i>, <i>vouzaviez</i>, -<i>ilzong</i>. Do you know what that means?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I can guess,” replied her friend, calmly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You want ter laugh,” she said, suddenly; -“you’re bustin’, I can see, but wait till I’m gone. I -hate to be larfed at.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge guiltily hung his head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now,” she said, in a businesslike way, “I don’t -want yer for teachin’ me French nor langwidges, -nor grammar. What I wants is ladyness from yer. -Come on, now, what’s the fust thing in bein’ a -lady?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_183'>183</span>She was intensely, terribly in earnest, and the -Judge braced up.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” he said, seriously, “first of all, before I -can give you one single word of advice, I want to -know what you intend to make of young ladyhood—providing -you attain to it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t understand all yer big words,” she said, -“but I catches yer meanin’. What do I want to -be a lady for? I wants to be a lady so as to make -you an’ other men stand round.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very good,” murmured the Judge; “but go on, -pray.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What does you care for me now?” she said, disdainfully. -“My name’s mud to you. I’m a River -Street rat. Aint it so?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” said the Judge, in a puzzled voice, “you -are so extreme that I will have to qualify your -statement.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s true,” she said, grimly, “you ’spises me. -That makes me mad, ’cause I know the Lord made -us both. That my mother has taught me, an’ I -believe her. The Lord loves me as much as he loves -you, but that don’t satisfy me. I’m goin’ to make -you love me, too.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge shuddered, despite himself. This little -sharp-voiced, bad-tempered, ambitious, plain-featured -specimen of humanity was extremely repellent -to him. It was really an act of Christian charity -on his part to sit and listen to her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>But he must subdue his dislike. The poor little -creature was unhappy. If he sent her away uncomforted -and unaided he would have a sleepless night. -Happily or unhappily for himself, he had so humored -<span class='pageno' id='Page_184'>184</span>his conscience through life that he was -obliged slavishly to obey its dictates or suffer the -consequences.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Therefore he said, kindly, “What other object -have you in becoming a lady besides that of making -men stand round?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I wants to help my mother,” she said, solemnly, -“an’ get her out of River Street. I wants a little -home out among the fields for her where the ’lectrics -run past an’ she can come in town fer her shoppin’. -She’s a faithful mother, sir; she’s brought us up -good.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s eyes filled with tears. Poor little, -weak, frail creature, and yet not weak, for a noble -spirit animated her sickly body.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now I am with you, my girl,” he exclaimed. -“Now I will help you, for this aspiration is noble.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The touch of sympathy caused a smile to break -over her face. “An’ the children, sir,” she said, -“could play. There’s grass out there where they -could play. There aint no grass on River Street.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t they play in the park that Mrs. Everest -got for the River Street children?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes, sir, but there be so many feet an’ so -little grass. It’s all tramped down afore it has time -to grow. Now, sir, please tell me, for I must be -goin’, what is the fust thing, in your opinion, to be -a lady?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge considered a minute, then he said: -“Let us take your call in sections. When you came -in the house I heard your voice away up here shrill -and insistent. Now, what was there unladylike -about that?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_185'>185</span>“I ought to ’a’ spoke low,” she said, eagerly, -“soft an’ low.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A real lady always speaks in a sweet voice, my -child. Don’t scream when talking.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The real ladies did that when they come a-shoppin’,” -she replied. “They said, ‘Please show me -some white lace,’ jus’ as soft as milk.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then take that as your first rule,” said the Judge. -“Pitch your voice low. Next I would say that your -manner was aggressive when you came in.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ what are you tryin’ to give me there?” she -said, quickly. “What’s aggressive?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was intensely amused. Her words -were rude, but so well had she remembered his advice -that her voice was pitched in a low, almost a -sweet, key.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Rule two,” he observed, “be respectful. Now, -I am a much older person than you. You should -not address me in the rude, flippant tone in which -you address a street urchin. But I am perhaps -wrong here. In the course of my life I have observed -how popular are the persons who have -respect for everyone—even their own servants. One -human being has no right to treat another human -being with disrespect. Just wait a minute and I will -give you an object lesson,” and getting up he rang -the bell.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Presently there was a knock at the door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You hear that?” he said to Airy. “The maid -knocks at the door of this room because it is not a -public but a private room. She knocks at our bedroom -doors also. She does not knock at the dining -room or the parlor door. That is one way of being -<span class='pageno' id='Page_186'>186</span>respectful. Now see how politely she will answer -me when she enters,” and he said in a clear voice, -“Come in.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Jennie stepped inside and stood in her neat gown -and white apron looking expectantly at him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Has a parcel come for me this evening from the -druggist’s?” inquired the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, quite a large parcel. Would you like -to have it here?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, thank you; in my bedroom.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well, sir. Is that all?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, Jennie; but no—go to the sitting room and -ask Master Dallas to come here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Certainly, sir,” and with a pleasant look she -closed the door and went away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked at Airy. Her lips were parted, -her eyes were intense.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now you will see a polite, respectful boy,” he -said, and at that instant there was another knock -at the door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come in,” said the Judge, and Dallas appeared.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My boy,” said the Judge, “this young girl is -a daughter of a woman who was very kind to -Bethany.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas turned to Airy and made her such an exquisite -bow that she caught her breath and gasped, -“O, my!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge bit his lip. “Miss Airy Tingsby and -Mr. Dallas de Warren. Now you will know each -other the next time you meet. How have you -been getting on with your studies this evening, -Dallas?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well, sir, though perhaps not as well as -<span class='pageno' id='Page_187'>187</span>usual, on account of the Higby affair. It amused -Titus.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Will you give Miss Airy an account of it?” said -the Judge. “It is not polite for two persons to talk -before a third of something that he or she does not -understand.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>In a perfectly calm and courteous way Dallas, -without appearing to notice that his new acquaintance -belonged to one of the poorest classes in society, -gave her an account of the unfortunate Higby’s -fright.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy hung on his words in entranced silence. -Never before in her young life had anyone addressed -her with so much deference. A delightful sensation -ran through her veins. She could have sat till midnight -listening to that mellifluous voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And now we must not keep you,” said the Judge, -when Dallas, having finished his recital, turned to -him. “By the way, though, what are you reading -in Latin just now?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The first book of the Æneid, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You find it interesting?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Intensely so, sir. Æneas had so many adventures.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“This young girl is also studying Latin,” said the -Judge. “Airy, can you decline <i><span lang="la">mensa</span></i> for Dallas?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>In a low, gentle voice, and with a manner so full -of caution that it was almost terrified, Airy got -through her task with credit to herself and her -friend. Dallas listened politely and showed not a -sign of a smile.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After she finished he thanked her, and then turned -to the Judge again, who dismissed him by a smile.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_188'>188</span>“I will say good-night, sir,” said Dallas, “then I -will not need to disturb you later on.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well, good-night,” and the Judge extended -a hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas shook hands with him, bowed to Airy, and -left the room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The little girl drew a long breath and rose to her -feet. “I’ve had enough for to-night. Sir, if ever -I get rich and you get poor, just you come to me an’ -I’ll help you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled mournfully. Poor child—how -easy to bridge the gulf between them by words, and -yet she was an apt pupil.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You are a little girl to be out alone in the evening,” -he said. “By the way, how old are you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Thirteen, sir; ’most fourteen.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How are you going to get home?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Some one is waitin’ for me, sir, across the street. -He’s a boy does odd jobs for us. When can I come -agin, sir?” she went on, eagerly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“When would you like to come?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Say this night week, sir. I’ll hev to shine up my -manners till then. My! but it’ll be hard not to yell -in River Street. It’s easy enough to be soft here, -’cause you’ve no one to yell at you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“This night week, then,” replied the Judge; -“good-bye.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-bye, sir,” and to his amusement she awkwardly -shook hands with him, then darted from the -room like a bird.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll have to teach her to go slowly next lesson,” -said the Judge, with a smile, and leisurely stepping -into the hall he looked out of the window.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_189'>189</span>Airy was just joining her escort, or escorts, for -there were two. To the Judge’s dismay the electric -light across the street shone full on the faces of -Brick, the colored boy, and the spotted dog.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Both had probably spent the last hour in front -of his house, and Bethany was only a few steps -away. Suppose she had gone to the window; and -retracing his steps the Judge went into his study -and sitting down began to think over the visit he -had just had.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The tablecloth waving violently attracted his attention. -“Hello, little girl,” he said, affectionately, -“come out. Daddy Grandpa is alone.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was no response beyond a continuance of -low growling.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge had made a mistake. It was not Bethany -under the table; it was Bylow.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good dog,” he said, “come here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She immediately crawled out on all fours, snapping -and snarling at every object she passed, and -accompanied by Sukey, who also was in a bad temper -and pecked at everything near her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>On Bethany’s way to the Judge she suddenly -caught sight of a piece of wrapping paper that had -come round a book and had fallen to the floor. -Seizing it in her hands, she tore it to pieces. The -Judge thought that her small teeth also aided in -the work of destruction. Not till the paper was -in ribbons, and she herself was damp with perspiration -from the violence of her emotion, did she give -up her dog incarnation and become demure little -Bethany again.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stared. He had never seen her in a -<span class='pageno' id='Page_190'>190</span>rage before. However, she was quite self-possessed -now, and putting the grumbling pigeon in her basket -and seating herself beside her she began softly to -stroke and smooth her disturbed feathered friend.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After a time she addressed a gentle remark to the -Judge over her shoulder. “So you have had ‘Airy -Mary, so contrary,’ here this evening?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I have,” he returned. “Why did you not -stay out and see her; don’t you like her?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Airy once slapped Bethany,” she remarked, meditatively.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge made no reply. Evidently the two -girls were not affinities.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Annie never slapped Bethany,” the child presently -remarked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Annie, the Judge knew, was Mrs. Tingsby’s second -daughter. However, once more he did not feel -called upon to give an expression of opinion, and -Bethany went on: “To-night week I shall go to the -country with Ellen and Susie.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge rang the bell. “Jennie,” he said, when -the parlor maid appeared, “here is a little girl that -wants to go to bed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany got up sweetly. She kissed Sukey good-night, -then she went to the Judge and threw her -arms round his neck. “Good-night, dear Daddy -Grandpa.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-night, my child,” he responded, and as he -spoke he felt how dear indeed the little affectionate, -jealous creature had become to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She seemed to part from him with reluctance. -However, she took Jennie’s hand agreeably enough, -but in the doorway she turned and fired a parting -<span class='pageno' id='Page_191'>191</span>shot that immensely amused the unfortunate man -attacked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Daddy Grandpa,” she said, sternly, “ladies is -born, not made,” then she disappeared with Jennie.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge sat down in his big chair, alone at -last with what remnant of calm these children had -left him. Which was the more remarkable, Bethany -or Airy? Bethany with her queer, old-fashioned, -precocious, yet strangely childlike ways, or -the bitter, repellent Airy?</p> - -<p class='c011'>How strange that through his life he had heard -so little about child study! He must find out what -books there were on the subject. However, books -or no books, these children bade fair to make a -psychologist of him.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_192'>192</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XV<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>A Drive with the Judge</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>A few days later the Judge stood at the foot of -the staircase leading up to the children’s rooms and -inwardly wondered.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany was kneeling down on the top step. “O, -Lord, forgive me for what I am about to do,” she -prayed, piously; then she unclasped her hands and -took in them a crumpled handkerchief.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge still stared. She had her dress pinned -up, a towel fastened round her waist, sleeves rolled -back, and beside her on the step a little tin can and -a cake of Hittaker’s soap.</p> - -<p class='c011'>What was she going to do? and the Judge waited.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was washing down the steps, and as she -washed she softly sang to herself a homemade ditty:</p> - -<div class='lg-container-b c012'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“Ellen and Susie they’re with me right here;</div> - <div class='line'>Wash little maid, wash the steppies so clear,</div> - <div class='line'>Wash for the Judge, and for Titus the boy,</div> - <div class='line'>So will you fill their dear hearts with joy.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c011'>“She is cleaning the steps,” said the Judge to -himself, “and is enjoying it. Mrs. Blodgett has -probably gone downtown, and after asking the Lord -to forgive her she has yielded to temptation. It -would be a shame to interrupt, seeing she enjoys it -so much,” and with a broad smile on his face he sat -down on the lowest step and waited.</p> - -<p class='c011'>As Bethany was coming down backward she did -<span class='pageno' id='Page_193'>193</span>not see him until her hand, going out sideways, deposited -the tin pail on his knees.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O!” she exclaimed, and giving a great start she -straightened herself.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There were beads of perspiration on her forehead -and upper lip, and her cheeks were flushed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“There!” she said at last, and she gazed composedly -at the Judge, “I knew Satan would catch me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Thank you,” he replied, quietly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, Daddy Grandpa,” she cried, repentantly, -“you don’t think I meant you—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What are you doing?” he asked, disregarding -her question.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” she said, wearily, “I saw a little dust on -these steps at lunch time, and I’ve been just crazy -to wash them, just crazy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What have you been doing it with?” he inquired.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She uncurled her hand, and showed the wet, -crumpled handkerchief. “It’s a very old one,” she -said, anxiously, “quite full of holes. I hadn’t any -cloth to dry the steps, so I just blew softly as I -sang—I s’pose I’ve got to be punished,” she said, -miserably.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Let me see first how you have done them,” said -the Judge, trying to speak sternly, and getting up -he walked to the top of the staircase.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child had done her work thoroughly. There -was not a particle of dust to be seen. Every square -inch not covered by carpet had been carefully -cleaned.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” he said, as he slowly came downstairs, -“for punishment I order you to wash them down -each day until further orders.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_194'>194</span>She gave him a roguish smile. “Now, Daddy -Grandpa, you know that is no punishment. You are -just pretending.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” he went on, “as that would be no punishment, -I order you for work, or play, or whatever -you call it, to wash these steps down once a -week, and for penalty you will not be allowed to go -for a drive with me for three days.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her eyes filled with tears. “Three days, Daddy -Grandpa—not two, not one?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, three,” he said, decidedly, “three whole -days.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She wiped her eyes with the towel about her waist. -“The time will seem long, but I deserve it. I was -very bad. Mrs. Blodgett has gone shopping, and I -thought that you were asleep, and Satan tempted -me. I thought he was laying a trap, but I gave in -to him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bethany,” said the Judge, kindly, “you were -wrong to do what was forbidden, but since you enjoy -a little housework I will get Mrs. Blodgett to relax -that rule, and give you some easy things to do.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Daddy Grandpa,” she said, seizing one of his -large white hands and pressing it to her lips, “if -you had wings you’d be an angel.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He smiled amiably, and went to get ready for his -drive.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, little pail,” said Bethany, seizing the tin, “O, -little pail, I am glad he did not take you from me. -I was afraid that would be my punishment.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What are you talking about up there?” inquired -the Judge from the hall below, where he was putting -on his coat.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_195'>195</span>Bethany took a few steps forward and put her -head over the balusters.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I was just telling Bobby that I am glad you did -not take him from me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And who is Bobby?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bobby is one of the little pails we used to get our -butter in. You know that poor people do not eat -the kind of butter that you do, Daddy Grandpa. -Ours was whiter, and it did not taste like Cloverdale -butter. When we went to the grocer’s I always said -we were going to buy a Bobby of butter.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge made no remark, but he wrinkled his -forehead as he went to the hall door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A fowl in the pot for every man on Sunday,” a -good French king is reported to have said, and -“Cloverdale butter for every citizen in Riverport,” -the good Judge wished in his heart.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He had a lonely drive. How much he enjoyed -having the little prattler by his side! for Bethany -talked a good deal when she was out with him. -There were so many objects of interest to inquire -about, and having perfect confidence in him she -never failed to extend her fund of knowledge when -with him. Poor little gropers after truth! How -much the children had to learn! How many questions -they must ask of the, to them, omniscient -grown-up ones, before they were sufficiently -equipped for the battle of life!</p> - -<p class='c011'>On the second day of Bethany’s punishment the -Judge, as he was going down to the sleigh, met -Dallas on the front steps.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It is a beautiful day,” he said; “don’t you want -to come for a drive?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_196'>196</span>A flush of pleasure crept over the boy’s face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, very much; will you be good enough -to wait till I put these books in the house?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge nodded, and Dallas ran into the -house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How is it that you carry books?” inquired the -Judge when he came out. “I never see Titus with -any.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He has a set at home and one in school,” said -Dallas, quietly, as they got into the sleigh.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And why have not you the same?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I thought, sir, that it was sufficient for you to -buy me one set. I carry mine.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was touched by this mark of the boy’s -thoughtfulness, and for a few minutes he said nothing. -Then he turned round. “Buy another lot—have -just what Titus has.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas gave him a peculiar glance. It certainly -was not an ungrateful one.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge gazed at him more steadfastly. How -well the boy looked in his heavy black coat and dark -fur cap! He was stouter, too, than when he came. -Already good living and freedom from care were -beginning to show a favorable influence upon him. -But what about the soul? And the Judge peered -more earnestly than ever at him. A good outside -was a fine thing, but the inner things of the heart -were what counted, and the elderly man made up -his mind to ask a few questions. However, at first -he learned all he could from the exterior.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy sat beside him very quietly, but his face -was proud. “Now that I think of it,” reflected the -Judge, “this is his first appearance in public with me. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_197'>197</span>This doffing of hats and bowing from well dressed -people flatters his boyish vanity.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas,” he said, aloud, “would you like to be -popular?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” he replied, with a smile.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And rich?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you believe that riches bring happiness?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What do you want to be in life? Have you -chosen a calling—a profession?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy gave him a hesitating glance, and the -Judge delicately changed his question. “Have you -ever thought of being an actor, as your father -was?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy shuddered. “O, no, no!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why not? Don’t you approve of the profession?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas hesitated a minute, then he said, “It’s not -bad for those who get on; it’s awful for those who -don’t.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Would you put your father in the latter class?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, but in this way only. He had poor -health. If he had been strong he would have made -his mark. He had brains and application enough to -succeed. With his last breath he begged me not to -follow his profession. Even if I wished to do so, -that would keep me from it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge made no comment, and presently Dallas -went on: “I have been behind the scenes, sir. -I suppose the public must have theaters, but they’re -hard on girls and young men.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“In what way?” asked the Judge, quietly.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_198'>198</span>“Well, sir,” said the boy, bitterly, “when a person -goes on the stage his or her home goes to smash.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge made no reply, and Dallas went on -with animation: “If I had my way, I’d have no -army, no navy, no anything that took men out of -their homes. I suppose you’ve always had a home, -sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then you don’t know what it is to live in a -boarding house—to share everything in common -with people that you often despise. Why, sir, when -I come home from school and go upstairs to that -little sitting room where Titus and I study, and shut -the door, and feel that it is ours, I am in paradise.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But you have to come downstairs and eat and -drink with the family,” said the Judge, in amusement.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ah!” said the boy, with his handsome face -aglow, “but you are my own people now. I like to -be with you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dallas,” said the Judge, abruptly, “tell me what -you would like to be when you become a man.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boy grew somewhat less animated. “You -won’t be vexed with me for being too ambitious?” -he said, hesitatingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not unless you aspire to the Presidency.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir, I do not aspire to that, but I do wish to be -a doctor.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ah! to study medicine—you are fond of your -books. I see that.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The only thing that troubles me,” continued -Dallas, with some embarrassment, “is that one’s -studies are long and expensive. I feel that I ought -<span class='pageno' id='Page_199'>199</span>to choose something like a clerkship, so I should not -be so long a burden on you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You shall be a doctor,” said the Judge, promptly. -“You have done well to speak your mind frankly -and honestly. How old are you now?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sixteen, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just two years older than Titus, though you are -much taller. It is well for a boy to choose his -vocation in life as early as possible. Then he can -prepare for it. You know what Titus wishes to be?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir—a farmer.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I can’t gainsay him. I believe in getting back -to the soil. He wants a stock farm, and already I -am beginning to get things in shape for him. Roblee,” -and the Judge spoke to the coachman, “drive -out toward Cloverdale.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I have bought a hundred and fifty acres of land,” -the Judge continued, “and have a young man in -charge. We have not time to go all the way there -to-day, but you will see in what direction it is. Have -you been out this way before?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Have you not been driving at all since you came -to Riverport?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How is that?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, Titus does not care for driving, as you -know, and I did not care to ask.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But you like it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Indeed I do,” he said, earnestly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then you must often come with me and Bethany. -Poor little soul, she is doing penance to-day.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I saw her going for a walk with Jennie, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_200'>200</span>with a very downcast face,” said Dallas with a slight -smile. Then he fell into a reverie.</p> - -<p class='c011'>What a happy boy he was! What good fortune -had been his when he fell into the hands of this -kind, agreeable, yet strong man! How much he -admired him! and he stole a glance at the Judge’s -quiet face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>They were gliding along over a country road now. -How comfortable they were in their luxurious fur-lined -seat, with warm robes over them, and their -feet on the Judge’s long foot-warmer! The sleigh -was an open one, and on each side of them, and -before and behind, they had an uninterrupted view -of a beautiful, snow-covered country.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Occasionally they met a farmer jogging along -on his wood-sled, or going swiftly in a single-seated -sleigh behind a substantial, heavy-footed country -horse. There were also a few sleighs from the city.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Everybody knew the Judge, and if a lady bowed -to him Dallas, in suppressed delight, also saluted -her by touching his fur cap. How he enjoyed recognition! -When he was a man he would wish for no -better enjoyment than this—to drive along the -street and have everyone greet him with respect. -But he must work hard for it at first, and he cast -a side glance at the Judge’s white head. Charlie -Brown had told him that the Judge as a young man -had worked like a slave to master the intricacies of -commercial law, bankruptcy law, international law, -criminal law, and many other kinds of law that -Dallas could not remember. He would work, too, -and he set his young mouth firmly and looked -straight ahead.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_201'>201</span>The Judge was murmuring, “God made the country -and man made the town”; then he said aloud, -“Just look at the sun behind that grove of spruces, -Dallas.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Beautiful!” said the boy, and then the Judge, -taking out his watch, said regretfully, “We must -turn. Home, Roblee.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>They scarcely spoke until they reached Grand -Avenue. When they were slipping past the fine -houses that bordered it Dallas turned to the Judge. -“I thank you, sir, for this drive. I have enjoyed -it immensely.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s keen eyes sought his face. “My -boy,” he said, kindly, and he stretched out one of -his fur-clad hands and laid it on Dallas’s knee, -“you must often accompany me and the little girl -on our daily drives.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s benevolent face was luminous in the -setting sun. He was proving himself to be a real -father to the boy. Something choked in Dallas’s -throat. He bent his head lower, lower, till a sudden -ecstasy made him seize the Judge’s hand and press -it warmly in his own.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just look at that new boy of the Judge’s,” exclaimed -Charlie Brown’s mother as she stood at one -of the upper windows of the house, staring at the -Judge in adoration. “What is it about that man that -makes everyone like him?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good temper,” growled her rather short-tempered -spouse, who was sitting near her, his head -buried in a newspaper.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas’s first drive with the Judge was on the -first day of Bethany’s punishment; his second one -<span class='pageno' id='Page_202'>202</span>was on the second day of retribution, and his third -was on the day rendered ever memorable to the -Judge by the fulfillment of one of his worst fears. -He wished, but too late, that Bethany had had no -punishment, that he had forgiven the sin of step-washing, -and had taken her with himself and Dallas.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_203'>203</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XVI<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Spotted Dog Again</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>The Judge and the boy were just arriving gayly -home from a most enjoyable drive. They had been -driving, not in the direction of Cloverdale, but away -down the frozen river as it silently wound toward -the sea.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas had sprung out of the sleigh, and was -standing respectfully aside waiting for the Judge to -alight, when the big hall door flew open and little -Bethany appeared, being held back, however, by the -protesting Jennie.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her face was absolutely beatific, and she called -out clearly, “O, Daddy Grandpa, I’ve got the joyfullest -surprise for you!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, with an affectionate glance at her, -began to ascend the steps in his usual dignified way.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now I have something to thank Satan for,” continued -Bethany, dancing in Jennie’s resolute grasp. -“Now I could almost love the naughty creature.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge had reached her now, and she broke -away from Jennie and clung to him. “I missed -my drives most dreadfully. Jennie took me for a -walk the day before yesterday, Jennie took me for a -walk yesterday, Jennie took me for a walk to-day, -and what do you think I found?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come inside, child, come inside; you will take -cold,” said the Judge, and he motioned to Jennie to -close the big front door.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_204'>204</span>“There they are—what I found,” screamed Bethany. -“O, I am a thankful little girl to Satan for -tempting me that day, ’cause if he hadn’t tempted -me I’d not have walked with Jennie, and if I -hadn’t walked with Jennie I’d never have found -my sweet colored boy and my precious, precious -Bylow.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge groaned inwardly. Sure enough, in -the middle of the hall stood the grinning colored -boy and the ugly yellow spotted dog.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge preserved a calm exterior, though the -colored boy called warningly, “Keep back, sah—you’s -got on a good coat, and he do hate fine cloes. -I’ll hang on to him,” and with might and main he -pulled back on the dirty brown strap about the dog’s -neck.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas, not as wary as the Judge, went nearer, -and was saluted by a snap from the dog’s powerful -jaws that made him jump in the air.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, Bylow, Bylow!” cried Bethany, in dismay, -and to the Judge’s great disapprobation she threw -her arms round the snapping dog. “My precious -dog, you must not be so bad.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The dog put out a long red tongue and lapped -her forehead.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bethany,” said the Judge, “come here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, Daddy Grandpa!” she exclaimed, fairly -throwing herself at him. “Bethany is ’most dead -with joy, and I knew you’d be dead, too.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>In face of so much enthusiasm and such perfect -trust in his hearty coöperation, the Judge felt that -it would be very hard to disappoint the child, but -he was firm on the subject of vicious animals.</p> -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/i_204.jpg' alt='' class='ig001'> -<div class='ic001'> -<p>“In the middle of the hall stood the grinning colored boy and the ugly yellow spotted dog.”</p> -</div> -</div> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_205'>205</span>“Boy,” he said to the grinning Brick, “what is -the matter with that dog?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Your cloes, sah—turn your coat, sah, jes’ for -fun—you’ll not see no teeth, sah. He’ll jus’ love -you. Look-y-here—” and he pointed to a most disreputable-looking -figure descending the staircase -from the floor above.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge somewhat helplessly took off his heavy -coat and threw it over a chair. These children -were turning his house upside down. That was a -tramp coming downstairs—a tramp, pure and simple. -But what was it—a snicker from young Jennie -notified him that there was mystery afoot.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The supposed tramp was apparently youthful, -but his rags were so clean and evidently so freshly -made that the Judge became suspicious, and then -that smooth, dark young chin and the red lips under -the battered hat—surely they belonged to his grandson -Titus. The old bathrobe, too, he thought he recognized -as one of his own. What nonsense was this?</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany was laughing and clapping her hands, -Dallas was giggling, and Brick was grinning more -alarmingly than ever. “Come on, young sah—he’ll -jus’ eat you up wid kindness—no feah in dat dress. -Come on, come on—I’se loosin’ him,” and he let the -dog go.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The creature with the hideous yellow spots actually -ran toward Titus with his mouth open, but -instead of devouring him he fawned on him, licked -him, and soon was romping all over the hall with -him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus,” said his grandfather, “stop this noise -and explain your actions to me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_206'>206</span>Titus drew up in front of him, and, still holding -the dog, who was playfully biting at his fingers, -gave his old hat a blow that sent it spinning into -a corner of the hall. Then he said breathlessly, -“This is the queerest dog you ever saw, grandfather. -He hates well dressed people. When he came he -ripped down the seam of my trousers. Brick told -me to go and dress up like a tramp, and see the -difference. You know Brick has been a tramp’s -boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A what?” inquired the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A boy that goes about with a tramp—you’ve -heard of them, grandfather. He waits on the -tramp. Bylow went with him, and he hates well -dressed people and nice houses.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then his place is plainly not here,” observed -the Judge, but under his breath, for fear of Bethany, -who was now ecstatically smoothing the colored -boy’s coat and sleeve.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So your name is Brick,” he said, addressing the -stranger.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sah,” and Brick showed every tooth in his -head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His color was indeed somewhat brickish. The -Judge had never seen a colored boy of just this -shade before, and he suspected keenly that he had -not been washed for some time.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You like this little girl?” he said, indicating -Bethany.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She nice little girl, sah,” responded the boy, -opening his mouth so alarmingly wide that the -Judge saw not only his whole stock of teeth, but -such an expanse of pink gums, tongue, and throat -<span class='pageno' id='Page_207'>207</span>that he gazed at them in mild fascination. His -words were fairly swallowed up in this pink gulf.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She nice little girl,” Brick continued. “She -good to dogs an’ cats. I like dogs meself. Me an’ -Bylow’s great friends,” and he nodded toward the -dog, which had calmed down and was lying at his -feet panting and with half-shut eyes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Daddy Grandpa,” said Bethany, in sudden -anxiety, “where are they going to sleep? O, where -are they going to sleep?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge put up a hand and vigorously stroked -his mustache. He knew Bethany’s generous heart -prompted her to wish for them the best in the house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” he replied, kindly, “we’re pretty well -filled up inside, but there’s a good room out in the -stable opposite Roblee’s.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Daddy Grandpa,” she said, timidly, “there’s -the big spare room—the blue velvet room with the -gilt furniture.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My friend Colonel Hansom is to occupy that -next week,” said the Judge. “It would be awkward -to turn out the boy for him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick was exploding with laughter. He was a -good deal older than Bethany and appreciated the -situation perfectly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I guess we’s all right in the stable, missie,” he -said, with a snicker. “Bylow an’ me’s used to sleepin’ -with hosses. Then we can guard you when the -bogies come about. There’s lots of bogies these -days,” and his eyes grew round, and he rolled them -wildly to and fro.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you see many out West?” asked the little -girl, in an awestruck voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_208'>208</span>“The air was thick with ’em, missie. They jus’ -called me an’ Bylow till we didn’t know which way -fer to go.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Help! Help! Mum-mum-murder!” yelled a -sudden voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Blow that ’ere, Bylow!” muttered Brick, and he -made a dart for the back stairway. “If he aint -sneaked away!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus and Dallas dashed after him, while little -Bethany, twisting her tiny hands in dismay, brought -up the rear with the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s Higby,” she said, tearfully. “I told Titus -to tell him to put on old clothes. I suppose Titus -forgot. O, dear, dear!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mum-mum-murder,” went on the voice, “help; -there’s something caught m-m-me behind. M-m-missis -Blodgett! Girls!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“We’re coming,” called Titus, at the top of the -stairway; “hold on.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ca-ca-catch the dishes, some one,” wailed Higby. -“O! law-law-law me! There they go!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was a terrible clatter of falling china, and -then Higby’s voice rose higher and shriller than -ever.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-he’s got m-m-me by the leg. O! O! O! he’s -a-rippin’ me! Help, I say, help!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boys dashed valiantly down the stairway. -Brick caught the dog by the neck. Higby, true to -his habit of backing when agonizing for words, -promptly stepped out behind, and fell in a heap on -Brick, Bylow, and the broken china. Titus and -Dallas, nearly choking with laughter, wrestled with -the man, dog, and colored boy to get them on their -<span class='pageno' id='Page_209'>209</span>feet, while Mrs. Blodgett and the maids rushed -from the kitchen and stood with horror-stricken -faces.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Boys,” said the Judge’s voice from the top of the -stairway, “boys!” and his voice brought calm to the -situation.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” gasped Titus, who was manfully placing -Higby against the wall and holding him there.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Take the colored boy to the stable,” pursued the -Judge, “and get him to lock up that dog.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir—yes, sir,” replied Titus; then he added, -in an undertone, “Hush up, Higby.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I ca-ca-can’t hush up,” whined Higby. “Look -at my pa-pa-pants. Torn an’ hang-hang-hangin’ -like a woman’s skirt. An’ them gir-gir-girls -a-laughin’!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was, alas! too true! Finding that Higby was -not hurt, and that his assailant was only a mischievous, -medium-sized dog with his tongue lolling -good-naturedly from his mouth, and that the china -broken was not the best in the house, the maids were -laughing heartily.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Get up to your room, then, and change your -clothes,” said Titus, giving Higby a friendly push, -“and you, boy,” and he beckoned to Brick, “come -on out to the stable with me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany seized upon Higby as he came toward -her and the Judge, and so bewailed his misfortune, -and so sweetly comforted him, that the old man -went on his way upstairs with a calmer face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hurry up,” said Titus to Brick. “I want to get -you in your den before Roblee comes. He’s something -of a prig. Dallas, come on, too.”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_210'>210</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XVII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Titus as a Philanthropist</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>The two boys rushed Brick and the dog out to -the stable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“This way,” said Titus, and he ran upstairs and -opened the door of a small room opposite Roblee’s.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It used to be a harness room,” Titus explained, -“but was fitted up once for a bedroom when that old -goose Higby took measles and we had to isolate -him. See, here is a bed, and table, and washstand. -I’ll get Mrs. Blodgett to bring out some bedding by -and by.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick looked about him with his tongue and eyes -both going. “’Tis a boss place, sah. Me an’ Bylow’s -not slep’ in such a place, nevvah, no, nevvah.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You see,” went on Titus, hurriedly, “as Miss -Bethany is so bent on keeping you round for a time, -I’d like to get my grandfather to have Roblee take -you for a stable boy. He’s looking for one just -now. He won’t like your color, but we’ll try to get -some of that off you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You aint layin’ out fer to wash me, be you, -young sah?” said Brick, anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, you and the dog. You’re both too dirty -to live.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick made a bolt for the door, but Titus got -there before him and locked it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No use to kick,” he said, grimly. “You’re a -<span class='pageno' id='Page_211'>211</span>likely-looking boy, and you’re a fool to tramp it. -I’m going to keep you here for a while and try to -make you halfway decent.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick went down on his knees. “O, lordy massy, -don’t wash me, young sah.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus calmly took him by his collar. “Dallas, -you’ll help me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The English boy looked down at his handsome -suit of clothes; however, he assented quietly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“All right,” said Titus, with a nod of understanding -and good-fellowship, “I thought you would. -Go in the house and get some old clothes of mine -from my closet—not too old, mind—and a comb -and brush and some decent soap and towels—lots -of ’em; and on your way here dash across the back -way to Charlie Brown’s and get him to bring over -that bathtub he uses for his Newfoundland dog. -O, before you go,” he called, as Dallas was leaving -the room, “turn on the heat.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas went over to a radiator in the corner, then -hurried away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus continued to hold Brick, who did not -cease for one single minute to beg and pray for -release.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You shan’t go,” said Titus, inexorably, “you -dirty little beast. I’ve taken a fancy to you. You’ve -got to stay here and be our stable boy, and you -sha’nt be our stable boy till you’re clean. I tell you, -Roblee would chuck you out in the snow. He’s -cleaner than I am.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t want to stay, sah,” pleaded Brick, earnestly. -“Water just pisons me. O, let me go back -to River Street, me an’ Bylow,” and he gazed helplessly -<span class='pageno' id='Page_212'>212</span>at the dog, who had gone to the radiator and -was lying calmly beside it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s for your good,” said Titus, earnestly. -“Don’t you want to earn money and have a bank -book?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Money, sah?” said Brick, eagerly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, lots of it—nice clean, rustling greenbacks. -But you’ve got to work for it, my son. Hello! -there they are!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas and Charlie, with a great laughing and -thumping, were dragging the bathtub upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When the door was opened Charlie stuck in his -head. “Thought I’d come, too—sounded as if there -was going to be some fun.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, you don’t,” said Titus to Brick, who on seeing -the door open had tried to make a dash for liberty. -Then he addressed the other boys. “Shut -that door, quick. I don’t want this frog to jump. -Now, look sharp—Roblee will soon be home, and I -want this over before he comes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where is he?” inquired Dallas.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Had to take the horses to the blacksmith. I say, -fellows, put that tub here in the middle of the room. -Now rush downstairs to the harness room and get -a couple of pails. Then fill them at the hot water -faucet and bring them up here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick, with rolling eyes, watched the boys scuttling -to and fro.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t be such a fool,” said Titus, gently shaking -him. “Anyone would think we were going to -hang you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bylow,” said Brick, faintly, “sic ’em, sic ’em, -good dog.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_213'>213</span>Bylow turned his head. Titus was still in his -tramp suit, Charlie Brown was considerably disheveled -from working about his pigeon loft, and -Dallas had taken the precaution, when he went into -the house hastily to change his good suit of clothes -for the one in which he had arrived at the Judge’s. -Therefore they were a trio of pretty disreputable-looking -boys, and Bylow, after a lazy look at them, -glanced at his young master as if to say, “What are -you worrying about? You are among friends.” -Then he again lay down by the radiator and went to -sleep. He knew that those laughing, chattering -boys meant no harm to the shuddering Brick, and -he took no thought for himself.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now,” called Titus, “are you ready?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ay, ay, sir,” responded Charlie Brown.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then help me undress the criminal,” said -Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>In five minutes Brick was seated in a tub of deliciously -warm water, and three pairs of kind young -hands were lathering him with soap.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He gave one yell at first, then he sat still—and -enjoyed it, if the truth must be told.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Is this a baf, young sah?” he squeaked, fearfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, it’s a ‘baf,’” said Titus; “what did you -think it was?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I thought a baf was cold, sah. This be warm. -O, law!” and he joyfully paddled with his -hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Stop that,” said Titus, peremptorily; “you’re -splashing us.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The boys worked like heroes, and in a terrible -<span class='pageno' id='Page_214'>214</span>haste lest Roblee should return. Brick was rubbed -and scrubbed, and at last Titus shouted, “Out with -him and in with the dog.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Young sah,” exclaimed Brick, “where’s my -cloes?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Shivering with excitement, he stood by the radiator, -trying to rub himself with the towels that Titus -had thrown to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Burnt up,” said Titus. “Master Dallas there -took every rag down and chucked them in the -furnace.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick gave a howl. “An’ me five dollah gold -piece sewed in the tail of me coat!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Five dollar fiddlestick!” said Titus, energetically. -“Did you ever see such a darky? He doesn’t -even know how to dry himself. Give him a rub -down, Charlie, will you, while Dallas and I introduce -the dog to the tub?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bylow was a considerably astonished dog. He -was no water dog, and the touch of water to his -body was as distasteful to him as it had been at first -to Brick. Titus flung a question over his shoulder -at Brick. “Is he a biter?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sah,” said Brick, earnestly, “he aint no bitah. -I nevvah knowed him to set his teeth in no one. -He’s just a rippah, sah.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That’s good,” said Titus; “come on, boys. I’ll -hold and you scrub. Brick, get on that bed and -cover yourself with those horse blankets. We’ll -attend to you presently.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>It took all three boys to manage the dog. His -howls, his bounds, his cries were prodigious, but he -did not once attempt to bite. He was as shrewd as -<span class='pageno' id='Page_215'>215</span>most dogs, and he knew that the hand on his collar -was that of a master.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He, unlike Brick, did not enjoy one minute of the -bath. He did not care if the water was warm, and -he struggled and kicked until the three boys were -breathless.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My! he’s a bounder,” exclaimed Charlie. “What -a back! How many breeds are there in him, colored -boy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t know, sah, but I’ve heard them say as -knows that his fathah ought to ’a’ bin a bulldog, -an’ his grandmothah were a pointah.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Let him out,” ordered Titus<a id='t215'></a>, “let him out; my -back’s ’most broken.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So is mine,” laughed Dallas, but he ran after the -dog, which was shaking violently, and began to rub -him dry.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now for the fancy dress ball,” said Titus, and -he began to pull at the heap of clothes that Dallas -had brought out. “Stand up, Brick—here, put on -that shirt.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick, grinning like a Chessy cat, took up the -pink and white cotton shirt and ran his arms into it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here,” said Titus, and he threw him various -other garments. “Not that way, owl—this way,” -and he began to dress the boy himself. Then he -turned to Dallas. “I say, old fellow, run in the -house to my room and get that long mirror standing -behind the door. I was trying a high kick the other -day and broke it. Grandfather says he’ll get me -another.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas obligingly nodded, and his long legs speedily -took him away from the stable.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_216'>216</span>“H’m, no tie and no collar,” said Titus at last -when Brick was fully dressed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here,” said Charlie, pulling off his, “don’t spare -the finishing touches.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus was just fastening the red-silk tie when -Dallas entered the room bearing aloft the long -glass.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Set it down there,” said Titus, pointing to the -wall. “Now, colored boy, look.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The transformed boy stepped up to the glass. -He gave one glance, then he turned to the three -boys behind him, who were also reflected in the -mirror.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where’s Brick, gen’l’men?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus shook his head solemnly. “Dead!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The colored boy looked again. “I see foah young -sahs in dere, gen’l’men.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>His face was irresistible, and the three boys burst -out laughing.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That dead boy used to have cheeks like mud, -gen’l’men,” Brick went on, in his funny, flat voice. -“This boy have pale cheeks. He mos’ white.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Brick,” said Titus, solemnly, “we’ve taken off -ten layers of dirt.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Young sah,” continued Brick, with dancing eyeballs, -“the young cullid fellahs down at the hotel, -they wears buttins.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>His cunning glance searched Titus’s face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, you shall have plenty of buttons to wear,” -replied Titus, agreeably. “We’ll stud you with them -till you don’t know which is button and which is -boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick gave a shrill whistle and leaped in the air. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_217'>217</span>Then he began to dance—to dance with such glee -and so much comicality that the three boys were -presently exploding with laughter.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come on; this isn’t work,” exclaimed Titus, suddenly. -“I see Betty coming out with the first call -to dinner. Let’s clear up this mess, ‘gen’l’men.’ -Here, Brick, you help.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The colored boy took hold with a will, and soon -the room was as tidy as when they had entered it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Put some life into that dog,” commanded Titus, -pointing to Bylow.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick ran at him, caught him round the middle -of his body, and danced round the room with him -till he had no breath left.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now cover him up with those blankets,” said -Titus, “and come in and have some dinner.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Me, sah,” exclaimed Brick; “me, sah?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, you—Charlie, will you stay?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes,” replied his friend, sarcastically, “I look -so pretty.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Get off with you, then,” said Titus, playfully -giving him a push, “and come some other day. -Much obliged for your help.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Charlie ran whistling out the back door of the -stable, and Dallas, Titus, and Brick walked toward -the house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mind you,” said Titus to Brick, “not one word -to the girls or Mrs. Blodgett. Eat what is set before -you and ask no questions.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus began to yawn and stutter when they got -to the house. His excitement was over.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-b-blodgieblossom,” he said, seeking her in the -little sitting room off the storeroom, where she usually -<span class='pageno' id='Page_218'>218</span>sat to be within easy reach of the kitchen, “I’ve -got a new black pigeon—I want some dinner for -it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“All right, my boy,” said the woman, affectionately, -and she waddled out into the hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-here it is,” said Titus, emphatically, and he -laid his hand on Brick’s shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bless my heart, and soul, and body,” exclaimed -Mrs. Blodgett, “if you aint the greatest lad! Another -colored boy, and the first one hardly gone out -of the house.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“H-h-how would you have liked to keep that first -one, Blodgieblossom?” said Titus, mischievously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I wouldn’t have given him houseroom,” she said, -energetically, “the dirty creature! Now this fellow -looks clean,” and she bestowed a kindly glance on -Brick. “I’ll have the girls lay him a little table in -the wash room.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick was grinning, but not as alarmingly as before. -He was embarrassed now, and somewhat -afraid of this fat woman.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Ten minutes later he was an ecstatic colored boy. -White girls were waiting on him, white girls were -placing before him the most sumptuous dinner he -ever ate, and he surreptitiously sneaked pieces off -his plate and into his pockets for Bylow, the dog.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_219'>219</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XVIII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Airy’s Second Call on the Judge</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Airy was arriving at 100 Grand Avenue, via the -stable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Like a little dark shadow, she flitted up the driveway -to the open door of the harness room. Brick -was there, seated on an overturned tub, polishing -a silver-mounted bridle and whistling vigorously. -Bylow lay at his feet, only lazily moving one ear in -the direction of Airy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He knew who was coming. In fact, with his doggish -sense of smell he knew before he saw her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good evening,” said Airy, suddenly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hello!” exclaimed Brick, starting to his feet. -“Lord-a-massy, I thought it was a ghos’. How be -you, Airy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well, thank you,” she said, mincing her -words.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Set down,” said Brick, hospitably, pushing a -stool toward her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Thank you,” she said, leaning against the doorway, -“I can’t set—I mean, sit down—with a stable -boy. I’m a-goin’, a-going, I should say, to be a -lady.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Aint you give up that nonsense yet?” he said, -agreeably, and dropping his bridle he got up and -lounged toward her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I never shall give it up,” she said, solemnly.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_220'>220</span>“There always was somethin’ creepy about you, -Airy,” said Brick, uneasily. “I say charms when -I’m round wid you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What kind of charms?” she asked, seriously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, ‘Debbil, debbil, nevvah die,’ an’ ‘The bogie’s -got a lantern hangin’ out for me dis night.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Brick,” said the little girl, severely, “if you say -charms you’ll never be a gentleman.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t want to be a gen’l’man,” he replied, -stoutly. “Kin’ Providence had a little coffee in de -wattah when he made dis chile. I’se a-goin’ to -stay cullid.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, I’m going to be a lady,” said the little -girl, severely, “and I’m not going to waste time talking -to trash like you. I just promised mother to -run and see how you be.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick grinned. He did not care for her thrusts. -“Tell your mummy,” he said, “that I’m a-comin’ -down to call. Kin you see my buttins? Do the -light strike ’em dere?” and he moved anxiously -nearer the hanging electric globe.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes,” said Airy, scornfully surveying the breast -of his coat, which was one mass of brass buttons; -“you look like the button drawer at Moses & -Brown’s turned upside down.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I sewed ’em on myself,” he went on, unheedingly. -“Young Mass’ Tite he guv me de buttins. -I guess they ben’t quite plumb, but I’ve got ’em.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I guess you have to work here,” she remarked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick groaned.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You won’t like that,” she went on, scornfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Like it, honey—Brick hates it like pison—but, -golly! de grub—dat’s what keeps dis niggah heah.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_221'>221</span>“You’ll get tired of it an’ run away,” she continued.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mebbe,” he said, with a yawn, “but look-y-there, -missie,” and he drew a crackling greenback from his -pocket and shook it in her face. “Mass’ Tite, he -call dat earnest money. Chile alive, Brick had one -pound chocolate drops yesterday, two pounds caramel -creams to-day, an’ he’s a-goin’ to have a bag -of jaw-breakers to-morrow, if he’s a spared nig. -Ice cream we gets at table.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ketch me givin’ my servants ice cream when I -have a house,” she said, disdainfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You’re goin’ to make a rattlin’ fine lady,” said -Brick, with a comical glance. “Don’t you come fo’ -me to work under yeh.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I wouldn’t have you,” she said; then, catching -sight of a new collar on Bylow, she asked, suddenly, -“Who give him that?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mass’ Tite, missie. When he begged fo’ to keep -me, Roblee, de ole man coachman, he was mad, an’ -I guess de Jedge was half mad. But Mass’ Tite, -he begged. ‘Well,’ says de Jedge, ‘de dog mus’ -go.’ ‘Grandfathah,’ says Mass’ Tite, ‘I’m a-goin’ -fo’ to make a gen’l’man of dat dere dog.’ Says de -Jedge, ‘Ye can’t do it.’ Says Mass’ Tite, ‘Gimme -a chance.’ So he go downtown, he buy dat fine -plated collah, he talk to de dog, he brush him, he -show him folks wid good cloes on; he says, ‘Don’ -go fo’ to be no tramp dog no longer;’ an’, ’pon my -honnah, dat dog, between de collah, an’ de talkin’, -an’ de showin’, an’ de brushin’, and de good grub, -an’ de warm room—why, he’s goin’ fo’ to be a -ruspectable dog.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_222'>222</span>Airy said nothing, but she looked interested, and -Brick went on with his vivacious play of hands, -mouth, eyes, teeth, and tongue.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ dat ole coachman, he’s a-comin’ roun’ to -like him. Jes’ wait till I tells yeh. Befo’ he come, -ole Roblee he miss his oats. Some one steal ’em. -He don’t know how. Says he, ‘De oat bin aint -nevvah open, only when I takes out oats fo’ de -hosses an’ de cow, an’ when I leaves it fo’ de man -who bring de oats to put ’em in. He’s as honest -as I be.’ Yisterday, says he to Bylow, ‘Dog, look -at dat oat bin. I’m a-goin’ to leave it open. Go -in dat dark corner an’ watch. Ef you’s any good as -watchdog you’ll ketch de thief.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy held out a finger to Bylow, who licked it -slightly, and Brick continued:</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I give Bylow a sign, an’ he went an’ lay down—didn’t -run after me no moah. Late in de afternoon, -when Roblee was a-drivin’ de Jedge, an’ I was in -de house smellin’ roun’ to see if I could get some -cookies what de girls was a-bakin’, I heard a hullabaloo -in de stable. I runned, an’ Bylow he was -a-rippin’ at de pants of de good man what brung -de oats.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That man that brung them?” replied Airy, in a -puzzled voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, missie, de good man knew when Roblee -was away, he brung ’em an’ he took ’em. He roared -an’ he prayed, but Bylow went on a-rippin’, an’ I -led him in dis harness room an’ locked de door, an’ -me an’ Bylow set outside, an’ when de Jedge come -he interviewed the crimminel. Says he, ‘What you -bin stealin’ my oats fo’?’ Says de man, ‘I works -<span class='pageno' id='Page_223'>223</span>hard an’ I’m only half paid, an’ I’ve got a sick chile -at home a-dyin’ fer want of oranges an’ grapes, an’ -I hevn’t got no money fo’ to buy ’em. Jedge, if -you hev me ‘rested, it’ll kill her.’ Says de Jedge, -‘You ought to ’a’ thought of yer daughtah befoh. -Come in de house wid me,’ an’ he took him in. -In ten minutes I see de man a-comin’ out of de house -wid a bag of some knubby things undah one arm—they -mought ’a’ bin petetters, they mought ’a’ bin -oranges—an’ undah de oddah he had one of Mis’ -Blodgett’s lemon pies, ’cause I see de marangue -from it stickin’ to de paper, an’ he had oddah groceries, -an’ he was cryin’, and he hadn’t no hand to -get his hankersniff, so I followed on behin’ wid -Bylow, an’ when we got out o’ sight of de house, -an’ in sight of his cyart wid de waitin’ hoss, I says, -‘Boss, shall I give yer a lend of my hankersniff?’ -Says he, ‘Quit yer foolin’, ye sassy black imp,’ an’ -he begun to gathah up his lines. Says he, ‘Ye’ve -got a good place heah. I advise you to stick to it,’ -an’ then he druv away, an’ I aint heard no talk of -no policeman.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-bye,” said Airy, abruptly, “I’m a-goin’ in -to see the Jedge,” and she went slowly down the -way she had come, and, going round to the front -of the house, rang the bell.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was expecting her this evening, and -Jennie, having been warned, made no protest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany had gone to bed. She remembered quite -well the evening that Airy was to return, and she -could hardly wait to finish her dinner before retiring -to her room. The Judge smiled broadly at her -haste. She did not like Airy.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_224'>224</span>He put down his book when the young Tingsby -girl entered the room, then he took off his glasses -and surveyed her in silence. He was shocked by -her appearance. She was always thin and delicate, -but to-night there were dark rings under her eyes, -and her manner was subdued and languid. However, -her indomitable spirit shone forth from her -black eyes, and the Judge calmly returned her salutation, -and asked her how she was getting on.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“All right,” she said, coolly, “but I’ve been studyin’ -all night an’ all day.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That is a foolish proceeding,” he remarked, -warmly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“There’s such a heap to learn,” she said, wearily. -“Seems as if I can’t ever ketch up to it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“One thing at a time,” said the Judge. “You -are young yet, and, I hope, have many years before -you. But you must not sit up at night.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Be I improved?” she asked, unheedingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes,” he replied, promptly. “You have remembered -your lesson. You came in quietly. Your -voice is low, but you really look too ill to talk this -evening. I will just tell you something I have been -doing and then send you downstairs to have something -to eat and get one of the maids to go home -with you. I don’t want you to come here any more -in the evenings. Little girls should not be running -the streets then. Come to see me in the afternoon, -if you wish.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Nothin’ would hurt me,” she said, peevishly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge got up and went to the mantelpiece. -“Can you read writing?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, if it aint too scrawly.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_225'>225</span>“Well, here is a letter that I have written to your -mother. I want you to read it, then to take it to -her. Perhaps I would better read it to you,” and -he sat down again.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy languidly dropped her head against the -cushions of her chair and listened to him attentively -enough at first, then eagerly, and at last with a -strained, frantic interest.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_226'>226</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XIX<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Dallas Takes a Hand at Management</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>“Mrs. Tingsby, Dear Madam,” began the -Judge, in his clear, rounded voice, “Some time ago -I went to see a real estate agent in this city, and -told him I wanted to invest a certain sum of money -in house property. He has bought several houses -for me; among them is one cottage situated on the -Cloverdale electric railway line. It is only four -miles from the post office, so one can easily get into -the city from it. The cottage has eight rooms; it -is heated by a furnace, there are hot and cold-water -pipes, and it has a small stable where a cow could -be kept. The outlook is sunny, and the situation is -not lonely, for there are other houses about sixty -feet away. There is also a good school a quarter -of a mile from the cottage. I have as yet no tenant -for this cottage, and if you can pay the rent, which -is one dollar a month, or twelve dollars a year, I -think you should, in justice to your children, at once -take possession of it. I must not forget to say that -I greatly desire to say that whoever takes the cottage -should consent to receive as a boarder an old -servant of mine—a washerwoman. She is in poor -health, and requires some waiting on. Her board, -therefore, will be liberal. I am prepared to offer -<span class='pageno' id='Page_227'>227</span>you for her twelve dollars a week. Let me hear -from you at your earliest convenience.</p> - -<div class='lg-container-r'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>“Yours very truly,</div> - <div class='line in12'>“<span class='sc'>Titus Sancroft</span>.”</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<p class='c011'>There was a dead silence after the Judge had -finished reading the letter. He folded it, put it back -in the envelope, then looked at Airy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her eyes were fixed, and she was staring -strangely at him. At last her jaws moved feebly. -It seemed as if she were trying them to see if she -could utter a sentence.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Be that true?” she gasped, in a hoarse voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, child, quite true.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Every word of it—house rent twelve dollars a -year?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, the pity of it,” and the Judge stifled a groan. -At her age, to be so keenly, so terribly alive to the -value of a dollar.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“House rent, twelve dollars,” he said.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“House rent, twelve dollars,” she repeated, mechanically, -“and boarder’s pay twelve dollars, too. -Only one is by the year, and one by the week,” and -opening her mouth she began to laugh in a shrill, -mechanical voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She started low, but she soon got high, and the -Judge was beginning to stir uneasily in his chair, -when, to his dismay, the laugh ended abruptly and -a scream began. It was not an ordinary scream, it -was an hysterical screech, and the alarmed man -sprang from his seat.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy had thrown herself back in her chair, her -mouth was wide open, her eyes were staring and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_228'>228</span>glassy. “O!” The man put his hands to his ears. -It seemed to him that nothing in his life had ever -struck such sudden dismay to his heart. He had -seen women in hysterics, but this childish yelling -was a thousand times worse. Where were the boys -and the servants? He could not bear to touch the -unfortunate young creature, and he turned helplessly -to the door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus and Dallas were rushing in from the room -across the hall. When Titus saw Airy he fell back. -He had something of his grandfather’s repugnance -to her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas, however, was not dismayed. He took in -the situation at a glance, and saying to Titus, “You -had better shut the windows,” he calmly took off -his coat and threw it over Airy’s head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>At the close of the day the big furnace in the -basement was apt to make the house very warm, -and windows were freely left open. Titus ran -about this second floor, hastily closing them, while -the servants came running to the study to see what -was the matter.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Take her away,” said the Judge, hastily; “let -the women have her. I think she is half starved. -Give her something to eat, and let her go home.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy’s voice was muffled now, but it was still holding -forth, and in addition she had begun to kick.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas took up the lean little body in his strong -young arms and bore it across the hall to the sitting -room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come in here,” he said to the wave of maids on -the staircase, and followed by Mrs. Blodgett this -wave overflowed into the sitting room.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_229'>229</span>“I excited her—I will stay here,” said the Judge, -with an approving gesture, and he backed into his -study and closed the door. “Take good care of her,” -he called once more, opening the door, “and send -her home when she is better.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus returned into a corner of the sitting room, -and Dallas became master of ceremonies.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ve seen women like this in boarding houses,” -he observed, reassuringly, to Titus. Then he said, -“Some cold water, Jennie, to sprinkle on her face.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The water was dashed on her, her hands were -rubbed, and presently the exhausted girl sat up and -shut her mouth.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Will you be kind enough to have some hot soup, -or something of the sort, prepared for her,” said -Dallas to Mrs. Blodgett, “and make the maids go -away. There are too many people in the room.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Blodgett drove everybody out except Titus. -However, he soon slipped away, and she and Dallas -were alone with the little girl.</p> - -<p class='c011'>They said nothing to her, and Airy, curled up on -a sofa, panted and sobbed in a suppressed way, until -Jennie appeared with the soup.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then she protested. “Take it away. I aint got -no feelin’ for it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Drink it,” said Dallas, quietly, and he held the -bowl to her lips.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She had to take it, though in the effort a violent -perspiration broke out all over her weak little body.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas made her drink every drop of it, then he -sat quietly staring at her. Mrs. Blodgett took the -bowl and waddled away, promising to return in a -short time.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_230'>230</span>Airy nervously plucked at the sofa cushions, until -Dallas asked her a question.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why did you shock the Judge by screaming in -that way?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“’Cause he’s such a wonder,” she said, weakly, -“he’s such an understandin’ merracle of a man.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What has he done?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He’s give us a farm—a greenery place outside -the city.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O!” said Dallas, quietly, “a place for your -mother to take the children?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What did you come here to-night for?” asked -the boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I come for to take a lesson in bein’ a lady.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Does the Judge teach you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas pondered a few minutes, then he said, half -to himself, “I wonder if he enjoys it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, he don’t,” said Airy, frankly. “He don’t, but -what kin I do. I’ve got to learn how to be a lady.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll speak to the Judge,” said Dallas, calmly. “I -think I could give you lessons. It’s a shame to -bother a man of his age.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy’s eyes sparkled faintly. This polite boy -could teach her as well as the Judge could. However, -she felt too exhausted to discuss the matter, -and sat quietly on the sofa.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll come to you,” said Dallas; “you’re not -strong enough to come here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I likes it,” she said, faintly; “I likes this house.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, perhaps when you are stronger,” he said, -decidedly. “Just now, you look as if you ought not -<span class='pageno' id='Page_231'>231</span>to leave your own rooftree. I’ll come and teach -you several days a week after school is over. I -suppose you’ll be moving soon, if the Judge has -given you a house?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You bet we will,” she said, faintly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And now,” he went on, “I am going to have a -carriage sent for, and one of the maids will go -home with you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’m not worth it,” said Airy, but she was delighted, -he could tell by her wan smile.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Ten minutes later Dallas stood at the front door -watching the disappearing lights of the cab that -bore the poor child away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Then he went upstairs to the Judge’s study.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” he said, “if you will allow me, I should -like to help that little girl get an education.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>His patron looked at him benevolently. “But -you have not the time, Dallas.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, I could teach her any day after school.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge reflected a few minutes. Perhaps it -would be better for the little girl to have a younger -instructor. Then it would be a chance for self-sacrifice -on the part of Dallas.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You sympathize with her aspirations?” he said, -inquiringly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ve been there, sir,” replied Dallas, warmly. -“I have been poor and despised, and I have longed -to get an education.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well, I make my charge over to you. If -you get tired, hand her back to me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I won’t get tired,” said the boy, firmly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She wants nourishing food,” said the Judge, -“more than anything else. I shall give orders to -<span class='pageno' id='Page_232'>232</span>have something sent to her every day from our -table.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas said good-night to him and went away, -and the Judge thoughtfully picked up his book.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I wonder what he will make of her—poor little -soul, she looks as if she were going to die.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Until he went to bed Airy was in his thoughts. -Poor little ailing creature, he hoped that she would -gain strength. It was sad to have so much ambition -bound up in such a fragile body. He was glad -that he had done something to enable her mother to -move away from narrow, dirty River Street.</p> - -<p class='c011'>During the night he dreamed of the Tingsbys, and -when he awoke in the morning they were still before -him. Therefore, when he went out into the hall -and looked out the window, as he usually did before -he went down to breakfast, he was hardly surprised -to see the whole Tingsby family, except Airy, seated -on the long flight of steps leading up to his front -door. He stared at them, then he went slowly -downstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby was sitting on one of the hall chairs. He -got up when he saw his employer, and slightly backing, -as he always did when speaking to the Judge, -said, “Th-th-there’s a whole f-f-family campin’ out -on the s-s-steps, sir. They wouldn’t c-c-come in.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge patiently put on a hat and opened the -door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“’Tention,” he heard in Mrs. Tingsby’s voice as -he stepped out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good morning,” he said, politely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She went on, without apparently noticing him: -“Up, little Tingsbys!”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_233'>233</span>“Seems to be a kind of drill,” murmured the -Judge to himself. “Well, if it pleases them and -doesn’t last too long I won’t complain. I wonder -how many of my neighbors are up?” and he calmly -scanned the windows of the house next door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Two maids were behind the curtains. The Tingsbys -evidently amused them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby had been holding the baby in her -arms when the Judge arrived. Now he stood on -his own young feet, and with admirable intelligence -was taking his part in the maneuvers.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hands out, Tingsbys!” said the little woman.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Every Tingsby child stretched out its arms—Dobbie, -Gibb, Goldie, Rodd, and Annie.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mitts off!” commanded the mother.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Every child bared his or her hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby turned to the Judge. “See them -finger nails, sir. Every one of ’em to be worked -off for you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge shivered slightly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“In case you needs it,” she continued, with emphasis. -“Now, children, your catechism. Question -one: Who came down like a sheep to the fold -and swooped little Bethany away to a lovely home?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Five young voices gave an answer to the chilly -morning wind sweeping by, “The Jedge.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who’s been a good shepherd to Sister Airy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Again the shrill voices answered, “The Jedge!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who’s guv, or almost guv, us a lovely green -house out in the country, which our eyes have all -seen this blessed mornin’—guv to the Tingsbys?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The Jedge!” shouted the children, excitedly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ now who’s goin’ to love the Jedge, an’ work -<span class='pageno' id='Page_234'>234</span>for the Jedge, an’ praise the Jedge, an’ copy the -Jedge?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“We be!” they yelled, excitedly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I am quite satisfied with this exhibition of gratitude,” -said the Judge, trying to speak very distinctly, -“quite satisfied.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tingsby beamed on him. “Sir, your humble -servant. If ever I hears anyone say a word agin -you I’ll tear out his hair, an’ scratch out his eyes, -an’—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge waved his hand at her. There was no -use in speaking, for she did not understand a word -he said. However, she would know what that prohibitory -gesture meant. Ordinarily, she was a sensible -woman. Just now she seemed to be in a strange -state of exaltation, brought on, no doubt, by the -prospect of being able to take her progeny to the -country. In short, she was getting silly, and would -better go home.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Will you come in and have some breakfast?” -asked the Judge, motioning hospitably toward the -open door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” she said, grandly, “I knows my duty. -Never a Tingsby but Airy’ll enter your front door, -nor back door, nuther. But we’ll process up an’ -have a look at the stable an’ Brick, bein’ as we’re all -together,” and with a solemn curtsy of farewell -she swept her brood off the front steps and round -the corner of the house toward the stable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Higby,” said the Judge, entering the hall, “go -quickly to the stable with a basket of doughnuts -and the supply of coffee for breakfast. Tell cook to -make fresh for me.”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_235'>235</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XX<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Cat Man and the Judge’s Family</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Late one afternoon Barry Mafferty, the cat man, -left the island out in the river where he kept his -handsome cats for sale, and quickly rowed himself -toward the city.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The winter was passing away, the spring was -coming. There was a feeling in the air. Barry -could not describe it, as fluent as he was in the use -of words.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The feeling was not a warm feeling, for the air -was still chilly. Perhaps it was not a feeling, but -a look—a look as of a departing, reluctant season. -Barry did not know.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Anyhow,” he murmured to himself, “the cold -days are going, the warm ones are coming. Something -tells me, something turns my thoughts to -green grass and running water, to gardens and -flowers—it is faith.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He looked over his shoulder toward the city. -“Just a good size,” he murmured, “not small enough -to be stupid, and not large enough to be oppressive. -Looks well this evening, too—enveloped in that red, -smoky haze.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>In a short time he was abreast of the fish market. -The old caretaker there always took charge of his -boat when he came to the city.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Barry sprang on the slimy stone steps leading up -to the wharf, tied his boat up, looked irritably over -<span class='pageno' id='Page_236'>236</span>his shoulder at the deaf old caretaker, who was -shouting his name and a greeting to him, then went -quickly up to the little cabin near the big fish market.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was not quite dark yet; he would not go up -to the city until it was.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The present caretaker and ex-fisherman followed -him into the cabin.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What’s your hurry? You spun by me like a -flying fish.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I want to sit down; I’m tired,” said Barry, flinging -his cap on the table.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did ye row standin’?” roared the old man.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, I didn’t,” observed Barry, mildly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What’s the news on the island?” inquired the old -fisherman, sitting down before his guest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What kind of news would I be likely to have but -cat news?” inquired Barry, sarcastically.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, give us your cat news. I see the Mayor’s -steam launch goin’ out to yer island yesterday. Was -he wantin’ cats fer his lady?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, he did buy one,” said Mafferty.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hey?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He bought one—or, rather, he sent his man for -one—a white Angora with blue eyes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ how much would ye get fer such a beast?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Twenty dollars.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Twenty dollars!” echoed the caretaker, in disgust, -“an’ I drowns ’em by the bagful.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You don’t drown Angoras.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who said I did? I drowns common cats, gray -cats, tabby cats, yellow cats, an’ all kinds of cats.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How much do you get for it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ten cents apiece.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_237'>237</span>“Do you drown them here?” asked Barry.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes; do you s’pose I’d navigate ’em out to the -Atlantic?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And the lobster pens are close by,” observed -Barry; “disgusting!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man shrugged his shoulders.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You’ll soon have that source of income cut off,” -continued Barry.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What’ll be cut off?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Your cat money. Law! how deaf the old creature -is! The city is goin to have a gas box.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ what kind of a union is there between the -city, an’ gas, an’ cats?” inquired the old man, in -quiet exasperation.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Union and disunion. In future anyone having a -cat to destroy can take it to the City Hall. They’ve -given a big room to the S. P. C. You deliver your -sick cat, or your old cat, or your superfluous cat, -and a man puts her in a big box with a juicy piece -of meat. The gas is turned on, pussy eats her meat, -gets sleepy, lies down, and dies.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old fisherman pounded the table with his fist. -“An’ who’s at the bottom of that hugger-mugger -business?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Tom Everest.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I might ’a’ known it—I might ’a’ guessed. Takin’ -the bread out of the mouth of an honest man.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How about the demoralizing effect on children, -of screaming cats dragged through the city in -bags?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Screaming fish tails! It don’t hurt ’em.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How would you like to be the cat?” asked Barry, -slyly.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_238'>238</span>“She’s always interferin’,” said the old man, passionately; -“she’s always stickin’ her little nose into -every man’s business.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who runs to help me when I’m ill?” inquired -Barry, mischievously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man showed his teeth at him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who always pays my doctor’s bill?” pursued -Barry, in his clear voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ve jined a benevolent society,” shouted the -old man; “she aint a-goin’ to coddle me any more.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What about your grandchild?” said Barry. -“What about that imp Cracker that no one else can -manage?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man’s head sank, and he looked thoughtful.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How many times has she saved him from the -police court? Old Cracker, you are an ungrateful -wretch. Come now, aint you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The poor old fellow’s head sank lower. His young -grandchild was all he had in the world. “I believe -I be,” he said, slowly. “I believe I be.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Barry looked out the window. “’Most dark; I -can be going. Seen any strangers about, Cracker, -senior?” he asked, as he turned his coat collar well -up about his ears and pulled his cap down over his -eyes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, no—no strangers, only fish,” replied the -caretaker; “only fish, fish, fish,” and Barry left him -mumbling to himself.</p> - -<p class='c011'>With a quick, alert step the dark-featured, middle-aged -man left River Street, went up one of the -slightly ascending side streets that led to Broadway, -quickly crossed the brilliantly lighted and crowded -<span class='pageno' id='Page_239'>239</span>thoroughfare, and struck into a succession of quiet -streets that finally led him to Grand Avenue.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Little by little the appearance of the houses had -improved, until here on Grand Avenue he found -himself among mansions.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Arrived near Judge Sancroft’s house, he walked -more slowly, then suddenly he turned, and retracing -his steps walked up the driveway leading to the -stable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His keen eyes scrutinized every window of the -house. Here and there one was open. “They all -like fresh air,” he murmured. Under one open window -he paused. He could hear the sound of voices. -Dallas was speaking—Dallas the clever English boy -that the Judge had adopted—and he was scolding -Bethany, dear little Bethany.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Barry’s face softened. He was very much attached -to that child. Ever since he had known her -she had been sweet and gentle with him—first at -Mrs. Tingsby’s, and now when he occasionally saw -her with the Judge. Dear little Bethany—the only -little girl he knew in Riverport that he cared much -about, except poor Airy, and his face softened still -further. What was Dallas worrying her about?</p> - -<p class='c011'>They seemed to be standing by one of the open -parlor windows. “Bethany,” Dallas was saying, -severely, “I have brought you in here to scold you. -I think you are a selfish little girl.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t feel selfish,” remarked Bethany, whimperingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, you act so. I consider you the most selfish -person in this household. Everyone in the family -has got into the way of pleasing you from morning -<span class='pageno' id='Page_240'>240</span>till night, and it is having a bad effect on you. I -consider that you treated Airy very shabbily this -afternoon.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I didn’t do anything,” said Bethany, resentfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That is just it—you didn’t do anything. Now, -you know as well as I do that for weeks I have been -teaching Airy, and that she has improved immensely—just -immensely. She called this afternoon, and -naturally I was anxious to show her off to the -Judge. I took pains to have her meet you when you -came from school, and what did you do?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You didn’t tell me what to do?” said Bethany, -irritably.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Didn’t tell you? Of course not. I hoped that -your own kind heart would tell you. You saw that -Airy was dying to play with you. Why didn’t you -invite her to stay?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany burst out with an intense remark, “I -don’t like Airy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Neither do I, but is that an excuse? Suppose I -stopped teaching her because I did not like her?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’m going to tell Daddy Grandpa how you are -scolding me,” remarked Bethany, plaintively.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I am delighted to hear it. His calm, judicial -mind will decide between us. I just wanted him to -know, but I wouldn’t go to him, because I hate to -carry tales. And now you may go, Miss Selfishness. -My interview with you is over.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Barry, under the window, laughed to himself, -then listened as he heard the Judge’s kind voice: -“Children, what are you sparring about here in this -lonely room?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, Daddy Grandpa,” exclaimed Bethany—and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_241'>241</span>Barry could imagine her running to throw herself -into the arms of her adopted grandfather, “am I a -selfish creature?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s clear tones floated out the window, -“Certainly—we all are.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But Dallas says I am just un—un—it begins -with ‘un’ and ends with ‘able.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So we all are,” said the Judge; “so we all are.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But he says I’ve been very hateful to Airy, Daddy -Grandpa.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So have we all been,” said the Judge, cheerily, -“so have we all been. She is longing to come here. -She meets me in the street, and she throws out hints. -Dallas, invite your pupil to visit us any hour of any -day, or to any meal. She does you credit.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Barry could hear the boy’s deeply gratified -“Thank you, sir,” then the voices were hushed for -him, for the Judge said, “Please close that window, -my boy. Bethany’s frock is thin.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>With a smile Barry went on his way to the stable. -The lights were out here, everything was quiet, but -he saw a glimmer from Brick’s room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hello!” he called, and he threw a handful of -gravel against the window. “Brick, ahoy!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick ran up the blind, opened the window, and -thrust out a cautious head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dat you, Mistah Mafferty?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, Brick; come down and let me in.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The colored boy ran nimbly down the stairs, -pressed a button, and lighting up the lower part of -the stable ushered his friend in.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come up to your room,” said Barry, commandingly, -and he strode ahead of the lad. Brick, grinning -<span class='pageno' id='Page_242'>242</span>from ear to ear at the honor conferred upon -him—for this was the second time that Barry had -visited him within a week—followed close at his -heels.</p> - -<p class='c011'>When they got into his snug little bedroom Barry -sat down and looked about him. Brick was in the -act of changing his clothes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What are you dressing up for, this time of -night?” inquired Barry, suspiciously. “You ought -to be going to bed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I aint dressin’ up; I’se dressing down,” giggled -Brick. “I’se goin’ fo’ a walk, mistah, an’ I didn’ -want fo’ to soil my buttins,” and he glanced lovingly -at the bespangled garment of the bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where are you going?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Down to River Street. I’se pinin’ to see my ole -friens. Me an’ Bylow’s not been down fo’ about -a thousan’ meal times,” and he gave a push with -his foot toward the plump sleeping dog.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He don’t want to go,” observed Barry, dryly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I guess you’re right, mistah. I guess Bylow be -jus’ as much glorified to stay to hum, but, bless you, -Brick don’ care,” and he thrust his arms into a -shabby coat that he took from a hook on the wall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How many coats have you without buttons?” -asked Barry, curiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dere’s dis fellow,” said Brick, laying his hand -on his chest, “an’ dat fellow,” and he brought one -from the closet, “an’ de odder fellow,” and he -pointed to one that Bylow lay on.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Let’s see them all lying on the bed together,” -said Barry, in an infantile way.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick laughed in silly glee. It was delightful to -<span class='pageno' id='Page_243'>243</span>see this fine gentleman—for such the cat man was to -him—taking such an interest in his wardrobe. He -stripped off the coat he had on, brought another -from the closet, pulled the one out from under the -protesting Bylow, and laid them on the bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And how many coats have you with buttons?” -asked Barry.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Only two, mistah; de fust best an’ de second -best.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Barry calmly rolled the three buttonless coats together -and put them under his arm.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Were you going to River Street to see anyone -in particular?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, mistah—jes’ thought I’d sauntah roun’. -Mebbe call on Mis’ Tingsby; but, law me, dis niggah -furgits. She aint dah. She’s moved to de lubley -green country.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Brick,” said Barry, seriously, “you are happy -here?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick made a face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, excuse me,” continued Barry, “I forgot. Of -course you are not happy. You long for the old free -life—for dirt and rags, and an empty stomach, for -kicks instead of thanks.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick hung his head. He had sense enough to -know when he was being laughed at.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sure enough, mistah,” he said, “de meals dey -didn’t come reglah in dose days. Dey played -chase.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And the dirty, low people. How you must have -enjoyed living with them. And the tramp, your -master—what a sweet creature!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He used to wallop Brick awful,” and the boy -<span class='pageno' id='Page_244'>244</span>ruefully rubbed his shoulder. “I’se glad I runned -away from him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now, look here, Brick,” said Barry, roughly, -“I think you are a fool. You’ve got a snug berth -here. Just as sure as you go monkeying round -River Street you’ll lose it. What did I tell you two -days ago?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You tole me to stay in de house at night and let -de dog loose in de yahd, and not to take up wid -strangers.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And you’re doing all that, aren’t you?” said -Barry, sarcastically.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick stared earnestly at him for a few seconds, -then he said, “Mistah, dere aint one thing Brick cries -fo’, but one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what is that, you goose?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He can’t do what he likes,” said the boy, seriously. -“Now, Brick, he always likes his own way. -An’ his own way aint Roblee way, nor Jedge way, -nor Mastah Titus way, nor Mistah Mafferty way.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You idiot! Who does get his own way in the -world?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“De tramp,” said Brick, solemnly, “he do.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Does he?” said Barry, “does he? Who is the -tramp always afraid of?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He aint afraid of no one but hissef.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He is. Think now. Search that crack-brained -memory of yours.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you mean the p’lice?” asked Brick, and from -his slightly open mouth Barry caught a gleam of -pink gums and white ivory.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Of course I do. He’s mortally afraid of -him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_245'>245</span>“Dat’s true, dat’s true,” and Brick burst into a -guffaw of laughter. “De p’liceman comes, de tramp -runs, if he aint squared him, an’ it takes lots of cash -to square de whole p’lice of dis here country.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t you leave this place,” said Barry, warningly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mistah,” said the boy, and his grin vanished, -“dere’s two Bricks. One Brick he say, ‘Boy, don’ -you get out o’ smell o’ dose fleshpots in de Jedge’s -kitchen.’ De odder Brick he say, ‘Run, boy, run—dere’s -fun in de city—run, boy, run.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s the button boy that says stay, isn’t it?” inquired -Barry, with a glance at Brick’s official -garments on the bed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sah; dose buttons is anchors. Brick can’t -run wid dem. Dey is ruspectability.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then you’ll have to stay,” said Barry, getting -up and moving toward the door, “for I’m going to -carry off your plain clothes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick followed him anxiously. “Mistah, you don’ -lay out fo’ to take away po’ Brick’s wardrobe?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I do lay out for to do that very thing, and -if you say a word to anyone about it I’ll give you -such a walloping that you won’t be able to stand -up for a week.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ Brick can’t go anywhere widout dem buttins,” -said the boy, sadly looking at his glistening -coat on the bed. “Ef he ’pears in River Street dey’ll -say, ‘Heah comes de Jedge’s boy.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If you appear in River Street in that coat,” said -Barry, firmly, “I’ll tell you what will happen. I’m -going to see Git McGlory to-night. You know -Git?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_246'>246</span>“Know his fisties,” said Brick, meekly. “De’re -like little potato barrels.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, I’m going to tell Git that I’m interested in -a certain colored boy called Brick that he knows -well. I’m going to say, ‘Git, if you see that boy on -River Street just you shake your fists at him, and -send him home. He’s got a good home, and I don’t -mean he shall leave it.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick shuddered. “Mistah, aint I evah goin’ to -git my cloes back?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, if you behave yourself; but mind, I’m -watching you. If you cut one button off your -coats, or if you go in one place where you’d be -ashamed to have the Judge see you, I’ll be on your -track. Mind that now,” and with a determined -shake of his head he opened the door to go -out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“By the way,” he said, sticking his head inside -the room again, “have you seen anything more of -that stranger who came here the other evening -inquiring for the Brown’s coachman?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No,” said the boy, seriously, “I aint.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Would you know him if you saw him in broad -daylight?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sah.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, don’t you have anything to do with him,” -said Barry, somewhat unreasonably, and he went -away.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Left alone, Brick stood quietly in the middle of -the floor for a few minutes. Then he began to -shudder, at first in pretense, then in reality. Then -he said a number of charms. Not all the churchgoing -and Sunday school teaching that he had had -<span class='pageno' id='Page_247'>247</span>could shake his faith in them. Finally he jumped -into bed with all his clothes on, and repeating, -“Snake hiss, and toad turn, water bless me ere I -burn!” he called Bylow the dog to lie closer under -the bed, then drawing the blanket over his head -shiveringly tried to go to sleep.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_248'>248</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XXI<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Mafferty Unfolds a Plot</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Mrs. Tom Everest was putting her baby to bed. -Surely there never was such a provoking baby. He -laughed, and played, and gurgled in his throat, he -caught her hands in his own, he tried to bite his -toes, he lapped at a little black bag she wore on her -belt; in short, he was so naughty that at last she -said seriously, “Baby, if you don’t lie down mother -will slap your hannies.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>At this he shouted with laughter. He clapped his -offending hands, he made a wild dash at her with -his mouth, then suddenly there was silence. He -was dead tired; all day he had been just as bad as -he could be. He was braving the old Sleep Man, -and now, in the twinkling of an eye, he had succumbed. -One tired yawn, one last exquisite baby -look of perfect trust in the young mother bending -over him, and Tom junior was off for Sleepy Town.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tom laid the downy head on the pillow, she -drew the coverlet over the pink limbs, she dropped -a kiss, light as thistle down, on the moist cheek. -How could she leave him, her one baby, her treasure, -and she was fussing over him in the unique way -that mothers have when there was a knock at the -door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What is it, Daisy?” she whispered, turning her -head.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_249'>249</span>“Mr. Mafferty, ma’am,” said the little maid; “in -the parlor. Wants to see you special.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tell him I will come at once,” and only waiting -to adjust a screen about baby’s tiny bed, young Mrs. -Everest tripped downstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How do you do, Barry?” she said, extending a -hand with a frank girlish smile, as she entered the -large, comfortable, but plainly furnished room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good evening,” he replied, gravely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You have something on your mind, Barry,” she -said, shrewdly. “Come, now, out with it to your -mother confessor.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He gave her a glance that partook largely of the -nature of adoration.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Seems like the other day,” he said, dreamily, -“that I was sauntering into this town a lazy, good-for-nothing, -despised tramp.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest smiled. “I have almost forgotten -that brown-faced man out by the iron works.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’ll never forget how you looked that day,” he -said, earnestly, “such a clean, sweet slip of a girl.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Four years ago, Barry,” she said, shaking her -head; “four years ago.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And I had the impudence to ask you for money,” -he went on, “and worse, to threaten you, and you -forgave me, and brought me in to town and gave me -shelter and food. May the Lord bless you for it!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I have my reward now,” she said, quietly. “You -don’t know what a pleasure it is to me to see you -living happily out on the island with your wife. She -is a good woman, Barry.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Too good for me,” he said, bitterly, “for I give -her lots of trouble yet.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_250'>250</span>“But, Barry, you are doing better.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I never was a criminal,” he said, seriously. -“Heaven forgive me for saying it, but I believe that -the real, genuine criminal rarely reforms. I was -and am a drunkard. It seems as if I can’t get rid -of the thirst.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Pray to God, Barry, and work hard yourself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, it’s all very well for you,” he said, with an -impatient shake of his head. “You have a fresh -heart and soul. Mine are old, and dull, and hard. -Intellectually I see things as clearly as ever, but -when it comes to feeling—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Barry,” she interrupted, gently, “you are too -hard on yourself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He clenched one hand and brought it down softly -on the other. “Mrs. Everest, keep the children innocent -and tender. That’s my thought about them. -Now I’ve come to speak to you to-night about what -I fear is a plot against a little child. There’s no -one near to hear us, is there?” and he looked fearfully -over his shoulder.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No one, Barry. You may speak freely.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He threw himself back in his chair with a sigh -of relief. “I’ve been under tension for the last two -days. Queer, isn’t it, what different kinds of people -there are in the world. Seems as if the Lord makes -some of us better than others. Now you live here in -this vile street like a lily growing out of mud. You -know the mud is here, but it doesn’t contaminate -you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Some one says that familiarity with vice is not -necessarily pollution,” murmured Mrs. Everest, -gently. “The lily regrets her environment, but her -<span class='pageno' id='Page_251'>251</span>roots running out and fresh soil introduced may -purify the mud.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The street is better than it used to be, fifty per -cent,” he said, “but I must get on with my story. -I hate to speak to you of the underworld, but it -exists. Even the children know it. Some persons -are bad and make their living off others. Now, as -I said before, I never was a criminal. In fact, I -was too low down for one, for I didn’t want to -work. But traveling about the country I used to -hear about famous sharpers. I was as dust under -their feet, but when I would get into a tramp’s -refuge of any kind I used to hear them talking of -this one and that who had distinguished himself in -the world of crime—you are listening, are you?” -and he peered forward to look at Mrs. Everest’s -face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, Barry, listening and interested, but the -light from that hall gas is not enough. I will light -the lamp on this table,” and she took off its glass -shade.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Once, in Boston,” continued Barry, when she -sat down again opposite him, “I had one of the -best-known all-round criminals in the country -pointed out to me. They said he could do anything, -and he was only a young fellow. I saw him -again later in the year in a small New Hampshire -town. He was running away from justice, and the -chase was getting hot. I recognized him, accosted -him, and helped him. He laid over a few days in a -shanty in the woods I was occupying, and proud -enough I was of the honor, though at the same time, -low-down tramp as I was, I had a kind of contempt -<span class='pageno' id='Page_252'>252</span>for him. But it was an honor to boast of having -been the host of Jim Smalley.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Poor Barry!” murmured Mrs. Everest, sympathetically.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now from that day till two days ago I have never -set eyes on him,” pursued Barry. “But I’ve seen -him on Grand Avenue. You know I took a liking -to Judge Sancroft, and when I come to the city my -feet always carry me up to take a turn round his -house. Well, the other day I was getting near. I -was plodding along by Saint Mark’s Church, when -suddenly I saw a man in front of me sauntering -along, smoking a cigarette.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Surely it wasn’t Smalley?” said Mrs. Everest, -excitedly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Wait a bit,” replied Barry, with a gratified smile -to think that he had aroused her interest. “I was -gazing at him as one will gaze at a fellow stroller, -when he quietly turned his head in the direction of -the Judge’s house. I felt something cold come over -me. It was Smalley.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just imagine!” exclaimed his companion.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Everest,” he said, earnestly, “I can’t tell -you how frightened I was and how glad. I felt as -if a snake had uprisen in my path, and I was glad -that I felt it was a snake. ‘Brace up, Barry,’ I said -to myself, ‘you’re getting good. Once upon a time -a meeting with the redoubtable Smalley would have -afforded you amusement. Now your one thought is -to get away from him.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good Barry!” said Mrs. Everest, approvingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My dear young lady,” continued Barry, “have -you ever heard that a caged bird will dash itself -<span class='pageno' id='Page_253'>253</span>against the bars of its prison when it sees an hereditary -enemy of its kind flying overhead?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No,” she replied, curiously; “why does it do it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Instinct, intuition. Now, I believe—indeed, -criminologists tell us—that an innocent child or a -good man or woman will often feel a strange, involuntary -dislike for an evil person, even when there is -no proof of evil apparent. Now, Smalley is rather -an artless-looking young man. He has not a vicious -face, and nothing that has happened for a long time -pleased me as much as my shrinking from him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest smiled sympathetically, and as a -sudden thought occurred to him he went on: “When -I spoke of the intuitive dislike of the innocent for -the guilty, just now, I was not thinking of myself, -but of you, or Bethany, for example. Alas! I am -only half reformed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But you are sufficiently reformed to hate Smalley -and his evil ways.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That I am,” he said, earnestly. “I hope that he -will be brought to confusion.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And repentance.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“From my heart—if it is possible; but I fear, -I fear!” and he shook his head sadly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I suppose your first thought was to run away -from him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It was, but my second was to discover if he had -any object in being in that neighborhood. He had—I -knew my man well. He gave careless glances -at the houses of the Judge’s neighbors. His look -at one hundred and ten was long, shrewd, and calculating. -‘There’s mischief afoot,’ I said to myself; -‘I wonder what it is.’ I didn’t want him to see -<span class='pageno' id='Page_254'>254</span>me, and yet if he had heard me coming I didn’t want -to stop. It was a raw, east-windy day, and as good -luck would have it I had on the fur-lined coat the -Judge sent me and the fur cap I found in the pocket -of it. I put up a hand, turned up my collar, pulled -down my cap, then I walked straight on. I thought -of stopping and taking a memorandum book out of -my pocket as if to consult it, but I didn’t. It might -have attracted Smalley’s attention—they say he has -an extra sense. Well, he walked on in front of me, -but I saw him give another look at the Judge’s -house. Some people don’t see anything in a look. -Smalley’s spoke volumes to me. He had some particular -reason for singling out number one hundred -and ten. Then, to confirm my suspicion, he gave -a sidelong glance up the driveway to the stable. He -was dying to go up there, but he didn’t like to.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How little he thought you were watching him!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, he hadn’t a suspicion of me. I had to pass -him, he was going so slowly. I felt him look me -all over.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And did he recognize you?” she inquired, breathlessly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not a bit of it. My flesh stopped crawling. I -was a relieved man. You see, my appearance was -so different from that of the dirty tramp he had -met, and then he would never expect to find me -wearing good clothes and walking on a swell avenue, -and finally he would never expect to meet me -at all—would never think of me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But, Barry,” said Mrs. Everest, wonderingly, -“suppose he had recognized you. What harm could -he do?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_255'>255</span>“No harm, but he could make it mighty uncomfortable -for me. If he had found out I was trying to -reform a word from him would have sent every -New England tramp this way to quarter themselves -on me, and if I refused to harbor them to make up -ugly stories about me. Lies are the breath of life -to trampdom.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, what happened? This is very interesting!” -she exclaimed, with her eyes shining. “Please -hurry on, Barry.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My! but you have a good heart,” the man said, -admiringly. “I am old enough to be your father, -but I always feel as if you were my mother.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Go on, go on,” she reiterated, in girlish impatience; -“don’t stop to analyze your feelings. You -can do that some other time. What else did Smalley -do?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He didn’t do anything more just then, and you -will think that up to this time he had done very -little to justify my suspicion of him. However, I -returned to the Judge’s after dark. Roblee had -gone to bed, but Brick, like all niggers, likes to sit -up late. Presently we heard a knocking below. I -told Brick to open the window and put his head out. -He said, ‘Who’s dere?’ and you know whose voice -replied.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Smalley’s,” she returned, promptly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, Smalley’s. He asked, as smooth as silk, -‘Is Thomas in?’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘What Thomas is dat?’ asked Brick.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘Thomas the coachman,’ replied Smalley.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I gave Brick a pull. ‘Brick,’ I said, ‘that’s a -bad fellow. Set Bylow on him.’</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_256'>256</span>“‘Isn’t this Mr. Brown’s?’ Smalley was inquiring -in guileless surprise.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘No, it aint Mistah Brown’s,’ replied Brick, ‘but -dis here dog’ll take you to Mistah Brown,’ and he -rattled downstairs with Bylow.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Smalley ran, and Bylow ran. I knew the dog -wouldn’t hurt him, but he did some ripping. When -he and Brick came back I pulled a piece of cloth -from between the dog’s jaws. I recognized it as a -sample of Smalley’s smart trousers. He wouldn’t -do any more reconnoitring round the Judge’s house -after dark.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest looked puzzled. “I don’t quite understand, -Barry.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Smalley wanted to see the back of the house -and to find out what kind of a watch was kept in the -stable, and if it would be easy to enter the Judge’s -house at night. I think Bylow informed him on -these questions. He came early in the evening, so -as not to risk his reputation by prowling round it -later. O, he is a clever scamp is Smalley. As soon -as we got rid of him I hurried down to the public -library. Now my fears were fulfilled. Smalley -had designs upon something or some one at one -hundred and ten. In the library I think I found the -clew to Smalley’s presence here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what was it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He looked round, then got up, went to the door, -and coming back again sat down and spoke in a -lower voice: “You don’t know little Bethany’s -origin?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, except that her mother was a lady.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, I do. Mrs. Tingsby was very much excited -<span class='pageno' id='Page_257'>257</span>at the time the Judge took her, and little by -little I got the whole story from her. Bethany’s -father was a scamp, a semi-criminal, or possibly a -whole one. He was of good stock, though. Her -mother was a Hittaker.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Of Hittaker’s soap?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The same. There were two Hittaker brothers. -One made money, the other didn’t. Bethany’s -grandfather was the unfortunate one. However, -his rich brother helped him during his lifetime. But -he wouldn’t help his children, who are now all dead. -The rich Hittaker is about as mean a man that ever -lived. He was only good to his own. Now, what -do you think I found in the New York papers?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Something about the Hittakers, of course,” replied -Mrs. Everest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just so. A week ago a terrible accident occurred -to old Hittaker’s daughter, her husband, and children. -His son-in-law came from Canada, and he -had taken his wife and children home on a visit. -They went sleighing; the ice was rotten on a river -or lake—I forget which—that they crossed, or, -rather, I believe it was an airhole they got into. To -tell the truth, I read the thing in such a hurry lest -Smalley should come upon me that I don’t remember -the details. Anyhow, they were all drowned—Hittaker’s -daughter, her husband, and children.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dreadful!” murmured Mrs. Everest, with a contraction -of her brows. “Who can understand sorrow -like that?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The papers all agreed in one thing,” continued -Barry, grimly, “that the old man was floored. You -see, he had staked all on his only child and her -<span class='pageno' id='Page_258'>258</span>children. Now they are taken from him, and he -has nothing left.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was silent for a few seconds, and Mrs. Everest -said, seriously, “What has this to do with Bethany?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why, don’t you see, the child is his heir or -heiress—sole heiress. The papers didn’t say anything -about her. They merely stated that Hittaker -was without other relatives. Now, as I figure it out, -Smalley or some of his gang read that account with -as much interest as I did. Some of them would -know about Smith—Bethany’s father—having married -Hittaker’s niece. I believe that on the strength -of the old man’s meanness they are counting on the -assurance that when he recovers from his knockdown -blow he will be likely to seek Bethany out -and leave his money to her rather than to -charity.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well!” said Mrs. Everest, in astonishment. -“Well, Barry Mafferty, you are a clever man.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Smalley is going to kidnap the little young one,” -he went on, positively, “as sure as fate, and hold -her for a ransom from the Judge and old Hittaker, -so I’ve come to you to talk about it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why didn’t you go to the Judge?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Barry wrinkled his forehead. “Upon my word, -I don’t know, unless it is that I don’t believe I could -bend him to my views as I think I can you and your -husband, for I want you to consult him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What do you think the Judge would do?” she -asked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He’s a very straightforward man,” said Barry, -thoughtfully. “He wouldn’t shilly-shally with fellows -<span class='pageno' id='Page_259'>259</span>like Smalley. He’d run him out of town. -Now, I’d like to catch him. There was a famous -child-kidnapping case some time ago in New York. -I believe Smalley was in it from something I read -at the time, and beside that I’ve heard of him as a -kidnapper. If we caught him red-handed now, this -capture might throw light on the former case. Anyhow, -I’d like to see Smalley shut up. It would be -for his good.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest’s face had got very red, and Barry, -seeing it, smiled in gratification. “I knew you would -be with me,” he went on, “in trying to catch him. -Anything about children appeals to you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest tried to speak, but could not. Her -voice was shaking with anger and emotion. “The -vile wretch!” she ejaculated at last. “I hope the -Lord will put some charity in my heart for him, but -now I am so angry, so angry! To steal a little one—a -mere baby!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” said Barry, reassuringly, “we mustn’t -be too hard on him. We’ve got to watch. But, -frankly, I must say that I never heard of Smalley -doing any good thing, and he’s mostly after big -game. Probably if he’s planning to take the child -he won’t do it himself. He’ll arrange everything, -then slip off and have confederates come. You see, -his face will get known in the city, and he might be -suspected. But I fancy the confederates will go -back on him and confess if we capture them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, what do you propose to do?” asked Mrs. -Everest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I propose selfishly to keep out of the way. Smalley -might possibly recognize me if he saw me, and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_260'>260</span>if he recognized me the whole thing would be up. -He’d know I would give him away.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“We could not warn Bethany.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, no, that would not be wise.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“We should keep the children from knowledge -of the evil in the world as long as possible,” continued -Mrs. Everest. “At the same time, I don’t -think it does any harm to tell any child to be careful -about talking to strangers or going with them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I wouldn’t say a word to her,” said Barry, emphatically.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What would you do?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I’d speak to the English boy; he’s had some -experience of the world. Tell him to keep a lookout -for strangers prowling about the house, but not to -be too watchful. And I’d warn the little girl’s -school-teacher. I guess about the only time of day -she’s alone is when she goes to and comes from -school. That’s the time of all she’s got to be -watched.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I know who’ll do that without attracting attention,” -said Mrs. Everest, promptly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who is it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Cracker, the ex-newspaper boy. He is so bad, -and has nothing to do, so I got him a bicycle. The -avenue is his favorite riding place.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good,” remarked Barry, in a low voice. “And -he’ll delight in watching some one worse than himself. -Can you trust him, though?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I have means to bind him, and he really -seems attached to me. I have him sleeping in this -house now. He was so dreadful that no one would -take him. His grandfather’s life was worried out -<span class='pageno' id='Page_261'>261</span>of him. He is on very good behavior now, for he -likes to be here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, try him, and now, to catch these fellows -red-handed, we’ve got to be mighty careful, for -they are as shy as wild ducks and as clever as foxes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hello!” said a hearty voice, “whom have you got -here, Berty? O, meow, meow, as baby says when -he sees Barry. How do you do, Mafferty?” and -Mrs. Everest’s happy-looking young husband strode -into the room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bonny is in the hall,” he said to his wife, “looking -for the best place to show off his fine new spring -hat—for spring is coming, Mafferty. Do the pussies -tell you that?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You know my brother Boniface,” said Mrs. -Everest, under her breath, to her caller. “Let us -tell him, too. He is very discreet.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Barry nodded, and presently the three young people -and the middle-aged man were all seated in a -corner of the parlor talking in low tones of the best -plan to be adopted to safeguard the rights of the -little child and to punish the guilty unfortunates -who wished to invade them.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_262'>262</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XXII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Judge Gets a Shock</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Princess Sukey stood severely staring at the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was in his favorite place—in his own study, -with his own dear books, in his own capacious armchair, -and with his door wide open for little Bethany’s -noon homecoming.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was not yet time for her to come, and to-day -she would be late, for she had warned “Daddy -Grandpa” that she must stay for a few minutes after -school to talk about a birthday party that one of -her schoolmates was about to give.</p> - -<p class='c011'>In the meantime the Judge, sitting comfortably -back in his chair, was occupied with his own -thoughts, and uncommonly lively thoughts they -were, judging by his face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeon stared still more severely. Being of -a serious disposition, she never approved of laughter—and -the Judge was laughing now.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was thinking of Airy. Her pranks amused -him immensely. The day before she had been invited -to dine with him. The Judge could see her -coming into the room, her mouth primly set, her -sharp eyes going to and fro. She did nothing spontaneously. -With slavish imitation she studied the -other children. She ate as Bethany did, she made -<span class='pageno' id='Page_263'>263</span>use of Dallas’s and Titus’s phrases, and if she had -not one of theirs at hand she kept silence.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Upon my word, Sukey,” said the Judge, mischievously, -to the pigeon, “I believe Airy is going -to make a lady of herself, after all. They say that a -faithful imitation is a good original. I foresee, -though, many lessons ahead for us. The little witch -has made up her mind to spend a good part of her -time in studying us. Well, we don’t care—we don’t -care,” and he laughed again.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It seems to me,” he said at last, taking off his -glasses and wiping them with his handkerchief, -“that I laugh far more over children than I used to. -I believe that as a young man I took my family too -seriously. Certain it is that I get more real amusement -and enjoyment out of the children of my adoption -than I did out of my own dear little ones. How -I wish I had them round me now!” and he sighed.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeon wrathfully shook herself. She wanted -no more children about. There were too many now -for her taste, and elevating her head she said, -sharply, a great many times, “Rookety cahoo! rookety -cahoo!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked at her. Her greenish-yellow -eyes were fixed on him with a steady glare. They -seemed to mesmerize him, and in two minutes the -Judge’s dear old white head was nodding.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was having forty winks before luncheon, but -during the forty winks he had time to dream. He -was facing a crowded courtroom, there was trouble -somewhere; he did not seem to know just what it -was. A great noise and confusion uprose. He tried -to speak, but could not, and in his distress he awoke.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_264'>264</span>When he went to sleep the room had been quiet, -the house was quiet, the street was quiet. Now the -noise in his dream seemed to have followed him into -real life—or did he fancy it? and he put up a hand -as if to stop the singing in his ears. He hoped he -was not getting deaf.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There certainly was a noise, a great noise abroad, -and it was not in his ears. He heard carriages in -the street and banging of doors, loud voices in the -hall below, and now there were persons rushing -upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was still slightly confused. He had a vision -of the pigeon listening, her hooded head on one -side, her body vibrating with anger, then a dozen -or more persons hurried into the room and invaded -his armchair.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge sat helplessly back and looked at them. -What was the matter?</p> - -<p class='c011'>Foremost among the newcomers was young Mrs. -Everest, her face like a poppy, the plumes of her big -hat nodding against his white head as she bent over -him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was almost screaming, she was so excited. -“You dear old man, I’ve always wanted to kiss you, -and I’m going to do so now.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled feebly. Did she, too, want to -be adopted? He made no resistance, but he certainly -made no response as her affectionate arms -were thrown round him and a kiss was sweetly -placed on his forehead.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was a congratulatory embrace, he felt that; -but what had he done, what had happened?</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Allow me to shake hands and felicitate you,” -<span class='pageno' id='Page_265'>265</span>said a second joyful voice, and Berty’s husband -seized and wrung his hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge struggled out of his chair. There -was Berty’s brother Boniface, there were several -young Everests, there were Charlie Brown, Titus, -Dallas, and some other boys that he did not know, -and what were those two young fellows doing with -notebooks? Reporters, of course. Oblivious of the -chatter and confusion about them they were rapidly -taking notes, their eyes going all round the room, -even to the top of the bookcase, where stood an indignant, -frightened pigeon looking down at this -invasion of her home.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge soon forgot the reporters. He was -just about to ask what he had done that he should -be written up for the press when his dismayed eyes -fell on a little creature somewhat in the background.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Who was that? If he were in his sane mind he -would say that it was Bethany dressed as a boy. -Her hair was cut short, she had on a boy’s suit of -clothes, and, astonishing to tell, she, quite oblivious -of the laughing and talking about her, was amusing -herself by playing horse on a chair that she had -overturned.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was astride it. “Gee up, horsie,” the Judge -heard her say, and she whipped and beat the chair -with her plump little palm.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge gazed helplessly at Mrs. Everest and -ejaculated, “Is she crazy?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Poor little dear,” said the young woman, indignantly, -“those wretches played on her lively imagination -and tried to transform her into a boy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_266'>266</span>“What wretches?” asked the Judge, feebly, but -Mrs. Everest had too little command of herself to -answer him. “There’s the Mayor,” she cried, “I -hear his voice,” and she ran out in the hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“More carriages!” one young Everest squealed, -and they, too, dashed out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tom Everest,” said the Judge, solemnly, to -Berty’s husband, “what is this all about?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” said Tom, absently, and the Judge -knew that he had not heard his question, for he -continued a lively conversation that he was having -with Boniface.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I tell you, Bonny, that you shan’t take all the -credit from our police force. It’s all very well for -those New York men to crow. They weren’t in it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They were, Tom,” replied Bonny, indignantly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stared. Boniface Gravely was a young -elegant who prided himself on his good manners. -What dispute had he come here in his study to -settle? He never had seen him out of temper before. -Now he was red and flushed, and looked as if -he could strike his brother-in-law.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge caught other phrases from other excited -ones. “The police—cab—driving fast—running -away—railway station—caught them in time.” -Something startling had evidently happened.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He put out one of his long arms and drew Titus -toward him. “Grandson, what is all this about?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-b-lest if I know,” said Titus, bluntly. “I -never saw such a mix-up in my life. The people -are just pouring into the house, and they’re all too -excited to explain. I tried to get hold of Dallas, -but he’s sparring over there in a corner with the -<span class='pageno' id='Page_267'>267</span>dirtiest little ragamuffin I ever saw. He’s called -Cracker, and I guess Dallas saw him stealing something.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You might keep your eyes open, Titus,” groaned -the Judge. “I never had such an irruption into my -house as this before.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-whatever it is, Bethany’s in it,” said Titus. -“I hear them talking about her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Can’t you get hold of her, Titus, and take those -clothes off?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus looked sharply at him. His grandfather’s -voice was almost childish. These people were driving -him distracted.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come out in the hall, grandfather,” he said, -taking him by the arm, “the air is cooler.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Law me,” he groaned, when they reached the -hall window, “look at the carriages dashing down -the avenue. The Brown-Gardners’ and the Darley-Jameses’, -and the Rector’s—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus,” called a sudden voice, “there’s a deputation -from your school coming. They’ve just telephoned. -Can you go down and receive them?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, I can’t,” growled Titus, “I’m going to stay -with grandfather. Go yourself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas raised himself on tiptoe and stared across -some heads at them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Anything I can do for the Judge?” he asked, -calling a halt in his excitement.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No,” responded Titus, “go on. I’ll stay with -him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A telephone message for Mr. Tom Everest,” -called a piercing voice. “His father wants him on -business at the iron works.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_268'>268</span>The Judge straightened his tall form and looked -in through the open door of his study. A strange -young man sat at his telephone desk. He was receiving -and giving messages, as if the house -belonged to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The Mayor to see the Judge, the Mayor, the -Mayor,” reiterated a number of voices, and a passage -was made between the people, who by this -time crowded the staircase and the upper hall.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus guided his grandfather to the big hall window -and threw it wide open.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mr. Jimson, the Mayor, was a medium-sized, -bluff, hearty man, for whom the Judge had great -respect. He was a man who made no pretensions -to elegance, but the Judge admired him for his -honesty. This was his second term as mayor. During -the first one he had threatened to resign on -account of corruption in civic affairs. He had been -urged to remain in office by all the best citizens of -the town, and owing to their efforts many reforms -had been effected.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Just now he was beaming on the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Congratulations!” he said, extending a hand -and heartily shaking the Judge’s. “I’m glad you -caught those fellows.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Thank you,” said the Judge, simply. He possessed -a certain kind of pride that would not allow -him to seek information from the chief official of -the city, even though he seemed the only one capable -of giving it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just look at the people swarming down the avenue,” -continued the Mayor. “I wish the people of -Riverport held me in such estimation. This your -<span class='pageno' id='Page_269'>269</span>grandson? How do you do, young sir? I’m pleased -to meet you,” and he shook hands with Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus was as proud as his grandfather, so he, too, -did not seek enlightenment.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Suddenly Mrs. Everest stood at the Judge’s side. -He did not know how she got there.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Worked my shoulders through the press,” she -said, gayly; “there’s an art in it. You turn one -blade, then the other, and they cut the crowd. Dear -Judge, the house is packed—not another one can -get in. They’re lining up on the sidewalk and the -middle of the street. Just see. You can’t shake -hands with all. You’ll have to make a speech.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>As if her thought had communicated itself to the -crowd, or, rather, perhaps, that the people on the -street had caught sight of the Judge’s white head, -there arose a sudden cry, “Speech! Speech!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked helplessly about him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The jam on the staircase, in the hall, and in the -study took up the cry, “Speech! Speech!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, brought to bay, turned rebukingly to -Mrs. Everest. “Speech! Speech! but what shall I -speechify about?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why, about this trouble—about your loss and—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Speak louder, I beg,” exclaimed the Judge, putting -his hand behind his ear and bending down to -catch her words. “There is such a roaring that I -can’t hear.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She put up her lips, and in a clear, flutelike voice -called out to him, “Exhort them to love their homes -and families, to keep them pure, to protect their -children. I think you’ll do best on general lines. -Don’t make personal references.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_270'>270</span>The Judge set his face. “I see,” he said, firmly, -“that is some kind of a complimentary demonstration, -but I am not the kind of man to talk about a -thing I do not understand. Tell me in a few words -what all this means.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty stared at him in amazement. “Has no one -told you?” she vociferated.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He shook his head. “No one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Kidnapers tried to steal Bethany,” she cried. -“We rescued her. The people are glad.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge understood. “Thank you,” he said, -gravely. Then he faced the crowd in the street.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was not a cold day, and the really soft spring -wind blew aside his white hair as he looked from -the window at his assembled and assembling citizens, -for others were yet arriving.</p> - -<p class='c011'>For just one instant he faltered. He was not a -public speaker, and he had never addressed a crowd -like this. He might have failed, or he might have -made a lame and halting speech, if it had not been -for the presence of a hand somewhat smaller than -his own.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus was standing by him, his own dear grandson -was watching him anxiously. The Judge -thought of him and of the other children of his -family. He would speak so that they might be -proud of him, and his voice rang out on the clear -noonday air: “My dear fellow citizens, I thank you -for this grand sympathetic gathering. In trouble -or in joy, the inhabitants of a city should stand -together. Stand by each other, and stand by your -families. We read in Holy Writ that God setteth -the solitary in families; also that ye shall not afflict -<span class='pageno' id='Page_271'>271</span>any widow or fatherless child. Now, a fatherless -child has been afflicted. Wicked men attempted to -lay hands upon her, but they were defeated.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>A burst of applause interrupted the Judge, and -with his blood tingling in his veins he went on with -the delivery of the best twenty-minute impromptu -speech that had ever been given in Riverport, so the -newspapers said next day.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The speech was not concluded with as much dignity -as it had been begun. It certainly had a more -affecting conclusion than beginning. The Judge -was just about to close. He was about to thank his -friends and acquaintances and well wishers for the -honor they had done him, when out of the profound -silence about him there arose a little cry—a -child’s cry.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany, happy at first in her play at riding a -horse, had soon become alarmed by the continued -influx of strangers. Some kind-hearted persons had -taken it upon themselves to comfort her, and for a -time had succeeded.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The child, however, wanted Daddy Grandpa, and -refused to be consoled for his absence. She did -not care if he were making a speech, and her wailing -cry grew louder and louder, until at last some -one had the happy thought of passing her out to the -Judge. She was lifted along from one set of strong -arms to another, until at last her little feet were on -the window sill beside the Judge, and her arms were -about his neck.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The close-cropped head was laid across his mouth. -He could not utter a word. The crowd understood -the little affectionate, frightened, childish embrace, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_272'>272</span>and a tremendous cheering and clapping broke -out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge fell back from the window, and the -Mayor stepped forward.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Three cheers for the Judge,” he said, waving -his hat in the air, “and then three cheers for the -children of Riverport.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The cheers were given with a will, and then the -crowd began to disperse.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus slipped up to Mrs. Everest. “Look here, -Mrs. Berty, send all these folks out of the house. I -can’t, as I’m under my own roof. It’s too much -for grandfather.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Very well,” she said, nodding her black head. -“I’ll just let a few stay.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t you let anyone stay,” the boy said, obstinately, -“but yourself. Grandfather will want you -to explain this affair to him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not my brother and the Mayor?” she said, wistfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No brothers and no mayors,” said the boy. -“Excuse me for seeming rude, but grandfather -looks pale. He wasn’t well yesterday.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest ran up to the Mayor and whispered -to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was a man of businesslike methods, and in ten -minutes there wasn’t a person in the house outside -the family, except Mrs. Tom Everest, though a few -groups still loitered on the sidewalk.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She went into the study with the Judge and Bethany, -and Titus ran downstairs to tell Higby to let -no one come upstairs without permission.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus could not find Higby at first. After a time -<span class='pageno' id='Page_273'>273</span>he discovered him behind the door in the pantry, -crying in a low and dispirited way.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What’s the matter with you?” he asked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby raised a tearful face.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mi-mi-missis Blodgett slapped me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what did she slap you for? I’ll bet you -deserved it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I-I-I’m a bachelor,” whimpered Higby, “a-a-an’ -she’s a widder.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, suppose you are, and suppose she is,” said -the boy, impatiently, “what of it? She wouldn’t -slap you for that?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“When I-I-I saw the crowd I thought she m-m-might -be scared, an’ I put m-m-my arm round her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Scared! You goose, you’d scare quicker than -she would.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“An’ she sl-sl-slapped me,” continued Higby, -dolefully, “an’ she said, You sas-sas-sassy ole dog. -An’ I-I-I aint a dog.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“More’s the pity,” said Titus, unfeelingly. “You’d -have more sense if you were. Now, listen to me. -Grandfather wants to keep quiet. If anyone comes -to see him put him or her in the parlor and come -for me. If you let anyone upstairs without orders -from us I’ll give you a slap compared with which -Mrs. Blodgett’s would be a caress. Do you understand?” -and he took the old man by the shoulder -and gently shook him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby smiled through his tears. “B-b-bless you, -Master Titus. You want to m-m-make ole Higby -laugh.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you understand?” asked the boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man nodded.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_274'>274</span>“Put your handkerchief in your pocket,” commanded -Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby did so.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Stand up, walk out into the hall, strut a little, if -you can.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby, with a wan smile, tried to strut, and to -such good effect that Titus, taken with a sudden fit of -laughter and choking, was obliged to retire behind -the pantry door. Presently he came out.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Higby, repeat after me: ‘A bachelor’s life is a -lively life.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A-a-a ba-ba-bachelor’s life is a l-l-lovely life.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Lively, you goose.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“L-l-lively life.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“None of your widows for me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“None of your w-w-widders for me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now, don’t you feel better?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir,” said Higby. “I’ll put me a-a-arm -round the stair post afore I-I-I’ll put it round that -widder again,” and he marched valiantly up to the -aforesaid post and struck it with such vehemence -and comicality that Titus put down his head and ran -precipitately upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby’s admiration for Mrs. Blodgett was a -standing joke in the family.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_275'>275</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XXIII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Mrs. Everest Begins to Explain</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Titus found his grandfather sitting in his armchair, -with Bethany on her little stool at his feet. -Her head was pressed against him. Her eyes were -red and troubled, and occasionally she caught her -breath in a faint sob.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest sat opposite them, and on seeing -Titus she said, eagerly, “Come, boy, we are just -waiting for you.” Then she turned to the Judge. -“Do I understand you to say that you have not the -slightest inkling of all that occurred to-day?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It would perhaps not be right to say that I have -not the slightest inkling,” returned the Judge. “I -see that something important has happened—some -attempt on Bethany’s life or liberty, I imagine. I -am in possession of not one detail.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you mean to say that no one told you about -it?” said Mrs. Everest, incredulously. “Why did -not some of those people explain to you? I depended -on them. I was busy looking after the -people myself, and I wanted to say a few words to -the reporters. Some things we don’t want to get -in the press. Why, where was Dallas? He knew -all about it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here,” exclaimed a sudden voice, and the English -boy pushed open the door and came in. He was -red and flushed, and looked tired.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_276'>276</span>“If I haven’t had a dance after that firecracker!” -he exclaimed. “What a beast of a boy! He was -stealing right and left here, or trying to. I had to -drag him with me wherever I went. First of all, -he brought his wheel into the house by the back way -and broke a stepladder and muddied a lot of clean -clothes down in the lower hall. Thank fortune, he’s -gone now. I’ve just escorted him to the corner of -the first street.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest looked anxious. “I must hurry -home and talk to him. But first to enlighten you, -dear Judge. I shall begin at the first. Two weeks -ago Barry Mafferty came to me in great anxiety. -Now, this mustn’t be talked about. You boys will -be careful not to say anything about him. Dear -little Bethany is going to sleep,” and she threw a -compassionate glance at the tired face against the -Judge’s knee.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You don’t wish Mafferty’s name mentioned in -connection with the affair,” said the Judge, -shrewdly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not a murmur of it. You see, he used to be a -miserable sort of a man, and now he is really reforming. -Well, he said a man he knew to be a -criminal was prowling about your house. He made -up his mind—indeed, he had cause to do so—that -the fellow had designs upon some one in your family. -He decided that it was Bethany, for he found -out that old Mr. Hittaker—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She paused an instant for breath, as she was -speaking very rapidly, and the Judge, with a faint -gleam of amusement passing over his face, inquired, -“Of Hittaker’s soap?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_277'>277</span>“The same. Poor old man, he had lost his daughter, -her husband, and her children. He hadn’t a -relative in the world left but Bethany. Mafferty -said that probably some nest of criminals had decided -to steal Bethany, on the supposition that she -would be made old Mr. Hittaker’s heiress, or, even -if she weren’t, that you would be willing to pay a -considerable sum to get her back.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge shook his head. “I don’t know how it -is, but an impression has got out that I am worth -a great deal more money than I really possess. I -suppose it is because I stopped working when I -thought I had enough, and because I spend what I -have, instead of hoarding it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You could not be mean,” said Mrs. Everest. -“You are very generous and very sensible. Well, -to continue. Barry was greatly excited, and didn’t -want to trouble you in the affair, so he enlisted my -aid and my husband’s. Then, too, he wanted to -catch the would-be kidnapers, and he was afraid -you would not wait for them as we have done. It -was sorry work, in a way, but both my husband and -Barry said that anyone bad enough to carry off a -child should be caught and shut up.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So you have been playing detective?” said the -Judge, and his eyes sparkled with interest and a -slight inclination to tease.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, dear Judge, amateur detectives. We did -nothing to entice to crime. We merely waited. I -knew, Barry knew, my husband knew, Roblee, your -coachman, knew, Mrs. Hume knew. Cracker, the -naughty Cracker, was merely told to watch certain -people, and he has been scorching up and down this -<span class='pageno' id='Page_278'>278</span>avenue like a thing possessed. We did not call in -the aid of the local police or the New York police -till the last day or two. Two young newspaper men -here have helped us wonderfully. One of them -guarded Jennie.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Jennie!” exclaimed the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes; I forgot to say that she had to be told, -too. Those scamps found out that she slept in the -room with Bethany and had charge of her, so they -tried to become friendly with her in order to get -information from her. One of them came here one -day in the guise of a workman.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who came?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“One of this gang of miscreants. He rang the -bell, walked in, said he was a workman come to do -the window shades in the attic. Jennie went up -with him, and when he got in the attic she found -there weren’t any shades to mend; they were all -in order. He laughed and said he had come to the -wrong house; then he rather made friends with her -and said he was a stranger in the city. He wished -she would show him about a little. Would she take -a walk with him the next afternoon?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She did not go, of course?” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She did,” said Mrs. Everest, reluctantly; “she -mistook her instructions. We would not have had -her go with him for the world; but you may be sure -she did not go alone.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why did you not stop her, if you did not wish -her to go?” inquired the Judge, slightly wrinkling -his forehead.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I did not know about it, dear Judge. You see, -it was this way: One of those young reporters had -<span class='pageno' id='Page_279'>279</span>engaged a room in that quiet street around the corner -from here, where Bethany goes to school. What -is the name of it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus supplied the name. “It is Garden Street, -Mrs. Everest.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes—Garden Street. Well, Mr. Busby took -a room opposite Mrs. Hume’s. Jennie consulted -him, and he told her to go with the man. He would -be near her. So Jennie went, and Cracker, scooting -after her, reported her movements to Harry Busby. -The pretended workman, who called himself Simpson, -acted like a gentleman. He talked nicely to -Jennie, took her for a walk down Broadway, and -invited her to go into Duffy’s for ice cream.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge did not like this, and Mrs. Everest -hastened on: “She did it for Bethany, dear Judge. -She felt terribly embarrassed. You know what a -nice, quiet girl Jennie is—not one to take up with -strangers at all. However, when it came to the ice -cream she thought she had gone far enough, and -Harry Busby released her. She put up her hand -and took off her veil. That was a sign that she was -tired of the affair. Busby was watching her through -the doorway. He came in, pretended to be an old -friend, and that he was jealous to find her with a -stranger, and in a quiet way made her come with -him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what came out of that escapade?” asked -the Judge, with emphasis.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Nothing, except that the stranger found that he -could not gain any control over Jennie.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did he ask her any questions about Bethany?”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_280'>280</span>“Not one; he was evidently planning that for another -meeting. But he never saw Jennie again. -Foiled in that, the kidnapers turned their whole -attention on gaining control of the child herself. By -the way, we found out that there were just two at -first—two young men. One, whose real name was -Smalley, called himself Givins; the other, his confederate, -who tried to deceive Jennie, called himself -Simpson, as I said before. Barry didn’t know his -real name.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you suppose Smalley was the right name of -the first one?” asked the Judge, searchingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, no, but that is the name he mostly goes by, -Barry says. Anyway, we had these two fellows well -watched, and cleverly watched, for they did not -suspect us. You see, there were so many of us, and -they were only two. Well, two days ago they both -disappeared, and at this point we took our city -detectives and the New York detectives into our -confidence. One of our own men went to New York -with Givins and Simpson, reported to an agency -there, and the two men have been watched. We -hope to hear of their arrest any time now.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, this <i>is</i> a plot,” said the Judge, drawing a -long breath.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Everest nodded her pretty head at him. -“You don’t quite approve, Judge. I see it in your -eye. O, if you knew what a pleasure it has been -to watch over your interests!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked gratified. “My dear child, I -thank you,” he said, heartily; “but look there,” and -he turned abruptly to Dallas and Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The two boys’ faces were red; their heads and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_281'>281</span>bodies, too, for that matter, were bending forward. -They were absolutely hanging on every word she -uttered.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just see them,” said the Judge, ironically, “their -young eyes starting out of their heads. You know -what my career has been. I may say that mine has -been a profession that I have kept separate from my -home interests. I early made up my mind that, as -far as possible, it is best to keep the evil and the -good apart. Not one word has my family ever -heard me utter with regard to the process of litigating -or carrying on suits in courts of law or equity -or on the darker world of criminal actions and cases. -I know that the human mind, and especially the -youthful mind, is curious, morbidly curious, with -respect to the proceedings by which a person accused -of crime is brought to trial and judgment. I don’t -think that that curiosity ought to be gratified.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Nor I,” replied Mrs. Everest, “but surely this -is an exceptional case.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Possibly,” returned the Judge, “possibly. Please -continue your story.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She smiled sweetly at him, and went on: “After -Simpson and Smalley, alias Givins, left here, two -strange women arrived. But we didn’t know it. -Of all the travelers arriving here daily, we could -not be supposed to know at first sight which ones -were criminals. However, we did not relax our -vigilance with regard to Bethany. No stranger -could approach her, or any member of your family, -without our knowledge. Sure enough, this morning -the kidnaping attempt was to be made.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Pardon me,” interrupted the Judge, “but there -<span class='pageno' id='Page_282'>282</span>is a great noise in the hall below. It goes through -my head. Titus, will you see about it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was the only one that had heard the -noise. The others had been so absorbed in Mrs. -Everest’s recital, and she herself was still so much -excited, that she was only aware of what was going -on immediately about her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus sprang up and, running out into the hall, -looked over the stair railing.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Poor old Higby, in trouble once more, was executing -a kind of war dance round a young man that -Titus speedily recognized as Mrs. Everest’s husband.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus clapped a hand over his mouth to prevent -an explosion of laughter, and for a few instants -wickedly did not interfere.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Let me by, you old scamp,” Tom Everest was -saying, half in amusement, half in irritability. -“Don’t you know me? Why, I’ve been coming to -this house ever since I was knee-high to a grasshopper.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“C-c-can’t help it,” replied Higby, flourishing a -broom that he held in his hand. “You aint a-a-a-goin’ -up.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You old dog—get out of my way—isn’t my wife -up there?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“S-s-stand back,” vociferated Higby, “or I shall -h-h-hit you with this broom.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why, Higby, you’re crazy,” said Tom, good-naturedly. -“I tell you my wife is up there. Would -you separate man and wife? I’m going up, anyway. -Now, once more, and for the last time, will -you announce me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby shook his head. Tom gave a grunt of -<span class='pageno' id='Page_283'>283</span>disapproval, and adroitly taking his broom from -him put it over his shoulder and began to march -upstairs with it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby came scrambling, stuttering, and scolding -after him, and Tom, mischievously allowing him to -come quite near, would then take a short run.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hello, Tom,” said Titus, familiarly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Hello,” returned Tom, looking up. “Since when -has this castle been in a state of siege? Here, retainer, -take your flintlock,” and he gayly gave -Higby a playful dig with the broom as he handed it -to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Since the assault this morning,” said Titus, with -a laugh.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I declare,” said Tom, looking down at Higby -with a whimsical face, “I was just about to lift up -my voice and ask you to call off your dog. I believe -the old fellow has gone crazy. Look at him prancing -up and down with that broom over his shoulder.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Higby,” said Titus, staring down at him, “put -down that broom.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Y-y-yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And sit down and rest yourself,” continued -Titus, anxiously. “You look tired. I believe the -events of the morning have upset him,” he said -under his breath to Tom. “I found him crying just -now.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He isn’t crying now,” said Tom, pointedly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby, in a state of silly glee, was seated in one -of the high-backed hall chairs, making a succession -of most extraordinary and most uncouth noises.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Man, what are you trying to do?” called Titus, -severely.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_284'>284</span>“B-b-bow-wow! I’m practicin’ a-barkin’,” replied -Higby, with a wild burst of laughter. “’Tis -the second time this mornin’ I’ve been called a -d-d-dog. Missis Blodgett, she begun it. M-m-mister -Everest here, he went on with it. Bow-wow-wow! -Ole Higby’s a d-d-dog. Ha! ha! ha!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He’s off his head this time, Titus, sure pop,” -said Tom. “He acted like a fool when I arrived. -Shut the door in my face, and when I went round -the back way he heard me coming and met me with -that broom.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Higby,” said Titus, quietly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Y-y-yes, sir.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man got up and came giggling upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Go down to the kitchen,” commanded Titus, -“and tell Jennie that you are going to retire to your -room for the rest of the day. Then march upstairs, -take off your clothes, and get into bed. Do you hear -me?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“W-w-we’re a-goin’ to have some d-d-delicious -jelly for luncheon,” said Higby, anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You shall have some. I’ll see that a big tray of -everything going is sent to your room. Now -hurry.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“B-b-bow-wow,” murmured Higby, under his -breath.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And Higby,” said Tom, kindly, “I was only in -fun when I called you a dog. You’re not one really, -you know.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Be I a c-c-cat,” inquired Higby, mildly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Tom’s evil genius prompted him to yield to his -impulse to make fun.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_285'>285</span>“Yes,” he said, wildly, “meow, meow, poor pussy. -Scat! Scat!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>He pretended to spit and hiss, and Higby scuttled -precipitately downstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Tom watched him going, then he said, soberly, -“How much would you sell that fellow for, Titus?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Grandfather likes him,” said the boy, briefly, -“and he was nasty to you because he had been told -to let no one in.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Does your grandfather let your servants eat just -what you do?” inquired Tom, curiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The very same. You ought to see his bills in -strawberry season.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Berty does the same; everyone in the house -shares alike,” continued Tom, “but my people don’t. -They would think they couldn’t afford it. Hello, -here we are,” and he entered the Judge’s study.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How do you again, sir,” said Tom, shaking -hands. “I’ve come for my wife, but I thought I’d -never get here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tom, dear, do sit down,” said Berty, eagerly, -“and listen, or perhaps you can help me with my -story. I was just at the most exciting part.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Tom and Titus seated themselves side by side on -the sofa, and Mrs. Everest continued.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_286'>286</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XXIV<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Explanation Continued</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>“As I was saying when Titus left the room, this -morning was the time fixed by the kidnapers for -their grand stroke. You, in all ignorance of it, and -we, too, for that matter, though we were all on the -alert, watched little Bethany go to school. She was -quietly and happily doing her tasks with the other -children when at ten o’clock there was an arrival -at her teacher’s front door.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I think you said that you took Mrs. Hume into -your confidence,” remarked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, we did; therefore when her maid said -that there was a carriage at the door and that a -young woman wished to see her, Mrs. Hume went -quickly to her little parlor. She said a respectably -dressed young person stood there and said that you -had sent her—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That I?” inquired the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, that you, Judge Sancroft, had requested -her to call and get Bethany; that Mrs. Tingsby had -been taken suddenly ill, and you had gone to her; -that the doctor was afraid the poor woman would -die, and she wished to see Bethany. The whole -thing was quite natural. Under ordinary circumstances -Mrs. Hume’s suspicions would not have been -aroused. However, knowing what we had told her, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_287'>287</span>she was on her guard. And then, of course, she did -not know that the woman’s story was false. She -asked whether it wasn’t quite a drive out there, and -the young woman said yes, about five miles. She -said she was a neighbor of Mrs. Tingsby’s, and -would take good care of the little girl. Mrs. Hume -said she would get Bethany ready, and she went -away, leaving the young woman in the parlor. Now, -we had had a telephone put into Mrs. Hume’s house -in the attic, and hurrying up there she telephoned -to you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I remember,” said the Judge. “She telephoned -this morning.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She asked whether you were at home.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She did.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And whether the Tingsbys were all well.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And I told her that they were, at last accounts, -and she abruptly informed me that she would see -me later in the day, and broke off.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She had to telephone elsewhere,” said Mrs. Everest, -with a smile, “and her time was limited. She -communicated with Harry Busby, the newspaper -reporter across the street, who also had a telephone -in his apartment. ‘Are you watching for that -blessed child, Mr. Busby?’ she asked. ‘I am watching,’ -he returned, and then she kissed Bethany and -led her downstairs.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge shook his head.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now, don’t you shake your head,” said Mrs. Everest, -playfully, “until I finish. Good is coming out -of all this. Mrs. Hume took Bethany in the parlor, -she introduced her to the young woman, and Bethany -trustfully put out her little hand. She was -<span class='pageno' id='Page_288'>288</span>quite ready to go with a stranger, if Daddy Grandpa -wished it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stretched out a finger and softly -touched the sleepy head against his knee.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Hume accompanied them to the front door. -‘Take good care of the child,’ she said, anxiously, -and she peered into the interior of the closed -cab. ‘Who have you got with you?’ ‘My sister,’ -replied the young woman. She came with -me.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You see, there were four accomplices, sir,” said -Tom Everest, when his wife paused a minute and -dabbed the perspiration from her face with a handkerchief.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Four? Yes, I understand,” replied the Judge. -“Mrs. Everest, we are tiring you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not at all; I want to tell you. I really enjoy -giving you the details. Well, Mrs. Hume was in an -agony when she saw the child drive away, for of -course she knew that she had delivered her into the -hands of two scapegrace young women. However, -she raised her eyes across the street. There was -Harry Busby throwing open his window and tossing -aside the curtains. She knew that he had the number -of the cab, and a description of it, and that he -had telephoned to police headquarters. The cab -would hardly be round the corner before a detective -would be after it. Then there was Cracker scorching -up and down beside it, his bad little head thrown -over his handle bars, his gimlet eyes looking everywhere -but at the driver, and yet observing his every -movement. He remembered his orders. He was -artlessly to follow any vehicle that left Mrs. Hume’s. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_289'>289</span>Bethany was safe, but poor Mrs. Hume was in torture. -She came on with a raging headache, had to -send her scholars home, and go to bed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I should think she needed to,” remarked the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Ere this she has heard of our happy issue out of -our difficulties,” continued Mrs. Everest. “Well, -our cab went on its way.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tell the Judge what order the young woman -gave the driver,” interposed Tom.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes, I forgot that. Before they left Mrs. -Hume’s the young woman said to the cabman, ‘Go -to Jones’s drug store on Broadway.’ Then she explained -to Mrs. Hume that they had to call there -for medicine. They were really going to the railway -station, but she didn’t want either Mrs. Hume -or the cabman to know it. Upon arriving at Jones’s -the two young women and a little boy stepped out -of the cab, dismissed the driver, and went in the -store.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They had metamorphosed Bethany, I suppose,” -said the Judge, quietly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir. As soon as they got her away from -Mrs. Hume these two women overwhelmed her with -caresses and gave her a box of candy, which they -said you had sent her. They also informed her that -you were going to New York, and that she was to -go, too; that you would meet her there. Her grandfather, -her mother’s father, had heard of her, and -wanted to see her. He was going to give her a -lovely house, full of dolls, and birds, and all kinds -of toys. Now, you see all this harmonized with -what the child had learned from her mother and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_290'>290</span>Mrs. Tingsby. To any ordinary child it might have -seemed remarkable, but Bethany had been brought -up on expectations.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Don’t forget the boy part,” suggested her husband.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, I was just coming to it. These two young -women told Bethany that in order to please her -grandfather, who had always wished for a little boy, -you had requested her to put on boy’s clothes. They -had this little suit all ready,” and Mrs. Everest -touched the boyish little garments of the sleeping -child, “and they hurried her into it, and whipping -out a pair of scissors cut off her hair before the -bewildered child had time to protest. She was confused -and submissive, and I fancy they kept stuffing -her mouth with candy, and quoted you to her. -At the drug store they bought five cents’ worth of -cough drops, then they went into the street and -walked a block to the railway station. They did not -hurry, neither did they dawdle. They did not want -Bethany to speak to anyone.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Were you watching them then?” inquired the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir, but I was requested to go to the station. -I was to have the proud honor of rescuing Bethany. -Look here,” and she unbuttoned her jacket and -showed a little white apron rolled up round her -waist. “I was in the kitchen making cakes. When -the chief of police telephoned I had just twenty minutes -to get to the station. I caught my hat and -jacket and ran. See, I have no gloves,” and she -spread out her bare hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Her expression was so good, so genuine, so -<span class='pageno' id='Page_291'>291</span>lovely, that the Judge seized one of her hands and -pressed it warmly. “Go on, my dear girl,” he said, -affectionately.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I just rushed to the station,” she said. “The -chief of police was there, the chief detective was -there. One was standing by the ticket office, the -other was loitering about the platform at which the -train for Boston and New York was to arrive in -three minutes. I passed by the ticket office. The -chief gave a nod in the direction of the platform. -I hurried on, and my eyes went roving to and fro. -I saw the two women and the little boy. I saw a -great many other people, men, women, and children. -All had the air of going on a journey, and, just to -show how one’s eye needs to be trained for such -work, I did not recognize Bethany, the two women -stood so adroitly talking to each, and rather hiding -her face by their bags and cloaks.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not purposely hiding?” commented the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, no, that would have aroused my suspicion at -once. They stood so naturally that actually the detective -had to come over and stand beside them, -almost to point to them, before I took in the situation. -Then I boldly walked up to them. ‘Bethany,’ -I said in a low voice.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You should have seen the sharp look these -women gave me. For just one instant they were -off their guard. Up to that minute I don’t think -they had an idea that they were being followed. -Then they recovered themselves and looked down -quite composedly at Bethany.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what did she do?” burst excitedly from -Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_292'>292</span>They all turned to him, and Mrs. Everest went on -with a smile: “The little creature said, ‘O, Mrs. -Everest!’ as if she were glad to see some one she -knew. However, she has not met me so very many -times, so she was just a little shy. But she put out -a hand to me, and looked queerly at the women, as -if she didn’t just like going with them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why are you dressed like a little boy?” I asked, -“and what are you doing here?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Is this your little child, madam?” said one of -the women, respectfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘No,’ I replied, ‘but I know her. Where did you -get her?’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘The woman who takes care of the waiting -room told us that she had been left here. Her -mother missed her when the last train passed -through for Boston. She asked us to take charge -of her, and we consented.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘Why is she dressed like a boy?’ I asked, -severely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The young woman shrugged her shoulders. -‘She is just as we found her.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bethany, who had been following our conversation -with much interest, at this piped up, and pointing -to a suit case that one of them carried said, -‘Bethany’s clothes are in there.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“A very ugly look came over the young woman’s -face. She knew that she was trapped. I saw her -glance at the other. Out of the mouth of a little -child they had been condemned. O, Judge, I looked -for some sign of softening, some regret, some tender -feeling. There was nothing.</p> -<div class='figcenter id001'> -<img src='images/i_292.jpg' alt='' class='ig001'> -<div class='ic001'> -<p>“Why are you dressed like a little boy?” I asked.</p> -</div> -</div> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_293'>293</span>“We heard a dull roar in the distance. The -train was coming in. The women looked at each -other again. They were uncertain just what to do. -I think they had concluded that I was a chance -passer-by and had made up their minds to rush for -the train in the confusion. I had seized Bethany -tightly by the hand. They knew they could not -take her with them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘Don’t move,’ I said, in a low voice, ‘there are -two police officers in plain clothes behind you.’ -Now, you know, Judge, we were all scattered, we -watchers, even though Bethany had been stolen. -Harry Busby was still on duty, Cracker was watching, -the second newspaper reporter was keeping his -eyes open, and Jennie and Dallas were by no means -asleep, though, of course, they were busy with their -respective duties—Jennie here in the house and -Dallas at school. But we weren’t sure of the plan -of the miscreants, Barry warned us. He said, ‘Don’t -let them fool you by dragging a red herring across -your track.’ We did not know the extent of their -designs. Bethany’s capture might have been only -the preliminary to something else. However, as it -turns out, it was the beginning and end, and quite -enough it is, I think.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What about the women?” asked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, the train thundered in and thundered out. -We wanted to see if they would have any confederates -on board. No one got off to meet them, and -then we turned. Such a quiet little group—the two -women, Bethany, two policemen, and I. We walked -down the platform together. The women were -clever enough not to make a fuss. When we got -to the place where the carriages stand there was -<span class='pageno' id='Page_294'>294</span>Mr. McIntyre, the detective, holding open a carriage -door. The two women got in, and he followed -them. I could not leave them that way. I rushed -impulsively up to the door. I said, ‘O, tell me you -are sorry for this.’ It seemed to me that even then -I could have forgiven them for their crime if there -had been the least sign of contrition.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did they say anything to you, Berty?” asked -her husband, eagerly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“One of them sneered, the other made a dreadful -remark in which she invoked vengeance on me for -interfering with their scheme. It was no time to -reason with them. They were too sore over their -defeat, but I shall take pains to see them to-morrow.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If the affair was managed so quietly, how is it -that it got over the city so quickly?” inquired the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty laughed gleefully. “O, those newspaper -men! They had done such yeoman’s service that -we were obliged to let them have their own way at -the last. You see, both men who helped us were -on the staff of the News. It was too good a chance -to triumph over their rivals. So they had everything -ready. Bulletin boards were out, and extras -were being prepared, almost before the women got -to the prison or I reached my home with Bethany. I -took her there to change her clothes, but found when -we got to the door that I had forgotten to get the -suit case from the wicked women, so we wheeled -about and came here. By that time the news had -gone by word of mouth just like wildfire. I don’t -know when I have seen the city so excited, unless it -was when we had our last presidential election. I -<span class='pageno' id='Page_295'>295</span>am proud of the way my fellow citizens are standing -by the rights of children.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She stopped, fanned herself with a newspaper, -and they all gazed silently at her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>They were waiting for the Judge to speak. “My -dear young lady,” he said, in a moved voice, “you -are reaping what you have sowed. Nearly five -years ago you began your cry for the children. -Day after day you have unweariedly gone on with -your good work. This demonstration to-day was -more for you than for me.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dear Judge,” she said, extending a hand and -speaking with exquisite gentleness, “can we not -say that youth and advancing age are united in this? -Together they stand, divided they fall.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She rose as she spoke, but the Judge made a -gesture to detain her. “It only remains for me to -thank you most heartily for what you have done for -me. We will go over the thing more in detail at -some future day. I must be very largely in your -debt, pecuniarily. As for the moral aspect of the -case, my mind seems to falter and stagger when I -think of it. There seems to be an awful cloud overshadowing -me—a cloud of possibilities—of probabilities. -Suppose you had not rescued Bethany, -what would have been her fate?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge’s voice broke. He was overcome by -emotion. “I want to see the cat man,” he said at -last, weakly. “He is at the root of this deliverance.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was nothing amusing about his remark, -but they all broke out laughing. There had been -a great strain on their nerves during the past few -hours.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_296'>296</span>Titus and Dallas roared until they woke up Bethany, -who sleepily rubbed her eyes and looked about -her. Mrs. Everest laughed so heartily that at last -she began to cry.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Come,” said her husband, inexorably, and he -checked his own amusement. “Come now, old girl. -You can’t be domestic, motherly, and grandmotherly -to a whole city without your nerves going on strike -occasionally. You come home and play with your -baby and Cracker. He’s cutting up Jack.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty weakly wiped her eyes. When there was -work to be done she regained her self-control.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What is he doing?” she asked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Teasing the life out of Daisy and the cook. They -locked him in his room and telephoned to me at the -iron works.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-bye, dear Judge,” said Berty, hastily. “I’ll -see you soon again,” and she fairly ran from the -room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tom,” she said to her husband on their way -home, “human nature is a queer thing, isn’t it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mighty queer, Berty.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do you know, when I first began my story of -the Bethany affair the dear old Judge was inclined -to stand off and criticize.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That was the man of him. He would like to -have been consulted and to have engineered the -affair.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“In anticipating these revelations I really supposed -that he would fall on my neck when I told -him what we had done,” continued Berty, thoughtfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And you say he didn’t—just stood back and -<span class='pageno' id='Page_297'>297</span>criticised? How funny,” and Tom laughed irrepressibly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But he changed,” pursued Berty, earnestly. “It -seemed to come over him that a dreadful fate might -have been poor Bethany’s if we had not rescued -her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Of course he changed—would have been a -donkey if he hadn’t,” said Tom, disrespectfully. -“You’re all right, Berty—always were and always -will be.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And so are you, Tom,” she responded, generously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“However, speaking of Bethany,” he went on, -“no dreadful fate would have overtaken her for a -while. Suppose the women had made off with her. -They would have taken mighty good care of her -till the ransom business was settled.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty shuddered. “Suppose no ransom had been -given?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, I fancy Bethany, being a nice child, would -make friends and settle down to business. She -would adapt herself to a changed environment. -She would make a pretty little thief.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tom, don’t jest on such a subject,” said Berty, -passionately. Then she went on in a musing tone, -“Since this affair began I have thought so much -of another kidnaping case that Barry told me -about.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, that New York affair?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes—the only son of a widow. O, Tom, suppose -our baby were taken from us?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Are you pining to be left childless and a widow?” -he asked, pointedly.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_298'>298</span>“Tom, don’t. You have that hopeless national -habit of jesting upon every subject. Do be serious. -I assure you I dream of that widow.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Why doesn’t she get her boy back?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She can’t raise the money. She hasn’t got it. -Barry thinks the Smalley gang is in the affair. I -wonder whether these women would know anything -about it?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Possibly; ask them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I will; and Tom, as soon as we get home telephone -to the fish market to have a boat sent for -Barry. I want him to come up this evening and -talk over this affair.”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_299'>299</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XXV<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Visitors for the Judge</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Two weeks later Berty and her boy were spending -the day at the Judge’s. She arrived early in -the morning.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Dear Judge,” she said, bundling out of a cab -with various packages and looking up at him as he -stood on his front doorstep throwing crumbs to the -sparrows, “dear Judge, I have come to spend the -blessed, livelong day with you.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I am delighted,” he said, gallantly, and throwing -away his bread he hurried down the steps and -took the baby from her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yesterday,” she went on, “I was half distracted -with calls upon me. ‘Tom,’ I said to my husband, -‘if I’m spared till to-morrow morning I am going -to take baby and hide for a day. You get up early -in the morning and go to your mother’s for breakfast, -lunch, and dinner. I am going to close the -house and give Daisy and the cook a holiday.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And what did your husband say?” inquired the -Judge, as he held open the door for her. “O, my -dear lady—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What is it?” asked Berty, anxiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“This baby—he is putting something in my ear.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Gravel,” said his mother, as she stood on tiptoe -and examined the side of the Judge’s head. “He had -his hands full when we started. He is the most -<span class='pageno' id='Page_300'>300</span>mischievous baby ever born. You would better give -him to me. You take the packages, and I will take -him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, no; he is too heavy for you to carry.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Have you had breakfast?” inquired Berty, as -the Judge went toward the dining room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, not yet. I was just waiting for the children.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Here they come,” said Berty, looking up the -stairway. “Good morning, lammies.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Bethany and the boys pressed about Berty. They -all loved her, and the baby was a great attraction -to them. He pulled out a wisp of Bethany’s hair, -untied Dallas’s necktie, and slapped Titus, all in the -compass of a minute, but without the slightest resentment -they politely crowded each other in endeavoring -to get a seat near him during prayer time.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His behavior during the reading of a psalm was -so disgraceful that his mother was obliged to carry -him out of the room. Chuckling gayly, and not at -all abashed, he came back in time for breakfast.</p> - -<p class='c011'>His exploits at the table, especially with a cream -jug and his mother’s plate of mush, became so exasperating -that at last she put him on the floor with a -crust of bread.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He was not hungry, having breakfasted earlier, -so, taking his crust, he crawled under the table and -polished the children’s shoes with it. In huge -delight Bethany and the boys, with little explosive -bursts of laughter, submitted to his manipulations, -while his mother talked to the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Can you love your work and yet get tired of it?” -she was inquiring searchingly of her older friend.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_301'>301</span>The Judge shook his head, not negatively, but in -a thoughtful manner. “O, so tired, my dear friend, -especially when the flesh grows weak.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘The ghost is willing, but the meat is weak,’ -a Frenchman once said,” continued Berty, with a -laugh. “Well, Judge, yesterday I thought I would -go crazy. They began before I was out of bed. -‘Mrs. Everest,’ said Daisy at my door, ‘the man at -the Babies’ Supply Depot says an accident has happened -to the fresh-milk van. The cans are upset. -What shall he do?’ ‘Do,’ I said, ‘the foolish man! -Why, do the best he can. There are other cows. -Let him ransack the town for fresh milk. Telephone -to the suburban places. There is milk somewhere. -We’ve got to have it for the River Street -babies. Why does he waste time by coming to me? -I put him there; let him look after his business. -If he doesn’t I’ll discharge him.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Do have some of this Cloverdale honey,” said -the Judge, “it is delicious.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now, Judge, you think I want sweetening,” she -said, with a mischievous twinkling of her black -eyes, “but you’ve got to hear all my troubles. Let -me see, what was the next thing? O, yes, I know—and -this, too, before I was out of bed. Daisy -calls through the door, ‘Mrs. Everest, the footman -from Miss Sally Draylittle’s is here. He says that -his lady says that the Angora cat she bought from -your cat farm is going round with its leg hanging -loose. What shall she do?’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas, who was listening to Berty, began to -laugh.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t wonder you laugh,” said Berty, indignantly. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_302'>302</span>“Did you ever hear of such a helpless -woman trying to run an establishment? ‘Tell the -footman to tell Miss Draylittle to send for a good -veterinary. The cat has probably broken her leg.’ -Then let me see, what came next? I’ve got to tell -you quickly while I’m cross about it, for when I get -cool I shall be ashamed of myself for telling my -trials, even to such dear friends as you all are.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You in your work are hampered by inefficient -persons in places of trust,” said the Judge, philosophically.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“That’s it in a nutshell,” said Berty. “Why, the -average person doesn’t seem to think. My next -call was to go to see a sick woman. She wasn’t -sick; she was troubled and uneasy. Her husband -had left home in a temper the night before and -hadn’t come back. She frightened me and I frightened -her. She poured out her woes to me, and I -said, ‘I don’t blame him. If I were your husband -I wouldn’t come back for a week.’ The poor creature -stared at me. ‘Why, look about you,’ I said. -‘Look at this dirty room, this filthy room. How -could a man sit down in it with self-respect. Stop -your crying and clean it.’ And do you know, Judge, -I couldn’t make her see it was dirty. I sent for two -men and had her moved bag and baggage into two -clean rooms in that house you were good enough -to buy for my poor people; and now the question is, -will she have sense enough to keep it clean?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Reform is losing some of its rosy hues to you,” -the Judge observed, sententiously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty laughed. “Please give me some more -honey, and just you try criticising River Street. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_303'>303</span>Then you will find out where baby gets his temper. -I scold those people frightfully, but I love them. -Titus, are you coming to live on River Street with -me when you get to be a man?” and she turned to -the boy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, but perhaps I can help you,” he said, modestly. -“I was thinking that on that stock farm -grandfather is going to let me have there will be -plenty of room for some cottages for poor sick folks, -and I would like to have some of the children out -every day.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You dear,” she said, enthusiastically; then as -he began an animated conversation with Titus on -the subject of farming she remarked in a low voice -to the Judge, “Why, that boy has stopped stammering, -hasn’t he?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge nodded. “I will tell you about it presently.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>When the two boys and the little girl were excused -from the table, and got up to go to school, -there were simultaneous squeals of laughter from -them. Their shoes were all slipping off their feet.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s that cute little baby,” observed Bethany, -“he’s untied all our shoes.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mine are not only untied, but off my feet,” said -Berty, unconcernedly. “Perhaps Higby will be -good enough to find them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man, who was grinning with delight -over the baby’s antics, found one in the coal hod. -The other was discovered an hour later out in the -yard, where it had been carried by Bylow the dog, -he having probably picked it up in the back hall, -where it had been thrown by Tom, junior.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_304'>304</span>“Why, I believe,” said the Judge, shuffling his -feet about, “that the little rascal has untied my laces. -Dallas, just look before you leave the room. I -dislike fussing with my feet after I am fully -dressed.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas went down on his knees, neatly fastened -the Judge’s laces, and put his feet on a stool where -they would be slightly out of baby’s way.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who is going to take Bethany to school this -morning?” asked the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It’s my turn,” replied Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-bye, Daddy Grandpa,” said the little girl, -coming to kiss him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good-bye,” he said, “mind and wait for Jennie -to come and bring you home. Don’t leave Mrs. -Hume’s alone.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, dear Daddy Grandpa.” Then she went on, -anxiously, “Will the baby be here when Bethany -comes home?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I hope so,” said the Judge, politely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, he will,” said Berty, “that dreadful baby -will be here for luncheon, and for dinner, too, if he -is not turned out before then.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled. “He won’t be. I have a fellow-feeling -for that baby. Many a time I have -heard my dear departed mother say that I was one -of the worst children she ever saw.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, Judge,” said Berty, vivaciously, “is that true? -Can it be that there is hope for my baby of becoming -a man like you?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Tut! tut! he will be a far better one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Judge, will you take him and bring him up?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge tried to repress a shudder, but could -<span class='pageno' id='Page_305'>305</span>not. He liked Berty’s baby, and had great patience -with him as an occasional visitor, but as steady company—“No,” -he said, thoughtfully, “that baby needs -a mother.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“So he does,” said Berty, catching him up in her -arms, “mother’s great fat lump of flesh with a -naughty little mind inside. Now, Judge, what are -you going to do this morning?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I am going to entertain you,” he said, politely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, no, I only stay on condition that I don’t -interfere with your regular occupations. Baby and -I can amuse ourselves.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I assure you that I would rather stay with you -than do anything else,” said the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” she returned, “you are a truthful man, -and I believe you. Will you take me to see the -pigeons first thing? But what shall we do with -baby?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Higby,” said the Judge, “you are fond of children. -You amuse him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The old man deliberately came forward and received -the crowing baby in his arms.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Young Tom was too much accustomed to -strangers to object, and at once he was fascinated -by Higby’s teeth, which were rather large and -curiously shaped. Insinuating all his pink fingers in -the man’s mouth, to tried to take them out. They -would not come.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“If you don’t object to that, Higby,” said Mrs. -Everest, “it is a sure way to amuse him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Higby gurgled a reply in the affirmative, and -Berty went away with the Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, the lovely creatures,” she exclaimed, when -<span class='pageno' id='Page_306'>306</span>a few minutes later they entered the pigeon loft, -“and how tame they are!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The pigeons were flying all over the Judge, lighting -on his head, his shoulders, his arms, and gently -tapping him with their beaks.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They are becoming tamer every day,” he said. -“It is wonderful what kind treatment will do in developing -the intelligence of the lower order of -creation.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I suppose Titus pets these birds very much.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes, he and Bethany are indefatigable. I -watched him at first, for I thought he might neglect -them, but he does not.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I used to keep pigeons,” said Berty, wistfully. -“I was very fond of them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I am sure Titus would give you a pair or two, -if you wish to start again. He won’t let everybody -have them, but he would be sure of your devotion -to them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I should love to have some,” she said, enthusiastically. -“By the way, Judge, tell me about his -stammering. Is he really cured?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You noticed that he spoke slowly.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, I did.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He is trying to cure himself, really trying hard -now. He got a shock the other day that started him -in the right direction. It was after Airy Tingsby’s -last visit here. Just as soon as she went away I -called him to me. ‘Titus,’ I said, ‘did you notice -that Airy stammered quite often during dinner, and -in the evening?’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘Yes,’ he said, reluctantly, ‘he had.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘Do you know,’ I said, ‘that that little girl has -<span class='pageno' id='Page_307'>307</span>set up a lofty ideal for herself. She wishes to be -a perfect lady.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus said he knew that.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘And you,’ I said, ‘are going to be a stumbling-block. -So anxious is she to imitate the members of -this family in every particular that she is going to -copy our bad as well as our good qualities. Now, -don’t you think you ought to endeavor to shake off -this habit of stammering?’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus asked me if I thought she was imitating -him purposely.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘Do you think so yourself?’ I asked.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“He gave me to understand that he did not, that -she was so consumed by a burning, intense desire to -improve that she unconsciously caught up everything -he said, absorbed all his words, and his -mannerisms with them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I did not need to say anything further. The boy -was perfectly upset over the affair, so much so that -I wondered. He was ashamed of standing in the -way of a girl—and such a fragile piece of ambition -as Airy. So he set himself resolutely to conquer his -failing, and you see he is making good progress. He -slips sometimes, but not often.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Titus is a noble boy,” said Berty, warmly. “He -is going to make a fine man.”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_308'>308</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XXVI<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Only Son of a Widow</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>The Judge looked gratified by Berty’s praise of -Titus; then, leading the way to the nest boxes, he -pointed to some young pigeons to her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, the darling things!” exclaimed Berty, looking -in at the downy creatures, “and all in twos. Do -they always have two young ones at a time? My -pigeons never nested.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Usually, sometimes only one. Of course, these -pigeons are not allowed to lay during the cold -weather. They are just beginning, now that winter -is thinking of yielding to spring.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Just look at them trying to hiss at me, Judge. -Do they know that I am a stranger?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Certainly—try these homers.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty put her slim hand in between two young -homers, who promptly beat it with their unfledged -wings.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Naughty little squabs,” said Berty, caressingly. -“I suppose Titus will fly these homers when they -grow up. Are they workers?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, the parents have a record of five hundred -miles, but they were not bred in this loft, so he can’t -let them out. These young ones would come back.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Training homing pigeons must be great sport,” -said Berty, enthusiastically.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It is. Even Dallas is interested in that. He -has been reading that country doctors use homing -<span class='pageno' id='Page_309'>309</span>pigeons extensively in their practice, and he may -have to start in the country. By the way, speaking -of doctors, some one said Mafferty is ill; is he?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, but only with a cold; nothing serious. His -memories of the last few weeks keep him cheerful.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I suppose he is as much elated as ever?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“More so—he is the proudest man in Riverport,” -and Berty laid a hand on an elusive fantail and -clasped her gently. “No one could be more delighted -at the turn affairs took with regard to the -kidnapers. His well-laid plans succeeded.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No credit was given him by the press,” remarked -the Judge. “No reporters interviewed him, but perhaps -he does not care for that sort of thing.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Not at all. He shuns notoriety. All the people -that he cared about gave him the glory. You, in -going out to his island, and wringing his hand, conferred -a tremendous honor upon him. You and the -chief of police are his heroes, and at police headquarters -he stands very high, and is correspondingly -set up by it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And your good opinion,” said the Judge, pointedly; -“he knows he has that.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty smiled. “Amusing to retail, he does not -value my praise half as much as he does yours, or -any man’s. He is sure of me. I befriended him -when he was friendless, and he thinks I would like -him no matter what he did. He likes me to approve; -but still, nothing I could say or do would -come up to that handshake of yours.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Remember your promise to let me know if there -is anything I can do for him.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I will. Just now he is well enough as he is.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_310'>310</span>“By the way, are you still going to see those unfortunate -women?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes, every day I have a dreadful feeling -about them. I in one way am responsible for their -captivity. I vowed that I would do all I could to -mitigate it. The first few days, as I told you when -we last met, they would have nothing to say to me. -Then they began to thaw slightly. Little by little -they seemed to understand that I had their good at -heart.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you say anything to them about the other -kidnaping case?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, but not until three days ago. I told them -that their trial would soon come off; that if they -were to give any information about the stolen child -it might influence public opinion in their favor. I -could get nothing out of them. They flatly denied -all knowledge of the missing boy, but at the very -first instant of my mentioning the affair I caught -a gleam of intelligence in the eye of one of them. -She knew something about it. So what do you -think I did, dear Judge?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge pushed away a pouter that was puffing -and swelling out on his shoulder. “Well,” he said, -mischievously, “your actions are sometimes unexpected.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She laughed gayly. “To be true to my reputation, -they were in this case. I telegraphed to New -York to the little widow. I said, ‘Come to me, and -possibly I may give you news of your boy.’ The -poor little woman actually flew here. I wish you -could have seen her, Judge. Such a teary, weary, -eerie sort of a widow. All big eyes and veil, and so -<span class='pageno' id='Page_311'>311</span>consumed with sorrow, which one could not wonder -at.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Did you take her to the jail?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I did. I confronted her with those two young -women. I had them both brought into the same -room. I made no explanation, either to them or to -the widow, whose name is Mrs. Tralee. When the -two women, or girls—for neither of them is much -over twenty—came in I abruptly pointed to them, -and said to Mrs. Tralee, ‘Those girls can tell you -where to get information about your lost boy.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It was pitiful to see that little widow’s face, -Judge. Just imagine her—alone in the world, one -pet boy, and he snatched from her. She gave me -one look, one terrible look, as if to say, ‘Are you -deceiving me?’ I shook my head solemnly. Those -girls either knew where her boy was or could tell us -who did know. I would have staked my life on it.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Tralee wasted no time in preliminaries. -She fell right on her knees before them. She, a rich -woman, cultured and refined and exquisitely dressed, -took those degraded creatures in her outstretched -arms, she pleaded with them as for her soul’s salvation.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It was dreadful, Judge. I never heard anything -more affecting in my life. I just stood and -cried like a baby, and I heard a sniffing behind the -door where the jailer stood, and when we came out -I noticed his eyes were all red.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“At first the two girls tried to laugh it off. They -looked sheepishly at each other, but it was no laughing -matter. Despite themselves, and hardened as -they undoubtedly are, something womanly arose in -<span class='pageno' id='Page_312'>312</span>them, something responded to that poor little woman’s -cries and groans.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“As I said before, it was terrible. It gave me a -kind of exquisite pain to listen to Mrs. Tralee. She -assured the girls that she was telling the truth in the -sight of her Maker when she stated that the ransom -demanded for her son was one she could not pay. -The money left to her by her husband was not in -her sole control. She would sacrifice every cent she -herself owned, but she absolutely could not touch -the fortune left in trust for her son.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The two girls looked at each other. They were -getting uneasy and shaky. One whispered something, -the other responded, then they tried to withdraw -their dresses from Mrs. Tralee’s frantic grasp. -At last one of them, with a kind of desperate look, -bent over and said, ‘Go to this address in New York—we -can’t, and shan’t tell you a word more,’ and -she rattled off something in Mrs. Tralee’s ears.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then, without waiting for her thanks, they -pulled themselves away and ran to the door, and the -jailer took them to their cells.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Tralee took my head between her hands. -She gave me such a look, Judge—such a look from -those big eyes of hers. There was no need of -speech. Then she fairly flew to the railway station, -and took a special train for New York; and I haven’t -heard a word from her since.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How long ago did you say that was?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Three days. I thought she would telegraph me. -I hope that those girls weren’t deceiving her. I spoke -to them about it yesterday when I took them some -things to eat, and they were utterly unresponsive.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_313'>313</span>“I imagine from what you have told me of this -affair,” said the Judge, shrewdly, “that they have -not misled that bereaved woman. You will hear -from her later. She is probably in communication -with the child-stealers; quite likely, agreeing upon -some concession—very illegal, but very easily understood. -But come, these pigeons are getting to be -too aggressive. Let us go out and see the rest of -the live stock. I know you like horses.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Love them,” said Berty, intensely, “and I want -to see the cow, too. Brick said you had a new one. -By the way, how is the boy getting on?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, I don’t know that the phrase ‘getting on’ -applies to Brick,” observed the Judge, cheerfully. -“It is rather a kind of backward and forward motion -that keeps him in about the same place. I know -I have felt it my duty to raise Roblee’s wages in -order to enable him to bear up under this new species -of trial.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The Lord will reward you, Judge,” said Berty, -heartily.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I take no credit to myself, not a particle,” said -the Judge. “I come in contact with him but little. -He regards Titus as his special oppressor. Look -up there, Mrs. Everest.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty raised her eyes. The Judge was standing -in the open door of the stable pointing toward the -house. “Can you see two little gray balls of down -up at the top of that old elm?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, sir, I can’t.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Look again—just where the topmost branches -extend under the gutter at the roof’s edge.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, yes, I do see something—those are surely not -<span class='pageno' id='Page_314'>314</span>Dallas’s little owls that Bethany told me about the -other day?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, they sit there asleep all day. At night they -fly about. What did Bethany tell you about them?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“After I rescued her from those women she -seemed greatly relieved, and confided to me a slight -misgiving she had had. Suppose they had taken her -to New York, and had not been able to find Daddy -Grandpa. ‘I tell you, Mrs. Everest, what Bethany -would do,’ she said, sweetly, to me. ‘Bethany would -open her window at night and call ’Frisco and -’Mento, Dallas’s two little owls that fly in the dark, -and she would say, “Go home quickly and tell Daddy -Grandpa that Bethany wants him.”’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge was listening intently. “How curious -is the working of a child’s mind!” he said. “In that -statement she confesses a belief that I was here all -the time, that I had not gone to New York. She -must have had an intuitive distrust of those -women.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I believe she had,” said Berty, decidedly. “It -was just her sweet, yielding nature that made her -go with them.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She is not always sweet and yielding. You -should see her when Airy Tingsby is about.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I know she does not like Airy,” said Berty, in an -amused voice, “but Airy likes her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked grave. “Bethany is trying to -overcome her dislike. She has Airy here a good -deal lately.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And you have put Airy in Miss Featherby’s -school, I hear,” said Berty, with slight curiosity.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled. “Yes, you know Dallas undertook -<span class='pageno' id='Page_315'>315</span>to instruct her. He mystified me greatly, -for I knew he did not mind doing it, and yet he -suddenly became loath to go out to the Tingsby cottage -to give Airy her lessons.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Of course, now, you understand that that was -in consequence of his instructions from us, to keep -about the house as much as possible.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, now, I understand, but then I did not. -However, I reasoned the matter out with myself. -Airy would be better under a woman’s care, so I -called on Miss Featherby. I had some scruples -about putting Airy in a boarding school.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And such a fashionable one,” murmured Berty.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“But Miss Featherby is such a sensible, such a -very sensible person,” continued the Judge, “that -I very much wished Airy to be under her care.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You really like the poor little mortal, Judge, I -do believe,” exclaimed Berty, irrepressibly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge looked cautiously over his shoulder -as if he were afraid the horses and the cow might be -eavesdropping.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I do not like her, I do not like her,” he said, -seriously.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty burst into a merry peal of laughter. “No -one does, yet. Why is it she makes us all stand -round?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I don’t like her,” repeated the Judge, cautiously, -“and yet I find myself in the presence of a very -strong young personality when I am with her. That -strength will be expended in some way. If I can -train it, perhaps I ought to.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She is very clever, very peculiar, and very fascinating,” -said Berty, succinctly. “She could twist -<span class='pageno' id='Page_316'>316</span>me round her little finger if she wished to, but she -doesn’t. Her ideals are not mine.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She has affection, too,” said the Judge, warmly. -“She came rushing in the morning after Bethany’s -attempted capture by those women and alarmed me -by her demonstrations of anger and alarm.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I suppose she does not come here very much now -that she is at Miss Featherby’s.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She comes whenever she is allowed to go out. -If it is to go downtown with a teacher she takes us -in on her way.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty laughed again. “You will have to adopt -her too, Judge; that is, if you have no scruples about -lifting her out of her sphere.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I have scruples, but what am I to do? Is not -ambition a good thing? Mrs. Tingsby does not -want to rise, Airy does. I have talked very seriously -to the child. I have explained to her that her wild -ambition is going to create a gulf between her and -her family. She says it won’t.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“It will,” remarked Berty, decidedly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, my course is clear,” said the Judge. “I -feel it. The spectacle of that little sick creature sitting -up at night, studying in a cheerless room, -haunted me. I have put her where she is warm and -comfortable, where her very environment is enough -to cheer and uplift her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How does she get on with the other girls?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled. “Peculiarly. I fancied that -she would have a hard time with them on account -of her different social station. However, I said to -her, ‘No stories, Airy. Tell the truth about yourself.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_317'>317</span>“And did she?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“She did,” said the Judge, laconically. Then, after -a time, he laughed suddenly and heartily. “The -truth in her case so far transcended the schoolgirls’ -anticipations or realizations that they looked upon it -as the wildest absurdity.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty seemed puzzled.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge repressed his amusement, and looking -down at her in his fatherly, benevolent way said, -“Imagine to yourself, my dear Mrs. Everest, a -schoolroom full of girls, all interested in the newcomer—I -have this straight from Airy—she, poor -child, sitting grim and composed, ready for anything. -Finally, one girl plucks up courage enough -to ask Airy what her name is, where she has lived, -how many servants her mother kept, what her -father’s business is, what church she goes to, how -much money she has in the bank, how many silk -dresses her mother owns, and so on.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty laughed gleefully. “I know them—that is -schoolgirls—they are so delightfully silly. What -did Airy say?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the -truth.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And the girls were staggered, I suppose,” chuckled -Berty.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Staggered and confounded. Then Airy says they -looked her over. Having foreseen something of -this, in a dim and masculine way, I had taken care -to provide my protégée with a carefully selected -wardrobe. Her clothes were not showy, but they -were what you women call elegant. I suppose you -will think it the foolish whim of an old man when -<span class='pageno' id='Page_318'>318</span>I tell you that I myself interviewed the dressmaker -who fitted Airy out. I told her to line her little -garments with the best of satin.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty leaned against the stable doorway and -laughed long and irrepressibly. “Well, Judge, you -are the greatest man—”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“And I gave her a gold watch,” he went on, with -twinkling eyes—“a very little one, but very exquisite—and -a chain of wonderful workmanship.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You dear man!” exclaimed Berty, impulsively. -“You did all this not to encourage vanity, but to -spare a child’s feelings.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well,” said the Judge, modestly, “I did not plan -to deceive Airy’s schoolmates, but the little witches -had heard of my other protégée, Bethany, and her -rich grandfather, so Airy says they received her -truthful account of herself as the most absurd kind -of fairy tale. They shouted with laughter over her -laconic description of the penury to which she had -been accustomed. Then she was received into the -inner circle as a kind of mystery. She says that the -girls think her a foreigner, on account of her dark -complexion, and this opinion is heightened by her -poor English. The most accredited rumor is that -she is an Italian princess, stolen from a magnificent -castle by gypsies.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty was convulsed with amusement. “And -how does Airy take all this?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Philosophically,” laughed the Judge. “Really -she is an astonishing girl. Details don’t concern her -as much as they do most people. She grasps the -whole. Dress and environment are secondary -things with her, things not to be disregarded, but -<span class='pageno' id='Page_319'>319</span>not to be overestimated. The primary thing is to -get an education. Then she wishes to earn money, -and repay me for what I have done for her, and also -to support her family—a heavy burden for such -young shoulders.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I wonder what she is going to be when she -grows up?” remarked Berty, meditatively.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Now that brings me to something that I wish to -ask your advice about,” said the Judge. “Ever since -the attempt was made to steal Bethany from us I -have been thinking that I need some young person -to look after my children—particularly the two little -girls.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Are you counting Airy in the family?” said -Berty, significantly. “I thought she would end by -establishing herself here.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“How can one defeat such an ingenious child?” -responded the Judge, frankly. “She began by calling, -then dropping in at mealtimes. Really, she -spent the most of her time here before she went to -Miss Featherby’s, and I know that when holidays -come we shall have her altogether.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“In which case you will need a lady housekeeper,” -said Berty, promptly, “or Airy will rule you all. -Now I know just the person for you, Judge.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Who is it?” he inquired, with interest.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My friend Nancy Armitage Steele.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You don’t mean little Nancy, the daughter of the -late General Armitage?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The same, Judge; but she is a tall young married -woman now, and, unfortunately, a widow.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What! That child married!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Child—she is twenty-five years old.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_320'>320</span>“How time flies!” said the Judge, musingly. “It -seems only the other day that the General and I -were lads in school. But how is it that his daughter -needs to support herself.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Her husband’s health failed, then after a long -illness he died. He left Nancy nothing and her -father had left her nothing, so she had to go to -work.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Poor Armitage—I knew that he made some bad -investments, but I thought he could leave his child -a competency. However, I have rather lost sight of -the family.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, it is some time since they left here. Now, -Judge, don’t you think Mrs. Nancy would preside -charmingly over your household? She is the sweetest -girl.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I do, indeed,” said the Judge, heartily, “if she -would not be too much of a fine lady to have a motherly -or sisterly care of the children. You see, Mrs. -Blodgett is getting old, and her department is the -housekeeping. I want the next best thing to a -mother for those little girls.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Nancy is at present mothering two hundred and -fifty children in an orphan asylum,” said Berty, -warmly, “and mothering them so well that the board -of managers has offered to increase her salary ever -so much if she will stay. But the responsibility is -too much for her. She is a great worker, but she -is not very strong. Next week she is coming to -visit me. I know of several positions that have -been offered her, but I don’t believe she has anything -in view that would suit her as well as this one -with her father’s old friend.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_321'>321</span>“I shall be obliged if you will arrange an interview -with her for me,” said the Judge, “but don’t -say anything decisive. Twenty-five does not seem -very young to you, but a girl of that age appears -like a child to me, and I don’t want to adopt any -more children.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You used not to be afraid,” replied Berty, smilingly. -“Nancy has an old head on her young shoulders.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Everest,” said the Judge, suddenly, “I am -keeping you in a draught. Let us step back here -and see the horses.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty went with him; then, a sudden thought of -the baby coming over her, she hurried the Judge -into the house.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Baby had been good—a perfect angel, and his -proud young mother took him upstairs, where he -fell asleep in the Judge’s study.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge himself went downtown, and the tired -Berty, putting down her head on the sofa beside -young Tom, fell asleep, and did not wake till Bethany -and the Judge came home for luncheon.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After lunch there was a long drive with the -Judge. Baby again was good, but upon coming -back to the avenue he distinguished himself. Before -dinner was announced he had successively worn -out the Judge, his mother, Dallas, Titus, and Bethany. -He had beaten Higby with a hearth-brush, -pulled out two of Sukey’s tail feathers and sent her -shrieking out to the balcony, upset a bottle of ink -on the handsome study carpet, torn leaves out of a -valuable Shakespeare that he snatched from the -table, and generally conducted himself with such -<span class='pageno' id='Page_322'>322</span>shameless impropriety that his young mother at -last slapped his hands.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He promptly whipped hers. “Never mind, dear -Judge,” she said, with an imploring glance at him. -“After dinner you will be rid of this nightmare.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge smiled cheerfully. “I assure you I -have not suffered. If you worry I shall suffer, so -please forgive your baby. He is full of animal -spirits.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>She kissed the little hands that she was holding, -then looked up as Jennie uttered her name.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The modest, pretty young maid stood in the doorway -and gazed alternatively at the Judge and at -Berty.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“There’s a lady downstairs,” she said, doubtfully. -“She asked if Judge Sancroft lived here. She said -she must see Mrs. Everest. It was something very -special. Her name is Mrs. Tralee, and she has a -little boy with her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty gave a joyful cry. “O, Judge, dear Judge, -she has got her boy. Come downstairs with me. -Jennie, look after the baby—I can’t take him down -in the parlor; he would demolish every bit of bric-a-brac -there. Come, dear Judge,” and seizing his -hand she drew him from the room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>A little, a very little woman stood in the middle of -the large parlor. The Judge gazed intently at her. -Berty had spoken truly when she had said that Mrs. -Tralee was mostly eyes and veil—and what eyes!</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stepped back. He felt himself an intruder. -This was no common scene, and there was -no formal introduction. The two women stood for -an instant looking at the little boy who accompanied -<span class='pageno' id='Page_323'>323</span>the lady. Then they fell on each other’s necks—that -is, Berty and the little widow.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was a sound of crying and kissing, and the -Judge quietly turned and was about to withdraw -when Berty called to him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, Judge, Judge,” she said, “this is the boy—the -lost boy. O, my dear Mrs. Tralee, where did -you get him. Tell me about it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The strange lady was gazing in rapt admiration -at Berty, who had run to the little lad and was holding -his hand and earnestly looking into his eyes.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tralee turned to the Judge. “Sir,” she said, -simply, “the only son of a widow—they stole him -from me. But this dear girl found him, and I bought -him. I bought back my precious child. Can you -wonder that I worship her?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>As she spoke she pointed to Berty. Her tone was -animated, even passionate, and the Judge nodded -comprehendingly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, I am so tired,” said Mrs. Tralee, suddenly -dropping into a chair. “For weeks I have scarcely -slept for grief, and now I cannot sleep for joy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Berty turned round suddenly. “You are coming -right home with me,” she said, “and I am going to -put you in a quiet room where you can rest, and I -will watch your boy every minute while you sleep. -Dear Judge, may we have a carriage?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Tralee sat gazing at Berty in mute acquiescence. -The expression in her eyes was almost -painful, and the Judge averted his head. “How -women suffer!” he murmured to himself, as he -went to the telephone for a carriage. “And how -they can comfort each other!”</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_324'>324</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XXVII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>Mr. Hittaker Calls on the Judge</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>A few weeks later on a lovely spring day Titus, -hammer in hand, stood prying open a box that had -just come for him by express.</p> - -<p class='c011'>While he was energetically pulling out nails -and removing strips of wood Brick came lounging -up the steps holding a mayflower between his -teeth.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mass’ Titus, Jennie she say an ole gen’l’man -jus’ come from New York want to see de Jedge.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘Jedge’ has gone driving,” said Titus, briefly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Well, but dat ole gen’l’man won’t take no for -yes. He says he mus’ see some one.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Bring him out here, then.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick hesitated. He had some idea of propriety, -and he did not like to think of “young Mass’ Titus” -receiving company in the pigeon loft.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus understood him. “Do you suppose I’d leave -the pigeons?” he said, indignantly. “They’ve had a -hot, tiresome journey. I’ve got to feed and water -them. Bring the old gentleman out here if he can’t -wait. If he can, I’ll go in the house later.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Brick disappeared, and presently returned, followed -by a thin, slight, elderly man who carried -his hands in his pockets.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sorry to bring you out here, sir,” said Titus, -politely, “but these birds are suffering and I can’t -<span class='pageno' id='Page_325'>325</span>leave them. Will you sit down?” and he nodded -toward a stool.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The gentleman remained standing, and with a -pair of remarkably small eyes listlessly surveyed -the roomy, bright pigeon loft, the birds at the open -windows, and the wiry, athletic young figure of -Titus himself.</p> - -<p class='c011'>There was a weary sneer on his face. Titus saw -it, but unconcernedly went on with his work.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“What is the good of all these?” said the stranger -at last, and he withdrew one of his hands from -his pocket and waved it at the birds.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, I like to hear them laugh and talk and fight, -just the way we do,” said Titus, calmly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Laugh and talk,” repeated the elderly man, and -he straightened himself and looked like one trying -to force himself to take an interest in something.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, they have their language just as we -have ours. Look at that young one there. He is -crying because his stepfather is beating him. Here, -stepfather, come away.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The man’s head sank on his breast. He seemed -to be thinking deeply, but Titus shrewdly guessed -that his mind was not on the relations of birds to -each other.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Looks as if he’d had some trouble,” thought the -boy to himself, then he said aloud, “Come in here, -pigeons,” and he gently guided the two prisoners -he had released from their traveling box into a large -cage.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I always put strangers in this cage for a few -days,” he remarked, in a cheerful, explanatory way, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_326'>326</span>“so they can look about them. Pigeons hate to be -rushed into a crowd.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The stranger roused himself and gazed at the -newcomers. “What kind of pigeons do you call -them?” he asked, in languid curiosity.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Pouters,” replied Titus.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They look as if they had their stomachs under -their chins,” said the elderly man, with slight animation. -“Ugly things!”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“They’re New Yorkers,” said Titus, slyly. Then -he added, “I don’t think they’re beautiful myself, -but I wanted to have them. Here, pigeons, have -some canary seed,” and he put a dish in beside them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Where is your grandfather?” asked the stranger, -abruptly. “That is, if you are Judge Sancroft’s -grandson. I think some one said you were.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir, I am. My grandfather is driving with -my adopted sister Bethany.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Adopted sister,” said his companion, thoughtfully. -“Is that the Hittaker child?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Yes, sir—Hittaker-Smith. My grandfather had -some kind of papers made out. We’re going to hold -on to little Bethany.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>A heavy shadow passed over the man’s face, and -Titus thought he heard him sigh. “I heard about -her,” he said, dreamily. “They said kidnapers tried -to steal her.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>A sudden thought flashed into Titus’s mind. -“You’re not Mr. Hittaker, are you, sir?” he asked, -sharply, and he stared in boyish curiosity at his -visitor.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The man nodded slightly. “Yes, yes, my name -is Hittaker.”</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_327'>327</span>Titus looked deeply sympathetic, and his eye ran -over his caller’s black clothes. “I say, sir,” he murmured, -sympathetically, “we were awfully sorry for -you. Bethany cried when she heard about the little -children being drowned.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>At this statement Titus lost the attention of his -companion. Mr. Hittaker’s face became more -dreamy. His mind was wandering away into regions -where the boy could not follow it. He thought -Mr. Hittaker looked ill. He certainly was in a -peculiar state mentally. Minute after minute he -stood silently, his eyes fixed on vacancy.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus leaned against the wall and watched him. -Finally, just as his young limbs began to ache from -inaction, Mr. Hittaker roused himself, turned to -him, and said, abruptly, “We were speaking of your -grandfather. When will he come home?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Probably not till near dinner time. It is such a -fine day.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“I planned to take the seven o’clock train back to -New York,” said Mr. Hittaker, slowly, “but it -doesn’t matter, it doesn’t matter.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Stay all night, sir,” said Titus, hospitably. -“Then you will have time to talk to my grandfather. -But,” he went on, slowly, “I hope you are -not to ask him for Bethany. It wouldn’t be any -use. We can’t give her up.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mr. Hittaker stared moodily at him and made no -reply.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“My grandfather doesn’t think an awful sight of -money,” said the boy, proudly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Money,” repeated his caller, and a gleam illuminated -his small eyes and sharp, shrewd face. “Show -<span class='pageno' id='Page_328'>328</span>me the man that doesn’t care for it, or the woman, -either.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Grandfather does care for it, in a way,” Titus -went on, earnestly. “He thinks you can do a lot -of good and be a great power in the world if you -have plenty of money, but he preaches to us all the -time about not thinking too much of riches.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Easy to talk,” replied Mr. Hittaker, with some -show of interest in the subject. “If you were that -black stable boy you couldn’t have all this,” and he -looked about the well appointed loft.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sir,” said Titus, intensely, “the other evening -I was walking with grandfather. We passed a tiny -house in the suburbs. A boy was nailing away at a -box and whistling like a good fellow. We stopped -and spoke to him. He was making a house for his -rabbits out of two big soap boxes—and, by the way, -they were Hittaker soap boxes; I saw the name. -When we left him my grandfather said, ‘Do you -suppose you are any happier than that boy?’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“‘No, sir,’ I said, ‘I don’t.’</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Then my grandfather went on: ‘Don’t run away -with the idea that no happiness can exist in cottages. -The contented mind makes its own dwelling.’”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mr. Hittaker gazed in an uninterested way at a -box of sawdust. He was too old, and too self-centered, -and too absent-minded, to be moved by Titus’s -eloquence; and then, when he had been a boy, he -had had no wise grandfather to train his youthful -mind. A grasping, miserly father had made a -grasping, miserly son.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Titus broke off with a slight shrug of his shoulders. -He was half pitiful, half inimical to his visitor. -<span class='pageno' id='Page_329'>329</span>“Come into the house, sir,” he said, hospitably. -“I can leave these birds now. Perhaps the time -won’t seem so long if you are looking at grandfather’s -books.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mr. Hittaker did not care for reading. The most -interesting books to him were account books. However, -he followed Titus willingly enough.</p> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_330'>330</span> - <h2 class='c005'>CHAPTER XXVIII<br> <span class='large'><span class='sc'>The Judge Reviews His Family</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c010'>Weeks and months flew by. Spring passed, summer -came and went, autumn followed, then winter -and Christmas and the Christmas holidays.</p> - -<p class='c011'>It was just one year since the Judge and Titus -had found Bethany trotting along Broadway. It -was considerably over a year since the adoption of -the pigeon princess into the family, and she was now -a fully matured bird.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She sat in her basket by the fireside. Higby had -just been in and carefully arranged the wire screen, -so that no sparks from the wood fire should fly out -on her.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Sukey was listening for the Judge’s footstep. -Dinner was over some time ago. He ought to be -coming to his study.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge, after dinner, had put on his cap and -had gone out to the stable. He wished to review -his family, to see that they were all happy and -comfortable.</p> - -<p class='c011'>To his great satisfaction, he found Roblee and -Brick together. The old coachman had brought -the boy into his room. He was teaching him to -read. Outside it was cold and dreary. A wild wind -was blowing, and the air was full of gathering snowflakes. -Inside Roblee’s apartment it was snug and -comfortable. At a little table drawn up under the -electric light sat Roblee, his feet on a coil of hot-water -<span class='pageno' id='Page_331'>331</span>pipes, his mouth open nearly all the time to -correct Brick’s innumerable mistakes as he struggled -through the chapters of Oliver Twist.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge stood at the door watching them. “Do -you like that book, Brick?” he said, suddenly.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The two inmates of the room turned round, then, -seeing who it was, rose respectfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Sit down,” said the Judge, and coming into the -room he took a chair himself and for a few minutes -talked kindly to them.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Roblee was certainly much bothered with Brick, -but he was certainly much benefited by having some -young life under the roof with him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>After the Judge left his room he turned into the -pigeon loft. The sleepy, contented birds gave him -bright glances.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“You are out of the coming storm,” he murmured -to himself, as he went downstairs to look at -the horses and the cow. When he emerged from -the stable, and the biting wind struck his face, he -looked up at the big, brightly lighted house. Up -under those dark eaves he knew a few street pigeons -were nestling.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Their footing is precarious,” he said. “I will -have a carpenter come and make a better shelter for -them. I cannot bear to think that anything under my -care should suffer this cold weather. Is that you, -Bylow?” he went on, as something touched his knee.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Good dog,” and he stooped down and patted the -now respectable member of society. “Go into the -stable. It is too cold for a short-haired dog to be -outside,” and he opened the door for him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>As he turned something passed his face. He -<span class='pageno' id='Page_332'>332</span>heard nothing, but he knew that one of the owls had -flown by on its noiseless wings.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“’Frisco and ’Mento,” he said, with a smile, -“having your night’s spin? Well, there is a comfortable -box for you above when you get through -wandering, and you know it. Strange,” he murmured, -as he continued his way to the house, “how -the whole creation not only groans together, but -rejoices together, and is linked together. I used -not to think of the dumb creatures; but it is easy -to go down, even to the owls, when one begins to -care for the children. Ah! that is a pretty sight!” -and he stopped short and looked in the window.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The curtains were not drawn. Down in the little -dining room for the servants Martha the cook and -Jennie, Betty, and old Higby were seated about a -blazing fire. Martha was rubbing some kind of -ointment on her hands, Jennie and Betty were sewing, -and Mrs. Blodgett, enthroned in a big rocking-chair -at the head of the table, was reading to them—reading -somewhat pompously and condescendingly, -but also in a most satisfactory manner, judging -from the frequent smiles of her auditors. Higby, -indeed, sometimes transgressed by laughing too -irrepressibly, upon which occasions Mrs. Blodgett -interrupted her reading, took off her glasses, and -solemnly scolded him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge came softly into the house, so that he -would not disturb them, and passed quietly upstairs.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Ah! here was the best picture of all, and he paused -at the parlor door.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Nancy Steele had arrived; the Judge had engaged -her to become lady housekeeper, mother-ingeneral, -<span class='pageno' id='Page_333'>333</span>adviser-in-chief, and whatever was needed -to make a perfect superintendent for his family.</p> - -<p class='c011'>She was succeeding admirably, and the Judge -gazed in intense admiration at the slender, graceful -figure at the piano. Mrs. Nancy was charming, very -ladylike, and very forceful, under a quiet, almost a -languid exterior.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The children were charmed with her. Bethany -stood close to her, begging her to sing again. Airy -sat near by, quiet and watchful, her eyes glued to -Mrs. Nancy’s face. The Judge knew that both -little girls adored her, and he was delighted, for he -had given them the young widow as a model.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy was spending a part of her Christmas holidays -at 110 Grand Avenue—the larger part, the -Judge shrewdly guessed it would be.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mrs. Steele spoke with a slight, a very slight -drawl, and to the Judge’s amusement Airy had -already acquired this, though she had only been in -the house a few days with her. She also had put -on a black dress, because she so much admired the -young widow’s trailing, somber garments.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Dallas and Titus were playing some game at a -little table and occasionally glancing up at the group -by the piano.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Their faces were all happy. “Peace and good -will,” murmured the Judge. “How I wish my dear -wife could look in on this sight. It reminds me of -the happy times we had when we first came to this -house. For many years this room has been desolate. -Now it is again sanctified by the presence of -a good woman and promising children. Now if -they will only turn out well! God grant it, and give -<span class='pageno' id='Page_334'>334</span>me grace so to train them that they may be shining -lights in this troublous world!” and casting a farewell -glance at the occupants of the handsome room -the Judge went on his way to his study.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Sukey was overjoyed to see him. She strutted -toward the doorway, spreading her tail and cooing -with pleasure.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“The only thing I have left,” said the Judge, -cheerfully; “that is, the only thing under my special -jurisdiction. Mrs. Steele has relieved me of a great -weight of care.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Now he could spend the evening after his own -fashion, safe from any interruption from Bethany, -or Airy, or the boys, he reflected, with a deep sigh -of satisfaction.</p> - -<p class='c011'>But could he? He had scarcely opened his book -when they were all hurrying in upon him—the elegant -Mrs. Nancy drawn on by impetuous Bethany, -and Titus, Dallas, and Airy bringing up the rear.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Grandfather,” said Titus, imperiously; “Dear -Daddy Grandpa,” exclaimed Bethany; “Mr. Judge,” -said Airy, solemnly; and “Dear Judge,” said the -young widow, smilingly, “the children absolutely -refuse to play a new guessing game I want to teach -them unless you are in it.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge took off his spectacles and blandly -surveyed the young faces about him. “Will it take -long?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“O, no, sir,” said Dallas, eagerly, “I half know it -now. We can easily stop at Bethany’s bedtime.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Mrs. Steele says I may sit up half an hour later -than usual, you naughty Dallas,” interposed Bethany, -resentfully.</p> - -<p class='c011'><span class='pageno' id='Page_335'>335</span>The Judge smiled. Bethany occasionally showed -a little bit of temper. Well, she had been rather -spoiled lately, and he was afraid that some foolish -people had been talking to her about her rich grandfather.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He had had rather a trying interview with Mr. -Hittaker. In the first place, being two men so absolutely -unlike, they had found no common ground on -which to stand. Then Mr. Hittaker had been painfully -absent-minded. It had been almost impossible -to induce him to concentrate his attention on the -subject of Bethany, though it was for the purpose -of talking about her that he had come to see the -Judge.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He evidently was not much interested in her. All -the mind and heart that he had seemed to have been -buried with his dead daughter and her children. -However, before leaving, he gave the Judge to understand -that he regarded Bethany as the only -remaining member of his family besides himself, -and in the event of his death she would receive what -property he had to leave.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He had at one time in their interview expressed -a desire that Bethany should come to New York to -live with him.</p> - -<p class='c011'>This desire the Judge kindly but promptly told -him could not be gratified. Inwardly he added a -resolve that not for all the wealth of the Union -would he deliver Bethany up to the training of so -self-centered a man.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Mr. Hittaker did not seem to feel disappointed. -Indeed, so strange a state of mind had he been in -that he had not even asked to see the child. It was -<span class='pageno' id='Page_336'>336</span>the Judge who suggested having her come in the -room.</p> - -<p class='c011'>He had expressed a little curiosity, though, on -the subject of her kidnapers, and had shown some -satisfaction after hearing that Smalley and the two -women were serving long terms of imprisonment. -The Judge told him that everything was being done -to influence them for good.</p> - -<p class='c011'>“Daddy Grandpa!” said Bethany, stroking his -hand.</p> - -<p class='c011'>The Judge called back his wandering thoughts. -While he had been busy with his reminiscences Mrs. -Steele and the children were waiting. “Certainly, -certainly, my dears,” he said, “I will play your -game with you. Shall we go downstairs?”</p> - -<p class='c011'>Airy was for returning to the parlor. She liked -pomp and ceremony. “No, no,” said Bethany, when -the Tingsby girl remarked in a stilted voice, “The -parlor is more agreeable.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>“No, no,” the child went on, “here in the study -with Daddy Grandpa and Sukey. It is more cozy.”</p> - -<p class='c011'>They all seated themselves about the fire, and Mrs. -Steele began the guessing game.</p> - -<p class='c011'>Princess Sukey, in her basket, lifted her hooded -head and with a wise look surveyed her circle of -friends. Her greenish-yellow eyes rested longest -on the beloved white head. There was the leader -of the family and her chief friend, and his benevolent -eyes, taking in the happy faces of the group -about him, did not forget to rest occasionally on the -little creature who loved him, though she was only -a bird.</p> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c002'> - <div><span class='sc'>The End.</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='pbb'> - <hr class='pb c013'> -</div> -<div class='tnotes x-ebookmaker'> - -<div class='chapter ph2'> - -<div class='nf-center-c0'> -<div class='nf-center c003'> - <div>TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES</div> - </div> -</div> - -</div> - - <ol class='ol_1 c002'> - <li>P. <a href='#t215'>215</a>, changed “Let him out,” ordered Dallas, “let him out; my back’s ’most - broken.” to “Let him out,” ordered Titus, “let him out; my back’s ’most broken.” - - </li> - <li>Silently corrected obvious typographical errors and variations in spelling. - - </li> - <li>Retained archaic, non-standard, and uncertain spellings as printed. - </li> - </ol> - -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRINCESS SUKEY ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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