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diff --git a/old/8680-h.htm.2021-01-26 b/old/8680-h.htm.2021-01-26 new file mode 100644 index 0000000..901dcbc --- /dev/null +++ b/old/8680-h.htm.2021-01-26 @@ -0,0 +1,17475 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Story of Kennett, by Bayard Taylor + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: right; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; margin-left: 0.8em; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Story Of Kennett, by Bayard Taylor + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Story Of Kennett + +Author: Bayard Taylor + + +Release Date: August, 2005 [EBook #8680] +This file was first posted on July 31, 2003 +Last Updated: March 16, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE STORY OF KENNETT *** + + + + +Text file produced by Charles Aldarondo, Tiffany Vergon, Michelle +Shephard, Charles Franks, and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + + + +</pre> + + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + THE STORY OF KENNETT + </h1> + <h2> + By Bayard Taylor + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PROL"> PROLOGUE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. — THE CHASE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. — WHO SHALL HAVE THE BRUSH? + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. — MARY POTTER AND HER SON. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. — FORTUNE AND MISFORTUNE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. — GUESTS AT FAIRTHORN'S. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. — THE NEW GILBERT. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. — OLD KENNETT MEETING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. — AT DR. DEANE'S. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. — THE RAISING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. — THE RIVALS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. — GUESTS AT POTTER'S. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. — THE EVENTS OF AN EVENING. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. — TWO OLD MEN. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. — DOUBTS AND SURMISES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. — ALFRED BARTON BETWEEN TWO + FIRES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. — MARTHA DEANE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. — CONSULTATIONS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. — SANDY FLASH REAPPEARS. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. — THE HUSKING FROLIC. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. — GILBERT ON THE ROAD TO + CHESTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. — ROGER REPAYS HIS MASTER. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. — MARTHA DEANE TAKES A + RESOLUTION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. — A CROSS-EXAMINATION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. — DEB. SMITH TAKES A + RESOLUTION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. — TWO ATTEMPTS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. — THE LAST OF SANDY FLASH. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. — GILBERT INDEPENDENT. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. — MISS LAVENDER MAKES A + GUESS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX. — MYSTERIOUS MOVEMENTS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. — THE FUNERAL. — </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. — THE WILL. — </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII. — THE LOVERS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII. — HUSBAND AND WIFE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV. — THE WEDDING. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PROL" id="link2H_PROL"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PROLOGUE. + </h2> + <h3> + TO MY FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS OF KENNETT: + </h3> + <p> + I wish to dedicate this Story to you, not only because some of you inhabit + the very houses, and till the very fields which I have given to the actors + in it, but also because many of you will recognize certain of the latter, + and are therefore able to judge whether they are drawn with the simple + truth at which I have aimed. You are, naturally, the critics whom I have + most cause to fear; but I do not inscribe these pages to you with the + design of purchasing your favor. I beg you all to accept the fact as an + acknowledgment of the many quiet and happy years I have spent among you; + of the genial and pleasant relations into which I was born, and which have + never diminished, even when I have returned to you from the farthest ends + of the earth; and of the use (often unconsciously to you, I confess,) + which I have drawn from your memories of former days, your habits of + thought and of life. + </p> + <p> + I am aware that truth and fiction are so carefully woven together in this + Story of Kennett, that you will sometimes be at a loss to disentangle + them. The lovely pastoral landscapes which I know by heart, have been + copied, field for field and tree for tree, and these you will immediately + recognize. Many of you will have no difficulty in detecting the originals + of Sandy Flash and Deb. Smith; a few will remember the noble horse which + performed the service I have ascribed to Roger; and the descendants of a + certain family will not have forgotten some of the pranks of Joe and Jake + Fairthorn. Many more than these particulars are drawn from actual sources; + but as I have employed them with a strict regard to the purposes of the + Story, transferring dates and characters at my pleasure, you will often, I + doubt not, attribute to invention that which I owe to family tradition. + Herein, I must request that you will allow me to keep my own counsel; for + the processes which led to the completed work extend through many previous + years, and cannot readily be revealed. I will only say that every custom I + have described is true to the time, though some of them are now obsolete; + that I have used no peculiar word or phrase of the common dialect of the + country which I have not myself heard; and further, that I owe the chief + incidents of the last chapter, given to me on her death-bed, to the dear + and noble woman whose character (not the circumstances of her life) I have + endeavored to reproduce in that of Martha Deane. + </p> + <p> + The country life of our part of Pennsylvania retains more elements of its + English origin than that of New England or Virginia. Until within a few + years, the conservative influence of the Quakers was so powerful that it + continued to shape the habits even of communities whose religious + sentiment it failed to reach. Hence, whatever might be selected as + incorrect of American life, in its broader sense, in these pages, is + nevertheless locally true; and to this, at least, all of you, my Friends + and Neighbors, can testify. In these days, when Fiction prefers to deal + with abnormal characters and psychological problems more or less + exceptional or morbid, the attempt to represent the elements of life in a + simple, healthy, pastoral community, has been to me a source of + uninterrupted enjoyment. May you read it with half the interest I have + felt in writing it! + </p> + <h3> + BAYARD TAYLOR. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. — THE CHASE. + </h2> + <p> + At noon, on the first Saturday of March, 1796, there was an unusual stir + at the old Barton farm-house, just across the creek to the eastward, as + you leave Kennett Square by the Philadelphia stage-road. Any gathering of + the people at Barton's was a most rare occurrence; yet, on that day and at + that hour, whoever stood upon the porch of the corner house, in the + village, could see horsemen approaching by all the four roads which there + met. Some five or six had already dismounted at the Unicorn Tavern, and + were refreshing themselves with stout glasses of “Old Rye,” while their + horses, tethered side by side to the pegs in the long hitching-bar, pawed + and stamped impatiently. An eye familiar with the ways of the neighborhood + might have surmised the nature of the occasion which called so many + together, from the appearance and equipment of these horses. They were not + heavy animals, with the marks of plough-collars on their broad shoulders, + or the hair worn off their rumps by huge breech-straps; but light and + clean-limbed, one or two of them showing signs of good blood, and all more + carefully groomed than usual. + </p> + <p> + Evidently, there was no “vendue” at the Barton farmhouse; neither a + funeral, nor a wedding, since male guests seemed to have been exclusively + bidden. To be sure, Miss Betsy Lavender had been observed to issue from + Dr. Deane's door, on the opposite side of the way, and turn into the path + beyond the blacksmith's, which led down through the wood and over the + creek to Barton's; but then, Miss Lavender was known to be handy at all + times, and capable of doing all things, from laying out a corpse to + spicing a wedding-cake. Often self-invited, but always welcome, very few + social or domestic events could occur in four townships (East Marlborough, + Kennett, Pennsbury, and New-Garden) without her presence; while her + knowledge of farms, families, and genealogies extended up to Fallowfield + on one side, and over to Birmingham on the other. + </p> + <p> + It was, therefore, a matter of course, whatever the present occasion might + be, that Miss Lavender put on her broad gray beaver hat, and brown stuff + cloak, and took the way to Barton's. The distance could easily be walked + in five minutes, and the day was remarkably pleasant for the season. A + fortnight of warm, clear weather had extracted the last fang of frost, and + there was already green grass in the damp hollows. Bluebirds picked the + last year's berries from the cedar-trees; buds were bursting on the + swamp-willows; the alders were hung with tassels, and a powdery crimson + bloom began to dust the bare twigs of the maple-trees. All these signs of + an early spring Miss Lavender noted as she picked her way down the wooded + bank. Once, indeed, she stopped, wet her forefinger with her tongue, and + held it pointed in the air. There was very little breeze, but this natural + weathercock revealed from what direction it came. + </p> + <p> + “Southwest!” she said, nodding her head—“Lucky!” + </p> + <p> + Having crossed the creek on a flat log, secured with stakes at either end, + a few more paces brought her to the warm, gentle knoll, upon which stood + the farm-house. Here, the wood ceased, and the creek, sweeping around to + the eastward, embraced a quarter of a mile of rich bottomland, before + entering the rocky dell below. It was a pleasant seat, and the age of the + house denoted that one of the earliest settlers had been quick to perceive + its advantages. A hundred years had already elapsed since the masons had + run up those walls of rusty hornblende rock, and it was even said that the + leaden window-sashes, with their diamond-shaped panes of greenish glass, + had been brought over from England, in the days of William Penn. In fact, + the ancient aspect of the place—the tall, massive chimney at the + gable, the heavy, projecting eaves, and the holly-bush in a warm nook + beside the front porch, had, nineteen years before, so forcibly reminded + one of Howe's soldiers of his father's homestead in mid-England, that he + was numbered among the missing after the Brandywine battle, and presently + turned up as a hired hand on the Barton farm, where he still lived, year + in and year out. + </p> + <p> + An open, grassy space, a hundred yards in breadth, intervened between the + house and the barn, which was built against the slope of the knoll, so + that the bridge to the threshing-floor was nearly level, and the stables + below were sheltered from the north winds, and open to the winter sun. On + the other side of the lane leading from the high-road stood a wagon-house + and corn-crib—the latter empty, yet evidently, in spite of its + emptiness, the principal source of attraction to the visitors. A score of + men and boys peeped between the upright laths, and a dozen dogs howled and + sprang around the smooth corner-posts upon which the structure rested. At + the door stood old Giles, the military straggler already mentioned—now + a grizzly, weather-beaten man of fifty—with a jolly grin on his + face, and a short leather whip in his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Want to see him, Miss Betsy?” he asked, touching his mink-skin cap, as + Miss Lavender crawled through the nearest panel of the lofty picket fence. + </p> + <p> + “See him?” she repeated. “Don't care if I do, afore goin' into th' house.” + </p> + <p> + “Come up, then; out o' the way, Cato! Fan, take that, you slut! Don't be + afeard, Miss Betsy; if folks kept 'em in the leash, as had ought to be + done, I'd have less trouble. They're mortal eager, and no wonder. There!—a'n't + he a sly-lookin' divel? If I'd a hoss, Miss Betsy, I'd foller with the + best of 'em, and maybe you wouldn't have the brush?” + </p> + <p> + “Have the brush. Go along, Giles! He's an old one, and knows how to take + care of it. Do keep off the dreadful dogs, and let me git down!” cried + Miss Lavender, gathering her narrow petticoats about her legs, and + surveying the struggling animals before her with some dismay. + </p> + <p> + Giles's whip only reached the nearest, and the excited pack rushed forward + again after every repulse; but at this juncture a tall, smartly-dressed + man came across the lane, kicked the hounds out of the way, and extended a + helping hand to the lady. + </p> + <p> + “Ho, Mr. Alfred!” said she; “Much obliged. Miss Ann's havin' her hands + full, I reckon?” + </p> + <p> + Without waiting for an answer, she slipped into the yard and along the + front of the house, to the kitchen entrance, at the eastern end. There we + will leave her, and return to the group of gentlemen. + </p> + <p> + Any one could see at a glance that Mr. Alfred Barton was the most + important person present. His character of host gave him, of course, the + right to control the order of the coming chase; but his size and + swaggering air of strength, his new style of hat, the gloss of his blue + coat, the cut of his buckskin breeches, and above all, the splendor of his + tasselled top-boots, distinguished him from his more homely apparelled + guests. His features were large and heavy: the full, wide lips betrayed a + fondness for indulgence, and the small, uneasy eyes a capacity for + concealing this and any other quality which needed concealment. They were + hard and cold, generally more than half hidden under thick lids, and + avoided, rather than sought, the glance of the man to whom he spoke. His + hair, a mixture of red-brown and gray, descended, without a break, into + bushy whiskers of the same color, and was cut shorter at the back of the + head than was then customary. Something coarse and vulgar in his nature + exhaled, like a powerful odor, through the assumed shell of a gentleman, + which he tried to wear, and rendered the assumption useless. + </p> + <p> + A few guests, who had come from a distance, had just finished their dinner + in the farm-house. Owing to causes which will hereafter be explained, they + exhibited less than the usual plethoric satisfaction after the hospitality + of the country, and were the first to welcome the appearance of a square + black bottle, which went the rounds, with the observation: “Whet up for a + start!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Barton drew a heavy silver watch from his fob, and carefully holding + it so that the handful of glittering seals could be seen by everybody, + appeared to meditate. + </p> + <p> + “Five minutes to one,” he said at last. “No use in waiting much longer; 't + isn't good to keep the hounds fretting. Any signs of anybody else?” + </p> + <p> + The others, in response, turned towards the lane and highway. Some, with + keen eyes, fancied they could detect a horseman through the wood. + Presently Giles, from his perch at the door of the corn-crib, cried out: + </p> + <p> + “There's somebody a-comin' up the meadow. I don't know the hoss; rides + like Gilbert Potter. Gilbert it is, blast me! new-mounted.” + </p> + <p> + “Another plough-horse!” suggested Mr. Joel Ferris, a young Pennsbury buck, + who, having recently come into a legacy of four thousand pounds, wished it + to be forgotten that he had never ridden any but plough-horses until + within the year. + </p> + <p> + The others laughed, some contemptuously, glancing at their own + well-equipped animals the while, some constrainedly, for they knew the + approaching guest, and felt a slight compunction in seeming to side with + Mr. Ferris. Barton began to smile stiffly, but presently bit his lip and + drew his brows together. + </p> + <p> + Pressing the handle of his riding-whip against his chin, he stared + vacantly up the lane, muttering “We must wait, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + His lids were lifted in wonder the next moment; he seized Ferris by the + arm, and exclaimed:— + </p> + <p> + “Whom have we here?” + </p> + <p> + All eyes turned in the same direction, descried a dashing horseman in the + lane. + </p> + <p> + “Upon my soul I don't know,” said Ferris. “Anybody expected from the + Fagg's Manor way?” + </p> + <p> + “Not of my inviting,” Barton answered. + </p> + <p> + The other guests professed their entire ignorance of the stranger, who, + having by this time passed the bars, rode directly up to the group. He was + a short, broad-shouldered man of nearly forty, with a red, freckled face, + keen, snapping gray eyes, and a close, wide mouth. Thick, jet-black + whiskers, eyebrows and pig-tail made the glance of those eyes, the gleam + of his teeth, and the color of his skin where it was not reddened by the + wind, quite dazzling. This violent and singular contrast gave his plain, + common features an air of distinction. Although his mulberry coat was + somewhat faded, it had a jaunty cut, and if his breeches were worn and + stained, the short, muscular thighs and strong knees they covered, told of + a practised horseman. + </p> + <p> + He rode a large bay gelding, poorly groomed, and apparently not remarkable + for blood, but with no marks of harness on his rough coat. + </p> + <p> + “Good-day to you, gentlemen!” said the stranger, familiarly knocking the + handle of his whip against his cocked hat. “Squire Barton, how do you do?” + </p> + <p> + “How do you do, sir?” responded Mr. Barton, instantly flattered by the + title, to which he had no legitimate right. “I believe,” he added, “you + have the advantage of me.” + </p> + <p> + A broad smile, or rather grin, spread over the stranger's face. His teeth + flashed, and his eyes shot forth a bright, malicious ray. He hesitated a + moment, ran rapidly over the faces of the others without perceptibly + moving his head, and noting the general curiosity, said, at last:— + </p> + <p> + “I hardly expected to find an acquaintance in this neighborhood, but a + chase makes quick fellowship. I happened to hear of it at the Anvil + Tavern,—am on my way to the Rising Sun; so, you see, if the hunt + goes down Tuffkenamon, as is likely, it's so much of a lift on the way.” + </p> + <p> + “All right,—glad to have you join us. What did you say your name + was?” inquired Mr. Barton. + </p> + <p> + “I didn't say what; it's Fortune,—a fortune left to me by my father, + ha! ha! Don't care if I do”— + </p> + <p> + With the latter words, Fortune (as we must now call him) leaned down from + his saddle, took the black bottle from the unresisting hands of Mr. + Ferris, inverted it against his lips, and drank so long and luxuriously as + to bring water into the mouths of the spectators. Then, wiping his mouth + with the back of his freckled hand, he winked and nodded his head + approvingly to Mr. Barton. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the other horseman had arrived from the meadow, after + dismounting and letting down the bars, over which his horse stepped slowly + and cautiously,—a circumstance which led some of the younger guests + to exchange quiet, amused glances. Gilbert Potter, however, received a + hearty greeting from all, including the host, though the latter, by an + increased shyness in meeting his gaze, manifested some secret constraint. + </p> + <p> + “I was afraid I should have been too late,” said Gilbert; “the old break + in the hedge is stopped at last, so I came over the hill above, without + thinking on the swampy bit, this side.” + </p> + <p> + “Breaking your horse in to rough riding, eh?” said Mr. Ferris, touching a + neighbor with his elbow. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert smiled good-humoredly, but said nothing, and a little laugh went + around the circle. Mr. Fortune seemed to understand the matter in a flash. + He looked at the brown, shaggy-maned animal, standing behind its owner, + with its head down, and said, in a low, sharp tone: “I see—where did + you get him?” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert returned the speaker's gaze a moment before he answered. “From a + drover,” he then said. + </p> + <p> + “By the Lord!”-ejaculated Mr. Barton, who had again conspicuously + displayed his watch, “it's over half-past one. Look out for the hounds,—we + must start, if we mean to do any riding this day!” + </p> + <p> + The owners of the hounds picked out their several animals and dragged them + aside, in which operation they were uproariously assisted by the boys. The + chase in Kennett, it must be confessed, was but a very faint shadow of the + old English pastime. It had been kept up, in the neighborhood, from the + force of habit in the Colonial times, and under the depression which the + strong Quaker element among the people exercised upon all sports and + recreations. The breed of hounds, not being restricted to close communion, + had considerably degenerated, and few, even of the richer farmers, could + afford to keep thoroughbred hunters for this exclusive object. + Consequently all the features of the pastime had become rude and + imperfect, and, although very respectable gentlemen still gave it their + countenance, there was a growing suspicion that it was a questionable, if + not demoralizing diversion. It would be more agreeable if we could invest + the present occasion with a little more pomp and dignity; but we must + describe the event precisely as it occurred. + </p> + <p> + The first to greet Gilbert were his old friends, Joe and Jake Fairthorn. + These boys loudly lamented that their father had denied them the loan of + his old gray mare, Bonnie; they could ride double on a gallop, they said; + and wouldn't Gilbert take them along, one before and one behind him? But + he laughed and shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Well, we've got Watch, anyhow,” said Joe, who thereupon began whispering + very earnestly to Jake, as the latter seized the big family bull-dog by + the collar. Gilbert foreboded mischief, and kept his eye upon the pair. + </p> + <p> + A scuffle was heard in the corn-crib, into which Giles had descended. The + boys shuddered and chuckled in a state of delicious fear, which changed + into a loud shout of triumph, as the soldier again made his appearance at + the door, with the fox in his arms, and a fearless hand around its muzzle. + </p> + <p> + “By George! what a fine brush!” exclaimed Mr. Ferris. + </p> + <p> + A sneer, quickly disguised in a grin, ran over Fortune's face. The hounds + howled and tugged; Giles stepped rapidly across the open space where the + knoll sloped down to the meadow. It was a moment of intense expectation. + </p> + <p> + Just then, Joe and Jake Fairthorn let go their hold on the bull-dog's + collar; but Gilbert Potter caught the animal at the second bound. The boys + darted behind the corn-crib, scared less by Gilbert's brandished whip than + by the wrath and astonishment in Mr. Barton's face. + </p> + <p> + “Cast him off, Giles!” the latter cried. + </p> + <p> + The fox, placed upon the ground, shot down the slope and through the fence + into the meadow. Pausing then, as if first to assure himself of his + liberty, he took a quick, keen survey of the ground before him, and then + started off towards the left. + </p> + <p> + “He's making for the rocks!” cried Mr. Ferris; to which the stranger, who + was now watching the animal with sharp interest, abruptly answered, “Hold + your tongue!” + </p> + <p> + Within a hundred yards the fox turned to the right, and now, having + apparently made up his mind to the course, struck away in a steady but not + hurried trot. In a minute he had reached the outlying trees of the timber + along the creek. + </p> + <p> + “He's a cool one, he is!” remarked Giles, admiringly. + </p> + <p> + By this time he was hidden by the barn from the sight of the hounds, and + they were let loose. While they darted about in eager quest of the scent, + the hunters mounted in haste. Presently an old dog gave tongue like a + trumpet, the pack closed, and the horsemen followed. The boys kept pace + with them over the meadow, Joe and Jake taking the lead, until the creek + abruptly stopped their race, when they sat down upon the bank and cried + bitterly, as the last of the hunters disappeared through the thickets on + the further side. + </p> + <p> + It was not long before a high picket-fence confronted the riders. Mr. + Ferris, with a look of dismay, dismounted. Fortune, Barton, and Gilbert + Potter each threw off a heavy “rider,” and leaped their horses over the + rails. The others followed through the gaps thus made, and all swept + across the field at full speed, guided by the ringing cry of the hounds. + </p> + <p> + When they reached the Wilmington road, the cry swerved again to the left, + and most of the hunters, with Barton at their head, took the highway in + order to reach the crossroad to New-Garden more conveniently. Gilbert and + Fortune alone sprang into the opposite field, and kept a straight + southwestern course for the other branch of Redley Creek. The field was + divided by a stout thorn-hedge from the one beyond it, and the two + horsemen, careering neck and neck, glanced at each other curiously as they + approached this barrier. Their respective animals were transformed; the + unkempt manes were curried by the wind, as they flew; their sleepy eyes + were full of fire, and the splendid muscles, aroused to complete action, + marked their hides with lines of beauty. There was no wavering in either; + side by side they hung in flight above the hedge, and side by side struck + the clean turf beyond. + </p> + <p> + Then Fortune turned his head, nodded approvingly to Gilbert, and muttered + to himself: “He's a gallant fellow,—I'll not rob him of the brush.” + But he laughed a short, shrill, wicked laugh the next moment. + </p> + <p> + Before they reached the creek, the cry of the hounds ceased. They halted a + moment on the bank, irresolute. + </p> + <p> + “He must have gone down towards the snuff-mill,” said Gilbert, and was + about to change his course. + </p> + <p> + “Stop,” said the stranger; “if he has, we've lost him any way. Hark! + hurrah!” + </p> + <p> + A deep bay rang from the westward, through the forest. Gilbert shouted: + “The lime-quarry!” and dashed across the stream. A lane was soon reached, + and as the valley opened, they saw the whole pack heading around the + yellow mounds of earth which marked the locality of the quarry. At the + same instant some one shouted in the rear, and they saw Mr. Alfred Barton, + thundering after, and apparently bent on diminishing the distance between + them. + </p> + <p> + A glance was sufficient to show that the fox had not taken refuge in the + quarry, but was making a straight course up the centre of the valley. Here + it was not so easy to follow. The fertile floor of Tuffkenamon, stripped + of woods, was crossed by lines of compact hedge, and, moreover, the + huntsmen were not free to tear and trample the springing wheat of the + thrifty Quaker farmers. Nevertheless, one familiar with the ground could + take advantage of a gap here and there, choose the connecting + pasture-fields, and favor his course with a bit of road, when the chase + swerved towards either side of the valley. Gilbert Potter soon took the + lead, closely followed by Fortune. Mr. Barton was perhaps better mounted + than either, but both horse and rider were heavier, and lost in the moist + fields, while they gained rapidly where the turf was firm. + </p> + <p> + After a mile and a half of rather toilsome riding, all three were nearly + abreast. The old tavern of the Hammer and Trowel was visible, at the foot + of the northern hill; the hounds, in front, bayed in a straight line + towards Avondale Woods,—but a long slip of undrained bog made its + appearance. Neither gentleman spoke, for each was silently tasking his + wits how to accomplish the passage most rapidly. The horses began to sink + into the oozy soil: only a very practised eye could tell where the surface + was firmest, and even this knowledge was but slight advantage. + </p> + <p> + Nimbly as a cat Gilbert sprang from the saddle, still holding the pummel + in his right hand, touched his horse's flank with the whip, and bounded + from one tussock to another. The sagacious animal seemed to understand and + assist his manoeuvre. Hardly had he gained firm ground than he was in his + seat again, while Mr. Barton was still plunging in the middle of the bog. + </p> + <p> + By the time he had reached the road, Gilbert shrewdly guessed where the + chase would terminate. The idlers on the tavern-porch cheered him as he + swept around the corner; the level highway rang to the galloping hoofs of + his steed, and in fifteen minutes he had passed the long and lofty oak + woods of Avondale. At the same moment, fox and hounds broke into full + view, sweeping up the meadow on his left. The animal made a last desperate + effort to gain a lair among the bushes and loose stones on the northern + hill; but the hunter was there before him, the hounds were within reach, + and one faltering moment decided his fate. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert sprang down among the frantic dogs, and saved the brush from the + rapid dismemberment which had already befallen its owner. Even then, he + could only assure its possession by sticking it into his hat and + remounting his horse. When he looked around, no one was in sight, but the + noise of hoofs was heard crashing through the wood. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferris, with some dozen others, either anxious to spare their horses + or too timid to take the hedges in the valley, had kept the cross-road to + New-Garden, whence a lane along the top of the southern hill led them into + the Avondale Woods. They soon emerged, shouting and yelling, upon the + meadow. + </p> + <p> + The chase was up; and Gilbert Potter, on his “plough horse,” was the only + huntsman in at the death. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. — WHO SHALL HAVE THE BRUSH? + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Barton and Fortune, who seemed to have become wonderfully intimate + during the half hour in which they had ridden together, arrived at the + same time. The hunters, of whom a dozen were now assembled (some five or + six inferior horses being still a mile in the rear), were all astounded, + and some of them highly vexed, at the result of the chase. Gilbert's + friends crowded about him, asking questions as to the course he had taken, + and examining the horse, which had maliciously resumed its sleepy look, + and stood with drooping head. The others had not sufficient tact to + disguise their ill-humor, for they belonged to that class which, in all + countries, possesses the least refinement—the uncultivated rich. + </p> + <p> + “The hunt started well, but it's a poor finish,” said one of these. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind!” Mr. Ferris remarked; “such things come by chance.” + </p> + <p> + These words struck the company to silence. A shock, felt rather than + perceived, fell upon them, and they looked at each other with an + expression of pain and embarrassment. Gilbert's face faded to a sallow + paleness, and his eyes were fastened upon those of the speaker with a + fierce and dangerous intensity. Mr. Ferris colored, turned away, and + called to his hounds. + </p> + <p> + Fortune was too sharp an observer not to remark the disturbance. He cried + out, and his words produced an instant, general sense of relief:— + </p> + <p> + “It's been a fine run, friends, and we can't do better than ride back to + the Hammer and Trowel, and take a 'smaller'—or a 'bigger' for that + matter—at my expense. You must let me pay my footing now, for I hope + to ride with you many a time to come. Faith! If I don't happen to buy that + place down by the Rising Sun, I'll try to find another, somewhere about + New London or Westgrove, so that we can be nearer neighbors.” + </p> + <p> + With that he grinned, rather than smiled; but although his manner would + have struck a cool observer as being mocking instead of cordial, the + invitation was accepted with great show of satisfaction, and the horsemen + fell into pairs, forming a picturesque cavalcade as they passed under the + tall, leafless oaks. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert Potter speedily recovered his self-possession, but his face was + stern and his manner abstracted. Even the marked and careful kindness of + his friends seemed secretly to annoy him, for it constantly suggested the + something by which it had been prompted. Mr. Alfred Barton, however, + whether under the influence of Fortune's friendship, or from a late + suspicion of his duties as host of the day, not unkindly complimented the + young man, and insisted on filling his glass. Gilbert could do no less + than courteously accept the attention, but he shortly afterwards stole + away from the noisy company, mounted his horse, and rode slowly towards + Kennett Square. + </p> + <p> + As he thus rides, with his eyes abstractedly fixed before him, we will + take the opportunity to observe him more closely. Slightly under-sized, + compactly built, and with strongly-marked features, his twenty-four years + have the effect of thirty. His short jacket and knee-breeches of gray + velveteen cover a chest broad rather than deep, and reveal the fine, + narrow loins and muscular thighs of a frame matured and hardened by labor. + His hands, also, are hard and strong, but not ungraceful in form. His + neck, not too short, is firmly planted, and the carriage of his head + indicates patience and energy. Thick, dark hair enframes his square + forehead, and straight, somewhat heavy brows. His eyes of soft dark-gray, + are large, clear, and steady, and only change their expression under + strong excitement. His nose is straight and short, his mouth a little too + wide for beauty, and less firm now than it will be ten years hence, when + the yearning tenderness shall have vanished from the corners of the lips; + and the chin, in its broad curve, harmonizes with the square lines of the + brow. Evidently a man whose youth has not been a holiday; who is reticent + rather than demonstrative; who will be strong in his loves and long in his + hates; and, without being of a despondent nature, can never become + heartily sanguine. + </p> + <p> + The spring-day was raw and overcast, as it drew towards its close, and the + rider's musings seemed to accord with the change in the sky. His face + expressed a singular mixture of impatience, determined will, and + unsatisfied desire. But where most other men would have sighed, or given + way to some involuntary exclamation, he merely set his teeth, and + tightened the grasp on his whip-handle. + </p> + <p> + He was not destined, however, to a solitary journey. Scarcely had he made + three quarters of a mile, when, on approaching the junction of a wood-road + which descended to the highway from a shallow little glen on the north, + the sound of hoofs and voices met his ears. Two female figures appeared, + slowly guiding their horses down the rough road. One, from her + closely-fitting riding-habit of drab cloth, might have been a Quakeress, + but for the feather (of the same sober color) in her beaver hat, and the + rosette of dark red ribbon at her throat. The other, in bluish-gray, with + a black beaver and no feather, rode a heavy old horse with a blind halter + on his head, and held the stout leathern reins with a hand covered with a + blue woollen mitten. She rode in advance, paying little heed to her seat, + but rather twisting herself out of shape in the saddle in order to chatter + to her companion in the rear. + </p> + <p> + “Do look where you are going, Sally!” cried the latter as the blinded + horse turned aside from the road to drink at a little brook that oozed + forth from under the dead leaves. + </p> + <p> + Thus appealed to, the other lady whirled around with a half-jump, and + caught sight of Gilbert Potter and of her horse's head at the same + instant. + </p> + <p> + “Whoa there, Bonnie!” she cried. “Why, Gilbert, where did you come from? + Hold up your head, I say! Martha, here's Gilbert, with a brush in his hat! + Don't be afraid, you beast; did you never smell a fox? Here, ride in + between, Gilbert, and tell us all about it! No, not on that side, Martha; + you can manage a horse better than I can!” + </p> + <p> + In her efforts to arrange the order of march, she drove her horse's head + into Gilbert's back, and came near losing her balance. With amused + screams, and bursts of laughter, and light, rattling exclamations, she + finally succeeded in placing herself at his left hand, while her adroit + and self-possessed companion quietly rode up to his right Then, dropping + the reins on their horses' necks, the two ladies resigned themselves to + conversation, as the three slowly jogged homewards abreast. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Gilbert!” exclaimed Miss Sally Fairthorn, after waiting a moment for + him to speak; “did you really earn the brush, or beg it from one of them, + on the way home?” + </p> + <p> + “Begging, you know, is my usual habit,” he answered, mockingly. + </p> + <p> + “I know you're as proud as Lucifer, when you've a mind to be so. There!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was accustomed to the rattling tongue of his left-hand neighbor, + and generally returned her as good as she gave. To-day, however, he was in + no mood for repartee. He drew down his brows and made no answer to her + charge. + </p> + <p> + “Where was the fox earthed?” asked the other lady, after a rapid glance at + his face. + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane's voice was of that quality which compels an answer, and a + courteous answer, from the surliest of mankind. It was not loud, it could + scarcely be called musical; but every tone seemed to exhale freshness as + of dew, and brightness as of morning. It was pure, slightly resonant; and + all the accumulated sorrows of life could not have veiled its inherent + gladness. It could never grow harsh, never be worn thin, or sound husky + from weariness; its first characteristic would always be youth, and the + joy of youth, though it came from the lips of age. + </p> + <p> + Doubtless Gilbert Potter did not analyze the charm which it exercised upon + him; it was enough that he felt and submitted to it. A few quiet remarks + sufficed to draw from him the story of the chase, in all its particulars, + and the lively interest in Martha Deane's face, the boisterous glee of + Sally Fairthorn, with his own lurking sense of triumph, soon swept every + gloomy line from his visage. His mouth relaxed from its set compression, + and wore a winning sweetness; his eyes shone softly-bright, and a nimble + spirit of gayety gave grace to his movements. + </p> + <p> + “Fairly won, I must say!” exclaimed Miss Sally Fairthorn, when the + narrative was finished. “And now, Gilbert, the brush?” + </p> + <p> + “The brush?” + </p> + <p> + “Who's to have it, I mean. Did you never get one before, as you don't seem + to understand?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I understand,” said he, in an indifferent tone; “it may be had for + the asking.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it's mine!” cried Sally, urging her heavy horse against him and + making a clutch at his cap. But he leaned as suddenly away, and shot a + length ahead, out of her reach. Miss Deane's horse, a light, spirited + animal, kept pace with his. + </p> + <p> + “Martha!” cried the disappointed damsel, “Martha! one of us must have it; + ask him, you!” + </p> + <p> + “No,” answered Martha, with her clear blue eyes fixed on Gilbert's face, + “I will not ask.” + </p> + <p> + He returned her gaze, and his eyes seemed to say: “Will you take it, + knowing what the acceptance implies?” + </p> + <p> + She read the question correctly; but of this he was not sure. Neither, if + it were so, could he trust himself to interpret the answer. Sally had + already resumed her place on his left, and he saw that the mock strife + would be instantly renewed. With a movement so sudden as to appear almost + ungracious, he snatched the brush from his cap and extended it to Martha + Deane, without saying a word. + </p> + <p> + If she hesitated, it was at least no longer than would be required in + order to understand the action. Gilbert might either so interpret it, or + suspect that she had understood the condition in his mind, and meant to + signify the rejection thereof. The language of gestures is wonderfully + rapid, and all that could be said by either, in this way, was over, and + the brush in Martha Deane's hand, before Sally Fairthorn became aware of + the transfer. + </p> + <p> + “Well-done, Martha!” she exclaimed: “Don't let him have it again! Do you + know to whom he would have given it: an A. and a W., with the look of an + X,—so!” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon Sally pulled off her mittens and crossed her forefingers, an + action which her companions understood—in combination with the + mysterious initials—to be the rude, primitive symbol of a squint. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert looked annoyed, but before he could reply, Sally let go the rein + in order to put on her mittens, and the blinded mare quickly dropping her + head, the rein slipped instantly to the animal's ears. The latter + perceived her advantage, and began snuffing along the edges of the road in + a deliberate search for spring grass. In vain Sally called and kicked; the + mare provokingly preserved her independence. Finally, a piteous appeal to + Gilbert, who had pretended not to notice the dilemma, and was a hundred + yards in advance, was Sally's only resource. The two halted and enjoyed + her comical helplessness. + </p> + <p> + “That's enough, Gilbert,” said Martha Deane, presently, “go now and pick + up the rein.” + </p> + <p> + He rode back, picked it up, and handed it to Sally without speaking. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” she said, with a sudden demure change of tone, as they rode on + to where Miss Deane was waiting, “come and take supper with us, at home. + Martha has promised. You've hardly been to see us in a month.” + </p> + <p> + “You know how much I have to do, Sally,” he answered. “It isn't only that, + to-day being a Saturday; but I've promised mother to be at home by dark, + and fetch a quarter of tea from the store.” + </p> + <p> + “When you've once promised, I know, oxen couldn't pull you the other way.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't often see your mother, Gilbert,” said Martha Deane; “she is + well?” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Martha,—too well, and yet not well enough.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean,” he answered, “that she does more than she has strength to do. If + she had less she would be forced to undertake less; if she had more, she + would be equal to her undertaking.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand you now. But you should not allow her to go on in that way; + you should”— + </p> + <p> + What Miss Deane would have said must remain unwritten. Gilbert's eyes were + upon her, and held her own; perhaps a little more color came into her + face, but she did not show the slightest embarrassment. A keen observer + might have supposed that either a broken or an imperfect relation existed + between the two, which the gentleman was trying to restore or complete + without the aid of words; and that, furthermore, while the lady was the + more skilful in the use of that silent language, neither rightly + understood the other. + </p> + <p> + By this time they were ascending the hill from Redley Creek to Kennett + Square. Martha Deane had thus far carried the brush carelessly in her + right hand; she now rolled it into a coil and thrust it into a large + velvet reticule which hung from the pommel of her saddle. A few dull + orange streaks in the overcast sky, behind them, denoted sunset, and a + raw, gloomy twilight crept up from the east. + </p> + <p> + “You'll not go with us?” Sally asked again, as they reached the corner, + and the loungers on the porch of the Unicorn Tavern beyond, perceiving + Gilbert, sprang from their seats to ask for news of the chase. + </p> + <p> + “Sally, I cannot!” he answered. “Good-night!” + </p> + <p> + Joe and Jake Fairthorn rushed up with a whoop, and before Gilbert could + satisfy the curiosity of the tavern-idlers, the former sat behind Sally, + on the old mare, with his face to her tail, while Jake, prevented by Miss + Deane's riding-whip from attempting the same performance, capered behind + the horses and kept up their spirits by flinging handfuls of sand. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert found another group in “the store”—farmers or their sons who + had come in for a supply of groceries, or the weekly mail, and who sat in + a sweltering atmosphere around the roaring stove. They, too, had heard of + the chase, and he was obliged to give them as many details as possible + while his quarter of tea was being weighed, after which he left them to + supply the story from the narrative of Mr. Joel Ferris, who, a new-comer + announced, had just alighted at the Unicorn, a little drunk, and in a very + bad humor. + </p> + <p> + “Where's Barton?” Gilbert heard some one ask of Ferris, as he mounted. + </p> + <p> + “In his skin!” was the answer, “unless he's got into that fellow + Fortune's. They're as thick as two pickpockets!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert rode down the hill, and allowed his horse to plod leisurely across + the muddy level, regardless of the deepening twilight. + </p> + <p> + He was powerfully moved by some suppressed emotion. The muscles of his + lips twitched convulsively, and there was a hot surge and swell somewhere + in his head, as of tears about to overrun their secret reservoir. But they + failed to surprise him, this time. As the first drops fell from his dark + eyelashes, he loosed the rein and gave the word to his horse. Over the + ridge, along the crest, between dusky thorn-hedges, he swept at full + gallop, and so, slowly sinking towards the fair valley which began to + twinkle with the lights of scattered farms to the eastward, he soon + reached the last steep descent, and saw the gray gleam of his own barn + below him. + </p> + <p> + By this time his face was sternly set. He clinched his hands, and muttered + to himself— + </p> + <p> + “It will almost kill me to ask, but I must know, and—and she must + tell.” + </p> + <p> + It was dark now. As he climbed again from the bottom of the hill towards + the house, a figure on the summit was drawn indistinctly against the sky, + unconscious that it was thus betrayed. But it vanished instantly, and then + he groaned— + </p> + <p> + “God help me! I cannot ask.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. — MARY POTTER AND HER SON. + </h2> + <p> + While Gilbert was dismounting at the gate leading into his barn-yard, he + was suddenly accosted by a boyish voice:— + </p> + <p> + “Got back, have you?” + </p> + <p> + This was Sam, the “bound-boy,”—the son of a tenant on the old Carson + place, who, in consideration of three months' schooling every winter, and + a “freedom suit” at the age of seventeen, if he desired then to learn a + trade, was duly made over by his father to Gilbert Potter. His position + was something between that of a poor relation and a servant. He was one of + the family, eating at the same table, sleeping, indeed, (for economy of + house-work,) in the same bed with his master, and privileged to feel his + full share of interest in domestic matters; but on the other hand bound to + obedience and rigid service. + </p> + <p> + “Feed's in the trough,” said he, taking hold of the bridle. “I'll fix him. + Better go into th' house. Tea's wanted.” + </p> + <p> + Feeling as sure that all the necessary evening's work was done as if he + had performed it with his own hands, Gilbert silently followed the boy's + familiar advice. + </p> + <p> + The house, built like most other old farm-houses in that part of the + county, of hornblende stone, stood near the bottom of a rounded knoll, + overhanging the deep, winding valley. It was two stories in height, the + gable looking towards the road, and showing, just under the broad double + chimney, a limestone slab, upon which were rudely carved the initials of + the builder and his wife, and the date “1727.” A low portico, overgrown + with woodbine and trumpet-flower, ran along the front. In the narrow + flower-bed, under it, the crocuses and daffodils were beginning to thrust + up their blunt, green points. A walk of flag-stones separated them from + the vegetable garden, which was bounded at the bottom by a mill-race, + carrying half the water of the creek to the saw and grist mill on the + other side of the road. + </p> + <p> + Although this road was the principal thoroughfare between Kennett Square + and Wilmington, the house was so screened from the observation of + travellers, both by the barn, and by some huge, spreading apple-trees + which occupied the space between the garden and road, that its inmates + seemed to live in absolute seclusion. Looking from the front door across a + narrow green meadow, a wooded hill completely shut out all glimpse of the + adjoining farms; while an angle of the valley, to the eastward, hid from + sight the warm, fertile fields higher up the stream. + </p> + <p> + The place seemed lonelier than ever in the gloomy March twilight; or was + it some other influence which caused Gilbert to pause on the flagged walk, + and stand there, motionless, looking down into the meadow until a woman's + shadow crossing the panes, was thrown upon the square of lighted earth at + his feet? Then he turned and entered the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + The cloth was spread and the table set. A kettle, humming on a heap of + fresh coals, and a squat little teapot of blue china, were waiting + anxiously for the brown paper parcel which he placed upon the cloth. His + mother was waiting also, in a high straight-backed rocking-chair, with her + hands in her lap. + </p> + <p> + “You're tired waiting, mother, I suppose?” he said, as he hung his hat + upon a nail over the heavy oak mantel-piece. + </p> + <p> + “No, not tired, Gilbert, but it's hungry <i>you'll</i> be. It won't take + long for the tea to draw. Everything else has been ready this half-hour.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert threw himself upon the settle under the front window, and + mechanically followed her with his eyes, as she carefully measured the + precious herb, even stooping to pick up a leaf or two that had fallen from + the spoon to the floor. + </p> + <p> + The resemblance between mother and son was very striking. Mary Potter had + the same square forehead and level eyebrows, but her hair was darker than + Gilbert's, and her eyes more deeply set. The fire of a lifelong pain + smouldered in them, and the throes of some never-ending struggle had + sharpened every line of cheek and brow, and taught her lips the close, + hard compression, which those of her son were also beginning to learn. She + was about forty-five years of age, but there was even now a weariness in + her motions, as if her prime of strength were already past. She wore a + short gown of brown flannel, with a plain linen stomacher, and a coarse + apron, which she removed when the supper had been placed upon the table. A + simple cap, with a narrow frill, covered her head. + </p> + <p> + The entire work of the household devolved upon her hands alone. Gilbert + would have cheerfully taken a servant to assist her, but this she + positively refused, seeming to court constant labor, especially during his + absence from the house. Only when he was there would she take occasion to + knit or sew. The kitchen was a marvel of neatness and order. The + bread-trough and dresser-shelves were scoured almost to the whiteness of a + napkin, and the rows of pewter-plates upon the latter flashed like silver + sconces. To Gilbert's eyes, indeed, the effect was sometimes painful. He + would have been satisfied with less laborious order, a less eager and + unwearied thrift. To be sure, all this was in furtherance of a mutual + purpose; but he mentally determined that when the purpose had been + fulfilled, he would insist upon an easier and more cheerful arrangement. + The stern aspect of life from which his nature craved escape met him + oftenest at home. + </p> + <p> + Sam entered the kitchen barefooted, having left his shoes at the back + door. The tea was drawn, and the three sat down to their supper of bacon, + bread and butter, and apple-sauce. Gilbert and his mother ate and drank in + silence, but Sam's curiosity was too lively to be restrained. + </p> + <p> + “I say, how did Roger go?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter looked up, as if expecting the question to be answered, and + Gilbert said:— + </p> + <p> + “He took the lead, and kept it.” + </p> + <p> + “O cracky!” exclaimed the delighted Sam. + </p> + <p> + “Then you think it's a good bargain, Gilbert. Was it a long chase? Was he + well tried?” + </p> + <p> + “All right, mother. I could sell him for twenty dollars advance—even + to Joel Ferris,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + He then gave a sketch of the afternoon's adventures, to which his mother + listened with a keen, steady interest. She compelled him to describe the + stranger, Fortune, as minutely as possible, as if desirous of finding some + form or event in her own memory to which he could be attached; but without + result. + </p> + <p> + After supper Sam squatted upon a stool in the corner of the fireplace, and + resumed his reading of “The Old English Baron,” by the light of the + burning back-log, pronouncing every word to himself in something between a + whisper and a whistle. Gilbert took an account-book, a leaden inkstand, + and a stumpy pen from a drawer under the window, and calculated silently + and somewhat laboriously. His mother produced a clocked stocking of blue + wool, and proceeded to turn the heel. + </p> + <p> + In half an hour's time, however, Sam's whispering ceased; his head nodded + violently, and the book fell upon the hearth. + </p> + <p> + “I guess I'll go to bed,” he said; and having thus conscientiously + announced his intention, he trotted up the steep back-stairs on his hands + and feet. In two minutes more, a creaking overhead announced that the act + was accomplished. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert filliped the ink out of his pen into the fire, laid it in his + book, and turned away from the table. + </p> + <p> + “Roger has bottom,” he said at last, “and he's as strong as a lion. He and + Fox will make a good team, and the roads will be solid in three days, if + it don't rain.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you don't mean,”—she commenced. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, mother. You were not for buying him, I know, and you were right, + inasmuch as there is always <i>some</i> risk. But it will make a + difference of two barrels a load, besides having a horse at home. If I + plough both for corn and oats next week,—and it will be all the + better for corn, as the field next to Carson's is heavy,—I can begin + hauling the week after, and we'll have the interest by the first of April, + without borrowing a penny.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be good,—very good, indeed,” said she, dropping her + knitting, and hesitating a moment before she continued; “only—only, + Gilbert, I didn't expect you would be going so soon.” + </p> + <p> + “The sooner I begin, mother, the sooner I shall finish.” + </p> + <p> + “I know that, Gilbert,—I know that; but I'm always looking forward + to the time when you won't be bound to go at all. Not that Sam and I can't + manage awhile—but if the money was paid once”— + </p> + <p> + “There's less than six hundred now, altogether. It's a good deal to scrape + together in a year's time, but if it can be done I will do it. Perhaps, + then, you will let some help come into the house. I'm as anxious as you + can be, mother. I'm not of a roving disposition, that you know; yet it + isn't pleasant to me to see you slave as you do, and for that very reason, + it's a comfort when I'm away, that you've one less to work for.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke earnestly, turning his face full upon her. + </p> + <p> + “We've talked this over, often and often, but you never can make me see it + in your way,” he then added, in a gentler tone. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, Gilbert,” she replied, somewhat bitterly, “I've had my thoughts. + Maybe they were too fast; it seems so. I meant, and mean, to make a good + home for you, and I'm happiest when I can do the most towards it. I want + you to hold up your head and be beholden to no man. There are them in the + neighborhood that were bound out as boys, and are now as good as the + best.” + </p> + <p> + “But they are not,”—burst from his lips, as the thought on which he + so gloomily brooded sprang to the surface and took him by surprise. He + checked his words by a powerful effort, and the blood forsook his face. + Mary Potter placed her hand on her heart, and seemed to gasp for breath. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert could not bear to look upon her face. He turned away, placed his + elbow on the table, and leaned his head upon his hand. It never occurred + to him that the unfinished sentence might be otherwise completed. He knew + that his <i>thought</i> was betrayed, and his heart was suddenly filled + with a tumult of shame, pity, and fear. + </p> + <p> + For a minute there was silence. Only the long pendulum, swinging openly + along the farther wall, ticked at each end of its vibration. Then Mary + Potter drew a deep, weary breath, and spoke. Her voice was hollow and + strange, and each word came as by a separate muscular effort. + </p> + <p> + “<i>What</i> are they not? What word was on your tongue, Gilbert?” + </p> + <p> + He could not answer. He could only shake his head, and bring forth a + cowardly, evasive word,—“Nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “But there <i>is</i> something! Oh, I knew it must come some time!” she + cried, rather to herself than to him. “Listen to me, Gilbert! Has any one + dared to say to your face that you are basely born?” + </p> + <p> + He felt, now, that no further evasion was possible; she had put into words + the terrible question which he could not steel his own heart to ask. + Perhaps it was better so,—better a sharp, intense pain than a dull + perpetual ache. So he answered honestly now, but still kept his head + turned away, as if there might be a kindness in avoiding her gaze. + </p> + <p> + “Not in so many words, mother,” he said; “but there are ways, and ways of + saying a thing; and the cruellest way is that which everybody understands, + and I dare not. But I have long known what it meant. It is ten years, + mother, since I have mentioned the word '<i>father</i>' in your hearing.” + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter leaned forward, hid her face in her hands, and rocked to and + fro, as if tortured with insupportable pain. She stifled her sobs, but the + tears gushed forth between her fingers. + </p> + <p> + “O my boy,—my boy!” she moaned. “Ten years?—and you believed + it, all that time!” + </p> + <p> + He was silent. She leaned forward and grasped his arm. + </p> + <p> + “Did you,—<i>do</i> you believe it? Speak, Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + When he did speak, his voice was singularly low and gentle. “Never mind, + mother!” was all he could say. His head was still turned away from her, + but she knew there were tears on his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert, it is a lie!” she exclaimed, with startling vehemence. “A lie,—A + LIE! You are my lawful son, born in wedlock! There is no stain upon your + name, of my giving, and I know there will be none of your own.” + </p> + <p> + He turned towards her, his eyes shining and his lips parted in breathless + joy and astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “Is it—is it true?” he whispered. + </p> + <p> + “True as there is a God in Heaven.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, mother, give me my name! Now I ask you, for the first time, who was + my father?” + </p> + <p> + She wrung her hands and moaned. The sight of her son's eager, expectant + face, touched with a light which she had never before seen upon it, seemed + to give her another and a different pang. + </p> + <p> + “That, too!” She murmured to herself. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” she then said, “have I always been a faithful mother to you? + Have I been true and honest in word and deed? Have I done my best to help + you in all right ways,—to make you comfortable, to spare you + trouble? Have I ever,—I'll not say acted, for nobody's judgment is + perfect,—but tried to act otherwise than as I thought it might be + for your good?” + </p> + <p> + “You have done all that you could say, and more, mother.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, my boy, is it too much for me to ask that you should believe my + word,—that you should let it stand for the truth, without my giving + proofs and testimonies? For, Gilbert, that I <i>must</i> ask of you, hard + as it may seem. If you will only be content with the knowledge—: but + then, you have felt the shame all this while; it was my fault, mine, and I + ought to ask your forgiveness”— + </p> + <p> + “Mother—mother!” he interrupted, “don't talk that way! Yes—I + believe you, without testimony. You never said, or thought, an untruth; + and your explanation will be enough not only for me, but for the whole + neighborhood, if all witnesses are dead or gone away. If you knew of the + shameful report, why didn't you deny it at once? Why let it spread and be + believed in?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” she moaned again, “if my tongue was not tied—if my tongue was + not tied! There was my fault, and what a punishment! Never—never was + woman punished as I have been. Gilbert, whatever you do, bind yourself by + no vow, except in the sight of men!” + </p> + <p> + “I do not understand you, mother,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “No, and I dare not make myself understood. Don't ask me anything more! + It's hard to shut my mouth, and bear everything in silence, but it cuts my + very heart in twain to speak and not tell!” + </p> + <p> + Her distress was so evident, that Gilbert, perplexed and bewildered as her + words left him, felt that he dared not press her further. He could not + doubt the truth of her first assertion; but, alas! it availed only for his + own private consciousness,—it took no stain from him, in the eyes of + the world. Yet, now that the painful theme had been opened,—not less + painful, it seemed, since the suspected dishonor did not exist,—he + craved and decided to ask, enlightenment on one point. + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” he said, after a pause, “I do not want to speak about this thing + again. I believe you, and my greatest comfort in believing is for your + sake, not for mine. I see, too, that you are bound in some way which I do + not understand, so that we cannot be cleared from the blame that is put + upon us. I don't mind that so much, either—for my own sake, and I + will not ask for an explanation, since you say you dare not give it. But + tell me one thing,—will it always be so? Are you bound forever, and + will I never learn anything more? I can wait; but, mother, you know that + these things work in a man's mind, and there will come a time when the + knowledge of the worst thing that could be will seem better than no + knowledge at all.” + </p> + <p> + Her face brightened a little. “Thank you, Gilbert!” she said. “Yes; there + will come a day when you shall know all,—when you and me shall have + justice. I do not know how soon; I cannot guess. In the Lord's good time. + I have nigh out-suffered my fault, I think, and the reward cannot be far + off. A few weeks, perhaps,—yet, maybe, for oh, I am not allowed even + to hope for it!—maybe a few years. It will all come to the light, + after so long—so long—an eternity. If I had but known!” + </p> + <p> + “Come, we will say no more now. Surely I may wait a little while, when you + have waited so long. I believe you, mother. Yes, I believe you; I am your + lawful son.” + </p> + <p> + She rose, placed her hands on his shoulders, and kissed him. Nothing more + was said. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert raked the ashes over the smouldering embers on the hearth, lighted + his mother's night-lamp, and after closing the chamber-door softly behind + her, stole up-stairs to his own bed. + </p> + <p> + It was long past midnight before he slept. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. — FORTUNE AND MISFORTUNE. + </h2> + <p> + On the same evening, a scene of a very different character occurred, in + which certain personages of this history were actors. In order to describe + it, we must return to the company of sportsmen whom Gilbert Potter left at + the Hammer-and-Trowel Tavern, late in the afternoon. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had he departed than the sneers of the young bucks, who felt + themselves humiliated by his unexpected success, became loud and frequent. + Mr. Alfred Barton, who seemed to care little for the general + dissatisfaction, was finally reproached with having introduced such an + unfit personage at a gentleman's hunt; whereupon he turned impatiently, + and retorted: + </p> + <p> + “There were no particular invitations sent out, as all of you know. + Anybody that had a horse, and knew how to manage him, was welcome. Zounds! + if you fellows are afraid to take hedges, am I to blame for that? A + hunter's a hunter, though he's born on the wrong side of the marriage + certificate.” + </p> + <p> + “That's the talk, Squire!” cried Fortune, giving his friend a hearty slap + between the shoulders. “I've seen riding in my day,” he continued, “both + down in Loudon and on the Eastern Shore—men born with spurs on their + heels, and I tell you this Potter could hold his own, even with the Lees + and the Tollivers. We took the hedge together, while you were making a + round of I don't know how many miles on the road; and I never saw a thing + neater done. If you thought there was anything unfair about him, why + didn't you head him off?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, damme,” echoed Mr. Barton, bringing down his fist upon the bar, so + that the glasses jumped, “why didn't you head him off?” Mr. Barton's face + was suspiciously flushed, and he was more excited than the occasion + justified. + </p> + <p> + There was no answer to the question, except that which none of the young + bucks dared to make. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I've had about enough of this,” said Mr. Joel Ferris, turning on + his heel; “who's for home?” + </p> + <p> + “Me!” answered three or four, with more readiness than grammar. Some of + the steadier young farmers, who had come for an afternoon's recreation, + caring little who was first in at the death, sat awhile and exchanged + opinions about crops and cattle; but Barton and Fortune kept together, + whispering much, and occasionally bursting into fits of uproarious + laughter. The former was so captivated by his new friend, that before he + knew it every guest was gone. The landlord had lighted two or three tallow + candles, and now approached with the question: + </p> + <p> + “Will you have supper, gentlemen?” + </p> + <p> + “That depends on what you've got,” said Fortune. + </p> + <p> + This was not language to which the host was accustomed. His guests were + also his fellow-citizens: if they patronized him, he accommodated them, + and the account was balanced. His meals were as good as anybody's, though + he thought it that shouldn't, and people so very particular might stay + away. But he was a mild, amiable man, and Fortune's keen eye and dazzling + teeth had a powerful effect upon him. He answered civilly, in spite of an + inward protest: + </p> + <p> + “There's ham and eggs, and frizzled beef.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing could be better!” Fortune exclaimed, jumping up. “Come 'Squire—if + I stay over Sunday with you, you must at least take supper at my expense.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Barton tried to recollect whether he had invited his friend to spend + Sunday with him. It must be so, of course; only, he could not remember + when he had spoken, or what words he had used. It would be very pleasant, + he confessed, but for one thing; and how was he to get over the + difficulty? + </p> + <p> + However, here they were, at the table, Fortune heaping his plate like a + bountiful host, and talking so delightfully about horses and hounds, and + drinking-bouts, and all those wild experiences which have such a charm for + bachelors of forty-five or fifty, that it was impossible to determine in + his mind what he should do. + </p> + <p> + After the supper, they charged themselves with a few additional potations, + to keep off the chill of the night air, mounted their horses, and took the + New-Garden road. A good deal of confidential whispering had preceded their + departure. + </p> + <p> + “They're off on a lark,” the landlord remarked to himself, as they rode + away, “and it's a shame, in men of their age.” + </p> + <p> + After riding a mile, they reached the cross-road on the left, which the + hunters had followed, and Fortune, who was a little in advance, turned + into it. + </p> + <p> + “After what I told you, 'Squire,” said he, “you won't wonder that I know + the country so well. Let us push on; it's not more than two miles. I would + be very clear of showing you one of my nests, if you were not such a good + fellow. But mum's the word, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “Never fear,” Barton answered, somewhat thickly; “I'm an old bird, + Fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “That you are! Men like you and me are not made of the same stuff as those + young nincompoops; we can follow a trail without giving tongue at every + jump.” + </p> + <p> + Highly flattered, Barton rode nearer, and gave his friend an affectionate + punch in the side. Fortune answered with an arm around his waist and a + tight hug, and so they rode onward through the darkness. + </p> + <p> + They had advanced for somewhat more than a mile on the cross-road, and + found themselves in a hollow, with tall, and added in a low, significant + tone, “If you stir from this spot in less than one hour, you are a dead + man.” + </p> + <p> + Then he rode on, whistling “Money Musk” as he went. Once or twice he + stopped, as if to listen, and Barton's heart ceased to beat; but by + degrees the sound of his horse's hoofs died away. The silence that + succeeded was full of terrors. Barton's horse became restive, and he would + have dismounted and held him, but for the weakness in every joint which + made him think that his body was falling asunder. Now and then a leaf + rustled, or the scent of some animal, unperceived by his own nostrils, + caused his horse to snort and stamp. The air was raw and sent a fearful + chill through his blood. Moreover, how was he to measure the hour? His + watch was gone; he might have guessed by the stars, but the sky was + overcast. Fortune and Sandy Flash—for there were two individuals in + his bewildered brain—would surely fulfil their threat if he stirred + before the appointed time. What under heaven should he do? + </p> + <p> + Wait; that was all; and he waited until it seemed that morning must be + near at hand. Then, turning his horse, he rode back very slowly towards + the New-Garden road, and after many panics, to the Hammer-and-Trowel. + There was still light in the bar-room; should the door open, he would be + seen. He put spurs to his horse and dashed past. Once in motion, it seemed + that he was pursued, and along Tuffkenamon went the race, until his horse, + panting and exhausted, paused to drink at Redley Creek. They had gone to + bed at the Unicorn; he drew a long breath, and felt that the danger was + over. In five minutes more he was at home. + </p> + <p> + Putting his horse in the stable, he stole quietly to the house, pulled off + his boots in the wood-shed, and entered by a back way through the kitchen. + Here he warmed his chill frame before the hot ashes, and then very gently + and cautiously felt his way to bed in the dark. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, being Sunday, the whole household, servants and all, + slept an hour later than usual, as was then the country custom. Giles, the + old soldier, was the first to appear. He made the fire in the kitchen, put + on the water to boil, and then attended to the feeding of the cattle at + the barn. When this was accomplished, he returned to the house and entered + a bedroom adjoining the kitchen, on the ground-floor. Here slept “Old-man + Barton,” as he was generally called,—Alfred's father, by name Abiah, + and now eighty-five years of age. For many years he had been a paralytic, + and unable to walk, but the disease had not affected his business + capacity. He was the hardest, shrewdest, and cunningest miser in the + county. There was not a penny of the income and expenditure of the farm, + for any year, which he could not account for,—not a date of a deed, + bond, or note of hand, which he had ever given or received, that was not + indelibly burnt upon his memory. No one, not even his sons, knew precisely + how much he was worth. The old lawyer in Chester, who had charge of much + of his investments, was as shrewd as himself, and when he made his annual + visit, the first week in April, the doors were not only closed, but + everybody was banished from hearing distance so long as he remained. + </p> + <p> + Giles assisted in washing and dressing the old man, then seated him in a + rude arm-chair, resting on clumsy wooden castors, and poured out for him a + small wine-glass full of raw brandy. Once or twice a year, usually after + the payment of delayed interest, Giles received a share of the brandy; but + he never learned to expect it. Then a long hickory staff was placed in the + old man's hand, and his arm-chair was rolled into the kitchen, to a + certain station between the fire and the southern window, where he would + be out of the way of his daughter Ann, yet could measure with his eye + every bit of lard she put into the frying-pan, and every spoonful of + molasses that entered into the composition of her pies. + </p> + <p> + She had already set the table for breakfast. The bacon and sliced potatoes + were frying in separate pans, and Ann herself was lifting the lid of the + tin coffee-pot, to see whether the beverage had “come to a boil,” when the + old man entered, or, strictly speaking, <i>was</i> entered. + </p> + <p> + As his chair rolled into the light, the hideousness, not the grace and + serenity of old age, was revealed. His white hair, thin and half-combed, + straggled over the dark-red, purple-veined skin of his head; his cheeks + were flabby bags of bristly, wrinkled leather; his mouth was a sunken, + irregular slit, losing itself in the hanging folds at the corners, and + even the life, gathered into his small, restless gray eyes, was half + quenched under the red and heavy edges of the lids. The third and fourth + fingers of his hands were crooked upon the skinny palms, beyond any power + to open them. + </p> + <p> + When Ann—a gaunt spinster of fifty-five—had placed the coffee + on the table, the old man looked around, and asked with a snarl: “Where's + Alfred?” + </p> + <p> + “Not up yet, but you needn't wait, father.” + </p> + <p> + “Wait?” was all he said, yet she understood the tone, and wheeled him to + the table. As soon as his plate was filled, he bent forward over it, + rested his elbows on the cloth, and commenced feeding himself with hands + that trembled so violently that he could with great difficulty bring the + food to his mouth. But he resented all offers of assistance, which implied + any weakness beyond that of the infirmity which it was impossible for him + to conceal. His meals were weary tasks, but he shook and jerked through + them, and would have gone away hungry rather than acknowledge the + infirmity of his great age. + </p> + <p> + Breakfast was nearly over before Alfred Barton made his appearance. No + truant school-boy ever dreaded the master's eye as he dreaded to appear + before his father that Sunday morning. His sleep had been broken and + restless; the teeth of Sandy Flash had again grinned at him in + nightmare-dreams, and when he came to put on his clothes, the sense of + emptiness in his breast-pocket and watch-fob impressed him like a violent + physical pain. His loss was bad enough, but the inability to conceal it + caused him even greater distress. + </p> + <p> + Buttoning his coat over the double void, and trying to assume his usual + air, he went down to the kitchen and commenced his breakfast. Whenever he + looked up, he found his father's eyes fixed upon him, and before a word + had been spoken, he felt that he had already betrayed something, and that + the truth would follow, sooner or later. A wicked wish crossed his mind, + but was instantly suppressed, for fear lest that, also, should be + discovered. + </p> + <p> + After Ann had cleared the table, and retired to her own room in order to + array herself in the black cloth gown which she had worn every Sunday for + the past fifteen years, the old man said, or rather wheezed out the words,— + </p> + <p> + “Kennett, meetin'?” + </p> + <p> + “Not to-day,” said his son, “I've a sort of chill from yesterday.” And he + folded his arms and shivered very naturally. + </p> + <p> + “Did Ferris pay you?” the old man again asked. + </p> + <p> + “Y—yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Where's the money?” + </p> + <p> + There was the question, and it must be faced. Alfred Barton worked the + farm “on shares,” and was held to a strict account by his father, not only + for half of all the grain and produce sold, but of all the horses and + cattle raised, as well as those which were bought on speculation. On his + share he managed—thanks to the niggardly system enforced in the + house—not only to gratify his vulgar taste for display, but even to + lay aside small sums from time to time. It was a convenient arrangement, + but might be annulled any time when the old man should choose, and Alfred + knew that a prompt division of the profits would be his surest guarantee + of permanence. + </p> + <p> + “I have not the money with me,” he answered, desperately, after a pause, + during which he felt his father's gaze travelling over him, from head to + foot. + </p> + <p> + “Why not! You haven't spent it?” The latter question was a croaking + shriek, which seemed to forebode, while it scarcely admitted, the + possibility of such an enormity. + </p> + <p> + “I spent only four shillings, father, but—but—but the money's + all gone!” + </p> + <p> + The crooked fingers clutched the hickory staff, as if eager to wield it; + the sunken gray eyes shot forth angry fire, and the broken figure uncurved + and straightened itself with a wrathful curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “Sandy Flash robbed me on the way home,” said the son, and now that the + truth was out, he seemed to pluck up a little courage. + </p> + <p> + “What, what, what!” chattered the old man, incredulously; “no lies, boy, + no lies!” + </p> + <p> + The son unbuttoned his coat, and showed his empty watch-fob. Then he gave + an account of the robbery, not strictly correct in all its details, but + near enough for his father to know, without discovering inaccuracies at a + later day. The hickory-stick was shaken once or twice during the recital, + but it did not fall upon the culprit—though this correction (so the + gossip of the neighborhood ran) had more than once been administered + within the previous ten years. As Alfred Barton told his story, it was + hardly a case for anger on the father's part, so he took his revenge in + another way. + </p> + <p> + “This comes o' your races and your expensive company,” he growled, after a + few incoherent sniffs and snarls; “but I don't lose my half of the horse. + No, no! I'm not paid till the money's been handed over. Twenty-five + dollars, remember!—and soon, that I don't lose the use of it too + long. As for <i>your</i> money and the watch, I've nothing to do with + them. I've got along without a watch for eighty-five years, and I never + wore as smart a coat as that in my born days. Young men understood how to + save, in my time.” + </p> + <p> + Secretly, however, the old man was flattered by his son's love of display, + and enjoyed his swaggering air, although nothing would have induced him to + confess the fact. His own father had come to Pennsylvania as a servant of + one of the first settlers, and the reverence which he had felt, as a boy, + for the members of the Quaker and farmer aristocracy of the neighborhood, + had now developed into a late vanity to see his own family acknowledged as + the equals of the descendants of the former. Alfred had long since + discovered that when he happened to return home from the society of the + Falconers, or the Caswells, or the Carsons, the old man was in an unusual + good-humor. At such times, the son felt sure that he was put down for a + large slice of the inheritance. + </p> + <p> + After turning the stick over and over in his skinny hands, and pressing + the top of it against his toothless gums, the old man again spoke. + </p> + <p> + “See here, you're old enough now to lead a steady life. You might ha' had + a farm o' your own, like Elisha, if you'd done as well. A very fair bit o' + money he married,—very fair,—but I don't say you couldn't do + as well, or, maybe, better.” + </p> + <p> + “I've been thinking of that, myself,” the son replied. + </p> + <p> + “Have you? Why don't you step up to her then? Ten thousand dollars aren't + to be had every day, and you needn't expect to get it without the askin'! + Where molasses is dropped, you'll always find more than one fly. Others + than you have got their eyes on the girl.” + </p> + <p> + The son's eyes opened tolerably wide when the old man began to speak, but + a spark of intelligence presently flashed into them, and an expression of + cunning ran over his face. + </p> + <p> + “Don't be anxious, daddy!” said he, with assumed playfulness; “she's not a + girl to take the first that offers. She has a mind of her own,—with + her the more haste the less speed. I know what I'm about; I have my top + eye open, and when there's a good chance, you won't find me sneaking + behind the wood-house.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well!” muttered the old man, “we'll see,—we'll see! A good + family, too,—not that I care for that. My family's as good as the + next. But if you let her slip, boy”—and here he brought down the end + of his stick with a significant whack, upon the floor. “This I'll tell + you,” he added, without finishing the broken sentence, “that whether + you're a rich man or a beggar, depends on yourself. The more you have, the + more you'll get; remember that! Bring me my brandy!” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton knew the exact value of his father's words. Having already + neglected, or, at least, failed to succeed, in regard to two matches which + his father had proposed, he understood the risk to his inheritance which + was implied by a third failure. And yet, looking at the subject soberly, + there was not the slightest prospect of success. Martha Deane was the girl + in the old man's mind, and an instinct, stronger than his vanity, told him + that she never would, or could, be his wife. But, in spite of that, it + must be his business to create a contrary impression, and keep it alive as + long as possible,—perhaps until—until— + </p> + <p> + We all know what was in his mind. Until the old man should die. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. — GUESTS AT FAIRTHORN'S. + </h2> + <p> + The Fairthorn farm was immediately north of Kennett Square. For the first + mile towards Unionville, the rich rolling fields which any traveller may + see, to this day, on either side of the road, belonged to it. The house + stood on the right, in the hollow into which the road dips, on leaving the + village. Originally a large cabin of hewn logs, it now rejoiced in a + stately stone addition, overgrown with ivy up to the eaves, and a long + porch in front, below which two mounds of box guarded the flight of stone + steps leading down to the garden. The hill in the rear kept off the north + wind, and this garden caught the earliest warmth of spring. Nowhere else + in the neighborhood did the crocuses bloom so early, or the peas so soon + appear above ground. The lack of order, the air of old neglect about the + place, in nowise detracted from its warm, cosy character; it was a + pleasant nook, and the relatives and friends of the family (whose name was + Legion) always liked to visit there. + </p> + <p> + Several days had elapsed since the chase, and the eventful evening which + followed it. It was baking-day, and the plump arms of Sally Fairthorn were + floury-white up to the elbows. She was leaning over the dough-trough, + plunging her fists furiously into the spongy mass, when she heard a step + on the porch. Although her gown was pinned up, leaving half of her short, + striped petticoat visible, and a blue and white spotted handkerchief + concealed her dark hair, Sally did not stop to think of that. She rushed + into the front room, just as a gaunt female figure passed the window, at + the sight of which she clapped her hands so that the flour flew in a + little white cloud, and two or three strips of dough peeled off her arms + and fell upon the floor. + </p> + <p> + The front-door opened, and our old friend, Miss Betsy Lavender, walked + into the room. + </p> + <p> + Any person, between Kildeer Hill and Hockessin, who did not know Miss + Betsy, must have been an utter stranger to the country, or an idiot. She + had a marvellous clairvoyant faculty for the approach of either Joy or + Grief, and always turned up just at the moment when she was most wanted. + Profession had she none; neither a permanent home, but for twenty years + she had wandered hither and thither, in highly independent fashion, + turning her hand to whatever seemed to require its cunning. A better + housekeeper never might have lived, if she could have stuck to one spot; + an admirable cook, nurse, seamstress, and spinner, she refused alike the + high wages of wealthy farmers and the hands of poor widowers. She had a + little money of her own, but never refused payment from those who were + able to give it, in order that she might now and then make a present of + her services to poorer friends. Her speech was blunt and rough, her ways + odd and eccentric; her name was rarely mentioned without a laugh, but + those who laughed at her esteemed her none the less. In those days of + weekly posts and one newspaper, she was Politics, Art, Science, and + Literature to many families. + </p> + <p> + In person, Miss Betsy Lavender was peculiar rather than attractive. She + was nearly, if not quite fifty years of age, rather tall, and a little + stoop-shouldered. Her face, at first sight, suggested that of a horse, + with its long, ridged nose, loose lips and short chin. Her eyes were dull + gray, set near together, and much sharper in their operation than a + stranger would suppose. Over a high, narrow forehead she wore thin bands + of tan-colored hair, somewhat grizzled, and forming a coil at the back of + her head, barely strong enough to hold the teeth of an enormous + tortoise-shell comb. Yet her grotesqueness had nothing repellant; it was a + genial caricature, at which no one could take offence. “The very person I + wanted to see!” cried Sally. “Father and mother are going up to Uncle + John's this afternoon; Aunt Eliza has an old woman's quilting-party, and + they'll stay all night, and however am I to manage Joe and Jake by myself? + Martha's half promised to come, but not till after supper. It will all go + right, since you are here; come into mother's room and take off your + things!” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Miss Betsy, with a snort, “<i>that's</i> to be my business, + eh? I'll have my hands full; a pearter couple o' lads a'n't to be found + this side o' Nottin'gam. They might ha' growed up wild on the Barrens, for + all the manners they've got.” + </p> + <p> + Sally knew that this criticism was true; also that Miss Betsy's task was + no sinecure, and she therefore thought it best to change the subject. + </p> + <p> + “There!” said she, as Miss Betsy gave the thin rope of her back hair a + fierce twist, and jammed her high comb inward and outward that the teeth + might catch,—“there! now you'll do! Come into the kitchen and tell + me the news, while I set my loaves to rise.” + </p> + <p> + “Loaves to rise,” echoed Miss Betsy, seating herself on a tall, + rush-bottomed chair near the window. She had an incorrigible habit of + repeating the last three words of the person with whom she spoke,—a + habit which was sometimes mimicked good-humoredly, even by her best + friends. Many persons, however, were flattered by it, as it seemed to + denote an earnest attention to what they were saying. Between the two, + there it was and there it would be, to the day of her death,—Miss + Lavender's “keel-mark, [Footnote: Keel, a local term for red chalk.] as + the farmers said of their sheep. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she resumed, after taking breath, “no news is good news, these + days. Down Whitely Creek way, towards Strickersville, there's fever, they + say; Richard Rudd talks o' buildin' higher up the hill,—you know + it's low and swampy about the old house,—but Sarah, she says it'll + be a mortal long ways to the spring-house, and so betwixt and between them + I dunno how it'll turn out. Dear me! I was up at Aunt Buffin'ton's t' + other day; she's lookin' poorly; her mother, I remember, went off in a + decline, the same year the Tories burnt down their barn, and I'm afeard + she's goin' the same way. But, yes! I guess there's one thing you'll like + to hear. Old-man Barton is goin' to put up a new wagon-house, and Mark is + to have the job.” + </p> + <p> + “Law!” exclaimed Sally, “what's that to me?” But there was a decided smile + on her face as she put another loaf into the pan, and, although her head + was turned away, a pretty flush of color came up behind her ear, and + betrayed itself to Miss Lavender's quick eye. + </p> + <p> + “Nothin' much, I reckon,” the latter answered, in the most matter-of-fact + way, “only I thought you might like to know it, Mark bein' a neighbor, + like, and a right-down smart young fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I <i>am</i> glad of it,” said Sally, with sudden candor, “he's + Martha's cousin.” + </p> + <p> + “Martha's cousin,—and I shouldn't wonder if he'd be something more + to her, some day.” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed! What are you thinking of, Betsy?” Sally turned around and + faced her visitor, regardless that her soft brunette face showed a decided + tinge of scarlet. At this instant clattering feet were heard, and Joe and + Jake rushed into the kitchen. They greeted their old friend with + boisterous demonstrations of joy. + </p> + <p> + “Now we'll have dough-nuts,” cried Joe. + </p> + <p> + “No; 'lasses-wax!” said Jake. “Sally, where's mother? Dad's out at the + wall, and Bonnie's jumpin' and prancin' like anything!” + </p> + <p> + “Go along!” exclaimed Sally, with a slap which, lost its force in the air, + as Jake jumped away. Then they all left the kitchen together, and escorted + the mother to the garden-wall by the road, which served the purpose of a + horseblock. Farmer Fairthorn—a hale, ruddy, honest figure, in + broad-brimmed hat, brown coat and knee-breeches—already sat upon the + old mare, and the pillion behind his saddle awaited the coming burden. + Mother Fairthorn, a cheery little woman, with dark eyes and round brunette + face, like her daughter, wore the scoop bonnet and drab shawl of a + Quakeress, as did many in the neighborhood who did not belong to the sect. + Never were people better suited to each other than these two: they took + the world as they found it, and whether the crops were poor or abundant, + whether money came in or had to be borrowed, whether the roof leaked, or a + broken pale let the sheep into the garden, they were alike easy of heart, + contented and cheerful. + </p> + <p> + The mare, after various obstinate whirls, was finally brought near the + wall; the old woman took her seat on the pillion, and after a parting + admonition to Sally: “Rake the coals and cover 'em up, before going to + bed, whatever you do!”—they went off, deliberately, up the hill. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Betsy,” said Joe, with a very grave air, as they returned to the + kitchen, “I want you to tell me one thing,—whether it's true or not. + Sally says I'm a monkey.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm a monkey,” repeated the unconscious Miss Lavender, whereupon both + boys burst into shrieks of laughter, and made their escape. + </p> + <p> + “Much dough-nuts they'll get from me,” muttered the ruffled spinster, as + she pinned up her sleeves and proceeded to help Sally. The work went on + rapidly, and by the middle of the afternoon, the kitchen wore its normal + aspect of homely neatness. Then came the hour or two of quiet and rest, + nowhere in the world so grateful as in a country farm-house, to its + mistress and her daughters, when all the rough work of the day is over, + and only the lighter task of preparing supper yet remains. Then, when the + sewing or knitting has been produced, the little painted-pine work-stand + placed near the window, and a pleasant neighbor drops in to enliven the + softer occupation with gossip, the country wife or girl finds her life a + very happy and cheerful possession. No dresses are worn with so much + pleasure as those then made; no books so enjoyed as those then read, a + chapter or two at a time. + </p> + <p> + Sally Fairthorn, we must confess, was not in the habit of reading much. + Her education had been limited. She had ciphered as far as Compound + Interest, read Murray's “Sequel,” and Goldsmith's “Rome,” and could write + a fair letter, without misspelling many words; but very few other girls in + the neighborhood possessed greater accomplishments than these, and none of + them felt, or even thought of, their deficiencies. There were no + “missions” in those days; it was fifty or sixty years before the formation + of the “Kennett Psychological Society,” and “Pamela,” “Rasselas,” and + “Joseph Andrews,” were lent and borrowed, as at present “Consuelo,” + Buckle, Ruskin, and “Enoch Arden.” + </p> + <p> + One single work of art had Sally created, and it now hung, stately in a + frame of curled maple, in the chilly parlor. It was a sampler, containing + the alphabet, both large and small, the names and dates of birth of both + her parents, a harp and willow-tree, the twigs whereof were represented by + parallel rows of “herring-bone” stitch, a sharp zigzag spray of rose-buds, + and the following stanza, placed directly underneath the harp and willow:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “By Babel's streams we Sat and Wept + When Zion we thought on; + For Grief thereof, we Hang our Harp + The Willow Tree upon.” + </pre> + <p> + Across the bottom of the sampler was embroidered the inscription: “Done by + Sarah Ann Fairthorn, May, 1792, in the 16th year of her age.” + </p> + <p> + While Sally went up-stairs to her room, to put her hair into order, and + tie a finer apron over her cloth gown, Miss Betsy Lavender was made the + victim of a most painful experience. + </p> + <p> + Joe and Jake, who had been dodging around the house, half-coaxing and + half-teasing the ancient maiden whom they both plagued and liked, had not + been heard or seen for a while. Miss Betsy was knitting by the front + window, waiting for Sally, when the door was hastily thrown open, and Joe + appeared, panting, scared, and with an expression of horror upon his face. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Miss Betsy!” was his breathless exclamation, “Jake! the cherry-tree!” + </p> + <p> + Dropping her work upon the floor, Miss Lavender hurried out of the house, + with beating heart and trembling limbs, following Joe, who ran towards the + field above the barn, where, near the fence, there stood a large and lofty + cherry-tree. As she reached the fence she beheld Jake, lying motionless on + his back, on the brown grass. + </p> + <p> + “The Lord have mercy!” she cried; her knees gave way, and she sank upon + the ground in an angular heap. When, with a desperate groan, she lifted + her head and looked through the lower rails, Jake was not to be seen. With + a swift, convulsive effort she rose to her feet, just in time to catch a + glimpse of the two young scamps whirling over the farther fence into the + wood below. + </p> + <p> + She walked unsteadily back to the house. “It's given me such a turn,” she + said to Sally, after describing the trick, “that I dunno when I'll get + over it.” + </p> + <p> + Sally gave her some whiskey and sugar, which soon brought a vivid red to + the tip of her chin and the region of her cheek-bones, after which she + professed that she felt very comfortable. But the boys, frightened at the + effect of their thoughtless prank, did not make their appearance. Joe, + seeing Miss Betsy fall, thought she was dead, and the two hid themselves + in a bed of dead leaves, beside a fallen log, not daring to venture home + for supper. Sally said they should have none, and would have cleared the + table; but Miss Betsy, whose kind heart had long since relented, went + forth and brought them to light, promising that she would not tell their + father, provided they “would never do such a wicked thing again.” Their + behavior, for the rest of the evening, was irreproachable. + </p> + <p> + Just as candles were being lighted, there was another step on the porch, + and the door opened on Martha Deane. + </p> + <p> + “I'm <i>so</i> glad!” cried Sally. “Never mind your pattens, Martha; Joe + shall carry them into the kitchen. Come, let me take off your cloak and + hat.” + </p> + <p> + Martha's coming seemed to restore the fading daylight. Not boisterous or + impulsive, like Sally, her nature burned with a bright and steady flame,—white + and cold to some, golden and radiant to others. Her form was slender, and + every motion expressed a calm, serene grace, which could only spring from + some conscious strength of character. Her face was remarkably symmetrical, + its oval outline approaching the Greek ideal; but the brow was rather high + than low, and the light brown hair covered the fair temples evenly, + without a ripple. Her eyes were purely blue, and a quick, soft spark was + easily kindled in their depths; the cheeks round and rosy, and the mouth + clearly and delicately cut, with an unusual, yet wholly feminine firmness + in the lines of the upper lip. This peculiarity, again, if slightly out of + harmony with the pervading gentleness of her face, was balanced by the + softness and sweetness of her dimpled chin, and gave to her face a rare + union of strength and tenderness. It very rarely happens that decision and + power of will in a young woman are not manifested by some characteristic + rather masculine than feminine; but Martha Deane knew the art of + unwearied, soft assertion and resistance, and her beautiful lips could + pronounce, when necessary, a final word. + </p> + <p> + Joe and Jake came forward with a half-shy delight, to welcome “Cousin + Martha,” as she was called in the Fairthorn household, her mother and + Sally's father having been “own” cousins. There was a cheerful fire on the + hearth, and the three ladies gathered in front of it, with the work-stand + in the middle, while the boys took possession of the corner-nooks. The + latter claimed their share of the gossip; they knew the family histories + of the neighborhood much better than their school-books, and exhibited a + precocious interest in this form of knowledge. The conversation, + therefore, was somewhat guarded, and the knitting and sewing all the more + assiduously performed, until, with great reluctance, and after repeated + commands, Joe and Jake stole off to bed. + </p> + <p> + The atmosphere of the room then became infinitely more free and + confidential. Sally dropped her hands in her lap, and settled herself more + comfortably in her chair, while Miss Lavender, with an unobserved + side-glance at her, said:— + </p> + <p> + “Mark is to put up Barton's new wagon-house, I hear, Martha.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” Martha answered; “it is not much, but Mark, of course, is very + proud of his first job. There is a better one in store, though he does not + know of it.” + </p> + <p> + Sally pricked up her ears. “What is it?” asked Miss Betsy. + </p> + <p> + “It is not to be mentioned, you will understand. I saw Alfred Barton + to-day. He seems to take quite an interest in Mark, all at once, and he + told me that the Hallowells are going to build a new barn this summer. He + spoke to them of Mark, and thinks the work is almost sure.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now!” Miss Betsy exclaimed, “if he gets that, after a year's + journey-work, Mark is a made man. And I'll speak to Richard Rudd the next + time I see him. He thinks he's beholden to me, since Sarah had the fever + so bad. I don't like folks to think that, but there's times when it + appears to come handy.” + </p> + <p> + Sally arose, flushed and silent, and brought a plate of cakes and a basket + of apples from the pantry. The work was now wholly laid aside, and the + stand cleared to receive the refreshments. + </p> + <p> + “Now pare your peels in one piece, girls,” Miss Betsy advised, “and then + whirl 'em to find the <i>initials</i> o' your sweethearts' names.” + </p> + <p> + “You, too, Miss Betsy!” cried Sally, “we must find out the widower's + name!” + </p> + <p> + “The widower's name,” Miss Betsy gravely repeated, as she took a knife. + </p> + <p> + With much mirth the parings were cut, slowly whirled three times around + the head, and then let fly over the left shoulder. Miss Betsy's was first + examined and pronounced to be an A. + </p> + <p> + “Who's A?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Alfred!” said Sally. “Now, Martha, here's yours—an S, no it's a G!” + </p> + <p> + “The curl is the wrong way,” said Martha, gravely, “it's a figure 3; so, I + have three of them, have I?” + </p> + <p> + “And mine,” Sally continued, “is a W!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, if you look at it upside down. The inside of the peel is uppermost: + you must turn it, and then it will be an M.” + </p> + <p> + Sally snatched it up in affected vexation, and threw it into the fire. + “Oh, I know a new way!” she cried; “did you ever try it, Martha—with + the key and the Bible!” + </p> + <p> + “Old as the hills, but awful sure,” remarked Miss Lavender. “When it's + done serious, it's never been known to fail.” + </p> + <p> + Sally took the house-key, and brought from the old walnut cabinet a plump + octavo Bible, which she opened at the Song of Solomon, eighth chapter and + sixth verse. The end of the key being carefully placed therein, the halves + of the book were bound together with cords, so that it could be carried by + the key-handle. Then Sally and Martha, sitting face to face, placed each + the end of the fore finger of the right hand under the half the ring of + the key nearest to her. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Martha,” said Sally, “we'll try your fortune first. Say 'A,' and + then repeat the verse: 'set me as a seal upon thy heart, as a seal upon + thine arm; for love is strong as death, jealousy is cruel as the grave: + the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame.'” + </p> + <p> + Martha did as she was bidden, but the book hung motionless. She was + thereupon directed to say B, and repeat the verse; and so on, letter by + letter. The slender fingers trembled a little with the growing weight of + the book, and, although Sally protested that she was holding as still “as + she knew how,” the trembling increased, and before the verse which + followed G had been finished, the ring of the key slowly turned, and the + volume fell to the floor. + </p> + <p> + Martha picked it up with a quiet smile. + </p> + <p> + “It is easy to see who was in <i>your</i> mind, Sally,” she said. “Now let + me tell your fortune: we will begin at L—it will save time.” + </p> + <p> + “Save time,” said Miss Lavender, rising. “Have it out betwixt and between + you, girls: I'm a-goin' to bed.” + </p> + <p> + The two girls soon followed her example. Hastily undressing themselves in + the chilly room, they lay down side by side, to enjoy the blended warmth + and rest, and the tender, delicious interchanges of confidence which + precede sleep. Though so different in every fibre of their natures, they + loved each other with a very true and tender affection. + </p> + <p> + “Martha,” said Sally, after an interval of silence, “did you think I <i>made</i> + the Bible turn at G?” + </p> + <p> + “I think you thought it would turn, and therefore it did. Gilbert Potter + was in your mind, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “And not in yours, Martha?” + </p> + <p> + “If any man was seriously in my mind, Sally, do you think I would take the + Bible and the door-key in order to find out his name?” + </p> + <p> + Sally was not adroit in speech: she felt that her question had not been + answered, but was unable to see precisely how the answer had been evaded. + </p> + <p> + “I certainly was beginning to think that you liked Gilbert,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “So I do. Anybody may know that who cares for the information.” And Martha + laughed cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + “Would you say so to Gilbert himself?” Sally timidly suggested. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; but why should he ask? I like a great many young men.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Martha!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Sally!—and so do you. But there's this I will say: if I were to + love a man, neither he nor any other living soul should know it, until he + had told me with his own lips that his heart had chosen me.” + </p> + <p> + The strength of conviction in Martha's grave, gentle voice, struck Sally + dumb. Her lips were sealed on the delicious secret she was longing, and + yet afraid, to disclose. <i>He</i> had not spoken: she hoped he loved her, + she was sure she loved him. Did she speak now, she thought, she would + lower herself in Martha's eyes. With a helpless impulse, she threw one arm + over the latter's neck, and kissed her cheek. She did not know that with + the kiss she had left a tear. + </p> + <p> + “Sally,” said Martha, in a tender whisper, “I only spoke for myself. Some + hearts must be silent, while it is the nature of others to speak out. You + are not afraid of me: it will be womanly in you to tell me everything. + Your cheek is hot: you are blushing. Don't blush, Sally dear, for I know + it already.” + </p> + <p> + Sally answered with an impassioned demonstration of gratitude and + affection. Then she spoke; but we will not reveal the secrets of her + virgin heart. It is enough that, soothed and comforted by Martha's wise + counsel and sympathy, she sank into happy slumber at her side. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. — THE NEW GILBERT. + </h2> + <p> + This time the weather, which so often thwarts the farmer's calculations, + favored Gilbert Potter. In a week the two fields were ploughed, and what + little farm-work remained to be done before the first of April, could be + safely left to Sam. On the second Monday after the chase, therefore, he + harnessed his four sturdy horses to the wagon, and set off before the + first streak of dawn for Columbia, on the Susquehanna. Here he would take + from twelve to sixteen barrels of flour (according to the state of the + roads) and haul them, a two days' journey, to Newport, on the Christiana + River. The freight of a dollar and a half a barrel, which he received, + yielded him what in those days was considered a handsome profit for the + service, and it was no unusual thing for farmers who were in possession of + a suitable team, to engage in the business whenever they could spare the + time from their own fields. + </p> + <p> + Since the evening when she had spoken to him, for the first time in her + life, of the dismal shadow which rested upon their names, Mary Potter felt + that there was an indefinable change in her relation to her son. He seemed + suddenly drawn nearer to her, and yet, in some other sense which she could + not clearly comprehend, thrust farther away. His manner, always kind and + tender, assumed a shade of gentle respect, grateful in itself, yet + disturbing, because new in her experience of him. His head was slightly + lifted, and his lips, though firm as ever, less rigidly compressed. She + could not tell how it was, but his voice had more authority in her ears. + She had never before quite disentangled the man that he was from the child + that he had been; but now the separation, sharp, sudden, and final, was + impressed upon her mind. Under all the loneliness which came upon her, + when the musical bells of his team tinkled into silence beyond the hill, + there lurked a strange sense of relief, as if her nature would more + readily adjust itself during his absence. + </p> + <p> + Instead of accepting the day with its duties, as a sufficient burden, she + now deliberately reviewed the Past. It would give her pain, she knew; but + what pain could she ever feel again, comparable to that which she had so + recently suffered? Long she brooded over that bitter period before and + immediately succeeding her son's birth, often declaring to herself how + fatally she had erred, and as often shaking her head in hopeless + renunciation of any present escape from the consequences of that error. + She saw her position clearly, yet it seemed that she had so entangled + herself in the meshes of a merciless Fate, that the only reparation she + could claim, either for herself or her son, would be thrown away by + forestalling—after such endless, endless submission and suffering—the + Event which should set her free. + </p> + <p> + Then she recalled and understood, as never before, Gilbert's childhood and + boyhood. For his sake she had accepted menial service in families where he + was looked upon and treated as an incumbrance. The child, it had been her + comfort to think, was too young to know or feel this,—but now, alas! + the remembrance of his shyness and sadness told her a different tale. So + nine years had passed, and she was then forced to part with her boy. She + had bound him to Farmer Fairthorn, whose good heart, and his wife's, she + well knew, and now she worked for him, alone, putting by her savings every + year, and stinting herself to the utmost that she might be able to start + him in life, if he should live to be his own master. Little by little, the + blot upon her seemed to fade out or be forgotten, and she hoped—oh, + how she had hoped!—that he might be spared the knowledge of it. + </p> + <p> + She watched him grow up, a boy of firm will, strong temper, yet great + self-control; and the easy Fairthorn rule, which would have spoiled a + youth of livelier spirits, was, providentially, the atmosphere in which + his nature grew more serene and patient. He was steady, industrious, and + faithful, and the Fairthorns loved him almost as their own son. When he + reached the age of eighteen, he was allowed many important privileges: he + hauled flour to Newport, having a share of the profits, and in other ways + earned a sum which, with his mother's aid, enabled him to buy a team of + his own, on coming of age. + </p> + <p> + Two years more of this weary, lonely labor, and the one absorbing aim of + Mary Potter's life, which she had impressed upon him ever since he was old + enough to understand it, drew near fulfilment. The farm upon which they + now lived was sold, and Gilbert became the purchaser. There was still a + debt of a thousand dollars upon the property, and she felt that until it + was paid, they possessed no secure home. During the year which had elapsed + since the purchase, Gilbert, by unwearied labor, had laid up about four + hundred dollars, and another year, he had said, if he should prosper in + his plans, would see them free at last! Then,—let the world say what + it chose! They had fought their way from shame and poverty to honest + independence, and the respect which follows success would at least be + theirs. + </p> + <p> + This was always the consoling thought to which Mary Potter returned, from + the unallayed trouble of her mind. Day by day, Gilbert's new figure became + more familiar, and she was conscious that her own manner towards him must + change with it The subject of his birth, however, and the new difficulties + with which it beset her, would not be thrust aside. For years she had + almost ceased to think of the possible release, of which she had spoken; + now it returned and filled her with a strange, restless impatience. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, also, had ample time to review his own position, during the + fortnight's absence. After passing the hills and emerging upon the long, + fertile swells of Lancaster, his experienced leaders but rarely needed the + guidance of his hand or voice. Often, sunk in revery, the familiar + landmarks of the journey went by unheeded; often he lay awake in the + crowded bedroom of a tavern, striving to clear a path for his feet a + little way into the future. Only men of the profoundest culture make a + deliberate study of their own natures, but those less gifted often act + with an equal or even superior wisdom, because their qualities operate + spontaneously, unwatched by an introverted eye. Such men may be dimly + conscious of certain inconsistencies, or unsolved puzzles, in themselves, + but instead of sitting down to unravel them, they seek the easiest way to + pass by and leave them untouched. For them the material aspects of life + are of the highest importance, and a true instinct shows them that beyond + the merest superficial acquaintance with their own natures lie deep and + disturbing questions, with which they are not fitted to grapple. + </p> + <p> + There comes a time, however, to every young man, even the most + uncultivated, when he touches one of the primal, eternal forces of life, + and is conscious of other needs and another destiny. This time had come to + Gilbert Potter, forcing him to look upon the circumstances of his life + from a loftier point of view. He had struggled, passionately but at + random, for light,—but, fortunately, every earnest struggle is + towards the light, and it now began to dawn upon him. + </p> + <p> + He first became aware of one enigma, the consideration of which was not so + easy to lay aside. His mother had not been deceived: there was a change in + the man since that evening. Often and often, in gloomy breedings over his + supposed disgrace, he had fiercely asserted to himself that <i>he</i> was + free from stain, and the unrespect in which he stood was an injustice to + be bravely defied. The brand which he wore, and which he fancied was seen + by every eye he met, existed in his own fancy; his brow was as pure, his + right to esteem and honor equal, to that of any other man. But it was + impossible to act upon this reasoning; still when the test came he would + shrink and feel the pain, instead of trampling it under his feet. + </p> + <p> + Now that the brand <i>was</i> removed, the strength which he had so + desperately craved, was suddenly his. So far as the world was concerned, + nothing was altered; no one knew of the revelation which his mother had + made to him; he was still the child of her shame, but this knowledge was + no longer a torture. Now he had a right to respect, not asserted only to + his own heart, but which every man would acknowledge, were it made known. + He was no longer a solitary individual, protesting against prejudice and + custom. Though still feeling that the protest was just, and that his new + courage implied some weakness, he could not conceal from himself the + knowledge that this very weakness was the practical fountain of his + strength. He was a secret and unknown unit of the great majority. + </p> + <p> + There was another, more intimate subject which the new knowledge touched + very nearly; and here, also, hope dawned upon a sense akin to despair. + With all the force of his nature, Gilbert Potter loved Martha Deane. He + had known her since he was a boy at Fairthorn's; her face had always been + the brightest in his memory; but it was only since the purchase of the + farm that his matured manhood had fully recognized its answering womanhood + in her. He was slow to acknowledge the truth, even to his own heart, and + when it could no longer be denied, he locked it up and sealed it with + seven seals, determined never to betray it, to her or any one. Then arose + a wild hope, that respect might come with the independence for which he + was laboring, and perhaps he might dare to draw nearer,—near enough + to guess if there were any answer in her heart. It was a frail support, + but he clung to it as with his life, for there was none other. + </p> + <p> + Now,—although his uncertainty was as great as ever,—his + approach could not humiliate her. His love brought no shadow of shame; it + was proudly white and clean. Ah! he had forgotten that she did not know,—that + his lips were sealed until his mother's should be opened to the world. The + curse was not to be shaken off so easily. + </p> + <p> + By the time he had twice traversed the long, weary road between Columbia + and Newport, Gilbert reached a desperate solution of this difficulty. The + end of his meditations was: “I will see if there be love in woman as in + man!—love that takes no note of birth or station, but, once having + found its mate, is faithful from first to last.” In love, an honest and + faithful heart touches the loftiest ideal. Gilbert knew that, were the + case reversed, no possible test could shake his steadfast affection, and + how else could he measure the quality of hers? He said to himself: + “Perhaps it is cruel, but I cannot spare her the trial.” He was prouder + than he knew,—but we must remember all that he endured. + </p> + <p> + It was a dry, windy March month, that year, and he made four good trips + before the first of April. Returning home from Newport, by way of + Wilmington, with seventy-five dollars clear profit in his pocket, his + prospects seemed very cheerful. Could he accomplish two more months of + hauling during the year, and the crops should be fair, the money from + these sources, and the sale of his wagon and one span, would be something + more than enough to discharge the remaining debt. He knew, moreover, how + the farm could be more advantageously worked, having used his eyes to good + purpose in passing through the rich, abundant fields of Lancaster. The + land once his own,—which, like his mother, he could not yet feel,—his + future, in a material sense, was assured. + </p> + <p> + Before reaching the Buck Tavern, he overtook a woman plodding slowly along + the road. Her rusty beaver hat, tied down over her ears, and her faded + gown, were in singular contrast to the shining new scarlet shawl upon her + shoulders. As she stopped and turned, at the sound of his tinkling bells, + she showed a hard red face, not devoid of a certain coarse beauty, and he + recognized Deb. Smith, a lawless, irregular creature, well known about + Kennett. + </p> + <p> + “Good-day, Deborah!” said he; “if you are going my way, I can give you a + lift.” + </p> + <p> + “He calls me 'Deborah,'” she muttered to herself; then aloud—“Ay, + and thank ye, Mr. Gilbert.” + </p> + <p> + Seizing the tail of the near horse with one hand, she sprang upon the + wagon-tongue, and the next moment sat upon the board at his side. Then, + rummaging in a deep pocket, she produced, one after the other, a short + black pipe, an eel-skin tobacco-pouch, flint, tinder, and a clumsy knife. + With a dexterity which could only have come from long habit, she prepared + and kindled the weed, and was presently puffing forth rank streams, with + an air of the deepest satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Which way?” asked Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + “Your'n, as far as you go,—always providin' you takes me.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, Deborah, you're welcome. I have no load, you see.” + </p> + <p> + “Mighty clever in you, Mr. Gilbert; but you always was one o' the clever + ones. Them as thinks themselves better born”— + </p> + <p> + “Come, Deborah, none of that!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Ax your pardon,” she said, and smoked her pipe in silence. When she had + finished and knocked the ashes out against the front panel of the wagon, + she spoke again, in a hard, bitter voice,— + </p> + <p> + “'Tisn't much difference what <i>I</i> am. I was raised on hard knocks, + and now I must git my livin' by 'em. But I axes no'un's help, I'm <i>that</i> + proud, anyways. I go my own road, and a straighter one, too, damme, than I + git credit for, but I let other people go their'n. You might have wuss + company than me, though <i>I</i> say it.” + </p> + <p> + These words hinted at an inward experience in some respects so + surprisingly like his own, that Gilbert was startled. He knew the + reputation of the woman, though he would have found it difficult to tell + whereupon it was based. Everybody said she was bad, and nobody knew + particularly why. She lived alone, in a log-cabin in the woods; did + washing and house-cleaning; worked in the harvest-fields; smoked, and took + her gill of whiskey with the best of them,—but other vices, though + inferred, were not proven. Involuntarily, he contrasted her position, in + this respect, with his own. The world, he had recently learned, was wrong + in his case; might it not also be doing her injustice? Her pride, in its + coarse way, was his also, and his life, perhaps, had only unfolded into + honorable success through a mother's ever-watchful care and never-wearied + toil. + </p> + <p> + “Deborah,” he said, after a pause, “no man or woman who makes an honest + living by hard work, is bad company for me. I am trying to do the same + thing that you are,—to be independent of others. It's not an easy + thing for anybody, starting from nothing, but I can guess that it must be + much harder for you than for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you're a man!” she cried. “Would to God I'd been one, too! A man can + do everything that I do, and it's all right and proper. Why did the Lord + give me strength? Look at that!” She bared her right arm—hard, + knitted muscle from wrist to shoulder—and clenched her fist. “What's + that for?—not for a woman, I say; I could take two of 'em by the + necks and pitch 'em over yon fence. I've felled an Irishman like an ox + when he called me names. The anger's in me, and the boldness and the + roughness, and the cursin'; I didn't put 'em there, and I can't git 'em + out now, if I tried ever so much. Why did they snatch the sewin' from me + when I wanted to learn women's work, and send me out to yoke th' oxen? I + do believe I was a gal onc't, a six-month or so, but it's over long ago. + I've been a man ever since!” + </p> + <p> + She took a bottle out of her pocket, and offered it to Gilbert. When he + refused, she simply said: “You're right!” set it to her mouth, and drank + long and deeply. There was a wild, painful gleam of truth in her words, + which touched his sympathy. How should he dare to judge this unfortunate + creature, not knowing what perverse freak of nature, and untoward + circumstances of life had combined to make her what she was? His manner + towards her was kind and serious, and by degrees this covert respect awoke + in her a desire to deserve it. She spoke calmly and soberly, exhibiting a + wonderful knowledge as they rode onwards, not only of farming, but of + animals, trees, and plants. + </p> + <p> + The team, knowing that home and rest were near, marched cheerily up and + down the hills along the border, and before sunset, emerging from the + woods, they overlooked the little valley, the mill, and the nestling + farmhouse. An Indian war-whoop rang across the meadow, and Gilbert + recognized Sam's welcome therein. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Deborah,” said he, “you shall stop and have some supper, before you + go any farther.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm obliged, all the same,” said she, “but I must push on. I've to go + beyond the Square, and couldn't wait. But tell your mother if she wants a + man's arm in house-cleanin' time to let me know. And, Mr. Gilbert, let me + say one thing: give me your hand.” + </p> + <p> + The horses had stopped to drink at the creek. He gave her his right hand. + </p> + <p> + She held it in hers a moment, gazing intently on the palm. Then she bent + her head and blew upon it gently, three times. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind: it's my fancy,” she said. “You're born for trial and + good-luck, but the trials come first, all of a heap, and the good luck + afterwards. You've got a friend in Deb. Smith, if you ever need one. + Good-bye to ye!” + </p> + <p> + With these words she sprang from the wagon, and trudged off silently up + the hill. The horses turned of themselves into the lane leading to the + barn, and Gilbert assisted Sam in unharnessing and feeding them before + entering the house. By the time he was ready to greet his mother, and + enjoy, without further care, his first evening at home, he knew everything + that had occurred on the farm during his absence. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. — OLD KENNETT MEETING. + </h2> + <p> + On the Sunday succeeding his return, Gilbert Potter proposed to his mother + that they should attend the Friends' Meeting at Old Kennett. + </p> + <p> + The Quaker element, we have already stated, largely predominated in this + part of the county; and even the many families who were not actually + members of the sect were strongly colored with its peculiar + characteristics. Though not generally using “the plain speech” among + themselves, they invariably did so towards Quakers, varied but little from + the latter in dress and habits, and, with very few exceptions, regularly + attended their worship. In fact, no other religious attendance was + possible, without a Sabbath journey too long for the well-used + farm-horses. To this class belonged Gilbert and his mother, the + Fairthorns, and even the Bartons. Farmer Fairthorn had a birthright, it is + true, until his marriage, which having been a stolen match, and not + performed according to “Friends' ceremony,” occasioned his + excommunication. He might have been restored to the rights of membership + by admitting his sorrow for the offence, but this he stoutly refused to + do. The predicament was not an unusual one in the neighborhood; but a few, + among whom was Dr. Deane, Martha's father, submitted to the required + humiliation. As this did not take place, however, until after her birth, + Martha was still without the pale, and preferred to remain so, for two + reasons: first, that a scoop bonnet was monstrous on a young woman's head; + and second, that she was passionately fond of music, and saw no harm in a + dance. This determination of hers was, as her father expressed himself, a + “great cross” to him; but she had a habit of paralyzing his argument by + turning against him the testimony of the Friends in regard to forms and + ceremonies, and their reliance on the guidance of the Spirit. + </p> + <p> + Herein Martha was strictly logical, and though she, and others who + belonged to the same class, were sometimes characterized, by a zealous + Quaker, in moments of bitterness, as being “the world's people,” they were + generally regarded, not only with tolerance, but in a spirit of + fraternity. The high seats in the gallery were not for them, but they were + free to any other part of the meeting-house during life, and to a grave in + the grassy and briery enclosure adjoining, when dead. The necessity of + belonging to some organized church was recognized but faintly, if at all; + provided their lives were honorable, they were considered very fair + Christians. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter but rarely attended meeting, not from any lack of the need of + worship, but because she shrank with painful timidity from appearing in + the presence of the assembled neighborhood. She was, nevertheless, + grateful for Gilbert's success, and her heart inclined to thanksgiving; + besides, he desired that they should go, and she was not able to offer any + valid objection. So, after breakfast, the two best horses of the team were + very carefully groomed, saddled, and—Sam having been sent off on a + visit to his father, with the house-key in his pocket—the mother and + son took the road up the creek. + </p> + <p> + Both were plainly, yet very respectably, dressed, in garments of the same + home-made cloth, of a deep, dark brown color, but Mary Potter wore under + her cloak the new crape shawl which Gilbert had brought to her from + Wilmington, and his shirt of fine linen displayed a modest ruffle in + front. The resemblance in their faces was even more strongly marked, in + the common expression of calm, grave repose, which sprang from the nature + of their journey. A stranger meeting them that morning, would have seen + that they were persons of unusual force of character, and bound to each + other by an unusual tie. + </p> + <p> + Up the lovely valley, or rather glen, watered by the eastern branch of + Redley Creek, they rode to the main highway. It was an early spring, and + the low-lying fields were already green with the young grass; the + weeping-willows in front of the farm-houses seemed to spout up and fall + like broad enormous geysers as the wind swayed them, and daffodils bloomed + in all the warmer gardens. The dark foliage of the cedars skirting the + road counteracted that indefinable gloom which the landscapes of early + spring, in their grayness and incompleteness, so often inspire, and mocked + the ripened summer in the close shadows which they threw. It was a + pleasant ride, especially after mother and son had reached the main road, + and other horsemen and horsewomen issued from the gates of farms on either + side, taking their way to the meeting-house. Only two or three families + could boast vehicles,—heavy, cumbrous “chairs,” as they were called, + with a convex canopy resting on four stout pillars, and the bulging body + swinging from side to side on huge springs of wood and leather. No healthy + man or woman, however, unless he or she were very old, travelled otherwise + than on horseback. + </p> + <p> + Now and then exchanging grave but kindly nods with their acquaintances, + they rode slowly along the level upland, past the Anvil Tavern, through + Logtown,—a cluster of primitive cabins at the junction of the + Wilmington Road,—and reached the meeting-house in good season. + Gilbert assisted his mother to alight at the stone platform built for that + purpose near the women's end of the building, and then fastened the horses + in the long, open shed in the rear. Then, as was the custom, he entered by + the men's door, and quietly took a seat in the silent assembly. + </p> + <p> + The stiff, unpainted benches were filled with the congregation, young and + old, wearing their hats, and with a stolid, drowsy look upon their faces. + Over a high wooden partition the old women in the gallery, but not the + young women on the floor of the house, could be seen. Two stoves, with + interminable lengths of pipe, suspended by wires from the ceiling, created + a stifling temperature. Every slight sound or motion,—the moving of + a foot, the drawing forth of a pocket-handkerchief, the lifting or + lowering of a head,—seemed to disturb the quiet as with a shock, and + drew many of the younger eyes upon it; while in front, like the guardian + statues of an Egyptian temple, sat the older members, with their hands + upon their knees or clasped across their laps. Their faces were grave and + severe. + </p> + <p> + After nearly an hour of this suspended animation, an old Friend rose, + removed his broad-brimmed hat, and placing his hands upon the rail before + him, began slowly swaying to and fro, while he spoke. As he rose into the + chant peculiar to the sect, intoning alike his quotations from the Psalms + and his utterances of plain, practical advice, an expression of quiet but + almost luxurious satisfaction stole over the faces of his aged brethren. + With half-closed eyes and motionless bodies, they drank in the sound like + a rich draught, with a sense of exquisite refreshment. A close connection + of ideas, a logical derivation of argument from text, would have aroused + their suspicions that the speaker depended rather upon his own active, + conscious intellect, than upon the moving of the Spirit; but this aimless + wandering of a half-awake soul through the cadences of a language which + was neither song nor speech, was, to their minds, the evidence of genuine + inspiration. + </p> + <p> + When the old man sat down, a woman arose and chanted forth the suggestions + which had come to her in the silence, in a voice of wonderful sweetness + and strength. Here Music seemed to revenge herself for the slight done to + her by the sect. The ears of the hearers were so charmed by the purity of + tone, and the delicate, rhythmical cadences of the sentences, that much of + the wise lessons repeated from week to week failed to reach their + consciousness. + </p> + <p> + After another interval of silence, the two oldest men reached their hands + to each other,—a sign which the younger members had anxiously + awaited. The spell snapped in an instant; all arose and moved into the + open air, where all things at first appeared to wear the same aspect of + solemnity. The poplar-trees, the stone wall, the bushes in the corners of + the fence, looked grave and respectful for a few minutes. Neighbors said, + “How does thee do?” to each other, in subdued voices, and there was a + conscientious shaking of hands all around before they dared to indulge in + much conversation. + </p> + <p> + Gradually, however, all returned to the out-door world and its interests. + The fences became so many posts and rails once more, the bushes so many + elders and blackberries to be cut away, and the half-green fields so much + sod for corn-ground. Opinions in regard to the weather and the progress of + spring labor were freely interchanged, and the few unimportant items of + social news, which had collected in seven days, were gravely distributed. + This was at the men's end of the meeting-house; on their side, the women + were similarly occupied, but we can only conjecture the subjects of their + conversation. The young men—as is generally the case in religious + sects of a rigid and clannish character—were by no means handsome. + Their faces all bore the stamp of <i>repression</i>, in some form or + other, and as they talked their eyes wandered with an expression of + melancholy longing and timidity towards the sweet, maidenly faces, whose + bloom, and pure, gentle beauty not even their hideous bonnets could + obscure. + </p> + <p> + One by one the elder men came up to the stone platform with the stable old + horses which their wives were to ride home; the huge chair, in which sat a + privileged couple, creaked and swayed from side to side, as it rolled with + ponderous dignity from the yard; and now, while the girls were waiting + their turn, the grave young men plucked up courage, wandered nearer, + greeted, exchanged words, and so were helped into an atmosphere of youth. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, approaching with them, was first recognized by his old friend, + Sally Fairthorn, whose voice of salutation was so loud and cheery, as to + cause two or three sedate old “women-friends” to turn their heads in grave + astonishment. Mother Fairthorn, with her bright, round face, followed, and + then—serene and strong in her gentle, symmetrical loveliness—Martha + Deane. Gilbert's hand throbbed, as he held hers a moment, gazing into the + sweet blue of her eyes; yet, passionately as he felt that he loved her in + that moment, perfect as was the delight of her presence, a better joy came + to his heart when she turned away to speak with his mother. Mark Deane—a + young giant with curly yellow locks, and a broad, laughing mouth—had + just placed a hand upon his shoulder, and he could not watch the bearing + of the two women to each other; but all his soul listened to their voices, + and he heard in Martha Deane's the kindly courtesy and respect which he + did not see. + </p> + <p> + Mother Fairthorn and Sally so cordially insisted that Mary Potter and her + son should ride home with them to dinner, that no denial was possible. + When the horses were brought up to the block the yard was nearly empty, + and the returning procession was already winding up the hill towards + Logtown. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Mary,” said Mother Fairthorn, “you and I will ride together, and + you shall tell me all about your ducks and turkeys. The young folks can + get along without us, I guess.” + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane had ridden to meeting in company with her cousin Mark and + Sally, but the order of the homeward ride was fated to be different. Joe + and Jake, bestriding a single horse, like two of the Haymon's-children, + were growing inpatient, so they took the responsibility of dashing up to + Mark and Sally, who were waiting in the road, and announcing,— + </p> + <p> + “Cousin Martha says we're to go on; she'll ride with Gilbert.” + </p> + <p> + Both well knew the pranks of the boys, but perhaps they found the message + well-invented if not true; for they obeyed with secret alacrity, although + Sally made a becoming show of reluctance. Before they reached the bottom + of the hollow, Joe and Jake, seeing two school-mates in advance, similarly + mounted, dashed off in a canter, to overtake them, and the two were left + alone. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert and Martha naturally followed, since not more than two could + conveniently ride abreast. But their movements were so quiet and + deliberate, and the accident which threw them together was accepted so + simply and calmly that no one could guess what warmth of longing, of + reverential tenderness, beat in every muffled throb of one of the two + hearts. + </p> + <p> + Martha was an admirable horsewoman, and her slender, pliant figure never + showed to greater advantage than in the saddle. Her broad beaver hat was + tied down over the ears, throwing a cool gray shadow across her clear, + joyous eyes and fresh cheeks. A pleasanter face never touched a young + man's fancy, and every time it turned towards Gilbert it brightened away + the distress of love. He caught, unconsciously, the serenity of her mood, + and foretasted the peace which her being would bring to him if it were + ever intrusted to his hands. + </p> + <p> + “Did you do well by your hauling, Gilbert,” she asked, “and are you now + home for the summer?” + </p> + <p> + “Until after corn-planting,” he answered. “Then I must take two or three + weeks, as the season turns out. I am not able to give up my team yet.” + </p> + <p> + “But you soon will be, I hope. It must be very lonely for your mother to + be on the farm without you.” + </p> + <p> + These words touched him gratefully, and led him to a candid openness of + speech which he would not otherwise have ventured,—not from any + inherent lack of candor, but from a reluctance to speak of himself. + </p> + <p> + “That's it, Martha,” he said. “It is her work that I have the farm at all, + and I only go away the oftener now, that I may the sooner stay with her + altogether. The thought of her makes each trip lonelier than the last.” + </p> + <p> + “I like to hear you say that, Gilbert. And it must be a comfort to you, + withal, to know that you are working as much for your mother's sake as + your own. I think I should feel so, at least, in your place. I feel my own + mother's loss more now than when she died, for I was then so young that I + can only just remember her face.” + </p> + <p> + “But you have a father!” he exclaimed, and the words were scarcely out of + his mouth before he became aware of their significance, uttered by his + lips. He had not meant so much,—only that she, like him, still + enjoyed one parent's care. The blood came into his face; she saw and + understood the sign, and broke a silence which would soon have become + painful. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said, “and I am very grateful that he is spared; but we seem to + belong most to our mothers.” + </p> + <p> + “That is the truth,” he said firmly, lifting his head with the impulse of + his recovered pride, and meeting her eyes without flinching. “I belong + altogether to mine. She has made me a man and set me upon my feet. From + this time forward, my place is to stand between her and the world!” + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane's blood throbbed an answer to this assertion of himself. A + sympathetic pride beamed in her eyes; she slightly bent her head, in + answer, without speaking, and Gilbert felt that he was understood and + valued. He had drawn a step nearer to the trial which he had resolved to + make, and would now venture no further. + </p> + <p> + There was a glimmering spark of courage in his heart. He was surprised, in + recalling the conversation afterwards, to find how much of his plans he + had communicated to her during the ride, encouraged by the kindly interest + she manifested, and the sensible comments she uttered. Joe and Jake, + losing their mates at a cross-road, and finding Sally and Mark Deane not + very lively company for them, rode back and disturbed these confidences, + but not until they had drawn the two into a relation of acknowledged + mutual interest. + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane had always, as she confessed to Sally, <i>liked</i> Gilbert + Potter; she liked every young man of character and energy; but now she + began to suspect that there was a rarer worth in his nature than she had + guessed. From that day he was more frequently the guest of her thoughts + than ever before. Instinct, in him, had performed the same service which + men of greater experience of the world would have reached through keen + perception and careful tact,—in confiding to her his position, his + labors and hopes, material as was the theme and seemingly unsuited to the + occasion, he had in reality appreciated the serious, reflective nature + underlying her girlish grace and gayety. What other young man of her + acquaintance, she asked herself, would have done the same thing? + </p> + <p> + When they reached Kennett Square, Mother Fairthorn urged Martha to + accompany them, and Sally impetuously seconded the invitation. Dr. Deane's + horse was at his door, however, and his daughter, with her eyes on + Gilbert, as if saying “for my father's sake,” steadfastly declined. Mark, + however, took her place, but there never had been, or could be, too many + guests at the Fairthorn table. + </p> + <p> + When they reached the garden-wall, Sally sprang from her horse with such + haste that her skirt caught on the pommel and left her hanging, being made + of stuff too stout to tear. It was well that Gilbert was near, on the same + side, and disengaged her in an instant; but her troubles did not end here. + As she bustled in and out of the kitchen, preparing the dinner-table in + the long sitting-room, the hooks and door-handles seemed to have an + unaccountable habit of thrusting themselves in her way, and she was ready + to cry at each glance of Mark's laughing eyes. She had never heard the + German proverb, “who loves, teases,” and was too inexperienced, as yet, to + have discovered the fact for herself. + </p> + <p> + Presently they all sat down to dinner, and after the first solemn quiet,—no + one venturing to eat or speak until the plates of all had been heaped with + a little of everything upon the table,—the meal became very genial + and pleasant. A huge brown pitcher of stinging cider added its mild + stimulus to the calm country blood, and under its mellowing influence Mark + announced the most important fact of his life,—he was to have the + building of Hallowell's barn. + </p> + <p> + As Gilbert and his mother rode homewards, that afternoon, neither spoke + much, but both felt, in some indefinite way, better prepared for the life + that lay before them. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. — AT DR. DEANE'S. + </h2> + <p> + As she dismounted on the large flat stone outside the paling, Martha Deane + saw her father's face at the window. It was sterner and graver than usual. + </p> + <p> + The Deane mansion stood opposite the Unicorn Tavern. When built, ninety + years previous, it had been considered a triumph of architecture; the + material was squared logs from the forest, dovetailed, and overlapping at + the corners, which had the effect of rustic quoins, as contrasted with the + front, which was plastered and yellow-washed. A small portico, covered + with a tangled mass of eglantine and coral honeysuckle, with a bench at + each end, led to the door; and the ten feet of space between it and the + front paling were devoted to flowers and rose-bushes. At each corner of + the front rose an old, picturesque, straggling cedar-tree. + </p> + <p> + There were two front doors, side by side,—one for the family + sitting-room, the other (rarely opened, except when guests arrived) for + the parlor. Martha Deane entered the former, and we will enter with her. + </p> + <p> + The room was nearly square, and lighted by two windows. On those sides the + logs were roughly plastered; on the others there were partitions of + panelled oak, nearly black with age and smoke, as were the heavy beams of + the same wood which formed the ceiling. In the corner of the room next the + kitchen there was an open Franklin stove,—an innovation at that + time,—upon which two or three hickory sticks were smouldering into + snowy ashes. The floor was covered with a country-made rag carpet, in + which an occasional strip of red or blue listing brightened the prevailing + walnut color of the woof. The furniture was simple and massive, its only + unusual feature being a tall cabinet with shelves filled with glass jars, + and an infinity of small drawers. A few bulky volumes on the lower shelf + constituted the medical library of Dr. Deane. + </p> + <p> + This gentleman was still standing at the window, with his hands clasped + across his back. His Quaker suit was of the finest drab broadcloth, and + the plain cravat visible above his high, straight waistcoat, was of + spotless cambric. His knee-and shoe-buckles were of the simplest pattern, + but of good, solid silver, and there was not a wrinkle in the stockings of + softest lamb's-wool, which covered his massive calves. There was always a + faint odor of lavender, bergamot, or sweet marjoram about him, and it was + a common remark in the neighborhood that the sight and smell of the Doctor + helped a weak patient almost as much as his medicines. + </p> + <p> + In his face there was a curious general resemblance to his daughter, + though the detached features were very differently formed. Large, + unsymmetrical, and somewhat coarse,—even for a man,—they + derived much of their effect from his scrupulous attire and studied air of + wisdom. His long gray hair was combed back, that no portion of the + moderate frontal brain might be covered; the eyes were gray rather than + blue, and a habit of concealment had marked its lines in the corners, + unlike the open, perfect frankness of his daughter's. The principal + resemblance was in the firm, clear outline of the upper lip, which alone, + in his face, had it been supported by the under one, would have made him + almost handsome; but the latter was large and slightly hanging. There were + marked inconsistencies in his face, but this was no disadvantage in a + community unaccustomed to studying the external marks of character. + </p> + <p> + “Just home, father? How did thee leave Dinah Passmore?” asked Martha, as + she untied the strings of her beaver. + </p> + <p> + “Better,” he answered, turning from the window; “but, Martha, who did I + see thee riding with?” + </p> + <p> + “Does thee mean Gilbert Potter?” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” he said, and paused. Martha, with her cloak over her arm and + bonnet in her hand, in act to leave the room, waited, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “Well, father?” + </p> + <p> + So frank and serene was her bearing, that the old man felt both relieved + and softened. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose it happened so,” he said. “I saw his mother with Friend + Fairthorn. I only meant thee shouldn't be seen in company with young + Potter, when thee could help it; thee knows what I mean.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think, father,” she slowly answered, “there is anything against + Gilbert Potter's life or character, except that which is no just reproach + to <i>him</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “'The sins of the parents shall be visited upon the children, even to the + third and fourth generation.' That is enough, Martha.” + </p> + <p> + She went up to her room, meditating, with an earnestness almost equal to + Gilbert's, upon this form of the world's injustice, which he was powerless + to overcome. Her father shared it, and the fact did not surprise her; but + her independent spirit had already ceased to be guided, in all things, by + his views. She felt that the young man deserved the respect and admiration + which he had inspired in her mind, and until a better reason could be + discovered, she would continue so to regard him. The decision was reached + rapidly, and then laid aside for any future necessity; she went + down-stairs again in her usual quiet, cheerful mood. + </p> + <p> + During her absence another conversation had taken place. + </p> + <p> + Miss Betsy Lavender (who was a fast friend of Martha, and generally spent + her Sundays at the Doctor's,) was sitting before the stove, drying her + feet. She was silent until Martha left the room, when she suddenly + exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “Doctor! Judge not that ye be not judged.” + </p> + <p> + “Thee may think as thee pleases, Betsy,” said he, rather sharply: “it's + thy nature, I believe, to take everybody's part.” + </p> + <p> + “Put yourself in his place,” she continued,—“remember them that's in + bonds as bound with 'em,—I disremember exackly how it goes, but no + matter: I say your way a'n't right, and I'd say it seven times, if need + be! There's no steadier nor better-doin' young fellow in these parts than + Gilbert Potter. Ferris, down in Pennsbury, or Alf Barton, here, for that + matter, a'n't to be put within a mile of him. I could say something in + Mary Potter's behalf, too, but I won't: for there's Scribes and Pharisees + about.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane did not notice this thrust: it was not his habit to get angry. + “Put <i>thyself</i> in <i>my</i> place, Betsy,” he said. “He's a worthy + young man, in some respects, I grant thee, but would thee like <i>thy</i> + daughter to be seen riding home beside him from Meeting? It's one thing + speaking for thyself, and another for thy daughter.” + </p> + <p> + “Thy daughter!” she repeated. “Old or young can't make any difference, as + I see.” + </p> + <p> + There was something else on her tongue, but she forcibly withheld the + words. She would not exhaust her ammunition until there was both a chance + and a necessity to do some execution. The next moment Martha reentered the + room. + </p> + <p> + After dinner, they formed a quiet group in the front sitting-room. Dr. + Deane, having no more visits to make that day, took a pipe of choice + tobacco,—the present of a Virginia Friend, whose acquaintance he had + made at Yearly Meeting,—and seated himself in the arm-chair beside + the stove. Martha, at the west window, enjoyed a volume of Hannah More, + and Miss Betsy, at the front window, labored over the Psalms. The sun + shone with dim, muffled orb, but the air without was mild, and there were + already brown tufts, which would soon be blossoms, on the lilac twigs. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly Miss Betsy lifted up her head and exclaimed, “Well, I never!” As + she did so, there was a knock at the door. + </p> + <p> + “Come in!” said Dr. Deane, and in came Mr. Alfred Barton, resplendent in + blue coat, buff waistcoat, cambric ruffles, and silver-gilt buckles. But, + alas! the bunch of seals—topaz, agate, and cornelian—no longer + buoyed the deep-anchored watch. The money due his father had been promptly + paid, through the agency of a three-months' promissory note, and thus the + most momentous result of the robbery was overcome. This security for the + future, however, scarcely consoled him for the painful privation of the + present. Without the watch, Alfred Barton felt that much of his dignity + and importance was lacking. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane greeted his visitor with respect, Martha with the courtesy due + to a guest, and Miss Betsy with the offhand, independent manner, under + which she masked her private opinions of the persons whom she met. + </p> + <p> + “Mark isn't at home, I see,” said Mr. Barton, after having taken his seat + in the centre of the room: “I thought I'd have a little talk with him + about the wagon-house. I suppose he told you that I got Hallowell's new + barn for him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and we're all greatly obliged to thee, as well as Mark,” said the + Doctor. “The two jobs make a fine start for a young mechanic, and I hope + he'll do as well as he's been done by: there's luck in a good beginning. + By the bye, has thee heard anything more of Sandy Flash's doings?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Barton fairly started at this question. His own misfortune had been + carefully kept secret, and he could not suspect that the Doctor knew it; + but he nervously dreaded the sound of the terrible name. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” he asked, in a faint voice. + </p> + <p> + “He has turned up in Bradford, this time, and they say has robbed Jesse + Frame, the Collector, of between four and five hundred dollars. The + Sheriff and a posse of men from the Valley hunted him for several days, + but found no signs. Some think he has gone up into the Welch Mountain; but + for my part, I should not be surprised if he were in this neighborhood.” + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” exclaimed Mr. Barton, starting from his chair. + </p> + <p> + “Now's your chance,” said Miss Betsy. “Git the young men together who + won't feel afraid o' bein' twenty ag'in one: you know the holes and + corners where he'll be likely to hide, and what's to hinder you from + ketchin' him?” + </p> + <p> + “But he must have many secret friends,” said Martha, “if what I have heard + is true,—that he has often helped a poor man with the money which he + takes only from the rich. You know he still calls himself a Tory, and many + of those whose estates have been confiscated, would not scruple to harbor + him, or even take his money.” + </p> + <p> + “Take his money. That's a fact,” remarked Miss Betsy, “and now I dunno + whether I want him ketched. There's worse men goin' round, as respectable + as you please, stealin' all their born days, only cunnin'ly jukin' round + the law instead o' buttin' square through it. Why, old Liz Williams, o' + Birmingham, herself told me with her own mouth, how she was ridin' home + from Phildelphy market last winter, with six dollars, the price of her + turkeys—and General Washin'ton's cook took one of 'em, but that's + neither here nor there—in her pocket, and fearful as death when she + come to Concord woods, and lo and behold! there she was overtook by a + fresh-complected man, and she begged him to ride with her, for she had six + dollars in her pocket and Sandy was known to be about. So he rode with her + to her very lane-end, as kind and civil a person as she ever see, and then + and there he said, 'Don't be afeard, Madam, for I, which have seen you + home, is Sandy Flash himself, and here's somethin' more to remember me + by,'—no sooner said than done, he put a gold guinea into her hand, + and left her there as petrified as Lot's wife. Now <i>I</i> say, and it + may be violation of the law, for all I know, but never mind, that Sandy + Flash has got one corner of his heart in the right place, no matter where + the others is. There's honor even among thieves, they say.” + </p> + <p> + “Seriously, Alfred,” said Dr. Deane, cutting Miss Betsy short before she + had half expressed her sentiments, “it is time that something was done. If + Flash is not caught soon, we shall be overrun with thieves, and there will + be no security anywhere on the high roads, or in our houses. I wish that + men of influence in the neighborhood, like thyself, would come together + and plan, at least, to keep Kennett clear of him. Then other townships may + do the same, and so the thing be stopped. If I were younger, and my + practice were not so laborious, I would move in the matter, but thee is + altogether a more suitable person.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think so?” Barton replied, with an irrepressible reluctance, + around which he strove to throw an air of modesty. “That would be the + proper way, certainly, but I,—I don't know,—that is, I can't + flatter myself that I'm the best man to undertake it.” + </p> + <p> + “It requires some courage, you know,” Martha remarked, and her glance made + him feel very uncomfortable, “and you are too dashing a fox-hunter not to + have that. Perhaps the stranger who rode with you to Avondale—what + was his name?—might be of service. If I were in your place, I should + be glad of a chance to incur danger for the good of the neighborhood.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Alfred Barton was on nettles. If there were irony in her words his + intellect was too muddy to detect it: her assumption of his courage could + only be accepted as a compliment, but it was the last compliment he + desired to have paid to himself, just at that time. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he said, with a forced laugh, rushing desperately into the opposite + extreme, “but the danger and the courage are not worth talking about. Any + man ought to be able to face a robber, single-handed, and as for twenty + men, why, when it's once known, Sandy Flash will only be too glad to keep + away.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, do thee do what I've recommended. It may be, as thee says, that the + being prepared is all that is necessary,” remarked Dr. Deane. + </p> + <p> + Thus caught, Mr. Barton could do no less than acquiesce, and very much to + his secret dissatisfaction, the Doctor proceeded to name the young men of + the neighborhood, promising to summon such as lived on the lines of his + professional journeys, that they might confer with the leader of the + undertaking. Martha seconded the plan with an evident interest, yet it did + not escape her that neither her father nor Mr. Barton had mentioned the + name of Gilbert Potter. + </p> + <p> + “Is that all?” she asked, when a list of some eighteen persons had been + suggested. Involuntarily, she looked at Miss Betsy Lavender. + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed!” cried the latter. “There's Jabez Travilla, up on the ridge, + and Gilbert Potter, down at the mill.” + </p> + <p> + “H'm, yes; what does thee say, Alfred?” asked the Doctor. + </p> + <p> + “They're both good riders, and I think they have courage enough, but we + can never tell what a man is until he's been tried. They would increase + the number, and that, it seems to me, is a consideration.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps thee had better exercise thy own judgment there,” the Doctor + observed, and the subject, having been as fully discussed as was possible + without consultation with other persons, it was dropped, greatly to + Barton's relief. + </p> + <p> + But in endeavoring to converse with Martha he only exchanged one + difficulty for another. His vanity, powerful as it was, gave way before + that instinct which is the curse and torment of vulgar natures,—which + leaps into life at every contact of refinement, showing them the gulf + between, which they know not how to cross. The impudence, the aggressive + rudeness which such natures often exhibit, is either a mask to conceal + their deficiency, or an angry protest against it. Where there is a drop of + gentleness in the blood, it appreciates and imitates the higher nature. + </p> + <p> + This was the feeling which made Alfred Barton uncomfortable in the + presence of Martha Deane,—which told him, in advance, that natures + so widely sundered, never could come into near relations with each other, + and thus quite neutralized the attraction of her beauty and her ten + thousand dollars. His game, however, was to pay court to her, and in so + pointed a way that it should be remarked and talked about in the + neighborhood. Let it once come through others to the old man's ears, he + would have proved his obedience and could not be reproached if the result + were fruitless. + </p> + <p> + “What are you reading, Miss Martha?” he asked, after a long and somewhat + awkward pause. + </p> + <p> + She handed him the book in reply. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Hannah More,—a friend of yours? Is she one of the + West-Whiteland Moores?” + </p> + <p> + Martha could not suppress a light, amused laugh, as she answered: “Oh, no, + she is an English woman.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it's a Tory book,” said he, handing it back; “I wouldn't read it, if + I was you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a story, and I should think you might.” + </p> + <p> + He heard other words than those she spoke. “As Tory as—what?” he + asked himself. “As I am,” of course; that is what she means. “Old-man + Barton” had been one of the disloyal purveyors for the British army during + its occupancy of Philadelphia in the winter of 1777-8, and though the main + facts of the traffic wherefrom he had drawn immense profits, never could + be proved against him, the general belief hung over the family, and made a + very disagreeable cloud. Whenever Alfred Barton quarrelled with any one, + the taunt was sure to be flung into his teeth. That it came now, as he + imagined, was as great a shock as if Martha had slapped him in the face + with her own delicate hand, and his visage reddened from the blow. + </p> + <p> + Miss Betsy Lavender, bending laboriously over the Psalms, nevertheless + kept her dull gray eyes in movement. She saw the misconception, and + fearing that Martha did not, made haste to remark:— + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Alfred, and do <i>you</i> think it's a harm to read a story? + Why, Miss Ann herself lent me 'Alonzo and Melissa,' and 'Midnight + Horrors,' and I'll be bound you've read 'em yourself on the sly. 'T a'n't + much other readin' men does, save and except the weekly paper, and law + enough to git a tight hold on their debtors. Come, now, let's know what + you <i>do</i> read?” + </p> + <p> + “Not much of anything, that's a fact,” he answered, recovering himself, + with a shudder at the fearful mistake he had been on the point of making, + “but I've nothing against women reading stories. I was rather thinking of + myself when I spoke to you, Miss Martha.” + </p> + <p> + “So I supposed,” she quietly answered. It was provoking. Everything she + said made him think there was another meaning behind the words; her + composed manner, though he knew it to be habitual, more and more + disconcerted him. Never did an intentional wooer find his wooing so + painful and laborious. After this attempt he addressed himself to Doctor + Deane, for even the question of circumventing Sandy Flash now presented + itself to his mind as a relief. + </p> + <p> + There he sat, and the conversation progressed in jerks and spirts, between + pauses of embarrassing silence. The sun hung on the western hill in a web + of clouds; Martha and Miss Betsy rose and prepared the tea-table, and the + guest, invited perforce, perforce accepted. Soon after the meal was over, + however, he murmured something about cattle, took his hat and left. + </p> + <p> + Two or three horses were hitched before the Unicorn, and he saw some + figures through the bar-room window. A bright thought struck him; he + crossed the road and entered. + </p> + <p> + “Hallo, Alf! Where from now? Why, you're as fine as a fiddler!” cried Mr. + Joel Ferris, who was fast becoming familiar, on the strength of his + inheritance. + </p> + <p> + “Over the way,” answered the landlord, with a wink and a jerk of his + thumb. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferris whistled, and one of the others suggested: “He must stand a + treat, on that.” + </p> + <p> + “But, I say!” said the former, “how is it you're coming away so soon in + the evening?” + </p> + <p> + “I went very early in the afternoon,” Barton answered, with a mysterious, + meaning smile, as much as to say: “It's all right; I know what I'm about.” + Then he added aloud,—“Step up, fellows; what'll you have?” + </p> + <p> + Many were the jests and questions to which he was forced to submit, but he + knew the value of silence in creating an impression, and allowed them to + enjoy their own inferences. + </p> + <p> + It is much easier to start a report, than to counteract it, when once + started; but the first, only, was his business. + </p> + <p> + It was late in the evening when he returned home, and the household were + in bed. Nevertheless, he did not enter by the back way, in his stockings, + but called Giles down from the garret to unlock the front-door, and made + as much noise as he pleased on his way to bed. + </p> + <p> + The old man heard it, and chuckled under his coverlet. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. — THE RAISING. + </h2> + <p> + Steadily and serenely the Spring advanced. Old people shook their heads + and said: “It will be April, this year, that comes in like a lamb and goes + out like a lion,”—but it was not so. Soft, warm showers and + frostless nights repaid the trustfulness of the early-expanding buds, and + May came clothed completely in pale green, with a wreath of lilac and + hawthorn bloom on her brow. For twenty years no such perfect spring had + been known; and for twenty years afterwards the farmers looked back to it + as a standard of excellence, whereby to measure the forwardness of their + crops. + </p> + <p> + By the twentieth of April the young white-oak leaves were the size of a + squirrel's ear,—the old Indian sign of the proper time for + corn-planting, which was still accepted by the new race, and the first of + May saw many fields already specked with the green points of the springing + blades. A warm, silvery vapor hung over the land, mellowing the brief + vistas of the interlacing valleys, touching with a sweeter pastoral beauty + the irregular alternation of field and forest, and lifting the wooded + slopes, far and near, to a statelier and more imposing height. The + park-like region of Kennett, settled originally by emigrants from Bucks + and Warwickshire, reproduced to their eyes—as it does to this day—the + characteristics of their original home, and they transplanted the local + names to which they were accustomed, and preserved, even long after the + War of Independence, the habits of their rural ancestry. The massive stone + farm-houses, the walled gardens, the bountiful orchards, and, more than + all, the well-trimmed hedges of hawthorn and blackthorn dividing their + fields, or bordering their roads with the living wall, over which the + clematis and wild-ivy love to clamber, made the region beautiful to their + eyes. Although the large original grants, mostly given by the hand of + William Penn, had been divided and subdivided by three or four prolific + generations, there was still enough and to spare,—and even the + golden promise held out by “the Backwoods,” as the new States of Ohio and + Kentucky were then called, tempted very few to leave their homes. + </p> + <p> + The people, therefore, loved the soil and clung to it with a fidelity very + rare in any part of our restless nation. And, truly, no one who had lived + through the mild splendor of that spring, seeing, day by day, the visible + deepening of the soft woodland tints, hearing the cheerful sounds of + labor, far and wide, in the vapory air, and feeling at once the repose and + the beauty of such a quiet, pastoral life, could have turned his back upon + it, to battle with the inhospitable wilderness of the West. Gilbert Potter + had had ideas of a new home, to be created by himself, and a life to which + none should deny honor and respect: but now he gave them up forever. There + was a battle to be fought—better here than elsewhere—here, + where every scene was dear and familiar, and every object that met his eye + gave a mute, gentle sense of consolation. + </p> + <p> + Restless, yet cheery labor was now the order of life on the farm. From + dawn till dusk, Gilbert and Sam were stirring in field, meadow, and + garden, keeping pace with the season and forecasting what was yet to come. + Sam, although only fifteen, had a manly pride in being equal to the duty + imposed upon him by his master's absence, and when the time came to + harness the wagon-team once more, the mother and son walked over the + fields together and rejoiced in the order and promise of the farm. The + influences of the season had unconsciously touched them both: everything + conspired to favor the fulfilment of their common plan, and, as one went + forward to the repetition of his tedious journeys back and forth between + Columbia and Newport, and the other to her lonely labor in the deserted + farm-house, the arches of bells over the collars of the leaders chimed at + once to the ears of both, an anthem of thanksgiving and a melody of hope. + </p> + <p> + So May and the beginning of June passed away, and no important event came + to any character of this history. When Gilbert had delivered the last + barrels at Newport, and slowly cheered homewards his weary team, he was + nearly two hundred dollars richer than when he started, and—if we + must confess a universal if somewhat humiliating truth—so much the + more a man in courage and determination. + </p> + <p> + The country was now covered with the first fresh magnificence of summer. + The snowy pyramids of dog-wood bloom had faded, but the tulip trees were + tall cones of rustling green, lighted with millions of orange-colored + stars, and all the underwood beneath the hemlock-forests by the courses of + streams, was rosy with laurels and azaleas. The vernal-grass in the + meadows was sweeter than any garden-rose, and its breath met that of the + wild-grape in the thickets and struggled for preeminence of sweetness. A + lush, tropical splendor of vegetation, such as England never knew, heaped + the woods and hung the road-side with sprays which grew and bloomed and + wantoned, as if growth were a conscious joy, rather than blind obedience + to a law. + </p> + <p> + When Gilbert reached home, released from his labors abroad until October, + he found his fields awaiting their owner's hand. His wheat hung already + heavy-headed, though green, and the grass stood so thick and strong that + it suggested the ripping music of the scythe-blade which should lay it + low. Sam had taken good care of the cornfield, garden, and the cattle, and + Gilbert's few words of quiet commendation were a rich reward for all his + anxiety. His ambition was, to be counted “a full hand,”—this was the + <i>toga virilis,</i> which, once entitled to wear, would make him feel + that he was any man's equal. + </p> + <p> + Without a day's rest, the labor commenced again, and the passion of + Gilbert's heart, though it had only strengthened during his absence, must + be thrust aside until the fortune of his harvest was secured. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of the haying, however, came a message which he could not + disregard,—a hasty summons from Mark Deane, who, seeing Gilbert in + the upper hill-field, called from the road, bidding him to the raising of + Hallowell's new barn, which was to take place on the following Saturday. + “Be sure and come!” were Mark's closing words—“there's to be both + dinner and supper, and the girls are to be on hand!” + </p> + <p> + It was the custom to prepare the complete frame of a barn—sills, + plates, girders, posts, and stays—with all their mortices and pins, + ready for erection, and then to summon all the able-bodied men of the + neighborhood to assist in getting the timbers into place. This service, of + course, was given gratuitously, and the farmer who received it could do no + less than entertain, after the bountiful manner of the country, his + helping neighbors, who therefore, although the occasion implied a certain + amount of hard work, were accustomed to regard it as a sort of holiday, or + merry-making. Their opportunities for recreation, indeed, were so scanty, + that a barn-raising, or a husking-party by moonlight, was a thing to be + welcomed. + </p> + <p> + Hallowell's farm was just half-way between Gilbert's and Kennett Square, + and the site of the barn had been well-chosen on a ridge, across the road, + which ran between it and the farm-house. The Hallowells were what was + called “good providers,” and as they belonged to the class of outside + Quakers, which we have already described, the chances were that both music + and dance would reward the labor of the day. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, of course, could not refuse the invitation of so near a neighbor, + and there was a hope in his heart which made it welcome. When the day came + he was early on hand, heartily greeted by Mark, who exclaimed,—“Give + me a dozen more such shoulders and arms as yours, and I'll make the + timbers spin!” + </p> + <p> + It was a bright, breezy day, making the wheat roll and the leaves twinkle. + Ranges of cumuli moved, one after the other, like heaps of silvery wool, + across the keen, dark blue of the sky. “A wonderful hay-day,” the old + farmers remarked, with a half-stifled sense of regret; but the younger men + had already stripped themselves to their shirts and knee-breeches, and set + to work with a hearty good-will. Mark, as friend, half-host and commander, + bore his triple responsibility with a mixture of dash and decision, which + became his large frame and ruddy, laughing face. It was—really, and + not in an oratorical sense,—the proudest day of his life. + </p> + <p> + There could be no finer sight than that of these lithe, vigorous specimens + of a free, uncorrupted manhood, taking like sport the rude labor which was + at once their destiny and their guard of safety against the assaults of + the senses. As they bent to their work, prying, rolling, and lifting the + huge sills to their places on the foundation-wall, they showed in every + movement the firm yet elastic action of muscles equal to their task. + Though Hallowell's barn did not rise, like the walls of Ilium, to music, a + fine human harmony aided in its construction. + </p> + <p> + There was a plentiful supply of whiskey on hand, but Mark Deane assumed + the charge of it, resolved that no accident or other disturbance should + mar the success of this, his first raising. Everything went well, and by + the time they were summoned to dinner, the sills and some of the uprights + were in place, properly squared and tied. + </p> + <p> + It would require a Homeric catalogue to describe the dinner. To say that + the table “groaned,” is to give no idea of its condition. Mrs. Hallowell + and six neighbors' wives moved from kitchen to dining-room, replenishing + the dishes as fast as their contents diminished, and plying the double row + of coatless guests with a most stern and exacting hospitality. The former + would have been seriously mortified had not each man endeavored to eat + twice his usual requirement. + </p> + <p> + After the slight rest which nature enforced—though far less than + nature demanded, after such a meal—the work went on again with + greater alacrity, since every timber showed. Rib by rib the great frame + grew, and those perched aloft, pinning the posts and stays, rejoiced in + the broad, bright landscape opened to their view. They watched the roads, + in the intervals of their toil, and announced the approach of delayed + guests, all alert for the sight of the first riding-habit. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly two ladies made their appearance, over the rise of the hill, one + cantering lightly and securely, the other bouncing in her seat, from the + rough trot of her horse. + </p> + <p> + “Look out! there they come!” cried a watcher. + </p> + <p> + “Who is it?” was asked from below. + </p> + <p> + “Where's Barton? He ought to be on hand,—it's Martha Deane,—and + Sally with her; they always ride together.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert had one end of a handspike, helping lift a heavy piece of timber, + and his face was dark with the strain; it was well that he dared not let + go until the lively gossip which followed Barton's absence,—the + latter having immediately gone forward to take charge of the horses,—had + subsided. Leaning on the handspike, he panted,—not entirely from + fatigue. A terrible possibility of loss flashed suddenly across his mind, + revealing to him, in a new light, the desperate force and desire of his + love. + </p> + <p> + There was no time for meditation; his help was again wanted, and he + expended therein the first hot tumult of his heart. By ones and twos the + girls now gathered rapidly, and erelong they came out in a body to have a + look at the raising. Their coming in no wise interrupted the labor; it was + rather an additional stimulus, and the young men were right. Although they + were not aware of the fact, they were never so handsome in their uneasy + Sunday costume and awkward social ways, as thus in their free, joyous, and + graceful element of labor. Greetings were interchanged, laughter and + cheerful nothings animated the company, and when Martha Deane said,— + </p> + <p> + “We may be in the way, now—shall we go in?” + </p> + <p> + Mark responded,— + </p> + <p> + “No, Martha! No, girls! I'll get twice as much work out o' my twenty-five + 'jours,' if you'll only stand where you are and look at 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” Sally Fairthorn exclaimed. “But we have work to do as well as + you. If you men can't get along without admiring spectators, we girls + can.” + </p> + <p> + The answer which Mark would have made to this pert speech was cut short by + a loud cry of pain or terror from the old half-dismantled barn on the + other side of the road. All eyes were at once turned in that direction, + and beheld Joe Fairthorn rushing at full speed down the bank, making for + the stables below. Mark, Gilbert Potter, and Sally, being nearest, + hastened to the spot. + </p> + <p> + “You're in time!” cried Joe, clapping his hands in great glee. “I was + awfully afeard he'd let go before I could git down to see him fall. Look + quick—he can't hold on much longer!” + </p> + <p> + Looking into the dusky depths, they saw Jake, hanging by his hands to the + edges of a hole in the floor above, yelling and kicking for dear life. + </p> + <p> + “You wicked, wicked boy!” exclaimed Sally, turning to Joe, “what have you + been doing?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” he answered, jerking and twisting with fearful delight, “there was + such a nice hole in the floor! I covered it all over with straw, but I had + to wait ever so long before Jake stepped onto it, and then he ketched hold + goin' down, and nigh spoilt the fun.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert made for the barn-floor, to succor the helpless victim; but just + as his step was heard on the boards, Jake's strength gave way. His fingers + slipped, and with a last howl down he dropped, eight or ten feet, upon a + bed of dry manure. Then his terror was instantly changed to wrath; he + bounced upon his feet, seized a piece of rotten board, and made after Joe, + who, anticipating the result, was already showing his heels down the road. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the other young ladies had followed, and so, after discussing + the incident with a mixture of amusement and horror, they betook + themselves to the house, to assist in the preparations for supper. Martha + Deane's eyes took in the situation, and immediately perceived that it was + capable of a picturesque improvement. In front of the house stood a superb + sycamore, beyond which a trellis of grape-vines divided the yard from the + kitchen-garden. Here, on the cool green turf, under shade, in the bright + summer air, she proposed that the tables should be set, and found little + difficulty in carrying her point. It was quite convenient to the outer + kitchen door, and her ready invention found means of overcoming all other + technical objections. Erelong the tables were transported to the spot, the + cloth laid, and the aspect of the coming entertainment grew so pleasant to + the eye, that there was a special satisfaction in the labor. + </p> + <p> + An hour before sundown the frame was completed; the skeleton of the great + barn rose sharp against the sky, its fresh white-oak timber gilded by the + sunshine. Mark drove in the last pin, gave a joyous shout, which was + answered by an irregular cheer from below, and lightly clambered down by + one of the stays. Then the black jugs were produced, and passed from mouth + to mouth, and the ruddy, glowing young fellows drew their shirt-sleeves + across their faces, and breathed the free, full breath of rest. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert Potter, sitting beside Mark,—the two were mutually drawn + towards each other, without knowing or considering why,—had + gradually worked himself into a resolution to be cool, and to watch the + movements of his presumed rival. More than once, during the afternoon, he + had detected Barton's eyes, fixed upon him with a more than accidental + interest; looking up now, he met them again, but they were quickly + withdrawn, with a shy, uneasy expression, which he could not comprehend. + Was it possible that Barton conjectured the carefully hidden secret of his + heart? Or had the country gossip been free with his name, in some way, + during his absence? Whatever it was, the dearer interests at stake + prevented him from dismissing it from his mind. He was preternaturally + alert, suspicious, and sensitive. + </p> + <p> + He was therefore a little startled, when, as they were all rising in + obedience to Farmer Hallowell's summons to supper, Barton suddenly took + hold of his arm. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” said he, “we want your name in a list of young men we are + getting together, for the protection of our neighborhood. There are + suspicions, you know, that Sandy Flash has some friends hereabouts, though + nobody seems to know exactly who they are; and our only safety is in + clubbing together, to smoke him out and hunt him down, if he ever comes + near us. Now, you're a good hunter”— + </p> + <p> + “Put me down, of course!” Gilbert interrupted, immensely relieved to find + how wide his suspicions had fallen from the mark. “That would be a more + stirring chase than our last; it is a shame and a disgrace that he is + still at large.” + </p> + <p> + “How many have we now?” asked Mark, who was walking on the other side of + Barton. + </p> + <p> + “Twenty-one, with Gilbert,” the latter replied. + </p> + <p> + “Well, as Sandy is said to count equal to twenty, we can meet him evenly, + and have one to spare,” laughed Mark. + </p> + <p> + “Has any one here ever seen the fellow?” asked Gilbert. “We ought to know + his marks.” + </p> + <p> + “He's short, thick-set, with a red face, jet-black hair, add heavy + whiskers,” said Barton. + </p> + <p> + “Jet-black hair!” Mark exclaimed; “why, it's red as brick-dust! And I + never heard that he wore whiskers.” + </p> + <p> + “Pshaw! what was I thinking of? Red, of course—I meant red, all the + time,” Barton hastily assented, inwardly cursing himself for a fool. It + was evident that the less he conversed about Sandy Flash, the better. + </p> + <p> + Loud exclamations of surprise and admiration interrupted them. In the + shade of the sycamore, on the bright green floor of the silken turf, stood + the long supper-table, snowily draped, and heaped with the richest + products of cellar, kitchen, and dairy. Twelve chickens, stewed in cream, + filled huge dishes at the head and foot, while hams and rounds of cold + roast-beef accentuated the space between. The interstices were filled with + pickles, pies, jars of marmalade, bowls of honey, and plates of cheese. + Four coffee-pots steamed in readiness on a separate table, and the young + ladies, doubly charming in their fresh white aprons, stood waiting to + serve the tired laborers. Clumps of crown-roses, in blossom, peered over + the garden-paling, the woodbine filled the air with its nutmeg odors, and + a broad sheet of sunshine struck the upper boughs of the arching sycamore, + and turned them into a gilded canopy for the banquet. It might have been + truly said of Martha Deane, that she touched nothing which she did not + adorn. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of her duties as directress of the festival, she caught a + glimpse of the three men, as they approached together, somewhat in the + rear of the others. The embarrassed flush had not quite faded from + Barton's face, and Gilbert's was touched by a lingering sign of his new + trouble. Mark, light-hearted and laughing, precluded the least idea of + mystery, but Gilbert's eye met hers with what she felt to be a painfully + earnest, questioning expression. The next moment they were seated at the + table, and her services were required on behalf of all. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately for the social enjoyments of Kennett, eating had come to be + regarded as a part of labor; silence and rapidity were its principal + features. Board and platter were cleared in a marvellously short time, the + plates changed, the dishes replenished, and then the wives and maidens + took the places of the young men, who lounged off to the road-side, some + to smoke their pipes, and all to gossip. + </p> + <p> + Before dusk, Giles made his appearance, with an old green bag under his + arm. Barton, of course, had the credit of this arrangement, and it made + him, for the time, very popular. After a pull at the bottle, Giles began + to screw his fiddle, drawing now and then unearthly shrieks from its + strings. The more eager of the young men thereupon stole to the house, + assisted in carrying in the tables and benches, and in other ways busied + themselves to bring about the moment when the aprons of the maidens could + be laid aside, and their lively feet given to the dance. The moon already + hung over the eastern wood, and a light breeze blew the dew-mist from the + hill. + </p> + <p> + Finally, they were all gathered on the open bit of lawn between the house + and the road. There was much hesitation at first, ardent coaxing and + bashful withdrawal, until Martha broke the ice by boldly choosing Mark as + her partner, apportioning Sally to Gilbert, and taking her place for a + Scotch reel. She danced well and lightly, though in a more subdued manner + than was then customary. In this respect, Gilbert resembled her; his + steps, gravely measured, though sufficiently elastic, differed widely from + Mark's springs, pigeon-wings, and curvets. Giles played with a will, + swaying head and fiddle up and down and beating time with his foot; and + the reel went off so successfully that there was no hesitation in getting + up the next dance. + </p> + <p> + Mark was alert, and secured Sally this time. Perhaps Gilbert would have + made the like exchange, but Mr. Alfred Barton stepped before him, and bore + off Martha. There was no appearance of design about the matter, but + Gilbert felt a hot tingle in his blood, and drew back a little to watch + the pair. Martha moved through the dance as if but half conscious of her + partner's presence, and he seemed more intent on making the proper steps + and flourishes than on improving the few brief chances for a confidential + word. When he spoke, it was with the unnecessary laugh, which is meant to + show ease of manner, and betrays the want of it. Gilbert was puzzled; + either the two were unconscious of the gossip which linked their names so + intimately, (which seemed scarcely possible,) or they were studiedly + concealing an actual tender relation. Among those simple-hearted people, + the shyness of love rivalled the secrecy of crime, and the ways by which + the lover sought to assure himself of his fortune were made very difficult + by the shrinking caution with which he concealed the evidence of his + passion. Gilbert knew how well the secret of his own heart was guarded, + and the reflection, that others might be equally inscrutable, smote him + with sudden pain. + </p> + <p> + The figures moved before him in the splendid moonlight, and with every + motion of Martha's slender form the glow of his passion and the torment of + his uncertainty increased. Then the dance dissolved, and while he still + stood with folded arms, Sally Fairthorn's voice whispered eagerly in his + ear,— + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert—Gilbert! now is your chance to engage Martha for the + Virginia reel!” + </p> + <p> + “Let me choose my own partners, Sally!” he said, so sternly, that she + opened wide her black eyes. + </p> + <p> + Martha, fanning herself with her handkerchief spread over a bent + willow-twig, suddenly passed before him, like an angel in the moonlight. A + soft, tender star sparkled in each shaded eye, a faint rose-tint flushed + her cheeks, and her lips, slightly parted to inhale the clover-scented + air, were touched with a sweet, consenting smile. + </p> + <p> + “Martha!” + </p> + <p> + The word passed Gilbert's lips almost before he knew he had uttered it. + Almost a whisper, but she heard, and, pausing, turned towards him. + </p> + <p> + “Will you dance with me now?” + </p> + <p> + “Am I your choice, or Sally's, Gilbert? I overheard your very independent + remark.” + </p> + <p> + “Mine!” he said, with only half truth. A deep color, shot into his face, + and he knew the moonlight revealed it, but he forced his eyes to meet + hers. Her face lost its playful expression, and she said, gently,— + </p> + <p> + “Then I accept.” + </p> + <p> + They took their places, and the interminable Virginia reel—under + which name the old-fashioned Sir Roger de Coverley was known—commenced. + It so happened that Gilbert and Mr. Alfred Barton had changed their recent + places. The latter stood outside the space allotted to the dance, and + appeared to watch Martha Deane and her new partner. The reviving warmth in + Gilbert's bosom instantly died, and gave way to a crowd of torturing + conjectures. He went through his part in the dance so abstractedly, that + when they reached the bottom of the line, Martha, out of friendly + consideration for him, professed fatigue and asked his permission to + withdraw from the company. He gave her his arm, and they moved to one of + the benches. + </p> + <p> + “You, also, seem tired, Gilbert,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Yes—no!” he answered, confusedly, feeling that he was beginning to + tremble. He stood before her as she sat, moved irresolutely, as if to + leave, and then, facing her with a powerful effort, heexclaimed,—“Martha, + do you know what people say about Alfred Barton and yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “It would make no difference if I did,” she answered; “people will say + anything.” + </p> + <p> + “But is it—is it true?” + </p> + <p> + “Is what true?” she quietly asked. + </p> + <p> + “That he is to marry you!” The words were said, and he would have given + his life to recall them. He dropped his head, not daring to meet her eyes. + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane rose to her feet, and stood before him. Then he lifted his + head; the moon shone full upon it, while her face was in shadow, but he + saw the fuller light of her eye, the firmer curve of her lip. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert Potter,” she said, “what right have you to ask me such a + question?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no right—none,” he answered, in a voice whose suppressed, + husky tones were not needed to interpret the pain and bitterness of his + face. Then he quickly turned away and left her. + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane remained a minute, motionless, standing as he left her. Her + heart was beating fast, and she could not immediately trust herself to + rejoin the gay company. But now the dance was over, and the inseparable + Sally hastened forward. + </p> + <p> + “Martha!” cried the latter, hot and indignant, “what is the matter with + Gilbert? He is behaving shamefully; I saw him just now turn away from you + as if you were a—a shock of corn. And the way he snapped me up—it + is really outrageous!” + </p> + <p> + “It <i>seems</i> so, truly,” said Martha. But she knew that Gilbert Potter + loved her, and with what a love. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. — THE RIVALS. + </h2> + <p> + Due to the abundant harvest of that year, and the universal need of extra + labor for a time, Gilbert Potter would have found his burden too heavy, + but for welcome help from an unexpected quarter. On the very morning that + he first thrust his sickle into the ripened wheat, Deb Smith made her + appearance, in a short-armed chemise and skirt of tow-cloth. + </p> + <p> + “I knowed ye'd want a hand,” she said, “without sendin' to ask. I'll reap + ag'inst the best man in Chester County, and you won't begrudge me my + bushel o' wheat a day, when the harvest's in.” + </p> + <p> + With this exordium, and a pull at the black jug under the elder-bushes in + the fence-corner, she took her sickle and bent to work. It was her boast + that she could beat both men and women on their own ground. She had spun + her twenty-four cuts of yarn, in a day, and husked her fifty shocks of + heavy corn. For Gilbert she did her best, amazing him each day with a + fresh performance, and was well worth the additional daily quart of + whiskey which she consumed. + </p> + <p> + In this pressing, sweltering labor, Gilbert dulled, though he could not + conquer, his unhappy mood. Mary Potter, with a true mother's instinct, + surmised a trouble, but the indications were too indefinite for + conjecture. She could only hope that her son had not been called upon to + suffer a fresh reproach, from the unremoved stain hanging over his birth. + </p> + <p> + Miss Betsy Lavender's company at this time was her greatest relief, in a + double sense. No ten persons in Kennett possessed half the amount of + confidences which were intrusted to this single lady; there was that in + her face which said: “I only blab what I choose, and what's locked up, <i>is</i> + locked up.” This was true; she was the greatest distributor of news, and + the closest receptacle of secrets—anomalous as the two characters + may seem—that ever blessed a country community. + </p> + <p> + Miss Betsy, like Deb Smith, knew that she could be of service on the + Potter farm, and, although her stay was perforce short, on account of an + approaching house-warming near Doe-Run, her willing arms helped to tide + Mary Potter over the heaviest labor of harvest. There were thus hours of + afternoon rest, even in the midst of the busy season, and during one of + these the mother opened her heart in relation to her son's silent, gloomy + moods. + </p> + <p> + “You'll perhaps say it's all my fancy, Betsy,” she said, “and indeed I + hope it is; but I know you see more than most people, and two heads are + better than one. How does Gilbert seem to you?” + </p> + <p> + Miss Betsy mused awhile, with an unusual gravity on her long face. “I + dunno,” she remarked, at length; “I've noticed that some men have their + vapors and tantrums, jist as some women have, and Gilbert's of an age to—well, + Mary, has the thought of his marryin' ever come into your head?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” exclaimed Mary Potter, with almost a frightened air. + </p> + <p> + “I'll be bound! Some women are lookin' out for daughter-in-laws before + their sons have a beard, and others think theirs is only fit to wear short + jackets when they ought to be raisin' up families. I dunno but what it'll + be a cross to you, Mary,—you set so much store by Gilbert, and it's + natural, like, that you should want to have him all to y'rself,—but + a man shall leave his father and mother and cleave unto his wife,—or + somethin' like it. Yes, I say it, although nobody clove unto me.” + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter said nothing. Her face grew very pale, and such an expression + of pain came into it that Miss Betsy, who saw everything without seeming + to look at anything, made haste to add a consoling word. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Mary,” she said, “now I come to consider upon it, you won't have + so much of a cross. You a'n't the mother you've showed yourself to be, if + you're not anxious to see Gilbert happy, and as for leavin' his mother, + there'll be no leavin' needful, in his case, but on the contrary, quite + the reverse, namely, a comin' to you. And it's no bad fortin', though I + can't say it of my own experience; but never mind, all the same, I've seen + the likes—to have a brisk, cheerful daughter-in-law keepin' house, + and you a-settin' by the window, knittin' and restin' from mornin' till + night, and maybe little caps and clothes to make, and lots o' things to + teach, that young wives don't know o' theirselves. And then, after awhile + you'll be called 'Granny,' but you won't mind it, for grandchildren's a + mighty comfort, and no responsibility like your own. Why, I've knowed + women that never seen what rest or comfort was, till they'd got to be + grandmothers!” + </p> + <p> + Something in this homely speech touched Mary Potter's heart, and gave her + the relief of tears. “Betsy,” she said at last, “I have had a heavy burden + to bear, and it has made me weak.” + </p> + <p> + “Made me weak,” Miss Betsy repeated. “And no wonder. Don't think I can't + guess that, Mary.” + </p> + <p> + Here two tears trickled down the ridge of her nose, and she furtively + wiped them off while adjusting her high comb. Mary Potter's face was + turned towards her with a wistful, appealing expression, which she + understood. + </p> + <p> + “Mary,” she said, “I don't measure people with a two-foot rule. I take a + ten-foot pole, and let it cover all that comes under it. Them that does + their dooty to Man, I guess you won't have much trouble in squarin' + accounts with the Lord. You know how I feel towards you without my tellin' + of it, and them that's quick o' the tongue are always full o' the heart. + Now, Mary, I know as plain as if you 'd said it, that there's somethin' on + your mind, and you dunno whether to share it with me or not. What I say + is, don't hurry yourself; I 'd rather show fellow-feelin' than cur'osity; + so, see your way clear first, and when the tellin' <i>me</i> anything can + help, tell it—not before.” + </p> + <p> + “It wouldn't help now,” Mary Potter responded. + </p> + <p> + “Wouldn't help now. Then wait awhile. Nothin' 's so dangerous as speakin' + before the time, whomsoever and wheresoever. Folks talk o' bridlin' the + tongue; let 'em git a blind halter, say I, and a curb-bit, and a + martingale! Not that I set an example, Goodness knows, for mine runs like + a mill-clapper, rickety-rick, rickety-rick; but never mind, it may be + fast, but it isn't loose!” + </p> + <p> + In her own mysterious way, Miss Betsy succeeded in imparting a good deal + of comfort to Mary Potter. She promised “to keep Gilbert under her eyes,”—which, + indeed, she did, quite unconsciously to himself, during the last two days + of her stay. At table she engaged him in conversation, bringing in + references, in the most wonderfully innocent and random manner, to most of + the families in the neighborhood. So skilfully did she operate that even + Mary Potter failed to perceive her strategy. Deb Smith, sitting bare-armed + on the other side of the table, and eating like six dragoons, was the + ostensible target of her speech, and Gilbert was thus stealthily + approached in flank. When she tied her bonnet-strings to leave, and the + mother accompanied her to the gate, she left this indefinite consolation + behind her: + </p> + <p> + “Keep up your sperrits, Mary. I think I'm on the right scent about + Gilbert, but these young men are shy foxes. Let me alone, awhile yet, and + whatever you do, let <i>him</i> alone. There's no danger—not even a + snarl, I guess. Nothin' to bother your head about. You weren't his mother. + Good lack! if I'm right, you'll see no more o' his tantrums in two months' + time—and so, good-bye to you!” + </p> + <p> + The oats followed close upon the wheat harvest, and there was no respite + from labor until the last load was hauled into the barn, filling its ample + bays to the very rafters. Then Gilbert, mounted on his favorite Roger, + rode up to Kennett Square one Saturday afternoon, in obedience to a + message from Mr. Alfred Barton, informing him that the other gentlemen + would there meet to consult measures for mutual protection against + highwaymen in general and Sandy Flash in particular. As every young man in + the neighborhood owned his horse and musket, nothing more was necessary + than to adopt a system of action. + </p> + <p> + The meeting was held in the bar-room of the Unicorn, and as every second + man had his own particular scheme to advocate, it was both long and noisy. + Many thought the action unnecessary, but were willing, for the sake of the + community, to give their services. The simplest plan—to choose a + competent leader, and submit to his management—never occurred to + these free and independent volunteers, until all other means of unity had + failed. Then Alfred Barton, as the originator of the measure, was chosen, + and presented the rude but sufficient plan which had been suggested to him + by Dr. Deane. The men were to meet every Saturday evening at the Unicorn, + and exchange intelligence; but they could be called together at any time + by a summons from Barton. The landlord of the Unicorn was highly satisfied + with this arrangement, but no one noticed the interest with which the + ostler, an Irishman named Dougherty, listened to the discussion. + </p> + <p> + Barton's horse was hitched beside Gilbert's, and as the two were mounting, + the former said,— + </p> + <p> + “If you're going home, Gilbert, why not come down our lane, and go through + by Carson's. We can talk the matter over a little; if there's any running + to do, I depend a good deal on your horse.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert saw no reason for declining this invitation, and the two rode side + by side down the lane to the Barton farm-house. The sun was still an hour + high, but a fragrant odor of broiled herring drifted out of the open + kitchen-window. Barton thereupon urged him to stop and take supper, with a + cordiality which we can only explain by hinting at his secret intention to + become the purchaser of Gilbert's horse. + </p> + <p> + “Old-man Barton” was sitting in his arm-chair by the window, feebly + brandishing his stick at the flies, and watching his daughter Ann, as she + transferred the herrings from the gridiron to a pewter platter. + </p> + <p> + “Father, this is Gilbert Potter,” said Mr. Alfred, introducing his guest. + </p> + <p> + The bent head was lifted with an effort, and the keen eyes were fixed on + the young man, who came forward to take the crooked, half-extended hand. + </p> + <p> + “What Gilbert Potter?” he croaked. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Alfred bit his lips, and looked both embarrassed and annoyed. But he + could do no less than say,— + </p> + <p> + “Mary Potter's son.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert straightened himself proudly, as if to face a coming insult. After + a long, steady gaze, the old man gave one of his hieroglyphic snorts, and + then muttered to him self,—“Looks like her.” + </p> + <p> + During the meal, he was so occupied with the labor of feeding himself, + that he seemed to forget Gilbert's presence. Bending his head sideways, + from time to time, he jerked out a croaking question, which his son, + whatever annoyance he might feel, was forced to answer according to the + old man's humor. + </p> + <p> + “In at the Doctor's, boy?” + </p> + <p> + “A few minutes, daddy, before we came together.” + </p> + <p> + “See her? Was she at home?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” came very shortly from Mr. Alfred's lips; he clenched his fists + under the table-cloth. + </p> + <p> + “That's right, boy; stick up to her!” and he chuckled and munched together + in a way which it made Gilbert sick to hear. The tail of the lean herring + on his plate remained untasted; he swallowed the thin tea which Miss Ann + poured out, and the heavy “half-Indian” bread with a choking sensation. He + had but one desire,—to get away from the room, out of human sight + and hearing. + </p> + <p> + Barton, ill at ease, and avoiding Gilbert's eye, accompanied him to the + lane. He felt that the old man's garrulity ought to be explained, but knew + not what to say. Gilbert spared him the trouble— + </p> + <p> + “When are we to wish you joy, Barton?” he asked, in a cold, hard voice. + </p> + <p> + Barton laughed in a forced way, clutched at his tawny whisker, and with + something like a flush on his heavy face, answered in what was meant to be + an indifferent tone: + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it's a joke of the old man's—don't mean anything.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems to be a joke of the whole neighborhood, then; I have heard it + from others.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you?” Barton eagerly asked. “Do people talk about it much? What do + they say?” + </p> + <p> + This exhibition of vulgar vanity, as he considered it, was so repulsive to + Gilbert, in his desperate, excited condition, that for a moment he did not + trust himself to speak. Holding the bridle of his horse, he walked + mechanically down the slope, Barton following him. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly he stopped, faced the latter, and said, in a stern voice: “I must + know, first, whether you are betrothed to Martha Deane.” + </p> + <p> + His manner was so unexpectedly solemn and peremptory that Barton, startled + from his self-possession, stammered,— + </p> + <p> + “N-no: that is, not yet.” + </p> + <p> + Another pause. Barton, curious to know how far gossip had already gone, + repeated the question: + </p> + <p> + “Well, what do people say?” + </p> + <p> + “Some, that you and she will be married,” Gilbert answered, speaking + slowly and with difficulty, “and some that you won't. Which are right?” + </p> + <p> + “Damme, if <i>I</i> know!” Barton exclaimed, returning to his customary + swagger. It was quite enough that the matter was generally talked about, + and he had said nothing to settle it, in either way. But his manner, more + than his words, convinced Gilbert that there was no betrothal as yet, and + that the vanity of being regarded as the successful suitor of a lovely + girl had a more prominent place than love, in his rival's heart. By so + much was his torture lightened, and the passion of the moment subsided, + after having so nearly betrayed itself. + </p> + <p> + “I say, Gilbert,” Barton presently remarked, walking on towards the bars + which led into the meadow-field; “it's time you were looking around in + that way, hey?” + </p> + <p> + “It will be time enough when I am out of debt.” + </p> + <p> + “But you ought, now, to have a wife in your house.” + </p> + <p> + “I have a mother, Barton.” + </p> + <p> + “That's true, Gilbert. Just as I have a father. The old man's queer, as + you saw—kept me out of marrying; when I was young, and now drives me + to it. I might ha' had children grown”— + </p> + <p> + He paused, laying his hand on the young man's shoulder. Gilbert fancied + that he saw on Barton's coarse, dull face the fleeting stamp of some + long-buried regret, and a little of the recent bitterness died out of his + heart. + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye!” he said, offering his hand with greater ease than he would + have thought possible, fifteen minutes sooner. + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, Gilbert! Take care of Roger. Sandy Flash has a fine piece of + horse-flesh, but you beat him once—Damnation! You <i>could</i> beat + him, I mean. If he comes within ten miles of us, I'll have the summonses + out in no time.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert cantered lightly down the meadow. The soft breath of the summer + evening fanned his face, and something of the peace expressed in the rich + repose of the landscape fell upon his heart. But peace, he felt, could + only come to him through love. The shame upon his name—the slow + result of labor—even the painful store of memories which the years + had crowded in his brain—might all be lightly borne, or forgotten, + could his arms once clasp the now uncertain treasure. A tender mist came + over his deep, dark eyes, a passionate longing breathed in his softened + lips, and he said to himself,— + </p> + <p> + “I would lie down and die at her feet, if that could make her happy; but + how to live, and live without her?” This was a darkness which his mind + refused to entertain. Love sees no justice on Earth or in Heaven, that + includes not its own fulfilled desire. + </p> + <p> + Before reaching home, he tried to review the situation calmly. Barton's + true relation to Martha Deane he partially suspected, so far as regarded + the former's vanity and his slavish subservience to his father's will; but + he was equally avaricious, and it was well known in Kennett that Martha + possessed, or would possess, a handsome property in her own right. + Gilbert, therefore, saw every reason to believe that Barton was an actual, + if not a very passionate wooer. + </p> + <p> + That fact, however, was in itself of no great importance, unless Dr. Deane + favored the suit. The result depended on Martha herself; she was called an + “independent girl,” which she certainly was, by contrast with other girls + of the same age. It was this free, firm, independent, yet wholly womanly + spirit which Gilbert honored in her, and which (unless her father's + influence were too powerful) would yet save her to him, if she but loved + him. Then he felt that his nervous, inflammable fear of Barton was + incompatible with true honor for her, with trust in her pure and lofty + nature. If she were so easily swayed, how could she stand the test which + he was still resolved—nay, forced by circumstances—to apply? + </p> + <p> + With something like shame of his past excitement, yet with strength which + had grown out of it, his reflections were terminated by Roger stopping at + the barn-yard gate. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. — GUESTS AT POTTER'S. + </h2> + <p> + A week or two later, there was trouble, but not of a very unusual kind, in + the Fairthorn household. It was Sunday, the dinner was on the table, but + Joe and Jake were not to be found. The garden, the corn-crib, the barn, + and the grove below the house, were searched, without detecting the least + sign of the truants. Finally Sally's eyes descried a remarkable object + moving over the edge of the hill, from the direction of the Philadelphia + road. It was a huge round creature, something like a cylindrical tortoise, + slowly advancing upon four short, dark legs. + </p> + <p> + “What upon earth is that?” she cried. + </p> + <p> + All eyes were brought to bear upon this phenomenon, which gradually + advanced until it reached the fence. Then it suddenly separated into three + parts, the round back falling off, whereupon it was seized by two figures + and lifted upon the fence. + </p> + <p> + “It's the best wash-tub, I do declare!” said Sally; “whatever have they + been doing with it?” + </p> + <p> + Having crossed the fence, the boys lifted the inverted tub over their + heads, and resumed their march. When they came near enough, it could be + seen that their breeches and stockings were not only dripping wet, but + streaked with black swamp-mud. This accounted for the unsteady, hesitating + course of the tub, which at times seemed inclined to approach the house, + and then tacked away towards the corner of the barn-yard wall. A few + vigorous calls, however, appeared to convince it that the direct course + was the best, for it set out with a grotesque bobbing trot, which brought + it speedily to the kitchen-door. + </p> + <p> + Then Joe and Jake crept out, dripping to the very crowns of their heads, + with their Sunday shirts and jackets in a horrible plight. The truth, + slowly gathered from their mutual accusations, was this: they had resolved + to have a boating excursion on Redley Creek, and had abstracted the tub + that morning when nobody was in the kitchen. Slipping down through the + wood, they had launched it in a piece of still water. Joe got in first, + and when Jake let go of the tub, it tilted over; then he held it for Jake, + who squatted in the centre, and floated successfully down the stream until + Joe pushed him with a pole, and made the tub lose its balance. Jake fell + into the mud, and the tub drifted away; they had chased it nearly to the + road before they recovered it. + </p> + <p> + “You bad boys, what shall I do with you?” cried Mother Fairthorn. “Put on + your every-day clothes, and go to the garret. Sally, you can ride down to + Potter's with the pears; they won't keep, and I expect Gilbert has no time + to come for any, this summer.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll go,” said Sally, “but Gilbert don't deserve it. The way he snapped + me up at Hallowell's—and he hasn't been here since!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be hard on him, Sally!” said the kindly old woman; nor was Sally's + more than a surface grudge. She had quite a sisterly affection for + Gilbert, and was rather hurt than angered by what he had said in the fret + of a mood which she could not comprehend. + </p> + <p> + The old mare rejoiced in a new bridle, with a head-stall of scarlet + morocco, and Sally would have made a stately appearance, but for the + pears, which, stowed in the two ends of a grain-bag, and hung over the + saddle, would not quite be covered by her riding-skirt. She trudged on + slowly, down the lonely road, but had barely crossed the level below + Kennett Square, when there came a quick sound of hoofs behind her. + </p> + <p> + It was Mark and Martha Deane, who presently drew rein, one on either side + of her. + </p> + <p> + “Don't ride fast, please,” Sally begged; “<i>I</i> can't, for fear of + smashing the pears. Where are you going?” + </p> + <p> + “To Falconer's,” Martha replied; “Fanny promised to lend me some new + patterns; but I had great trouble in getting Mark to ride with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Not, if you will ride along, Sally,” Mark rejoined. “We'll go with you + first, and then you'll come with us. What do you say, Martha?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll answer for Martha!” cried Sally; “I am going to Potter's, and it's + directly on your way.” + </p> + <p> + “Just the thing,” said Mark; “I have a little business with Gilbert.” + </p> + <p> + It was all settled before Martha's vote had been taken, and she accepted + the decision without remark. She was glad, for Sally's sake, that they had + fallen in with her, for she had shrewdly watched Mark, and found that, + little by little, a serious liking for her friend was sending its roots + down through the gay indifference of his surface mood. Perhaps she was not + altogether calm in spirit at the prospect of meeting Gilbert Potter; but, + if so, no sign of the agitation betrayed itself in her face. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, sitting on the porch, half-hidden behind a mass of blossoming + trumpet-flower, was aroused from his Sabbath reverie by the sound of + hoofs. Sally Fairthorn's voice followed, reaching even the ears of Mary + Potter, who thereupon issued from the house to greet the unexpected guest. + Mark had already dismounted, and although Sally protested that she would + remain in the saddle, the strong arms held out to her proved too much of a + temptation; it was so charming to put her hands on his shoulders, and to + have his take her by the waist, and lift her to the ground so lightly! + </p> + <p> + While Mark was performing this service, (and evidently with as much + deliberation as possible,) Gilbert could do no less than offer his aid to + Martha Deane, whose sudden apparition he had almost incredulously + realized. A bright, absorbing joy kindled his sad, strong features into + beauty, and Martha felt her cheeks grow warm, in spite of herself, as + their eyes met. The hands that touched her waist were firm, but no hands + had ever before conveyed to her heart such a sense of gentleness and + tenderness, and though her own gloved hand rested but a moment on his + shoulder, the action seemed to her almost like a caress. + </p> + <p> + “How kind of you—all—to come!” said Gilbert, feeling that his + voice expressed too much, and his words too little. + </p> + <p> + “The credit of coming is not mine, Gilbert,” she answered. “We overtook + Sally, and gave her our company for the sake of hers, afterwards. But I + shall like to take a look at your place; how pleasant you are making it!” + </p> + <p> + “You are the first to say so; I shall always remember that!” + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter now advanced, with grave yet friendly welcome, and would have + opened her best room to the guests, but the bowery porch, with its + swinging scarlet bloom, haunted by humming-birds and hawk-moths, wooed + them “o take their seats in its shade. The noise of a plunging cascade, + which restored the idle mill-water to its parted stream, made a mellow, + continuous music in the air. The high road was visible at one point, + across the meadow, just where it entered the wood; otherwise, the + seclusion of the place was complete. + </p> + <p> + “You could not have found a lovelier home, M—Mary,” said Martha, + terrified to think how near the words “Mrs. Potter” had been to her lips. + But she had recovered herself so promptly that the hesitation was not + noticed. + </p> + <p> + “Many people think the house ought to be upon the road,” Mary Potter + replied, “but Gilbert and I like it as it is. Yes, I hope it will be a + good home, when we can call it our own.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother is a little impatient,” said Gilbert, “and perhaps I am also. But + if we have health, it won't be very long to wait.” + </p> + <p> + “That's a thing soon learned!” cried Mark. “I mean to be impatient. Why, + when I was doing journey-work, I was as careless as the day's long, and so + from hand to mouth didn't trouble me a bit; but now, I ha'n't been + undertaking six months, and it seems that I feel worried if I don't get + all the jobs going!” + </p> + <p> + Martha smiled, well pleased at this confession of the change, which she + knew better how to interpret than Mark himself. But Sally, in her + innocence, remarked: + </p> + <p> + “Oh Mark! that isn't right.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose it isn't. But maybe you've got to wish for more than you get, + in order to get what you do. I guess I take things pretty easy, on the + whole, for it's nobody's nature to be entirely satisfied. Gilbert, will + you be satisfied when your farm's paid for?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” answered Gilbert with an emphasis, the sound of which, as soon as + uttered, smote him to the heart. He had not thought of his mother. She + clasped her hands convulsively, and looked at him, but his face was turned + away. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Gilbert!” exclaimed Sally. + </p> + <p> + “I mean,” he said, striving to collect his thoughts, “that there is + something more than property”—but how should he go on? Could he + speak of the family relation, then and there? Of honor in the community, + the respect of his neighbors, without seeming to refer to the brand upon + his and his mother's name? No; of none of these things. With sudden + energy, he turned upon himself, and continued: + </p> + <p> + “I shall not feel satisfied until I am cured of my own impatience—until + I can better control my temper, and get the weeds and rocks and stumps out + of myself as well as out of my farm.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you've got a job!” Mark laughed. “I think your fields are pretty + tolerable clean, what I've seen of 'em. Nobody can say they're not well + fenced in. Why, compared with you, I'm an open common, like the + Wastelands, down on Whitely Creek, and everybody's cattle run over me!” + </p> + <p> + Mark's thoughtlessness was as good as tact. They all laughed heartily at + his odd continuation of the simile, and Martha hastened to say: + </p> + <p> + “For my part, I don't think you are quite such an open common, Mark, or + Gilbert so well fenced in. But even if you are, a great many things may be + hidden in a clearing, and some people are tall enough to look over a high + hedge. Betsy Lavender says some men tell all about themselves without + saying a word, while others talk till Doomsday and tell nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “And tell nothing,” gravely repeated Mark, whereat no one could repress a + smile, and Sally laughed outright. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter had not mingled much in the society of Kennett, and did not + know that this imitation of good Miss Betsy was a very common thing, and + had long ceased to mean any harm. It annoyed her, and she felt it her duty + to say a word for her friend. + </p> + <p> + “There is not a better or kinder-hearted woman in the county,” she said, + “than just Betsy Lavender. With all her odd ways of speech, she talks the + best of sense and wisdom, and I don't know who I'd sooner take for a guide + in times of trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “You could not give Betsy a higher place than she deserves,” Martha + answered. “We all esteem her as a dear friend, and as the best helper + where help is needed. She has been almost a mother to me.” + </p> + <p> + Sally felt rebuked, and exclaimed tearfully, with her usual impetuous + candor,—“Now you know I meant no harm; it was all Mark's doing!” + </p> + <p> + “If you've anything against me, Sally, I forgive you for it. It isn't in + my nature to bear malice,” said Mark, with so serious an air, that poor + Sally was more bewildered than ever. Gilbert and Martha, however, could + not restrain their laughter at the fellow's odd, reckless humor, whereupon + Sally, suddenly comprehending the joke, sprang from her seat. Mark leaped + from the porch, and darted around the house, followed by Sally with + mock-angry cries and brandishings of her riding-whip. + </p> + <p> + The scene was instantly changed to Gilbert's eyes. It was wonderful! + There, on the porch of the home he so soon hoped to call his own, sat his + mother, Martha Deane, and himself. The two former had turned towards each + other, and were talking pleasantly; the hum of the hawk-moths, the mellow + plunge of the water, and the stir of the soft summer breeze in the leaves, + made a sweet accompaniment to their voices. His brain grew dizzy with + yearning to fix that chance companionship, and make it the boundless + fortune of his life. Under his habit of repression, his love for her had + swelled and gathered to such an intensity, that it seemed he must either + speak or die. + </p> + <p> + Presently the rollicking couple made their appearance. Sally's foot had + caught in her riding-skirt as she ran, throwing her at full length on the + sward, and Mark, in picking her up, had possessed himself of the whip. She + was not hurt in the least, (her life having been a succession of tears and + tumbles,) but Mark's arm found it necessary to encircle her waist, and she + did not withdraw from the support until they came within sight of the + porch. + </p> + <p> + It was now time for the guests to leave, but Mary Potter must first + produce her cakes and currant-wine,—the latter an old and highly + superior article, for there had been, alas! too few occasions which called + for its use. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” said Mark, as they moved towards the gate, “why can't you catch + and saddle Roger, and ride with us? You have nothing to do?” + </p> + <p> + “No; I would like—but where are you going?” + </p> + <p> + “To Falconer's; that is, the girls; but we won't stay for supper—I + don't fancy quality company.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor I,” said Gilbert, with a gloomy face. “I have never visited + Falconer's, and they might not thank you for introducing me.” + </p> + <p> + He looked at Martha, as he spoke. She understood him, and gave him her + entire sympathy and pity,—yet it was impossible for her to propose + giving up the visit, solely for his sake. It was not want of independence, + but a maidenly shrinking from the inference of the act, which kept her + silent. + </p> + <p> + Mark, however, cut through the embarrassment. “I'll tell you what, + Gilbert!” he exclaimed, “you go and get Roger from the field, while we + ride on to Falconer's. If the girls will promise not to be too long about + their patterns and their gossip, and what not, we can be back to the + lane-end by the time you get there; then we'll ride up t' other branch o' + Redley Creek, to the cross-road, and out by Hallowell's. I want to have a + squint at the houses and barns down that way; nothing like business, you + know!” + </p> + <p> + Mark thought he was very cunning in thus disposing of Martha during the + ride, unconscious of the service he was offering to Gilbert. The latter's + eagerness shone from his eyes, but still he looked at Martha, trembling + for a sign that should decide his hesitation. Her lids fell before his + gaze, and a faint color came into her face, yet she did not turn away. + This time it was Sally Fairthorn who spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Five minutes will be enough for us, Mark,” she said. “I'm not much + acquainted with Fanny Falconer. So, Gilbert, hoist Martha into her saddle, + and go for Roger.” + </p> + <p> + He opened the gate for them, and then climbed over the fence into the + hill-field above his house. Having reached the crest, he stopped to watch + the three riding abreast, on a smart trot, down the glen. Sally looked + back, saw him, and waved her hand; then Mark and Martha turned, giving no + sign, yet to his eyes there seemed a certain expectancy in the movement. + </p> + <p> + Roger came from the farthest corner of the field at his call, and followed + him down the hill to the bars, with the obedient attachment of a dog. When + he had carefully brushed and then saddled the horse, he went to seek his + mother, who was already making preparations for their early supper. + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” he said, “I am going to ride a little way.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him wistfully and questioningly, as if she would fain have + asked more; but only said,— + </p> + <p> + “Won't you be home to supper, Gilbert?” + </p> + <p> + “I can't tell, but don't wait a minute, if I'm not here when it's ready.” + </p> + <p> + He turned quickly, as if fearful of a further question, and the next + moment was in the saddle. + </p> + <p> + The trouble in Mary Potter's face increased. Sighing sorely, she followed + to the bridge of the barn, and presently descried him, beyond the mill, + cantering lightly down the road. Then, lifting her arms, as in a blind + appeal for help, she let them fall again, and walked slowly back to the + house. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. — THE EVENTS OF AN EVENING. + </h2> + <p> + At the first winding of the creek, Gilbert drew rein, with a vague, + half-conscious sense of escape. The eye which had followed him thus far + was turned away at last. + </p> + <p> + For half a mile the road lay through a lovely solitude of shade and + tangled bowery thickets, beside the stream. The air was soft and tempered, + and filled the glen like the breath of some utterly peaceful and happy + creature; yet over Gilbert's heart there brooded another atmosphere than + this. The sultriness that precedes an emotional crisis weighed heavily + upon him. + </p> + <p> + No man, to whom Nature has granted her highest gift,—that of + expression,—can understand the pain endured by one of strong + feelings, to whom not only this gift has been denied, but who must also + wrestle with an inherited reticence. It is well that in such cases a + kindly law exists, to aid the helpless heart. The least portion of the + love which lights the world has been told in words; it works, attracts, + and binds in silence. The eye never knows its own desire, the hand its + warmth, the voice its tenderness, nor the heart its unconscious speech + through these, and a thousand other vehicles. Every endeavor to hide the + special fact betrays the feeling from which it sprang. + </p> + <p> + Like all men of limited culture, Gilbert felt his helplessness keenly. His + mind, usually clear in its operations, if somewhat slow and cautious, + refused to assist him here; it lay dead or apathetic in an air surcharged + with passion. An anxious expectancy enclosed him with stifling pressure; + he felt that it must be loosened, but knew not how. His craving for words—words + swift, clear, and hot as lightning, through which his heart might + discharge itself—haunted him like a furious hunger. + </p> + <p> + The road, rising out of the glen, passed around the brow of a grassy hill, + whence he could look across a lateral valley to the Falconer farm-house. + Pausing here, he plainly descried a stately “chair” leaning on its thills, + in the shade of the weeping-willow, three horses hitched side by side to + the lane-fence, and a faint glimmer of color between the mounds of box + which almost hid the porch. It was very evident to his mind that the + Falconers had other visitors, and that neither Mark nor Sally, (whatever + might be Martha Deane's inclination,) would be likely to prolong their + stay; so he slowly rode on, past the lane-end, and awaited them at the + ford beyond. + </p> + <p> + It was not long—though the wood on the western hill already threw + its shadow into the glen—before the sound of voices and hoofs + emerged from the lane. Sally's remark reached him first: + </p> + <p> + “They may be nice people enough, for aught I know, but their ways are not + my ways, and there's no use in trying to mix them.” + </p> + <p> + “That's a fact!” said Mark. “Hallo, here's Gilbert, ahead of us!” + </p> + <p> + They rode into the stream together, and let their horses drink from the + clear, swift-flowing water. In Mark's and Sally's eyes, Gilbert was as + grave and impassive as usual, but Martha Deane was conscious of a strange, + warm, subtle power, which seemed to envelop her as she drew near him. Her + face glowed with a sweet, unaccustomed flush; his was pale, and the shadow + of his brows lay heavier upon his eyes. Fate was already taking up the + invisible, floating filaments of these two existences, and weaving them + together. + </p> + <p> + Of course it happened, and of course by the purest accident, that Mark and + Sally first reached the opposite bank, and took the narrow wood-road, + where the loose, briery sprays of the thickets brushed them on either + side. Sally's hat, and probably her head, would have been carried off by a + projecting branch, had not Mark thrown his arm around her neck and + forcibly bent her forwards. Then she shrieked and struck at him with her + riding-whip, while Mark's laugh woke all the echoes of the woods. + </p> + <p> + “I say, Gilbert!” he cried, turning back in his saddle, “I'll hold <i>you</i> + responsible for Martha's head; it's as much as <i>I</i> can do to keep + Sally's on her shoulders.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert looked at his companion, as she rode slowly by his side, through + the cool, mottled dusk of the woods. She had drawn the strings of her + beaver through a buttonhole of her riding-habit, and allowed it to hang + upon her back. The motion of the horse gave a gentle, undulating grace to + her erect, self-reliant figure, and her lips, slightly parted, breathed + maidenly trust and consent. She turned her face towards him and smiled, at + Mark's words. + </p> + <p> + “The warning is unnecessary,” he said. “You will give me no chance to take + care of you, Martha.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it not better so?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + He hesitated; he would have said “No,” but finally evaded a direct answer. + </p> + <p> + “I would be glad enough to do you a service—even so little as that,” + were his words, and the tender tone in which they were spoken made itself + evident to his own ears. + </p> + <p> + “I don't doubt it, Gilbert,” she answered, so kindly and cordially that he + was smitten to the heart. Had she faltered in her reply,—had she + blushed and kept silence,—his hope would have seized the evidence + and rushed to the trial; but this was the frankness of friendship, not the + timidity of love. She could not, then, suspect his passion, and ah, how + the risks of its utterance were multiplied! + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, the wonderful glamour of her presence—that irresistible + influence which at once takes hold of body and spirit—had entered + into every cell of his blood. Thought and memory were blurred into + nothingness by this one overmastering sensation. Riding through the lonely + woods, out of shade into yellow, level sunshine, in the odors of minty + meadows and moist spices of the creekside, they twain seemed to him to be + alone in the world. If they loved not each other, why should not the + leaves shrivel and fall, the hills split asunder, and the sky rain death + upon them? Here she moved at his side—he could stretch out his hand + and touch her; his heart sprang towards her, his arms ached for very + yearning to clasp her,—his double nature demanded her with the will + and entreated for her with the affection! Under all, felt though not + suspected, glowed the vast primal instinct upon which the strength of + manhood and of womanhood is based. + </p> + <p> + Sally and Mark, a hundred yards in advance, now thrown into sight and now + hidden by the windings of the road, were so pleasantly occupied with each + other that they took no heed of the pair behind them. Gilbert was silent; + speech was mockery, unless it gave the words which he did not dare to + pronounce. His manner was sullen and churlish in Martha's eyes, he + suspected; but so it must be, unless a miracle were sent to aid him. She, + riding as quietly, seemed to meditate, apparently unconscious of his + presence; how could he know that she had never before been so vitally + conscious of it? + </p> + <p> + The long rays of sunset withdrew to the tree-tops, and a deeper hush fell + upon the land. The road which had mounted along the slope of a + stubble-field, now dropped again into a wooded hollow, where a tree, + awkwardly felled, lay across it. Roger pricked up his ears and leaped + lightly over. Martha's horse followed, taking the log easily, but she + reined him up the next moment, uttering a slight exclamation, and + stretched out her hand wistfully towards Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + To seize it and bring Roger to a stand was the work of an instant. “What + is the matter, Martha?” he cried. + </p> + <p> + “I think the girth is broken,” said she. “The saddle is loose, and I was + nigh losing my balance. Thank you, I can sit steadily now.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert sprang to the ground and hastened to her assistance. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is broken,” he said, “but I can give you mine. You had better + dismount, though; see, I will hold the pommel firm with one hand, while I + lift you down with the other. Not too fast, I am strong; place your hands + on my shoulders—so!” + </p> + <p> + She bent forward and laid her hands upon his shoulders. Then, as she slid + gently down, his right arm crept around her waist, holding her so firmly + and securely that she had left the saddle and hung in its support while + her feet had not yet touched the earth. Her warm breath was on Gilbert's + forehead; her bosom swept his breast, and the arm that until then had + supported, now swiftly, tenderly, irresistibly embraced her. Trembling, + thrilling from head to foot, utterly unable to control the mad impulse of + the moment, he drew her to his heart and laid his lips to hers. All that + he would have said—all, and more than all, that words could have + expressed—was now said, without words. His kiss clung as if it were + the last this side of death—clung until he felt that Martha feebly + strove to be released. + </p> + <p> + The next minute they stood side by side, and Gilbert, by a revulsion + equally swift and overpowering, burst into a passion of tears. + </p> + <p> + He turned and leaned his head against Roger's neck. Presently a light + touch came upon his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + He faced her then, and saw that her own cheeks were wet. “Martha!” he + cried, “unless you love me with a love like mine for you, you can never + forgive me!” + </p> + <p> + She came nearer; she laid her arms around him, and lifted her face to his. + Then she said, in a tender, tremulous whisper,— + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert—Gilbert! I forgive you.” + </p> + <p> + A pang of wonderful, incredulous joy shot through his heart. Exalted by + his emotion above the constraints of his past and present life, he arose + and stood free and strong in his full stature as a man. He held her softly + and tenderly embraced, and a purer bliss than the physical delight of her + warm, caressing presence shone upon his face as he asked,— + </p> + <p> + “Forever, Martha?” + </p> + <p> + “Forever.” + </p> + <p> + “Knowing what I am?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I know what you are, Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + He bowed his head upon her shoulder, and she felt softer tears—tears + which came this time without sound or pang—upon her neck. It was + infinitely touching to see this strong nature so moved, and the best bliss + that a true woman's heart can feel—the knowledge of the boundless + bounty which her love brings with it—opened upon her consciousness. + A swift instinct revealed to her the painful struggles of Gilbert's life,—the + stern, reticent strength they had developed,—the anxiety and the + torture of his long-suppressed passion, and the power and purity of that + devotion with which his heart had sought and claimed her. She now saw him + in his true character,—firm as steel, yet gentle as dew, patient and + passionate, and purposely cold only to guard the sanctity of his emotions. + </p> + <p> + The twilight deepened in the wood, and Roger, stretching and shaking + himself, called the lovers to themselves. Gilbert lifted his head and + looked into Martha's sweet, unshrinking eyes. + </p> + <p> + “May the Lord bless you, as you have blessed me!” he said, solemnly. + “Martha, did you guess this before?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she answered, “I felt that it must be so.” + </p> + <p> + “And you did not draw back from me—you did not shun the thought of + me! You were”— + </p> + <p> + He paused; was there not blessing enough, or must he curiously question + its growth? + </p> + <p> + Martha, however, understood the thought in his mind. “No, Gilbert!” she + said, “I cannot truly say that I loved you at the time when I first + discovered your feeling towards me. I had always esteemed and trusted you, + and you were much in my mind; but when I asked myself if I could look upon + you as my husband, my heart hesitated with the answer. I did not deserve + your affection then, because I could not repay it in the same measure. + But, although the knowledge seemed to disturb me, sometimes, yet it was + very grateful, and therefore I could not quite make up my mind to + discourage you. Indeed, I knew not what was right to do, but I found + myself more and more strongly drawn towards you; a power came from you + when we met, that touched and yet strengthened me, and then I thought, + 'Perhaps I <i>do</i> love him.' To-day, when I first saw your face, I knew + that I did. I felt your heart calling to me like one that cries for help, + and mine answered. It has been slow to speak, Gilbert, but I know it has + spoken truly at last!” + </p> + <p> + He replaced the broken girth, lifted her into the saddle, mounted his own + horse, and they resumed their ride along the dusky valley. But how + otherwise their companionship now! + </p> + <p> + “Martha,” said Gilbert, leaning towards her and touching her softly as he + spoke, as if fearful that some power in his words might drive them apart,—“Martha, + have you considered what I am called? That the family name I bear is in + itself a disgrace? Have you imagined what it is to love one so dishonored + as I am?” + </p> + <p> + The delicate line of her upper lip grew clear and firm again, temporarily + losing its relaxed gentleness. “I have thought of it,” she answered, “but + not in that way. Gilbert, I honored you before I loved you. I will not say + that this thing makes no difference, for it does—a difference in the + name men give you, a difference in your work through life (for you must + deserve more esteem to gain as much as other men)—and a difference + in my duty towards you. They call me 'independent,' Gilbert, because, + though a woman, I dare to think for myself; I know not whether they mean + praise by the word, or no; but I think it would frighten away the thought + of love from many men. It has not frightened you; and you, however you + were born, are the faithfullest and best man I know. I love you with my + whole heart, and I will be true to you!” + </p> + <p> + With these words, Martha stretched out her hand. Gilbert took and held it, + bowing his head fondly over it, and inwardly thanking God that the test + which his pride had exacted was over at last. He could reward her truth, + spare her the willing sacrifice,—and he would. + </p> + <p> + “Martha,” he said, “if I sometimes doubted whether you could share my + disgrace, it was because I had bitter cause to feel how heavy it is to + bear. God knows I would have come to you with a clean and honorable name, + if I could have been patient to wait longer in uncertainty. But I could + not tell how long the time might be,—I could not urge my mother, nor + even ask her to explain”— + </p> + <p> + “No, no, Gilbert! Spare <i>her!”</i> Martha interrupted. + </p> + <p> + “I <i>have,</i> Martha,—God bless you for the words!—and I <i>will</i>; + it would be the worst wickedness not to be patient, now! But I have not + yet told you”— + </p> + <p> + A loud halloo rang through the dusk. + </p> + <p> + “It is Mark's voice,” said Martha; “answer him!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert shouted, and a double cry instantly replied. They had reached the + cross-road from New-Garden, and Mark and Sally, who had been waiting + impatiently for a quarter of an hour, rode to meet them. “Did you lose the + road?” “Whatever kept you so long?” were the simultaneous questions. + </p> + <p> + “My girth broke in jumping over the tree,” Martha answered, in her clear, + untroubled voice. “I should have been thrown off, but for Gilbert's help. + He had to give me his own girth, and so we have ridden slowly, since he + has none.” + </p> + <p> + “Take my breast-strap,” said Mark. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Gilbert, “I can ride Roger bareback, if need be, with the + saddle on my shoulder.” + </p> + <p> + Something in his voice struck Mark and Sally singularly. It was grave and + subdued, yet sweet in its tones as never before; he had not yet descended + from the solemn exaltation of his recent mood. But the dusk sheltered his + face, and its new brightness was visible only to Martha's eyes. + </p> + <p> + Mark and Sally again led the way, and the lovers followed in silence up + the hill, until they struck the Wilmington road, below Hallowell's. Here + Gilbert felt that it was best to leave them. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you two are cheerful company!” exclaimed Sally, as they checked + their horses. “Martha, how many words has Gilbert spoken to you this + evening?” + </p> + <p> + “As many as I have spoken to him,” Martha answered; “but I will say three + more,—Good-night, Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + “Good-night!” was all he dared say, in return, but the pressure of his + hand burned long upon her fingers. + </p> + <p> + He rode homewards in the starlight, transformed by love and gratitude, + proud, tender, strong to encounter any fate. His mother sat in the lonely + kitchen, with the New Testament in her lap; she had tried to read, but her + thoughts wandered from the consoling text. The table was but half-cleared, + and the little old teapot still squatted beside the coals. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert strove hard to assume his ordinary manner, but he could not hide + the radiant happiness that shone from his eyes and sat upon his lips. + </p> + <p> + “You've not had supper?” Mary Potter asked. + </p> + <p> + “No, mother! but I'm sorry you kept things waiting; I can do well enough + without.” + </p> + <p> + “It's not right to go without your regular meals, Gilbert. Sit up to the + table!” + </p> + <p> + She poured out the tea, and Gilbert ate and drank in silence. His mother + said nothing, but he knew that her eye was upon him, and that he was the + subject of her thoughts. Once or twice he detected a wistful, questioning + expression, which, in his softened mood, touched him almost like a + reproach. + </p> + <p> + When the table had been cleared and everything put away, she resumed her + seat, breathing an unconscious sigh as she dropped her hands into her lap. + Gilbert felt that he must now speak, and only hesitated while he + considered how he could best do so, without touching her secret and + mysterious trouble. + </p> + <p> + “Mother!” he said at last, “I have something to tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, Gilbert?” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe it'll seem good news to you; but maybe not. I have asked Martha + Deane to be my wife!” + </p> + <p> + He paused, and looked at her. She clasped her hands, leaned forward, and + fixed her dark, mournful eyes intently upon his face. + </p> + <p> + “I have been drawn towards her for a long time,” Gilbert continued. “It + has been a great trouble to me, because she is so pretty, and withal so + proud in the way a girl should be,—I liked her pride, even while it + made me afraid,—and they say she is rich also. It might seem like + looking too high, mother, but I couldn't help it.” + </p> + <p> + “There's no woman too high for you, Gilbert!” Mary Potter exclaimed. Then + she went on, in a hurried, unsteady voice: “It isn't that—I + mistrusted it would come so, some day, but I hoped—only for your + good, my boy, only for that—I hoped not so soon. You're still young—not + twenty-five, and there's debt on the farm;—couldn't you ha' waited a + little, Gilbert?” + </p> + <p> + “I have waited, mother,” he said, slightly turning away his head, that he + might not see the tender reproach in her face, which her question seemed + to imply. “I <i>did</i> wait—and for that reason. I wanted first to + be independent, at least; and I doubt that I would have spoken so soon, + but there were others after Martha, and that put the thought of losing her + into my head. It seemed like a matter of life or death. Alfred Barton + tried to keep company with her—he didn't deny it to my face; the + people talked of it. Folks always say more than they know, to be sure, but + then, the chances were so much against <i>me,</i> mother! I was nigh + crazy, sometimes. I tried my best and bravest to be patient, but to-day we + were riding alone,—Mark and Sally gone ahead,—and—and + then it came from my mouth, I don't know how; I didn't expect it. But I + shouldn't have doubted Martha; she let me speak; she answered me—I + can't tell you her words, mother, though I'll never forget one single one + of 'em to my dying day. She gave me her hand and said she would be true to + me forever.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert waited, as if his mother might here speak, but she remained + silent. + </p> + <p> + “Do you understand, mother?” he continued. “She pledged herself to me—she + will be my wife. And I asked her—you won't be hurt, for I felt it to + be my duty—whether she knew how disgraced I was in the eyes of the + people,—whether my name would not be a shame for her to bear? She + couldn't know what we know: she took me even with the shame,—and she + looked prouder than ever when she stood by me in the thought of it! She + would despise me, now, if I should offer to give her up on account of it, + but she may know as much as I do, mother? She deserves it.” + </p> + <p> + There was no answer. Gilbert looked up. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter sat perfectly still in her high rocking-chair. Her arms hung + passively at her sides, and her head leaned back and was turned to one + side, as if she were utterly exhausted. But in the pale face, the closed + eyes, and the blue shade about the parted lips, he saw that she was + unconscious of his words. She had fainted. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. — TWO OLD MEN. + </h2> + <p> + Shortly after Martha Deane left home for her eventful ride to Falconer's, + the Doctor also mounted his horse and rode out of the village in the + opposite direction. Two days before, he had been summoned to bleed + “Old-man Barton,” on account of a troublesome buzzing in the head, and, + although not bidden to make a second professional visit, there was + sufficient occasion for him to call upon his patient in the capacity of a + neighbor. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane never made a step outside the usual routine of his business + without a special and carefully considered reason. Various causes combined + to inspire his movement in the present instance. The neighborhood was + healthy; the village was so nearly deserted that no curious observers + lounged upon the tavern-porch, or sat upon the horse-block at the + corner-store; and Mr. Alfred Barton had been seen riding towards Avondale. + There would have been safety in a much more unusual proceeding; this, + therefore, might be undertaken in that secure, easy frame of mind which + the Doctor both cultivated and recommended to the little world around him. + </p> + <p> + The Barton farm-house was not often molested by the presence of guests, + and he found it as quiet and lifeless as an uninhabited island of the sea. + Leaving his horse hitched in the shade of the corn-crib, he first came + upon Giles, stretched out under the holly-bush, and fast asleep, with his + head upon his jacket. The door and window of the family-room were open, + and Dr. Deane, walking softly upon the thick grass, saw that Old-man + Barton was in his accustomed seat. His daughter Ann was not visible; she + was at that moment occupied in taking out of the drawers of her queer old + bureau, in her narrow bedroom up-stairs, various bits of lace and ribbon, + done up in lavender, and perchance (for we must not be too curious) a + broken sixpence or a lock of dead hair. + </p> + <p> + The old man's back was towards the window, but the Doctor could hear that + papers were rustling and crackling in his trembling hands, and could see + that an old casket of very solid oak, bound with iron, stood on the table + at his elbow. Thereupon he stealthily retraced his steps to the gate, shut + it with a sharp snap, cleared his throat, and mounted the porch with slow, + loud, deliberate steps. When he reached the open door, he knocked upon the + jamb without looking into the room. There was a jerking, dragging sound + for a moment, and then the old man's snarl was heard: + </p> + <p> + “Who's there?” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane entered, smiling, and redolent of sweet-marjoram. “Well, Friend + Barton,” he said, “let's have a look at thee now!” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon he took a chair, placed it in front of the old man, and sat down + upon it, with his legs spread wide apart, and his ivory-headed cane (which + he also used as a riding-whip) bolt upright between them. He was very + careful not to seem to see that a short quilt, which the old man usually + wore over his knees, now lay in a somewhat angular heap upon the table. + </p> + <p> + “Better, I should say,—yes, decidedly better,” he remarked, nodding + his head gravely. “I had nothing to do this afternoon,—the + neighborhood is very healthy,—and thought I would ride down and see + how thee's getting on. Only a friendly visit, thee knows.” + </p> + <p> + The old man had laid one shaking arm and crooked hand upon the edge of the + quilt, while with the other he grasped his hickory staff. His face had a + strange, ashy color, through which the dark, corded veins on his temples + showed with singular distinctness. But his eye was unusually bright and + keen, and its cunning, suspicious expression did not escape the Doctor's + notice. + </p> + <p> + “A friendly visit—ay!” he growled—“not like Doctors' visits + generally, eh? Better?—of course I'm better. It's no harm to tap one + of a full-blooded breed. At our age, Doctor, a little blood goes a great + way.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt, no doubt!” the Doctor assented. “Especially in thy case. I + often speak of thy wonderful constitution.” + </p> + <p> + “Neighborly, you say, Doctor—only neighborly?” asked the old man. + The Doctor smiled, nodded, and seemed to exhale a more powerful herbaceous + odor. + </p> + <p> + “Mayhap, then, you'll take a bit of a dram?—a thimble-full won't + come amiss. You know the shelf where it's kep'—reach to, and help + yourself, and then help me to a drop.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane rose and took down the square black bottle and the diminutive + wine-glass beside it. Half-filling the latter,—a thimble-full in + verity,—he drank it in two or three delicate little sips, puckering + his large under-lip to receive them. + </p> + <p> + “It's right to have the best, Friend Barton,” he said, “there's more life + in it!” as he filled the glass to the brim and held it to the slit in the + old man's face. + </p> + <p> + The latter eagerly drew off the top fulness, and then seized the glass in + his shaky hand. “Can help myself,” he croaked—“don't need waitin' + on; not so bad as that!” + </p> + <p> + His color presently grew, and his neck assumed a partial steadiness. “What + news, what news?” he asked. “You gather up a plenty in your goin's-around. + It's little I get, except the bones, after they've been gnawed over by the + whole neighborhood.” + </p> + <p> + “There is not much now, I believe,” Dr. Deane observed. + </p> + <p> + “Jacob and Leah Gilpin have another boy, but thee hardly knows them, I + think. William Byerly died last week in Birmingham; thee's heard of him,—he + had a wonderful gift of preaching. They say Maryland cattle will be cheap, + this fall: does Alfred intend to fatten many? I saw him riding towards + New-Garden.” + </p> + <p> + “I guess he will,” the old man answered,—“must make somethin' out o' + the farm. That pastur'-bottom ought to bring more than it does.” + </p> + <p> + “Alfred doesn't look to want for much,” the Doctor continued. “It's a fine + farm he has.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Me</i>, I say!” old Barton exclaimed, bringing down the end of his + stick upon the floor. “The farm's mine!” + </p> + <p> + “But it's the same thing, isn't it?” asked Dr. Deane, in his cheeriest + voice and with his pleasantest smile. + </p> + <p> + The old man looked at him for a moment, gave an incoherent grunt, the + meaning of which the Doctor found it impossible to decipher, and + presently, with a cunning leer, said.— + </p> + <p> + “Is all your property the same thing as your daughter's?” + </p> + <p> + “Well—well,” replied the Doctor, softly rubbing his hands, “I should + hope so—yes, I should hope so.” + </p> + <p> + “Besides what she has in her own right?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, thee knows that will be hers without my disposal. What I should do + for her would be apart from that. I am not likely, at my time of life, to + marry again—but we are led by the Spirit, thee knows; we cannot say, + I will do thus and so, and these and such things shall happen, and those + and such other shall not.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that's my rule, too, Doctor,” said the old man, after a pause, during + which he had intently watched his visitor, from under his wrinkled + eyelids. + </p> + <p> + “I thought,” the Doctor resumed, “thee was pretty safe against another + marriage, at any rate, and thee had perhaps made up thy mind about + providing for thy children. + </p> + <p> + “It's better for us old men to have our houses set in order, that we may + spare ourselves worry and anxiety of mind. Elisha is already established + in his own independence, and I suppose Ann will give thee no particular + trouble; but if Alfred, now, should take a notion to marry, he couldn't, + thee sees, be expected to commit himself without having some idea of what + thee intends to do for him.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane, having at last taken up his position and uncovered his front of + attack, waited for the next movement of his adversary. He was even aware + of a slight professional curiosity to know how far the old man's keen, + shrewd, wary faculties had survived the wreck of his body. + </p> + <p> + The latter nodded his head, and pressed the top of his hickory stick + against his gums several times, before he answered. He enjoyed the + encounter, though not so sure of its issue as he would have been ten years + earlier. + </p> + <p> + “I'd do the fair thing, Doctor!” he finally exclaimed; “whatever it might + be, it'd be fair. Come, isn't that enough?” + </p> + <p> + “In a general sense, it is. But we are talking now as neighbors. We are + both old men, Friend Barton, and I think we know how to keep our own + counsel. Let us suppose a case—just to illustrate the matter, thee + understands. Let us say that Friend Paxson—a widower, thee knows—had + a daughter Mary, who had—well, a nice little penny in her own right,—and + that thy son Alfred desired her in marriage. Friend Paxson, as a prudent + father, knowing his daughter's portion, both what it is and what it will + be,—he would naturally wish, in Mary's interest, to know that Alfred + would not be dependent on her means, but that the children they might have + would inherit equally from both. Now, it strikes me that Friend Paxson + would only be right in asking thee what thee would do for thy son—nay, + that, to be safe, he would want to see some evidence that would hold in + law. Things are so uncertain, and a wise man guardeth his own household.” + </p> + <p> + The old man laughed until his watery eyes twinkled. “Friend Paxson is a + mighty close and cautious one to deal with,” he said. “Mayhap he'd like to + manage to have me bound, and himself go free?” + </p> + <p> + “Thee's mistaken, indeed!” Dr. Deane protested. “He's not that kind of a + man. He only means to do what's right, and to ask the same security from + thee, which thee—I'm sure of it, Friend Barton!—would expect + <i>him</i> to furnish.” + </p> + <p> + The old man began to find this illustration uncomfortable; it was + altogether one-sided. Dr. Deane could shelter himself behind Friend Paxson + and the imaginary daughter, but the applications came personally home to + him. His old patience had been weakened by his isolation from the world, + and his habits of arbitrary rule. He knew, moreover, the probable amount + of Martha's fortune, and could make a shrewd guess at the Doctor's + circumstances; but if the settlements were to be equal, each must give his + share its highest valuation in order to secure more from the other. It was + a difficult game, because these men viewed it in the light of a business + transaction, and each considered that any advantage over the other would + be equivalent to a pecuniary gain on his own part. + </p> + <p> + “No use beatin' about the bush, Doctor,” the old man suddenly said. “You + don't care for Paxson's daughter, that never was; why not put your Martha + in her place. She has a good penny, I hear—five thousand, some say.” + </p> + <p> + “Ten, every cent of it!” exclaimed Dr. Deane, very nearly thrown off his + guard. “That is, she will have it, at twenty-five; and sooner, if she + marries with my consent. But why does thee wish particularly to speak of + her?” + </p> + <p> + “For the same reason you talk about Alfred. He hasn't been about your + house lately, I s'pose, hey?” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor smiled, dropping his eyelids in a very sagacious way. “He <i>does</i> + seem drawn a little our way, I must confess to thee,” he said, “but we + can't always tell how much is meant. Perhaps thee knows his mind better + than I do?” + </p> + <p> + “Mayhap I do—know what it will be, if <i>I</i> choose! But I don't + begrudge sayin' that he likes your girl, and I shouldn't wonder if he'd + showed it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then thee sees, Friend Barton,” Dr. Deane continued, “that the case is + precisely like the one I supposed; and what I would consider right for + Friend Paxson, would even be right for myself. I've no doubt thee could do + more for Alfred than I can do for Martha, and without wrong to thy other + children,—Elisha, as I said, being independent, and Ann not + requiring a great deal,—and the two properties joined together would + be a credit to us, and to the neighborhood. Only, thee knows, there must + be some legal assurance beforehand. There is nothing certain,—even + thy mind is liable to change,—ah, the mind of man is an unstable + thing!” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor delivered these words in his most impressive manner, uplifting + both eyes and hands. + </p> + <p> + The old man, however, seemed to pay but little attention to it. Turning + his head on one side, he said, in a quick, sharp voice: “Time enough for + that when we come to it How's the girl inclined? Is the money hers, + anyhow, at twenty-five,—how old now? Sure to be a couple, hey?—settle + that first!” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane crossed his legs carefully, so as not to crease the cloth too + much, laid his cane upon them, and leaned back a little in his chair. “Of + course I've not spoken to Martha,” he presently said; “I can only say that + she hasn't set her mind upon anybody else, and that is the main thing. She + has followed my will in all, except as to joining the Friends, and there I + felt that I couldn't rightly command, where the Spirit had not spoken. + Yes, the money will be hers at twenty-five,—she is twenty-one now,—but + I hardly think it necessary to take that into consideration. If thee can + answer for Alfred, I think I can answer for her.” + </p> + <p> + “The boy's close about <i>his</i> money,” broke in the old man, with a + sly, husky chuckle. “What he has, Doctor, you understand, goes toward + balancin' what she has, afore you come onto me, at all. Yes, yes, I know + what I'm about. A good deal, off and on, has been got out o' this farm, + and it hasn't all gone into <i>my</i> pockets. I've a trifle put out, but + you can't expect me to strip myself naked, in my old days. But I'll do + what's fair—I'll do what's fair!” + </p> + <p> + “There's only this,” the Doctor added, meditatively, “and I want thee to + understand, since we've, somehow or other, come to mention the matter, + that we'd better have another talk, after we've had more time to think of + it. Thee can make up thy mind, and let me know <i>about</i> what thee'll + do; and I the same. Thee <i>has</i> a starting-point on my side, knowing + the amount of Martha's fortune—<i>that</i>, of course, thee must + come up to first, and then we'll see about the rest!” + </p> + <p> + Old-man Barton felt that he was here brought up to the rack. He recognized + Dr. Deane's advantage, and could only evade it by accepting his + proposition for delay. True, he had already gone over the subject, in his + lonely, restless broodings beside the window, but this encounter had + freshened and resuscitated many points. He knew that the business would be + finally arranged, but nothing would have induced him to hasten it. There + was a great luxury in this preliminary skirmishing. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well!” said he, “we needn't hurry. You're right there, Doctor. I + s'pose you won't do anything to keep the young ones apart?” + </p> + <p> + “I think I've shown my own wishes very plainly, Friend Barton. It is + necessary that Alfred should speak for himself, though, and after all + we've said, perhaps it might be well if thee should give him a hint. Thee + must remember that he has never yet mentioned the subject to me.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane thereupon arose, smoothed his garments, and shook out, not only + sweet marjoram, but lavender, cloves, and calamus. His broad-brimmed drab + hat had never left his head during the interview. There were steps on the + creaking floor overhead, and the Doctor perceived that the private + conference must now close. It was nearly a drawn game, so far; but the + chance of advantage was on his side. + </p> + <p> + “Suppose I look at thy arm,—in a neighborly way, of course,” he + said, approaching the old man's chair. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind—took the bean off this mornin'—old blood, you + know, but lively yet. Gad, Doctor! I've not felt so brisk for a year.” His + eyes twinkled so, under their puffy lids, the flabby folds in which his + mouth terminated worked so curiously,—like those of a bellows, where + they run together towards the nozzle,—and the two movable fingers on + each hand opened and shut with such a menacing, clutching motion, that for + one moment the Doctor felt a chill, uncanny creep run over his nerves. + </p> + <p> + “Brandy!” the old man commanded. “I've not talked so much at once't for + months. You might take a little more, maybe. No? well, you hardly need it. + Good brandy's powerful dear, these times.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane had too much tact to accept the grudging invitation. After the + old man had drunk, he carefully replaced the bottle and glass on their + accustomed shelf, and disposed himself to leave. On the whole, he was well + satisfied with the afternoon's work, not doubting but that he had acted + the part of a tender and most considerate parent towards his daughter. + </p> + <p> + Before they met, she also had disposed of her future, but in a very + different way. + </p> + <p> + Miss Ann descended the stairs in time to greet the Doctor before his + departure. She would have gladly retained him to tea, as a little relief + to the loneliness and weariness of the day; but she never dared to give an + invitation except when it seconded her father's, which, in the present + case, was wanting. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. — DOUBTS AND SURMISES. + </h2> + <p> + Gilbert's voice, sharpened by his sudden and mortal fear, recalled Mary + Potter to consciousness. After she had drunk of the cup of water which he + brought, she looked slowly and wearily around the kitchen, as if some + instinct taught her to fix her thoughts on the signs and appliances of her + every-day life, rather than allow them to return to the pang which had + overpowered her. Little by little she recovered her calmness and a portion + of her strength, and at last, noticing her son's anxious face, she spoke. + </p> + <p> + “I have frightened you, Gilbert; but there is no occasion for it. I wasn't + rightly prepared for what you had to say—and—and—but, + please, don't let us talk any more about it to-night. Give me a little + time to think—if I <i>can</i> think. I'm afraid it's but a sad home + I'm making for you, and sure it's a sad load I've put upon you, my poor + boy! But oh, try, Gilbert, try to be patient a little while longer,—it + can't be for long,—for I begin to see now that I've worked out my + fault, and that the Lord in Heaven owes me justice!” + </p> + <p> + She clenched her hands wildly, and rose to her feet. Her steps tottered, + and he sprang to her support. + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” he said, “let me help you to your room. I'll not speak of this + again; I wouldn't have spoken to-night, if I had mistrusted that it could + give you trouble. Have no fear that I can ever be impatient again; + patience is easy to me now!” + </p> + <p> + He spoke kindly and cheerfully, registering a vow in his heart that his + lips should henceforth be closed upon the painful theme, until his + mother's release (whatever it was and whenever it might come) should open + them. + </p> + <p> + But competent as he felt in that moment to bear the delay cheerfully, and + determined as he was to cast no additional weight on his mother's heart, + it was not so easy to compose his thoughts, as he lay in the dusky, + starlit bedroom up-stairs. The events of the day, and their recent + consequences, had moved his strong nature to its very foundations. A chaos + of joy, wonder, doubt, and dread surged through him. Over and over he + recalled the sweet pressure of Martha Deane's lip, the warm curve of her + bosom, the dainty, delicate firmness of her hand. Was this—could + this possession really be his? In his mother's mysterious secret there lay + an element of terror. He could not guess why the revelation of his + fortunate love should agitate her so fearfully, unless—and the + suspicion gave him a shock—her history were in some way involved + with that of Martha Deane. + </p> + <p> + This thought haunted and perplexed him, continually returning to disturb + the memory of those holy moments in the twilight dell, and to ruffle the + bright current of joy which seemed to gather up and sweep away with it all + the forces of his life. Any fate but to lose her, he said to himself; let + the shadow fall anywhere, except between them! There would be other + troubles, he foresaw,—the opposition of her father; the rage and + hostility of Alfred Barton; possibly, when the story became known (as it + must be in the end), the ill-will or aversion of the neighborhood. Against + all these definite and positive evils, he felt strong and tolerably + courageous, but the Something which evidently menaced him through his + mother made him shrink with a sense of cowardice. + </p> + <p> + Hand in hand with this dread he went into the world of sleep. He stood + upon the summit of the hill behind Falconer's farm-house, and saw Martha + beckoning to him from the hill on the other side of the valley. They + stretched and clasped hands through the intervening space; the hills sank + away, and they found themselves suddenly below, on the banks of the creek. + He threw his arms around her, but she drew back, and then he saw that it + was Betsy Lavender, who said: “I am your father—did you never guess + it before?” Down the road came Dr. Deane and his mother, walking arm in + arm; their eyes were fixed on him, but they did not speak. Then he heard + Martha's voice, saying: “Gilbert, why did you tell Alfred Barton? Nobody + must know that I am engaged to both of you.” Betsy Lavender said: “He can + only marry with my consent—Mary Potter has nothing to do with it.” + Martha then came towards him smiling, and said: “I will not send back your + saddle-girth—see, I am wearing it as a belt!” He took hold of the + buckle and drew her nearer; she began to weep, and they were suddenly + standing side by side, in a dark room, before his dead mother, in her + coffin. + </p> + <p> + This dream, absurd and incoherent as it was, made a strange impression + upon Gilbert's mind. He was not superstitious, but in spite of himself the + idea became rooted in his thoughts that the truth of his own parentage + affected, in some way, some member of the Deane family. He taxed his + memory in vain for words or incidents which might help him to solve this + doubt. Something told him that his obligation to his mother involved the + understanding that he would not even attempt to discover her secret; but + he could not prevent his thoughts from wandering around it, and making + blind guesses as to the vulnerable point. + </p> + <p> + Among these guesses came one which caused him to shudder; he called it + impossible, incredible, and resolutely barred it from his mind. But with + all his resolution, it only seemed to wait at a little distance, as if + constantly seeking an opportunity to return. What if Dr. Deane were his + own father? In that case Martha would be his half-sister, and the stain of + illegitimacy would rest on her, not on him! There was ruin and despair in + the supposition; but, on the other hand, he asked himself why should the + fact of his love throw his mother into a swoon? Among the healthy, + strong-nerved people of Kennett such a thing as a swoon was of the rarest + occurrence, and it suggested some terrible cause to Gilbert's mind. It was + sometimes hard for him to preserve his predetermined patient, cheerful + demeanor in his mother's presence, but he tried bravely, and succeeded. + </p> + <p> + Although the harvest was well over, there was still much work to do on the + farm, in order that the month of October might be appropriated to hauling,—the + last time, Gilbert hoped, that he should be obliged to resort to this + source of profit. Though the price of grain was sure to decline, on + account of the extraordinary harvest, the quantity would make up for this + deficiency. So far, his estimates had been verified. A good portion of the + money was already on hand, and his coveted freedom from debt in the + following spring became now tolerably secure. His course, in this respect, + was in strict accordance with the cautious, plodding, conscientious habits + of the community in which he lived. They were satisfied to advance + steadily and slowly, never establishing a new mark until the old one had + been reached. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was impatient to see Martha again, not so much for the delight of + love, as from a sense of the duty which he owed to her. His mother had not + answered his question,—possibly not even heard it,—and he did + not dare to approach her with it again. But so much as he knew might be + revealed to the wife of his heart; of that he was sure. If she could but + share his confidence in his mother's words, and be equally patient to + await the solution, it would give their relation a new sweetness, an added + sanctity and trust. + </p> + <p> + He made an errand to Fairthorn's at the close of the week, hoping that + chance might befriend him, but almost determined, in any case, to force an + interview. The dread he had trampled down still hung around him, and it + seemed that Martha's presence might dissipate it. Something, at least, he + might learn concerning Dr. Deane's family, and here his thoughts at once + reverted to Miss Betsy Lavender. In her he had the true friend, the close + mouth, the brain crammed with family intelligence! + </p> + <p> + The Fairthorns were glad to see their “boy,” as the old woman still called + him. Joe and Jake threw their brown legs over the barn-yard fence and + clamored for a ride upon Roger. “Only along the level, t'other side o' the + big hill, Gilbert!” said Joe, whereupon the two boys punched each other in + the sides and nearly smothered with wicked laughter. Gilbert understood + them; he shook his head, and said: “You rascals, I think I see you doing + that again!” But he turned away his face, to conceal a smile at the + recollection. + </p> + <p> + It was, truly, a wicked trick. The boys had been in the habit of taking + the farm-horses out of the field and riding them up and down the + Unionville road. It was their habit, as soon as they had climbed “the big + hill,” to use stick and voice with great energy, force the animals into a + gallop, and so dash along the level. Very soon, the horses knew what was + expected of them, and whenever they came abreast of the great + chestnut-tree on the top of the hill, they would start off as if + possessed. If any business called Farmer Fairthorn to the Street Road, or + up Marlborough way, Joe and Jake, dancing with delight, would dart around + the barn, gain the wooded hollow, climb the big hill behind the lime-kiln, + and hide themselves under the hedge, at the commencement of the level + road. Here they could watch their father, as his benign, unsuspecting face + came in sight, mounting the hill, either upon the gray mare, Bonnie, or + the brown gelding, Peter. As the horse neared the chestnut-tree, they + fairly shook with eager expectancy—then came the start, the + astonishment of the old man, his frantic “Whoa, there, whoa!” his hat + soaring off on the wind, his short, stout body bouncing in the saddle, as, + half-unseated, he clung with one hand to the mane and the other to the + bridle!—while the wicked boys, after breathlessly watching him out + of sight, rolled over and over on the grass, shrieking and yelling in a + perfect luxury of fun. + </p> + <p> + Then they knew that a test would come, and prepared themselves to meet it. + When, at dinner, Farmer Fairthorn turned to his wife and said: “Mammy,” + (so he always addressed her) “I don't know what's the matter with Bonnie; + why, she came nigh runnin' off with me!”—Joe, being the oldest and + boldest, would look up in well-affected surprise, and ask, “Why, how, + Daddy?” while Jake would bend down his head and whimper,—“Somethin' + 's got into my eye.” Yet the boys were very good-hearted fellows, at + bottom, and we are sorry that we must chronicle so many things to their + discredit. + </p> + <p> + Sally Fairthorn met Gilbert in her usual impetuous way. She was glad to + see him, but she could not help saying: “Well, have you got your tongue + yet, Gilbert? Why, you're growing to be as queer as Dick's hat-band! I + don't know any more where to find you, or how to place you; whatever is + the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, Sally,” he answered, with something of his old playfulness, + “nothing except that the pears were very good. How's Mark?” + </p> + <p> + “Mark!” she exclaimed with a very well assumed sneer. “As if I kept an + account of Mark's comings and goings!” But she could not prevent an extra + color from rising into her face. + </p> + <p> + “I wish you did, Sally,” Gilbert gravely remarked. “Mark is a fine fellow, + and one of my best friends, and he'd be all the better, if a smart, + sensible girl like yourself would care a little for him.” + </p> + <p> + There was no answer to this, and Sally, with a hasty “I'll tell mother + you're here!” darted into the house. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was careful not to ask many questions during his visit; but + Sally's rattling tongue supplied him with all he would have been likely to + learn, in any case. She had found Martha at home the day before, and had + talked about him, Gilbert. Martha hadn't noticed anything “queer” in his + manner, whereupon she, Sally, had said that Martha was growing “queer” + too; then Martha remarked that—but here Sally found that she had + been talking altogether too fast, so she bit her tongue and blushed a + little. The most important piece of news, however, was that Miss Lavender + was then staying at Dr. Deane's. + </p> + <p> + On his way to the village, Gilbert chose the readiest and simplest way of + accomplishing his purpose. He would call on Betsy Lavender, and ask her to + arrange her time so that she could visit his mother during his approaching + absence from home. Leaving his horse at the hitching-post in front of the + store, he walked boldly across the road and knocked at Dr. Deane's door. + </p> + <p> + The Doctor was absent. Martha and Miss Lavender were in the sitting-room, + and a keen, sweet throb in his blood responded to the voice that bade him + enter. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert Potter, I'll be snaked!” exclaimed Miss Lavender, jumping up with + a start that overturned her footstool. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Gilbert!” and “Well, Martha!” were the only words the lovers + exchanged, on meeting, but their hands were quick to clasp and loath to + loose. Martha Deane was too clear-headed to be often surprised by an + impulse of the heart, but when the latter experience came to her, she + never thought of doubting its justness. She had not been fully, vitally + aware of her love for Gilbert until the day when he declared it, and now, + in memory, the two circumstances seemed to make but one fact. The warmth, + the beauty, the spiritual expansion which accompany love had since then + dawned upon her nature in their true significance. Proudly and cautiously + as she would have guarded her secret from an intrusive eye, just as frank, + tender, and brave was she to reveal every emotion of her heart to her + lover. She was thoroughly penetrated with the conviction of his truth, of + the integral nobility of his manhood; and these, she felt, were the + qualities her heart had unconsciously craved. Her mind was made up + inflexibly; it rejoiced in his companionship, it trusted in his fidelity, + and if she considered conventional difficulties, it was only to estimate + how they could most speedily be overthrown. Martha Deane was in advance of + her age,—or, at least, of the community in which she lived. + </p> + <p> + They could only exchange common-places, of course, in Miss Lavender's + presence; and perhaps they were not aware of the gentle, affectionate way + in which they spoke of the weather and similar topics. Miss Lavender was; + her eyes opened widely, then nearly closed with an expression of + superhuman wisdom; she looked out of the window and nodded to the + lilac-bush, then exclaiming in desperate awkwardness: “Goodness me, I must + have a bit o' sage!” made for the garden, with long strides. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was too innocent to suspect the artifice—not so Martha. But + while she would have foiled the inference of any other woman, she accepted + Betsy's without the least embarrassment, and took Gilbert's hand again in + her own before the door had fairly closed. + </p> + <p> + “O Martha!” he cried, “if I could but see you oftener—but for a + minute, every day! But there—I won't be impatient. I've thought of + you ever since, and I ask myself, the first thing when I wake, morning + after morning, is it really true?” + </p> + <p> + “And I say to myself, every morning, it <i>is</i> true,” she answered. Her + lovely blue eyes smiled upon him with a blissful consent, so gentle and so + perfect, that he would fain have stood thus and spoken no word more. + </p> + <p> + “Martha,” he said, returning to the thought of his duty, “I have something + to say. You can hear it now. My mother declares that I am her lawful son, + born in wedlock—she gave me her solemn word—but more than that + she will not allow me to ask, saying she's bound for a time, and + something, I don't know what, must happen before she can set herself right + in the eyes of the world. I believe her, Martha, and I want that you + should believe her, for her sake and for mine. I can't make things clear + to you, now, because they're not clear to myself; only, what she has + declared is and must be true! I am not base-born, and it'll be made + manifest, I'm sure; the Lord will open her mouth in his own good time—and + until then, we must wait! Will you wait with me?” + </p> + <p> + He spoke earnestly and hurriedly, and his communication was so unexpected + that she scarcely comprehended its full import. But for his sake, she + dared not hesitate to answer. + </p> + <p> + “Can you ask it, Gilbert? Whatever your mother declares to you, must be + true; yet I scarcely understand it.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor can I! I've wearied my brains, trying to guess why she can't speak, + and what it is that'll give her the liberty at last. I daren't ask her + more—she fainted dead away, the last time.” + </p> + <p> + “Strange things sometimes happen in this world,” said Martha, with a grave + tenderness, laying her hand upon his arm, “and this seems to be one of the + strangest. I am glad you have told me, Gilbert,—it will make so much + difference to you!” + </p> + <p> + “So it don't take you from me, Martha,” he groaned, in a return of his + terrible dread. + </p> + <p> + “Only Death can do that—and then but for a little while.” + </p> + <p> + Here Miss Betsy Lavender made her appearance, but without the sage. + </p> + <p> + “How far a body can see, Martha,” she exclaimed, “since the big gum-tree's + been cut down. It lays open the sight o' the road across the creek, and I + seen your father ridin' down the hill, as plain as could be!” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy,” said Gilbert, “I wanted to ask you about coming down our way.” + </p> + <p> + “Our way. Did you? I see your horse hitched over at the store. I've an + arrand,—sewin'-thread and pearl buttons,—and so I'll git my + bonnet and you can tell me on the way.” + </p> + <p> + The lovers said farewell, and Betsy Lavender accompanied Gilbert, + proposing to walk a little way with him and get the articles on her + return. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert Potter,” she said, when they were out of sight and ear-shot of + the village, “I want you to know that I've got eyes in my head. <i>I</i>'m + a safe body, as you can see, though it mayn't seem the proper thing in me + to say it, but all other folks isn't, so look out!” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy!” he exclaimed, “you seem to know everything about everybody—at + least, you know what I am, perhaps better than I do myself; now suppose I + grant you're right, what do you think of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Think of it? Go 'long!—you know what you want me to say, that there + never was such a pair o' lovyers under the firmament! Let my deeds prove + what I think, say I—for here's a case where deeds is wanted!” + </p> + <p> + “You can help me, Betsy—you can help me now! Do you know—can + you guess—who was my father?” + </p> + <p> + “Good Lord!” was her surprised exclamation—“No, I don't, and that's + the fact.” + </p> + <p> + “Who was Martha Deane's mother?” + </p> + <p> + “A Blake—Naomi, one o' the Birmingham Blakes, and a nice woman she + was, too. I was at her weddin', and I helped nuss her when Martha was + born.” “Had Dr. Deane been married before?” + </p> + <p> + “Married before? Well—no!” Here Miss Betsy seemed to be suddenly put + upon her guard. “Not to that extent, I should say. However, it's neither + here nor there. Good lack, boy!” she cried, noticing a deadly paleness on + Gilbert's face—“a-h-h-h, I begin to understand now. Look here, + Gilbert! Git that nonsense out o' y'r head, jist as soon as <i>you</i> + can. There's enough o' trouble ahead, without borrowin' any more out o' + y'r wanderin' wits. I don't deny but what I was holdin' back somethin', + but it's another thing as ever was. I'll speak <i>you</i> clear o' your + misdoubtin's, if that's y'r present bother. You don't feel quite as much + like a live corpse, now, I reckon, hey?” + </p> + <p> + “O, Betsy!” he said, “if you knew how I have been perplexed, you wouldn't + wonder at my fancies!” + </p> + <p> + “I can fancy all that, my boy,” she gently answered, “and I'll tell you + another thing, Gilbert—your mother has a heavy secret on her mind, + and I rather guess it concerns your father. No—don't look so + eager-like—I don't know it. All I do know is that you were born in + Phildelphy.” + </p> + <p> + “In Philadelphia! I never heard that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well—it's neither here nor there. I've had my hands too full to spy + out other people's affairs, but many a thing has come to me in a nateral + way, or half-unbeknown. You can't do better than leave all sich wild + guesses and misdoubtin's to me, that's better able to handle 'em. Not that + I'm a-goin' to preach and declare anything until I know the rights of it, + whatever and wherever. Well, as I was sayin'—for there's Beulah + Green comin' up the road, and you must git your usual face onto you, + though Goodness knows, mine's so crooked, I've often said nothin' short o' + Death'll ever make much change in it—but never mind, I'll go down a + few days to your mother, when you're off, though I don't promise to do + much, except, maybe, cheer her up a bit; but we'll see, and so remember me + to her, and good-bye!” + </p> + <p> + With these words and a sharp, bony wring of his hand. Bliss Betsy strode + rapidly back to the village. It did not escape Gilbert's eye that, + strongly as she had pronounced against his secret fear, the detection of + it had agitated her. She had spoken hurriedly, and hastened away as if + desiring to avoid further questions. He could not banish the suspicion + that she knew something which might affect his fortune; but she had not + forbidden his love for Martha—she had promised to help him, and that + was a great consolation. His cheerfulness, thenceforth, was not assumed, + and he rejoiced to see a very faint, shadowy reflection of it, at times, + in his mother's face. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. — ALFRED BARTON BETWEEN TWO FIRES. + </h2> + <p> + For some days after Dr. Deane's visit, Old-man Barton was a continual + source of astonishment to his son Alfred and his daughter Ann. The signs + of gradual decay which one of them, at least, had watched with the keenest + interest, had suddenly disappeared; he was brighter, sharper, more + talkative than at any time within the previous five years. The almost + worn-out machinery of his life seemed to have been mysteriously repaired, + whether by Dr. Deane's tinkering, or by one of those freaks of Nature + which sometimes bring new teeth and hair to an aged head, neither the son + nor the daughter could guess. To the former this awakened activity of the + old man's brain was not a little annoying. He had been obliged to renew + his note for the money borrowed to replace that which had been transferred + to Sandy Flash, and in the mean time was concocting an ingenious device by + which the loss should not entirely fall on his own half-share of the + farm-profits. He could not have endured his father's tyranny without the + delight of the cautious and wary revenges of this kind which he sometimes + allowed himself to take. Another circumstance, which gave him great + uneasiness, was this: the old man endeavored in various ways, both direct + and indirect, to obtain knowledge of the small investments which he had + made from time to time. The most of these had been, through the agency of + the old lawyer at Chester, consolidated into a first-class mortgage; but + it was Alfred's interest to keep his father in ignorance of the other + sums, not because of their importance, but because of their + insignificance. He knew that the old man's declaration was true,—“The + more you have, the more you'll get!” + </p> + <p> + The following Sunday, as he was shaving himself at the back + kitchen-window,—Ann being up-stairs, at her threadbare toilet,—Old + Barton, who had been silent during breakfast, suddenly addressed him: + </p> + <p> + “Well, boy, how stands the matter now?” + </p> + <p> + The son knew very well what was meant, but he thought it best to ask, with + an air of indifference,— + </p> + <p> + “What matter, Daddy?” + </p> + <p> + “What matter, eh? The colt's lame leg, or the farrow o' the big sow? Gad, + boy! don't you ever think about the gal, except when I put it into your + head?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that!” exclaimed Alfred, with a smirk of well-assumed satisfaction—“that, + indeed! Well, I think I may say, Daddy, that all's right in that quarter.” + </p> + <p> + “Spoken to her yet?” + </p> + <p> + “N-no, not right out, that is; but since other folks have found out what + I'm after, I guess it's plain enough to her. And a good sign is, that she + plays a little shy.” + </p> + <p> + “Shouldn't wonder,” growled the old man. “Seems to me <i>you</i> play a + little shy, too. Have to take it in my own hands, if it ever comes to + anything.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it isn't at all necessary; I can do my own courting,” Alfred replied, + as he wiped his razor and laid it away. + </p> + <p> + “Do it, then, boy, in short order! You're too old to stand in need o' much + billin' and cooin'—but the gal's rayther young, and may expect it—and + I s'pose it's the way. But I'd sooner you'd step up to the Doctor, bein' + as I can only take him when he comes here to me loaded and primed. He's + mighty cute and sharp, but if you've got any gumption, we'll be even with + him.” + </p> + <p> + Alfred turned around quickly and looked at his father. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, boy, I've had one bout with him, last Sunday, and there's more to + come.” + </p> + <p> + “What was it?” + </p> + <p> + “Set yourself down on that cheer, and keep your head straight a bit, so + that what goes into one ear, don't fly out at the t'other.” + </p> + <p> + While Alfred, with a singular expression of curiosity and distrust, obeyed + this command, the old man deliberated, for the last time, on the peculiar + tactics to be adopted, so that his son should be made an ally, as against + Dr. Deane, and yet be prevented from becoming a second foe, as against his + own property. For it was very evident that while it was the father's + interest to exaggerate the son's presumed wealth, it was the latter's + interest to underrate it. Thus a third element came into play, making this + a triangular game of avarice. If Alfred could have understood his true + position, he would have been more courageous; but his father had him at a + decided advantage. + </p> + <p> + “Hark ye, boy!” said he, “I've waited e'en about long enough, and it's + time this thing was either a hit or a flash in the pan. The Doctor's ready + for 't; for all his cunnin' he couldn't help lettin' me see that; but he + tries to cover both pockets with one hand while he stretches out the + t'other. The gal's money's safe, ten thousand of it, and we've agreed that + it'll be share and share; only, your'n bein' more than her'n, why, of + course he must make up the difference.” + </p> + <p> + The son was far from being as shrewd as the father, or he would have + instantly chosen the proper tack; but he was like a vessel caught in + stays, and experienced considerable internal pitching and jostling. In one + sense it was a relief that the old man supposed him to be worth much more + than was actually the case, but long experience hinted that a favorable + assumption of this kind often led to a damaging result. So with a wink and + grin, the miserable hypocrisy of which was evident to his own mind, he + said: + </p> + <p> + “Of course he must make up the difference, and more too! I know what's + fair and square.” + </p> + <p> + “Shut your mouth, boy, till I give you leave to open it. Do you hear?—the + gal's ten thousand dollars must be put ag'inst the ten thousand you've + saved off the profits o' the farm; then, the rest you've made bein' + properly accounted for, he must come down with the same amount. Then, you + must find out to a hair what he's worth of his own—not that it + concerns you, but <i>I</i> must know. What you've got to do is about as + much as you've wits for. Now, open your mouth!” + </p> + <p> + “Ten thousand!” exclaimed Alfred, beginning to comprehend the matter more + clearly; “why, it's hardly quite ten thousand altogether, let alone + anything over!” + </p> + <p> + “No lies, no lies! I've got it all in my head, if you haven't. Twenty + years on shares—first year, one hundred and thirty-seven dollars—that + was the year the big flood swep' off half the corn on the bottom; second + year, two hundred and fifteen, with interest on the first, say six on a + hundred, allowin' the thirty-seven for your squanderin's, two hundred and + twenty-one; third year, three hundred and five, with interest, seventeen, + makes three hundred and twenty-two, and twenty, your half of the bay horse + sold to Sam Falconer, forty-two; fourth year”— + </p> + <p> + “Never mind, Daddy!” Alfred interrupted; “I've got it all down in my + books; you needn't go over it.” + </p> + <p> + The old man struck his hickory staff violently upon the floor. “I <i>will</i> + go over it!” he croaked, hoarsely. “I mean to show you, boy, to your own + eyes and your own ears, that you're now worth thirteen thousand two + hundred and forty-nine dollars and fifteen cents! And ten thousand of it + balances the gal's ten thousand, leavin' three thousand two hundred and + forty-nine and fifteen cents, for the Doctor to make up to <i>you!</i> And + you'll show him your papers, for you're no son of mine if you've put out + your money without securin' it. I don't mind your goin' your own road with + what you've arned, though, for your proper good, you needn't ha' been so + close; but now you've got to show what's in your hand, if you mean to git + it double!” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton was overwhelmed by the terrors of this unexpected dilemma. + His superficial powers of dissimulation forsook him; he could only + suggest, in a weak voice: + </p> + <p> + “Suppose my papers don't show that much?” + </p> + <p> + “You've made that, or nigh onto it, and your papers <i>must</i> show it! + If money can't stick to your fingers, do you s'pose I'm goin' to put more + into 'em? Fix it any way you like with the Doctor, so you square accounts. + Then, afterwards, let him come to me—ay, let him come!” + </p> + <p> + Here the old man chuckled until he brought on a fit of coughing, which + drove the dark purple blood into his head. His son hastened to restore him + with a glass of brandy. + </p> + <p> + “There, that'll do,” he said, presently; “now you know what's what. Go up + to the Doctor's this afternoon, and have it out before you come home. I + can't dance at your weddin', but I wouldn't mind help nuss another + grandchild or two—eh, boy?” + </p> + <p> + “Damme, and so you shall, Dad!” the son exclaimed, relapsing into his + customary swagger, as the readiest means of flattering the old man's more + amiable mood. It was an easier matter to encounter Dr. Deane—to + procrastinate and prolong the settlement of terms, or shift the + responsibility of the final result from his own shoulders. Of course the + present command must be obeyed, and it was by no means an agreeable one; + but Alfred Barton had courage enough for any emergency not yet arrived. So + he began to talk and joke very comfortably about his possible marriage, + until Ann, descending to the kitchen in her solemn black gown, interrupted + the conference. + </p> + <p> + That afternoon, as Alfred took his way by the foot-path to the village, he + seated himself in the shade, on one end of the log which spanned the + creek, in order to examine his position, before venturing on a further + step. We will not probe the depths of his meditations; probably they were + not very deep, even when most serious; but we may readily conjecture those + considerations which were chiefly obvious to his mind. The affair, which + he had so long delayed, through a powerful and perhaps a natural dread, + was now brought to a crisis. He could not retreat without extreme risk to + his prospects of inheritance; since his father and Dr. Deane had come to + an actual conference, he was forced to assume the part which was + appropriate to him. Sentiment, he was aware, would not be exacted, but a + certain amount of masculine anticipation belonged to his character of + lover; should he assume this, also, or meet Dr. Deane on a hard business + ground? + </p> + <p> + It is a matter of doubt whether any vulgar man suspects the full extent of + his vulgarity; but there are few who are not conscious, now and then, of a + very uncomfortable difference between themselves and the refined natures + with whom they come in contact. Alfred Barton had never been so troubled + by this consciousness as when in the presence of Martha Deane. He was + afraid of her; he foresaw that she, as his wife, would place him in a more + painful subjection than that which his father now enforced. He was weary + of bondage, and longed to draw a free, unworried breath. With all his + swagger, his life had not always been easy or agreeable. A year or two + more might see him, in fact and in truth, his own master. He was fifty + years old; his habits of life were fixed; he would have shrunk from the + semi-servitude of marriage, though with a woman after his own heart, and + there was nothing in this (except the money) to attract him. + </p> + <p> + “I see no way!” he suddenly exclaimed, after a fit of long and + unsatisfactory musing. + </p> + <p> + “Nor I neither, unless you make room for me!” answered a shrill voice at + his side. + </p> + <p> + He started as if shot, becoming aware of Miss Betsy Lavender, who had just + emerged from the thicket. + </p> + <p> + “Skeered ye, have I?” said she. “Why, how you do color up, to be sure! I + never was that red, even in my blushin' days; but never mind, what's said + to nobody is nobody's business.” + </p> + <p> + He laughed a forced laugh. “I was thinking, Miss Betsy,” he said, “how to + get the grain threshed and sent to the mills before prices come down. + Which way are you going?” + </p> + <p> + She had been observing him through half-closed eyes, with her head a + little thrown back. First slightly nodding to herself, as if assenting to + some mental remark, she asked,— + </p> + <p> + “Which way are <i>you</i> goin'? For my part I rather think we're changin' + places,—me to see Miss Ann, and you to see Miss Martha.” + </p> + <p> + “You're wrong!” he exclaimed. “I was only going to make a little + neighborly call on the Doctor.” + </p> + <p> + “On the Doctor! Ah-ha! it's come to that, has it? Well, I won't be in the + way.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound the witch!” he muttered to himself, as she sprang upon the log + and hurried over. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Alfred Barton was not acquainted with the Greek drama, or he would + have had a very real sense of what is meant by Fate. As it was, he + submitted to circumstances, climbed the hill, and never halted until he + found himself in Dr. Deane's sitting-room. + </p> + <p> + Of course, the Doctor was alone and unoccupied; it always happens so. + Moreover he knew, and Alfred Barton knew that he knew, the subject to be + discussed; but it was not the custom of the neighborhood to approach an + important interest except in a very gradual and roundabout manner. + Therefore the Doctor said, after the first greeting,— + </p> + <p> + “Thee'll be getting thy crops to market soon, I imagine?” + </p> + <p> + “I'd like to,” Barton replied, “but there's not force enough on our place, + and the threshers are wanted everywhere at once. What would you do,—hurry + off the grain now, or wait to see how it may stand in the spring?” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane meditated a moment, and then answered with great deliberation: + “I never like to advise, where the chances are about even. It depends, + thee knows, on the prospect of next year's crops. But, which ever way thee + decides, it will make less difference to thee than to them that depend + altogether upon their yearly earnings.” + </p> + <p> + Barton understood this stealthy approach to the important subject, and met + it in the same way. “I don't know,” he said; “it's slow saving on + half-profits. I have to look mighty close, to make anything decent.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the Doctor, “what isn't laid up <i>by</i> thee, is laid up <i>for</i> + thee, I should judge.” + </p> + <p> + “I should hope so, Doctor; but I guess you know the old man as well as I + do. If anybody could tell what's in his mind, it's Lawyer Stacy, and he's + as close as a steel-trap. I've hardly had a fair chance, and it ought to + be made up to me.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be, no doubt.” And then the Doctor, resting his chin upon his + cane, relapsed into a grave, silent, expectant mood, which his guest well + understood. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor,” he said at last, with an awkward attempt at a gay, confidential + manner, “you know what I come for today. Perhaps I'm rather an old boy to + be here on such an errand; I've been a bit afraid lest you might think me + so; and for that reason I haven't spoken to Martha at all, (though I think + she's smart enough to guess how my mind turns,) and won't speak, till I + first have your leave. I'm not so young as to be light-headed in such + matters; and, most likely, I'm not everything that Martha would like; but—but—there's + other things to be considered—not that I mind 'em much, only the old + man, you know, is very particular about 'em, and so I've come up to see if + we can't agree without much trouble.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane took a small pinch of Rappee, and then touched his nose lightly + with his lavendered handkerchief. He drew up his hanging under-lip until + it nearly covered the upper, and lifted his nostrils with an air at once + of reticence and wisdom. “I don't deny,” he said slowly, “that I've + suspected something of what is in thy mind, and I will further say that + thee's done right in coming first to me. Martha being an only d—child, + I have her welfare much at heart, and if I had known anything seriously to + thy discredit, I would not have permitted thy attentions. So far as that + goes, thee may feel easy. I <i>did</i> hope, however, that thee would have + some assurance of what thy father intends to do for thee—and perhaps + thee has,—Elisha being established in his own independence, and Ann + not requiring a great deal, thee would inherit considerable, besides the + farm. And it seems to me that I might justly, in Martha's interest, ask + for some such assurance.” + </p> + <p> + If Alfred Barton's secret thought had been expressed in words, it would + have been: “Curse the old fool—he knows what the old man is, as well + as I do!” But he twisted a respectful hypocrisy out of his whisker, and + said,— + </p> + <p> + “Ye-e-es, that seems only fair. How am <i>I</i> to get at it, though? I + daren't touch the subject with a ten-foot pole, and yet it stands both to + law and reason that I should come in for a handsome slice o' the property. + You might take it for granted, Doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “So I might, if <i>thy</i> father would take for granted what <i>I</i> + might be able to do. I can see, however, that it's hardly thy place to ask + him; that might be left to me.” + </p> + <p> + This was an idea which had not occurred to Alfred Barton. A thrill of + greedy curiosity shot through his heart; he saw that, with Dr. Deane's + help, he might be able to ascertain the amount of the inheritance which + must so soon fall to him. This feeling, fed by the impatience of his long + subjection, took complete possession of him, and he resolved to further + his father's desires, without regard to present results. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that might be left to me,” the Doctor repeated, “after the other + matter is settled. Thee knows what I mean. Martha will have ten thousand + dollars in her own right, at twenty-five,—and sooner, if she marries + with my approbation. Now, thee or thy father must bring an equal sum; that + is understood between us—and I think thy father mentioned that thee + could do it without calling upon him. Is that the case?” + </p> + <p> + “Not quite—but, yes, very nearly. That is, the old man's been so + close with me, that I'm a little close with him, Doctor, you see! He + doesn't know exactly how much I have got, and as he threatens to leave me + according to what I've saved, why, I rather let him have his own way about + the matter.” + </p> + <p> + A keen, shrewd smile flitted over the Doctor's face. + </p> + <p> + “But if it isn't quite altogether ten thousand, Doctor,” Barton continued, + “I don't say but what it could be easily made up to that figure. You and I + could arrange all that between our two selves, without consulting the old + man,—and, indeed, it's not <i>his</i> business, in any way,—and + so, you might go straight to the other matter at once.” + </p> + <p> + “H'm,” mused the Doctor, with his chin again upon his stick, “I should + perhaps be working in thy interest, as much as in mine. Then thee can + afford to come up fair and square to the mark. Of course, thee has all the + papers to show for thy own property?” + </p> + <p> + “I guess there'll be no trouble about that,” Barton answered, carelessly. + “I lend on none but the best security. 'T will take a little time—must + go to Chester—so we needn't wait for that; 't will be all right!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no doubt; but hasn't thee overlooked one thing?” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “That Martha should first know thy mind towards her.” + </p> + <p> + It was true, he had overlooked that important fact, and the suggestion + came to him very like an attack of cramp. He laughed, however, took out a + red silk handkerchief, and tried to wipe a little eagerness into his face. + </p> + <p> + “No, Doctor!” he exclaimed, “not forgot, only keeping the best for the + last. I wasn't sure but you might want to speak to her yourself, first; + but she knows, doesn't she?” + </p> + <p> + “Not to my direct knowledge; and I wouldn't like to venture to speak in + her name.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, I'll—that is, you think I'd better have a talk with her. A + little tough, at my time of life, ha! ha!—but faint heart never won + fair lady; and I hadn't thought of going that far to-day, though of + course, I'm anxious,—been in my thoughts so long,—and perhaps—perhaps”— + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell thee,” said the Doctor, seeming not to notice Barton's visible + embarrassment, which he found very natural; “do thee come up again next + First-day afternoon prepared to speak thy mind. I will give Martha a hint + of thy purpose beforehand, but only a hint, mind thee; the girl has a + smart head of her own, and thee'll come on faster with her if thee pleads + thy own cause with thy own mouth.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I'll come then!” cried Barton, so relieved at his present escape + that his relief took the expression of joy. Dr. Deane was a fair judge of + character; he knew all of Alfred Barton's prominent traits, and imagined + that he was now reading him like an open book; but it was like reading one + of those Latin sentences which, to the ear, are made up of English words. + The signs were all correct, only they belonged to another language. + </p> + <p> + The heavy wooer shortly took his departure. While on the return path, he + caught sight of Miss Betsy Lavender's beaver, bobbing along behind the + pickets of the hill-fence, and, rather than encounter its wearer in his + present mood, he stole into the shelter of one of the cross-hedges, and + made his way into the timbered bottom below. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. — MARTHA DEANE. + </h2> + <p> + Little did Dr. Deane suspect the nature of the conversation which had that + morning been held in his daughter's room, between herself and Betsy + Lavender. + </p> + <p> + When the latter returned from her interview with Gilbert Potter, the + previous evening, she found the Doctor already arrived. Mark came home at + supper-time, and the evening was so prolonged by his rattling tongue that + no room was left for any confidential talk with Martha, although Miss + Betsy felt that something ought to be said, and it properly fell to her + lot to broach the delicate subject. + </p> + <p> + After breakfast on Sunday morning, therefore, she slipped up to Martha's + room, on the transparent pretence of looking again at a new dress, which + had been bought some days before. She held the stuff to the light, turned + it this way and that, and regarded it with an importance altogether out of + proportion to its value. + </p> + <p> + “It seems as if I couldn't git the color rightly set in my head,” she + remarked; “'t a'n't quiet laylock, nor yit vi'let, and there ought, by + rights, to be quilled ribbon round the neck, though the Doctor might + consider it too gay; but never mind, he'd dress you in drab or slate if he + could, and I dunno, after all”— + </p> + <p> + “Betsy!” exclaimed Martha, with an impetuousness quite unusual to her calm + nature, “throw down the dress! Why won't you speak of what is in your + mind; don't you see I'm waiting for it?” + </p> + <p> + “You're right, child!” Miss Betsy cried, flinging the stuff to the + farthest corner of the room; “I'm an awkward old fool, with all my + exper'ence. Of course I seen it with half a wink; there! don't be so + trembly now. I know how you feel, Martha; you wouldn't think it, but I do. + I can tell the real signs from the passin' fancies, and if ever I see + true-love in my born days, I see it in you, child, and in <i>him.”</i> + </p> + <p> + Martha's face glowed in spite of herself. The recollection of Gilbert's + embrace in the dusky glen came to her, already for the thousandth time, + but warmer, sweeter at each recurrence. She felt that her hand trembled in + that of the spinster, as they sat knee to knee, and that a tender dew was + creeping into her eyes; leaning forward, she laid her face a moment on her + friend's shoulder, and whispered,— + </p> + <p> + “It is all very new and strange, Betsy; but I am happy.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender did not answer immediately. With her hand on Martha's soft, + smooth hair, she was occupied in twisting her arm so that the sleeve might + catch and conceal two troublesome tears which were at that moment + trickling down her nose. Besides, she was not at all sure of her voice, + until something like a dry crust of bread in her throat had been forcibly + swallowed down. + </p> + <p> + Martha, however, presently lifted her head with a firm, courageous + expression, though the rosy flush still suffused her cheeks. “I'm not as + independent as people think,” she said, “for I couldn't help myself when + the time came, and I seem to belong to him, ever since.” + </p> + <p> + “Ever since. Of course you do!” remarked Miss Betsy, with her head down + and her hands busy at her high comb and thin twist of hair; “every woman, + savin' and exceptin' myself, and no fault o' mine, must play Jill to + somebody's Jack; it's man's way and the Lord's way, but worked out with a + mighty variety, though I say it, but why not, my eyes bein' as good as + anybody else's! Come now, you're lookin' again after your own brave + fashion; and so, you're sure o' your heart, Martha?” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy, my heart speaks once and for all,” said Martha, with kindling + eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Once and for all. I knowed it—and so the Lord help us! For here I + smell wagon-loads o' trouble; and if you weren't a girl to know her own + mind and stick to it, come weal, come woe, and he with a bull-dog's jaw + that'll never let go, and I mean no runnin' of him down, but on the + contrary, quite the reverse, I'd say to both, git over it somehow for it + won't be, and no matter if no use, it's my dooty,—well, it's t'other + way, and I've got to give a lift where I can, and pull this way, and shove + that way, and hold back everybody, maybe, and fit things to things, and + unfit other things,—Good Lord, child, you've made an awful job for + <i>me!”</i> + </p> + <p> + Therewith Miss Betsy laughed, with a dry, crisp, cheerfulness which quite + covered up and concealed her forebodings. Nothing pleased her better than + to see realized in life her own views of what ought to be, and the + possibility of becoming one of the shaping and regulating powers to that + end stirred her nature to its highest and most joyous activity. + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane, equally brave, was more sanguine. The joy of her expanding + love foretold its fulfilment to her heart. “I know, Betsy,” she said, + “that father would not hear of it now; but we are both young and can wait, + at least until I come into my property—<i>ours,</i> I ought to say, + for I think of it already as being as much Gilbert's as mine. What other + trouble can there be?” + </p> + <p> + “Is there none on his side, Martha?” + </p> + <p> + “His birth? Yes, there is—or was, though not to me—never to + me! I am so glad, for his sake,—but, Betsy, perhaps you do not know”— + </p> + <p> + “If there's anything I need to know, I'll find it out, soon or late. He's + worried, that I see, and no wonder, poor boy! But as you say, there's time + enough, and my single and solitary advice to both o' you, is, don't look + at one another before folks, if you can't keep your eyes from blabbin'. + Not a soul suspicions anything now, and if you two'll only fix it betwixt + and between you to keep quiet, and patient, and as forbearin' in showin' + feelin' as people that hate each other like snakes, why, who knows but + somethin' may turn up, all unexpected, to make the way as smooth for ye as + a pitch-pine plank!” + </p> + <p> + “Patient!” Martha murmured to herself. A bright smile broke over her face, + as she thought how sweet it would be to match, as best a woman might, + Gilbert's incomparable patience and energy of purpose. The tender humility + of her love, so beautifully interwoven with the texture of its pride and + courage, filled her heart with a balmy softness and peace. She was already + prepared to lay her firm, independent spirit at his feet, or exercise it + only as her new, eternal duty to him might require. Betsy Lavender's + warning could not ripple the bright surface of her happiness; she knew + that no one (hardly even Gilbert, as yet) suspected that in her heart the + love of a strong and faithful and noble man outweighed all other gifts or + consequences of life—that, to keep it, she would give up home, + friends, father, the conventional respect of every one she knew! + </p> + <p> + “Well, child!” exclaimed Miss Lavender, after a long lapse of silence; + “the words is said that can't be taken back, accordin' to <i>my</i> views + o' things, though, Goodness knows, there's enough and enough thinks + different, and you must abide by 'em; and what I think of it all I'll tell + you when the end comes, not before, so don't ask me now; but one thing + more, there's another sort of a gust brewin', and goin' to break soon, if + ever, and that is, Alf. Barton,—though you won't believe it,—he's + after you in his stupid way, and your father favors him. And my advice is, + hold him off as much as you please, but say nothin' o' Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + This warning made no particular impression upon Martha. She playfully + tapped Miss Betsy's high comb, and said: “Now, if you are going to be so + much worried about me, I shall be sorry that you found it out.” + </p> + <p> + “Well I won't!—and now let me hook your gownd.” + </p> + <p> + Often, after that, however, did Martha detect Miss Betsy's eyes fixed upon + her with a look of wistful, tender interest, and she knew, though the + spinster would not say it, that the latter was alive with sympathy, and + happy in the new confidence between them. With each day, her own passion + grew and deepened, until it seemed that the true knowledge of love came + after its confession. A sweet, warm yearning for Gilbert's presence took + its permanent seat in her heart; not only his sterling manly qualities, + but his form, his face—the broad, square brow; the large, sad, + deep-set gray eyes; the firm, yet impassioned lips—haunted her + fancy. Slowly and almost unconsciously as her affection had been + developed, it now took the full stature and wore the radiant form of her + maiden dream of love. + </p> + <p> + If Dr. Deane noticed the physical bloom and grace which those days brought + to his daughter, he was utterly innocent of the true cause. Perhaps he + imagined that his own eyes were first fairly opened to her beauty by the + prospect of soon losing her. Certainly she had never seemed more obedient + and attractive. He had not forgotten his promise to Alfred Barton; but no + very convenient opportunity for speaking to her on the subject occurred + until the following Sunday morning. Mark was not at home, and he rode with + her to Old Kennett Meeting. + </p> + <p> + As they reached the top of the long hill beyond the creek, Martha reined + in her horse to enjoy the pleasant westward view over the fair September + landscape. The few houses of the village crowned the opposite hill; but on + this side the winding, wooded vale meandered away, to lose itself among + the swelling slopes of clover and stubble-field; and beyond, over the blue + level of Tuffkenamon, the oak-woods of Avondale slept on the horizon. It + was a landscape such as one may see, in a more cultured form, on the road + from Warwick to Stratford. Every one in Kennett enjoyed the view, but none + so much as Martha Deane, upon whom its harmonious, pastoral aspect + exercised an indescribable charm. + </p> + <p> + To the left, on the knoll below, rose the chimneys of the Barton + farm-house, over the round tops of the apple-trees, and in the nearest + field Mr. Alfred's Maryland cattle were fattening on the second growth of + clover. + </p> + <p> + “A nice place, Martha!” said Dr. Deane, with a wave of his arm, and a + whiff of sweet herbs. + </p> + <p> + “Here, in this first field, is the true place for the house,” she + answered, thinking only of the landscape beauty of the farm. + </p> + <p> + “Does thee mean so?” the Doctor eagerly asked, deliberating with himself + how much of his plan it was safe to reveal. “Thee may be right, and + perhaps thee might bring Alfred to thy way of thinking.” + </p> + <p> + She laughed. “It's hardly worth the trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “I've noticed, of late,” her father continued, “that Alfred seems to set a + good deal of store by thee. He visits us pretty often.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, father!” she exclaimed, as they, rode onward, “it's rather <i>thee</i> + that attracts him, and cattle, and crops, and the plans for catching Sandy + Flash! He looks frightened whenever I speak to him.” + </p> + <p> + “A little nervous, perhaps. Young men are often so, in the company of + young women, I've observed.” + </p> + <p> + Martha laughed so cheerily that her father said to himself: “Well, it + doesn't displease her, at any rate.” On the other hand, is was possible + that she might have failed to see Barton in the light of a wooer, and + therefore a further hint would be required. + </p> + <p> + “Now that we happen to speak of him, Martha,” he said, “I might as well + tell thee that, in my judgment, he seems to be drawn towards thee in the + way of marriage. He may be a little awkward in showing it, but that's a + common case. When he was at our house, last First-day, he spoke of thee + frequently, and said that he would like to—well, to see thee soon. I + believe he intends coming up this afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + Martha became grave, as Betsy Lavender's warning took so suddenly a + positive form. However, she had thought of this contingency as a possible + thing, and must prepare herself to meet it with firmness. + </p> + <p> + “What does thee say?” the Doctor asked, after waiting a few minutes for an + answer. + </p> + <p> + “Father, I hope thee's mistaken. Alfred Barton is not overstocked with + wit, I know, but he can hardly be that foolish. He is almost as old as + thee.” + </p> + <p> + She spoke quietly, but with that tone of decision which Dr. Deane so well + knew. He set his teeth and drew up his under-lip to a grim pout. If there + was to be resistance, he thought, she would not find him so yielding as on + other points; but he would first try a middle course. + </p> + <p> + “Understand me, Martha,” he said; “I do not mean to declare what Alfred + Barton's sentiments really are, but what, in my judgment, they <i>might</i> + be. And thee had better wait and learn, before setting thy mind either for + or against him: It's hardly putting much value upon thyself, to call him + foolish.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a humiliation to me, if thee is right, father,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “I don't see that. Many young women would be proud of it. I'll only say + one thing, Martha; if he seeks thee, and <i>does</i> speak his mind, do + thee treat him kindly and respectfully.” + </p> + <p> + “Have I ever treated thy friends otherwise?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “My friends! thee's right—he <i>is</i> my friend.” + </p> + <p> + She made no reply, but her soul was already courageously arming itself for + battle. Her father's face was stern and cold, and she saw, at once, that + he was on the side of the enemy. This struggle safely over, there would + come another and a severer one. It was well that she had given herself + time, setting the fulfilment of her love so far in advance. + </p> + <p> + Nothing more was said on this theme, either during the ride to Old + Kennett, or on the return. Martha's plan was very simple: she would + quietly wait until Alfred Barton should declare his sentiments, and then + reject him once and forever. She would speak clearly, and finally; there + should be no possibility of misconception. It was not a pleasant task; + none but a vain and heartless woman would be eager to assume it; and + Martha Deane hoped that it might be spared her. + </p> + <p> + But she, no less than her irresolute lover, (if we can apply that word to + Alfred Barton,) was an instrument in the hands of an uncomfortable Fate. + Soon after dinner a hesitating knock was heard at the door, and Barton + entered with a more uneasy air than ever before. Erelong, Dr. Deane + affected to have an engagement with an invalid on the New-Garden road; + Betsy Lavender had gone to Fairthorn's for the afternoon, and the two were + alone. + </p> + <p> + For a few moments, Martha was tempted to follow her father's example, and + leave Alfred Barton to his own devices. Then she reflected that this was a + cowardly feeling; it would only postpone her task. He had taken his seat, + as usual, in the very centre of the room; so she came forward and seated + herself at the front window, with her back to the light, thus, woman-like, + giving herself all the advantages of position. + </p> + <p> + Having his large, heavy face before her, in full light, she was at first a + little surprised on finding that it expressed not even the fond anxiety, + much less the eagerness, of an aspiring wooer. The hair and whiskers, it + is true, were so smoothly combed back that they made long lappets on + either side of his face; unusual care had been taken with his cambric + cravat and shirt-ruffles, and he wore his best blue coat, which was + entirely too warm for the season. In strong contrast to this external + preparation, were his restless eyes which darted hither and thither in + avoidance of her gaze, the fidgety movements of his thick fingers, + creeping around buttons and in and out of button-holes, and finally the + silly, embarrassed half-smile which now and then came to his mouth, and + made the platitudes of his speech almost idiotic. + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane felt her courage rise as she contemplated this picture. In + spite of the disgust which his gross physical appearance, and the contempt + which his awkward helplessness inspired, she was conscious of a lurking + sense of amusement. Even a curiosity, which we cannot reprehend, to know + by what steps and in what manner he would come to the declaration, began + to steal into her mind, now that it was evident her answer could not + possibly wound any other feeling than vanity. + </p> + <p> + In this mood, she left the burden of the conversation to him. He might + flounder, or be completely stalled, as often as he pleased; it was no part + of her business to help him. + </p> + <p> + In about three minutes after she had taken her seat by the window, he + remarked, with a convulsive smile,— + </p> + <p> + “Apples are going to be good, this year.” + </p> + <p> + “Are they?” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; do you like 'em? Most girls do.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe I do,—except Russets,” Martha replied, with her hands + clasped in her lap, and her eyes full upon his face. + </p> + <p> + He twisted the smoothness out of one whisker, very much disconcerted at + her remark, because he could not tell—he never could, when speaking + with her—whether or not she was making fun of him. But he could + think of nothing to say, except his own preferences in the matter of + apples,—a theme which he pursued until Martha was very tired of it. + </p> + <p> + He next asked after Mark Deane, expressing at great length his favorable + opinion of the young, carpenter, and relating what pains he had taken to + procure for him the building of Hallowell's barn. But to each observation + Martha made the briefest possible replies, so that in a short time he was + forced to start another topic. + </p> + <p> + Nearly an hour had passed, and Martha's sense of the humorous had long + since vanished under the dreary monotony of the conversation, when Alfred + Barton seemed to have come to a desperate resolution to end his + embarrassment. Grasping his knees with both hands, and dropping his head + forward so that the arrows of her eyes might glance from his fat forehead, + he said,— + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you know why I come here to-day, Miss Martha?” + </p> + <p> + All her powers were awake and alert in a moment. She scrutinized his face + keenly, and, although his eyes were hidden, there were lines enough + visible, especially about the mouth, to show that the bitter predominated + over the sweet, in his emotions. + </p> + <p> + “To see my father, wasn't it? I'm sorry he was obliged to leave home,” she + answered. + </p> + <p> + “No, Miss Martha, I come to see you. I have some thing to say to you, and + I 'in sure you know what I mean by this time, don't you?” + </p> + <p> + “No. How should I?” she coolly replied. It was not true; but the + truest-hearted woman that ever lived could have given no other answer. + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton felt the sensation of a groan pass through him, and it very + nearly came out of his mouth. Then he pushed on, in a last wild effort to + perform the remainder of his exacted task in one piece: + </p> + <p> + “I want you to be—to be—my—wife! That is, my father and + yours are agreed about it, and they think I ought to speak to you. I'm a + good deal older, and—and perhaps you mightn't fancy me in all + things, but they say it'll make little difference; and if you haven't + thought about it much, why, there's no hurry as to making up your mind. + I've told you now, and to be sure you ought to know, while the old folks + are trying to arrange property matters, and it's my place, like, to speak + to you first.” + </p> + <p> + Here he paused; his face was very red, and the perspiration was oozing in + great drops from every pore. He drew forth the huge red silk handkerchief, + and mopped his cheeks, his nose, and his forehead; then lifted his head + and stole a quick glance at Martha. Something in his face puzzled her, and + yet a sudden presentiment of his true state of feeling flashed across her + mind. She still sat, looking steadily at him, and for a few moments did + not speak. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” he stammered. + </p> + <p> + “Alfred Barton,” she said, “I must ask you one question, do you love me?” + </p> + <p> + He seemed to feel a sharp sting. The muscles of his mouth twitched; he bit + his lip, sank his head again, and murmured,— + </p> + <p> + “Y-yes.” + </p> + <p> + “He does not,” she said to herself. “I am spared this humiliation. It is a + mean, low nature, and fears mine—fears, and would soon hate. He + shall not see even so much of me as would be revealed by a frank, + respectful rejection. I must punish him a little for the deceit, and I now + see how to do it.” + </p> + <p> + While these thoughts passed rapidly through her brain, she waited until he + should again venture to meet her eye. When he lifted his head, she + exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “You have told an untruth! Don't turn your head away; look me in the face, + and hear me tell you that you do not love me—that you have not come + to me of your own desire, and that you would rather ten thousand times I + should say No, if it were not for a little property of mine! But suppose + I, too, were of a similar nature; suppose I cared not for what is called + love, but only for money and lands such as you will inherit; suppose I + found the plans of my father and your father very shrewd and reasonable, + and were disposed to enter into them—what then?” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton was surprised out of the last remnant of his hypocrisy. His + face, so red up to this moment, suddenly became sallow; his chin dropped, + and an expression of amazement and fright came into the eyes fixed on + Martha's. + </p> + <p> + The game she was playing assumed a deeper interest; here was something + which she could not yet fathom. She saw what influence had driven him to + her, against his inclination, but his motive for seeming to obey, while + dreading success, was a puzzle. Singularly enough, a slight feeling of + commiseration began to soften her previous contempt, and hastened her + final answer. + </p> + <p> + “I see that these suppositions would not please you,” she said, “and thank + you for the fact. Your face is more candid than your speech. I am now + ready to say, Alfred Barton,—because I am sure the knowledge will be + agreeable to you,—that no lands, no money, no command of my father, + no degree of want, or misery, or disgrace, could ever make me your wife!” + </p> + <p> + She had risen from her chair while speaking, and he also started to his + feet. Her words, though such an astounding relief in one sense, had + nevertheless given him pain; there was a sting in them which cruelly + galled his self-conceit. It was enough to be rejected; she need not have + put an eternal gulf between their natures. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, sliding the rim of his beaver backwards and forwards + between his fingers, “I suppose I'll have to be going. You're very + plain-spoken, as I might ha' known. I doubt whether we two would make a + good team, and no offence to you, Miss Martha. Only, it'll be a mortal + disappointment to the old man, and—look here, it a'n't worth while + to say anything about it, is it?” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton was strongly tempted to betray the secret reason which + Martha had not yet discovered. After the strong words he had taken from + her, she owed him a kindness, he thought; if she would only allow the + impression that the matter was still undecided—that more time (which + a coy young maiden might reasonably demand) had been granted! On the other + hand, he feared that her clear, firm integrity of character would be + repelled by the nature of his motive. He was beginning to feel, greatly to + his own surprise, a profound respect for her. + </p> + <p> + “If my father questions me about your visit,” she said, “I shall tell him + simply that I have declined your offer. No one else is likely to ask me.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't deny,” he continued, still lingering near the door, “that I've + been urged by my father—yours, too, for that matter—to make + the offer. But I don't want you to think hard of me. I've not had an easy + time of it, and if you knew everything, you'd see that a good deal isn't + rightly to be laid to my account.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke sadly, and so genuine a stamp of unhappiness was impressed upon + his face, that Martha's feeling of commiseration rose to the surface. + </p> + <p> + “You'll speak to me, when we happen to meet?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “If I did not,” she answered, “every one would suspect that something had + occurred. That would be unpleasant for both of us. Do not think that I + shall bear malice against you; on the contrary, I wish you well.” + </p> + <p> + He stooped, kissed her hand, and then swiftly, silently, and with averted + head, left the room. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. — CONSULTATIONS. + </h2> + <p> + When Dr. Deane returned home, in season for supper, he found Martha and + Betsy Lavender employed about their little household matters. The former + showed no lack of cheerfulness or composure, nor, on the other hand, any + such nervous unrest as would be natural to a maiden whose hand had just + been asked in marriage. The Doctor could not at all guess, from her + demeanor, whether anything had happened during his absence. That Alfred + Barton had not remained was rather an unfavorable circumstance; but then, + possibly, he had not found courage to speak. All things being considered, + it seemed best that he should say nothing to Martha, until he had had + another interview with his prospective son-in-law. + </p> + <p> + At this time Gilbert Potter, in ignorance of the cunning plans which were + laid by the old men, was working early and late to accomplish all + necessary farm-labor by the first of October. That month he had resolved + to devote to the road between Columbia and Newport, and if but average + success attended his hauling, the earnings of six round trips, with the + result of his bountiful harvest, would at last place in his hands the sum + necessary to defray the remaining debt upon the farm. His next year's + wheat-crop was already sowed, the seed-clover cut, and the fortnight which + still intervened was to be devoted to threshing. In this emergency, as at + reaping-time, when it was difficult to obtain extra hands, he depended on + Deb. Smith, and she did not fail him. + </p> + <p> + Her principal home, when she was not employed on farm-work, was a log-hut, + on the edge of a wood, belonging to the next farm north of Fairthorn's. + This farm—the “Woodrow property,” as it was called—had been + stripped of its stock and otherwise pillaged by the British troops, (Howe + and Cornwallis having had their headquarters at Kennett Square), the day + previous to the Battle of Brandywine, and the proprietor had never since + recovered from his losses. The place presented a ruined and desolated + appearance, and Deb. Smith, for that reason perhaps, had settled herself + in the original log-cabin of the first settler, beside a swampy bit of + ground, near the road. The Woodrow farm-house was on a ridge beyond the + wood, and no other dwelling was in sight. + </p> + <p> + The mysterious manner of life of this woman had no doubt given rise to the + bad name which she bore in the neighborhood. She would often disappear for + a week or two at a time, and her return seemed to take place invariably in + the night. Sometimes a belated farmer would see the single front window of + her cabin lighted at midnight, and hear the dulled sound of voices in the + stillness. But no one cared to play the spy upon her movements very + closely; her great strength and fierce, reckless temper made her + dangerous, and her hostility would have been worse than the itching of + ungratified curiosity. So they let her alone, taking their revenge in the + character they ascribed to her, and the epithets they attached to her + name. + </p> + <p> + When Gilbert, after hitching his horse in a corner of the zigzag + picket-fence, climbed over and approached the cabin, Deb. Smith issued + from it to meet him, closing the heavy plank door carefully behind her. + </p> + <p> + “So, Mr. Gilbert!” she cried, stretching out her hard, red hand, “I reckon + you want me ag'in: I've been holdin off from many jobs o' thrashin', this + week, because I suspicioned ye'd be comin' for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Deborah!” said he, “you're a friend in need.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I? There you speak the truth. Wait till you see me thump the Devil's + tattoo with my old flail on your thrashin'-floor! But you look as cheery + as an Easter-mornin' sun; you've not much for to complain of, these days, + I guess?” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Take care!” she cried, a kindly softness spreading over her rough face, + “good luck's deceitful! If I had the strands o' your fortin' in <i>my</i> + hands, may be I wouldn't twist 'em even; but I ha'n't, and my fingers is + too thick to manage anything smaller 'n a rope-knot. You're goin'? Well, + look out for me bright and early o' Monday, and my sarvice to your + mother!” + </p> + <p> + As he rode over the second hill, on his way to the village, Gilbert's + heart leaped, as he beheld Betsy Lavender just turning into Fairthorn's + gate. Except his mother, she was the only person who knew of his love, and + he had great need of her kind and cautious assistance. + </p> + <p> + He had not allowed his heart simply to revel in the ecstasy of its + wonderful fortune, or to yearn with inexpressible warmth for Martha's + dearest presence, though these emotions haunted him constantly; he had + also endeavored to survey the position in which he stood, and to choose + the course which would fulfil both his duty towards her and towards his + mother. His coming independence would have made the prospect hopefully + bright, but for the secret which lay across it like a threatening shadow. + Betsy Lavender's assurances had only partially allayed his dread; + something hasty and uncertain in her manner still lingered uneasily in his + memory, and he felt sure that she knew more than she was willing to tell. + Moreover, he craved with all the strength of his heart for another + interview with Martha, and he knew of no way to obtain it without Betsy's + help. + </p> + <p> + Her hand was on the gate-latch when his call reached her ears. Looking up + the road, she saw that he had stopped his horse between the high, bushy + banks, and was beckoning earnestly. Darting a hasty glance at the + ivy-draped windows nearest the road, and finding that she was not + observed, she hurried to meet him. + </p> + <p> + “Betsy,” he whispered, “I <i>must</i> see Martha again before I leave, and + you must tell me how.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me how. Folks say that lovyers' wits are sharp,” said she, “but I + wouldn't give much for either o' your'n. I don't like underhanded + goin's-on, for my part, for things done in darkness'll come to light, or + somethin' like it; but never mind, if they're crooked everyway they won't + run in straight tracks, all't once't. This I see, and you see, and she + sees, that we must all keep as dark as sin.” + </p> + <p> + “But there must be some way,” Gilbert insisted. “Do you never walk out + together? And couldn't we arrange a time—you, too, Betsy, I want you + as well!” + </p> + <p> + “I'm afeard I'd be like the fifth wheel to a wagon.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no! You must be there—you must hear a good part of what I have + to say.” + </p> + <p> + “A good part—that'll do; thought you didn't mean the whole. Don't + fret so, lad; you'll have Roger trampin' me down, next thing. Martha and + me talk o' walkin' over to Polly Withers's. She promised Martha a + pa'tridge-breasted aloe, and they say you've got to plant it in pewter + sand, and only water it once't a month, and how it can grow I can't see; + but never mind, all the same—s'pose we say Friday afternoon about + three o'clock, goin' through the big woods between the Square and + Witherses, and you might have a gun, for the squirls is plenty, and so + accidental-like, if anybody should come along”— + </p> + <p> + “That's it, Betsy!” Gilbert cried, his face flashing, “thank you, a + thousand times!” + </p> + <p> + “A thousand times,” she repeated. “Once't is enough.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert rode homewards, after a pleasant call at Fairthorn's, in a very + joyous mood. Not daring to converse with his mother on the one subject + which filled his heart, he showed her the calculations which positively + assured his independence in a short time. She was never weary of going + over the figures, and although her sad, cautious nature always led her to + anticipate disappointments, there was now so much already in hand that she + was forced to share her son's sanguine views. Gilbert could not help + noticing that this idea of independence, for which she had labored so + strenuously, seemed to be regarded, in her mind, as the first step towards + her mysterious and long-delayed justification; she was so impatient for + its accomplishment, her sad brow lightened so, her breath came so much + freer as she admitted that his calculations were correct! + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, as he frequently referred to the matter on the following + days, she at last said,— + </p> + <p> + “Please, Gilbert, don't always talk so certainly of what isn't over and + settled! It makes me fearsome, so to take Providence for granted + beforehand. I don't think the Lord likes it, for I've often noticed that + it brings disappointment; and I'd rather be humble and submissive in + heart, the better to deserve our good fortune when it comes.” + </p> + <p> + “You may be right, mother,” he answered; “but it's pleasant to me to see + you looking a little more hopeful.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, lad, I'd never look otherwise, for your sake, if I could.” And + nothing more was said. + </p> + <p> + Before sunrise on Monday morning, the rapid, alternate beats of three + flails, on Gilbert's threshing-floor, made the autumnal music which the + farmer loves to hear. Two of these—Gilbert's and Sam's—kept + time with each other, one falling as the other rose; but the third, quick, + loud, and filling all the pauses with thundering taps, was wielded by the + arm of Deb. Smith. Day by day, the pile of wheat-sheaves lessened in the + great bay, and the cone of golden straw rose higher in the barn-yard. If a + certain black jug, behind the barn-door, needed frequent replenishing, + Gilbert knew that the strength of its contents passed into the red, bare, + muscular arms which shamed his own, and that Deb., while she was under his + roof, would allow herself no coarse excess, either of manner or speech. + The fierce, defiant look left her face, and when she sat, of an evening, + with her pipe in the chimney-corner, both mother and son found her very + entertaining company. In Sam she inspired at once admiration and despair. + She could take him by the slack of the waist-band and lift him at + arm's-length, and he felt that he should never be “a full hand,” if he + were obliged to equal her performances with the flail. + </p> + <p> + Thus, his arm keeping time to the rhythm of joy in his heart, and tasting + the satisfaction of labor as never before in his life, the days passed to + Gilbert Potter. Then came the important Friday, hazy with “the smoke of + burning summer,” and softly colored with the drifts of golden-rods and + crimson sumac leaves along the edges of the yet green forests. Easily + feigning an errand to the village, he walked rapidly up the road in the + warm afternoon, taking the cross-road to New-Garden just before reaching + Hallowell's, and then struck to the right across the fields. + </p> + <p> + After passing the crest of the hill, the land sloped gradually down to the + eastern end of Tuffkenamon valley, which terminates at the ridge upon + which Kennett Square stands. Below him, on the right, lay the field and + hedge, across which he and Fortune (he wondered what had become of the + man) had followed the chase; and before him, on the level, rose the + stately trees of the wood which was to be his trysting-place. It was a + sweet, peaceful scene, and but for the under-current of trouble upon which + all his sensations floated, he could have recognized the beauty and the + bliss of human life, which such golden days suggest. + </p> + <p> + It was scarcely yet two o'clock, and he watched the smooth field nearest + the village for full three-quarters of an hour, before his sharp eyes + could detect any moving form upon its surface. To impatience succeeded + doubt, to doubt, at its most cruel height, a shock of certainty. Betsy + Lavender and Martha Deane had entered the field at the bottom, and, + concealed behind the hedge of black-thorn, had walked half-way to the wood + before he discovered them, by means of a lucky break in the hedge. With + breathless haste he descended the slope, entered the wood at its lower + edge, and traversed the tangled thickets of dogwood and haw, until he + gained the foot-path, winding through the very heart of the shade. + </p> + <p> + It was not many minutes before the two advancing forms glimmered among the + leaves. As he sprang forward to meet them, Miss Betsy Lavender suddenly + exclaimed,—“Well, I never, Martha! here's wintergreen!” and was down + on her knees, on the dead leaves, with her long nose nearly touching the + plants. + </p> + <p> + When the lovers saw each other's eyes, one impulse drew them heart to + heart. Each felt the clasp of the other's arms, and the sweetness of that + perfect kiss, which is mutually given, as mutually taken,—the ripe + fruit of love, which having once tasted, all its first timid tokens seem + ever afterwards immature and unsatisfactory. The hearts of both had + unconsciously grown in warmth, in grace and tenderness; and they now felt, + for the first time, the utter, reciprocal surrender of their natures which + truly gave them to each other. + </p> + <p> + As they slowly unwound the blissful embrace, and, holding each other's + hands, drew their faces apart until either's eyes could receive the + other's beloved countenance, no words were spoken,—and none were + needed. Thenceforward, neither would ever say to the other,—“Do you + love me as well as ever?” or “Are you sure you can never change?”—for + theirs were natures to which such tender doubt and curiosity were foreign. + It was not the age of introversion or analytical love; they were sound, + simple, fervent natures, and believed forever in the great truth which had + come to them. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” said Martha, presently, “it was right that we should meet + before you leave home. I have much to tell you—for now you must know + everything that concerns me; it is your right.” + </p> + <p> + Her words were very grateful. To hear her say “It is your right,” sent a + thrill of purely unselfish pride through his breast. He admitted an equal + right, on her part; the moments were precious, and he hastened to answer + her declaration by one as frank and confiding. + </p> + <p> + “And I,” he said, “could not take another step until I had seen you. Do + not fear, Martha, to test my patience or my faith in you, for anything you + may put upon me will be easy to bear. I have turned our love over and over + in my mind; tried to look at it—as we both must, sooner or later—as + something which, though it don't in any wise belong to others, yet with + which others have the power to interfere. The world isn't made quite + right, Martha, and we're living in it.” + </p> + <p> + Martha's lip took a firmer curve. “Our love is right, Gilbert,” she + exclaimed, “and the world must give way!” + </p> + <p> + “It must—I've sworn it! Now let us try to see what are the mountains + in our path, and how we can best get around or over them. First, this is + my position.” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon Gilbert clearly and rapidly explained to her his precise + situation. He set forth his favorable prospects of speedy independence, + the obstacle which his mother's secret threw in their way, and his + inability to guess any means which might unravel the mystery, and hasten + his and her deliverance. The disgrace once removed, he thought, all other + impediments to their union would be of trifling importance. + </p> + <p> + “I see all that clearly,” said Martha, when he had finished; “now, this is + <i>my</i> position.” + </p> + <p> + She told him frankly her father's plans concerning her and gave him, with + conscientious minuteness, all the details of Alfred Barton's interview. At + first his face grew dark, but at the close he was able to view the subject + in its true character, and to contemplate it with as careless a merriment + as her own. + </p> + <p> + “You see, Gilbert,” were Martha's final words, “how we are situated. If I + marry, against my father's consent, before I am twenty-five”— + </p> + <p> + “Don't speak of your property, Martha!” he cried; “I never took that into + mind!” + </p> + <p> + “I know you didn't. Gilbert, but <i>I</i> do! It is mine, and must be + mine, to be yours; here you must let me have my own way—I will obey + you in everything else. Four years is not long for us to wait, having + faith in each other; and in that time, I doubt not, your mother's secret + will be revealed. You cannot, must not, press her further; in the meantime + we will see each other as often as possible”— + </p> + <p> + “Four years!” Gilbert interrupted, in a tone almost of despair. + </p> + <p> + “Well—not quite,” said Martha, smiling archly; “since you must know + my exact age, Gilbert, I was twenty-one on the second of last February; so + that the time is really three years, four months, and eleven days.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd serve seven years, as Jacob served, if need be,” he said. “It's not + alone the waiting; it's the anxiety, the uncertainty, the terrible fear of + that which I don't know. I'm sure that Betsy Lavender guesses something + about it; have you told her what my mother says?” + </p> + <p> + “It was <i>your</i> secret, Gilbert.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't think,” he answered, softly. “But it's well she should know. She + is the best friend we have. Betsy!” + </p> + <p> + “A mortal long time afore <i>I</i>'m wanted!” exclaimed Miss Lavender, + with assumed grimness, as she obeyed the call. “I s'pose you thought there + was no watch needed, and both ends o' the path open to all the world. Well—what + am <i>I</i> to do?—move mountains like a grain o' mustard seed (or + however it runs), dip out th' ocean with a pint-pot, or ketch old birds + with chaff, eh?” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, aware that she was familiar with the particular difficulties on + Martha's side, now made her acquainted with his own. At the mention of his + mother's declaration in regard to his birth, she lifted her hands and + nodded her head, listening, thenceforth to the end, with half-closed eyes + and her loose lips drawn up in a curious pucker. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of it?” he asked, as she remained silent. + </p> + <p> + “Think of it? About as pretty a snarl as ever I see. I can't say as I'm so + over and above taken aback by what your mother says. I've all along had a + hankerin' suspicion of it in my bones. Some things seems to me like the + smell o' water-melons, that I've knowed to come with fresh snow; you know + there <i>is</i> no water-melons, but then, there's the smell of 'em! But + it won't do to hurry a matter o' this kind—long-sufferin' and slow + to anger, though that don't quite suit, but never mind, all the same—my + opinion is, ye've both o' ye got to wait!” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy, do you know nothing about it? Can you guess nothing?” Gilbert + persisted. + </p> + <p> + She stole a quick glance at Martha, which he detected, and a chill ran + through his blood. His face grew pale. + </p> + <p> + “Nothin' that fits your case,” said Miss Lavender, presently. She saw the + renewal of Gilbert's suspicion, and was casting about in her mind how to + allay it without indicating something else which she wished to conceal. + “This I'll say,” she exclaimed at last, with desperate frankness, “that I + <i>do</i> know somethin' that may be o' use, when things comes to the + wust, as I hope they won't, but it's neither here nor there so far as <i>you + two</i> are concerned; so don't ask me, for I won't tell, and if it's to + be done, <i>I'm</i> the only one to do it! If I've got my little secrets, + I'm keepin' 'em in your interest, remember that!” + </p> + <p> + There was the glimmer of a tear in each of Miss Lavender's eyes before she + knew it. + </p> + <p> + “Betsy, my dear friend!” cried Gilbert, “we know you and trust you. Only + say this, for my sake—that you think my mother's secret is nothing + which will part Martha and me!” + </p> + <p> + “Martha and me. I <i>do</i> think so—am I a dragon, or a—what's + that Job talks about?—a behemoth? It's no use; we must all wait and + see what'll turn up. But, Martha, I've rather a bright thought, for a + wonder; what if we could bring Alf. Barton into the plot, and git him to + help us for the sake o' <i>his</i> bein' helped?” + </p> + <p> + Martha looked surprised, but Gilbert flushed up to the roots of his hair, + and set his lips firmly together. + </p> + <p> + “I dunno as it'll do,” continued Miss Betsy, with perfect indifference to + these signs, “but then it <i>might</i>. First and foremost, we must try to + find out what he wants, for it isn't you, Martha; so you, Gilbert, might + as well be a little more of a cowcumber than you are at this present + moment. But if it's nothin' ag'inst the law, and not likely, for he's too + cute, we might even use a vessel—well, not exackly o' wrath, but + somethin' like it. There's more 'n one concern at work in all this, it + strikes <i>me</i>, and it's wuth while to know 'em all.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was ashamed of his sensitiveness in regard to Barton, especially + after Martha's frank and merry confession; so he declared himself entirely + willing to abide by her judgment. + </p> + <p> + “It would not be pleasant to have Alfred Barton associated with us, even + in the way of help,” she said. “I have a woman's curiosity to know what he + means, I confess, but, unless Betsy could make the discovery without me, I + would not take any steps towards it.” + </p> + <p> + “Much would be fittin' to me, child,” said Miss Lavender, “that wouldn't + pass for you, at all. We've got six weeks till Gilbert comes back, and no + need o' hurry, except our arrand to Polly Withers's, which'll come to + nothin', unless you each take leave of other mighty quick, while I'm + lookin' for some more wintergreen.” + </p> + <p> + With these words she turned short around and strode away. + </p> + <p> + “It had best be our own secret yet, Martha?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Gilbert, and all the more precious.” + </p> + <p> + They clasped hands and kissed, once, twice, thrice, and then the underwood + slowly deepened between them, and the shadows of the forest separated them + from each other. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. — SANDY FLASH REAPPEARS. + </h2> + <p> + During the month of October, while Gilbert Potter was occupied with his + lonely and monotonous task, he had ample leisure to evolve a clear, calm, + happy purpose from the tumult of his excited feelings. This was, first, to + accomplish his own independence, which now seemed inevitably necessary, + for his mother's sake, and its possible consequences to her; then, strong + in the knowledge of Martha Deane's fidelity, to wait with her. + </p> + <p> + With the exception of a few days of rainy weather, his hauling prospered, + and he returned home after five weeks' absence, to count up the gains of + the year and find that very little was lacking of the entire amount to be + paid. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter, as the prospect of release drew so near, became suddenly + anxious and restless. The knowledge that a very large sum of money (as she + considered it) was in the house, filled her with a thousand new fears. + There were again rumors of Sandy Flash lurking around Marlborough, and she + shuddered and trembled whenever his name was mentioned. Her uneasiness + became at last so great that Gilbert finally proposed writing to the + conveyancer in Chester who held the mortgage, and asking whether the money + might not as well be paid at once, since he had it in hand, as wait until + the following spring. + </p> + <p> + “It's not the regular way,” said she, “but then, I suppose it'll hold in + law. You can ask Mr. Trainer about that. O Gilbert, if it can be done, + it'll take a great load off my mind!” + </p> + <p> + “Whatever puts the mortgage into my hands, mother,” said he, “is legal + enough for us. I needn't even wait to sell the grain; Mark Deane will lend + me the seventy-five dollars still to be made up, if he has them—or, + if he can't, somebody else will. I was going to the Square this evening; + so I'll write the letter at once, and put it in the office.” + </p> + <p> + The first thing Gilbert did, on reaching the village, was to post the + letter in season for the mail-rider, who went once a week to and fro + between Chester and Peach-bottom Ferry, on the Susquehanna. Then he + crossed the street to Dr. Deane's, in order to inquire for Mark, but with + the chief hope of seeing Martha for one sweet moment, at least. In this, + however, he was disappointed; as he reached the gate, Mark issued from the + door. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Gilbert, old boy!” he shouted; “the sight o' you's good for sore + eyes! What have you been about since that Sunday evening we rode up the + west branch? I was jist steppin' over to the tavern to see the fellows—come + along, and have a glass o' Rye!” + </p> + <p> + He threw his heavy arm over Gilbert's shoulder, and drew him along. + </p> + <p> + “In a minute, Mark; wait a bit—I've a little matter of business with + you. I need to borrow seventy-five dollars for a month or six weeks, until + my wheat is sold. Have you that much that you're not using?” + </p> + <p> + “That and more comin' to me soon,” said Mark, “and of course you can have + it. Want it right away?” + </p> + <p> + “Very likely in ten or twelve days.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, well, never fear—I'll have some accounts squared by that time! + Come along!” And therewith the good-natured fellow hurried his friend into + the bar-room of the Unicorn. + </p> + <p> + “Done pretty well, haulin', this time?” asked Mark, as they touched + glasses. + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” answered Gilbert, “seeing it's the last time. I'm at an end + with hauling now.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't say so? Here's to your good luck!” exclaimed Mark, emptying his + glass. + </p> + <p> + A man, who had been tilting his chair against the wall, in the farther + corner of the room, now arose and came forward. It was Alfred Barton. + </p> + <p> + During Gilbert's absence, neither this gentleman's plan nor that of his + father, had made much progress. It was tolerably easy, to be sure, to give + the old man the impression that the preliminary arrangements with regard + to money were going on harmoniously; but it was not so easy to procure Dr. + Deane's acceptance of the part marked out for him. Alfred had sought an + interview with the latter soon after that which he had had with Martha, + and the result was not at all satisfactory. The wooer had been obliged to + declare that his suit was unsuccessful; but, he believed, only temporarily + so. Martha had been taken by surprise; the question had come upon her so + suddenly that she could scarcely be said to know her own mind, and time + must be allowed her. Although this statement seemed probable to Dr. Deane, + as it coincided with his own experience in previously sounding his + daughter's mind, yet Alfred's evident anxiety that nothing should be said + to Martha upon the subject, and that the Doctor should assume to his + father that the question of balancing her legacy was as good as settled, + (then proceed at once to the discussion of the second and more important + question,) excited the Doctor's suspicions. He could not well avoid giving + the required promise in relation to Martha, but he insisted on seeing the + legal evidences of Alfred Barton's property, before going a step further. + </p> + <p> + The latter was therefore in a state of great perplexity. The game he was + playing seemed safe enough, so far, but nothing had come of it, and beyond + this point it could not be carried, without great increase of risk. He was + more than once tempted to drop it entirely, confessing his complete and + final rejection, and allowing his father to take what course he pleased; + but presently the itching of his avaricious curiosity returned in full + force, and suggested new expedients. + </p> + <p> + No suspicion of Gilbert Potter's relation to Martha Deane had ever entered + his mind. He had always had a liking for the young man, and would, no + doubt, have done him any good service which did not require the use of + money. He now came forward very cordially and shook-hands with the two. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert had self-possession enough to control his first impulse, and to + meet his rival with his former manner. Secure in his own fortune, he even + felt that he could afford to be magnanimous, and thus, by degrees, the + dislike wore off which Martha's confession had excited. + </p> + <p> + “What is all this talk about Sandy Flash?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “He's been seen up above,” said Barton; “some say, about Marlborough, and + some, along the Strasburg road. He'll hardly come this way; he's too + cunning to go where the people are prepared to receive him.” + </p> + <p> + If either of the three had happened to look steadily at the back window of + the bar-room, they might have detected, in the dusk, the face of + Dougherty, the Irish ostler of the Unicorn Tavern. It disappeared + instantly, but there was a crack nearly half an inch wide between the + bottom of the back-door and the sill under it, and to that crack a large, + flat ear was laid. + </p> + <p> + “If he comes any nearer, you must send word around at once,” said Gilbert,—“not + wait until he's already among us.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me alone for that!” Barton exclaimed; “Damn him, I only wish he had + pluck enough to come!” + </p> + <p> + Mark was indignant “What's the sheriff and constables good for?” he cried. + “It's a burnin' shame that the whole country has been plundered so long, + and the fellow still runnin' at large. Much he cares for the five hundred + dollars on his head.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a thousand, now,” said Barton. “They've doubled it.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, that'd be a good haul for us. We're not bound to keep inside of our + township; I'm for an up and down chase all over the country, as soon as + the fall work's over!” + </p> + <p> + “And I, too,” said Gilbert + </p> + <p> + “You 're fellows after my own heart, both o' you!” Barton asserted, + slapping them upon the back. “What'll you take to drink?” + </p> + <p> + By this time several others had assembled, and the conversation became + general. While the flying rumors about Sandy Flash were being produced and + discussed, Barton drew Gilbert aside. + </p> + <p> + “Suppose we step out on the back-porch,” he said, “I want to have a word + with you.” + </p> + <p> + The door closed between them and the noisy bar-room. There was a rustling + noise under the porch, as of a fowl disturbed on its roost, and then + everything was still. + </p> + <p> + “Your speaking of your having done well by hauling put it into my head, + Gilbert,” Barton continued. “I wanted to borrow a little money for a + while, and there's reasons why I shouldn't call upon anybody who'd tell of + it. Now, as you've got it, lying idle”— + </p> + <p> + “It happens to be just the other way, Barton,” said Gilbert, interrupting + him. “I came here to-night to borrow.” + </p> + <p> + “How's that?” Barton could not help asking, with a momentary sense of + chagrin. But the next moment he added, in a milder tone, “I don't mean to + pry into your business.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall very likely have to use my money soon,” Gilbert explained, “and + must at least wait until I hear from Chester. That will be another week, + and then, if the money should not be wanted, I can accommodate you. But, + to tell you the truth, I don't think there's much chance of that.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall you have to go down to Chester?” + </p> + <p> + “I hope so.” + </p> + <p> + “When?” + </p> + <p> + “In ten or twelve days from now.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said Barton, “I 'II fix it this way. 'Tisn't only the money I + want, but to have it paid in Chester, without the old man or Stacy knowing + anything of the matter. If I was to go myself, Stacy'd never rest till he + found out my business—Faith! I believe if I was hid in the hayloft + o' the William Penn Tavern, he'd scent me out. Now, I can get the money of + another fellow I know, if you'll take it down and hand it over for me. + Would you be that obliging?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” Gilbert answered. “If I go it will be no additional trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “All right,” said Barton, “between ourselves, you understand.” + </p> + <p> + A week later, a letter, with the following address was brought to the + post-office by the mail-rider,— + </p> + <p> + <i>“To Mr. Gilbert Potter, Esq. Kennett Square P. O. These, with Care and + Speed.”</i> + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, having carefully cut around the wafer and unfolded the sheet of + strong yellowish paper, read this missive,— + </p> + <p> + “Sir: Yr respd favour of ye [Footnote: This form of the article, though in + general disuse at the time, was still frequently employed in epistolary + writing, in that part of Pennsylvania. [ed note: The r in Yr and e in ye, + etc. are superscripted.]] 11th came duly to hand, and ye proposition wh it + contains has been submitted to Mr. Jones, ye present houlder of ye + mortgage. He wishes me to inform you that he did not anticipate ye payment + before ye first day of April, 1797, wh was ye term agreed upon at ye + payment of ye first note; nevertheless, being required to accept full and + lawful payment, whensoever tendered, he hath impowered me to receive ye + moneys at yr convenience, providing ye settlement be full and compleat, as + aforesaid, and not merely ye payment of a part or portion thereof. + </p> + <p> + “Yr obt servt, + </p> + <h3> + “ISAAC TRAINER.” + </h3> + <p> + Gilbert, with his limited experience of business matters, had entirely + overlooked the fact, that the permission of the creditor is not necessary + to the payment of a debt. He had a profound respect for all legal forms, + and his indebtedness carried with it a sense of stern and perpetual + responsibility, which, alas! has not always been inherited by the + descendants of that simple and primitive period. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter received the news with a sigh of relief. The money was again + counted, the interest which would be due somewhat laboriously computed, + and finally nothing remained but the sum which Mark Deane had promised to + furnish. This Mark expected to receive on the following Wednesday, and + Gilbert and his mother agreed that the journey to Chester should be made + at the close of the same week. + </p> + <p> + They went over these calculations in the quiet of the Sabbath afternoon, + sitting alone in the neat, old-fashioned kitchen, with the dim light of an + Indian-summer sun striking through the leafless trumpet-vines, and making + a quaint network of light and shade on the whitewashed window-frame. The + pendulum ticked drowsily along the opposite wall, and the hickory back-log + on the hearth hummed a lamentable song through all its simmering pores of + sap. Peaceful as the happy landscape without, dozing in dreams of the + departed summer, cheery as the tidy household signs within, seemed at last + the lives of the two inmates. Mary Potter had not asked how her son's + wooing had further sped, but she felt that he was contented of heart; she, + too, indulging finally in the near consummation of her hopes,—which + touched her like the pitying sympathy of the Power that had dealt so + singularly with her life,—was nearer the feeling of happiness than + she had been for long and weary years. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was moved by the serenity of her face, and the trouble, which he + knew it concealed, seemed, to his mind, to be wearing away. Carefully + securing the doors, they walked over the fields together, pausing on the + hilltop to listen to the caw of the gathering crows, or to watch the ruby + disc of the beamless sun stooping to touch the western rim of the valley. + Many a time had they thus gone over the farm together, but never before + with such a sense of peace and security. The day was removed, + mysteriously, from the circle of its fellows, and set apart by a peculiar + influence which prevented either from ever forgetting it, during all the + years that came after. + </p> + <p> + They were not aware that at the very moment this influence was profoundest + in their hearts, new rumors of Sandy Flash's movements had reached Kennett + Square, and were being excitedly discussed at the Unicorn Tavern. He had + been met on the Street Road, riding towards the Red Lion, that very + afternoon, by a man who knew his face; and, later in the evening came a + second report, that an individual of his build had crossed the + Philadelphia Road, this side of the Anvil, and gone southward into the + woods. Many were the surmises, and even detailed accounts, of robberies + that either had been or might be committed, but no one could say precisely + how much was true. + </p> + <p> + Mark Deane was not at home, and the blacksmith was commissioned to summon + Alfred Barton, who had ridden over to Pennsbury, on a friendly visit to + Mr. Joel Ferris. When he finally made his appearance, towards ten o'clock, + he was secretly horror-stricken at the great danger he had escaped; but it + gave him an admirable opportunity to swagger. He could do no less than + promise to summon the volunteers in the morning, and provision was made + accordingly, for despatching as many messengers as the village could + afford. + </p> + <p> + Since the British occupation, nearly twenty years before, Kennett Square + had not known as lively a day as that which followed. The men and boys + were in the street, grouped in front of the tavern, the women at the + windows, watching, some with alarmed, but many with amused faces. Sally + Fairthorn, although it was washing-day, stole up through Dr. Deane's + garden and into Martha's room, for at least half an hour, but Joe and Jake + left their overturned shocks of corn unhusked for the whole day. + </p> + <p> + Some of the young farmers to whom the message had been sent, returned + answer that they were very busy and could not leave their work; the horses + of others were lame; the guns of others broken. By ten o'clock, however, + there were nine volunteers, very irregularly armed and mounted, in + attendance; by eleven o'clock, thirteen, and Alfred Barton, whose place as + leader was anything but comfortable, began to swell with an air of + importance, and set about examining the guns of his command. Neither he + nor any one else noticed particularly that the Irish ostler appeared to be + a great connoisseur in muskets, and was especially interested in the + structure of the flints and pans. + </p> + <p> + “Let's look over the roll, and see how many are true blue,” said Barton, + drawing a paper from his pocket. “There's failing nine or ten, among 'em + some I fully counted on—Withers, he <i>may</i> come yet; Ferris, + hardly time to get word; but Carson, Potter, and Travilla ought to turn up + curst soon, or we'll have the sport without 'em!” + </p> + <p> + “Give me a horse, Mr. Barton, and I'll ride down for Gilbert!” cried Joe + Fairthorn. + </p> + <p> + “No use,—Giles went this morning,” growled Barton. + </p> + <p> + “It's time we were starting; which road would be best to take?” asked one + of the volunteers. + </p> + <p> + “All roads lead to Rome, but all don't lead to Sandy Flash, ha! ha!” said + another, laughing at his own smartness. + </p> + <p> + “Who knows where he was seen last?” Barton asked, but it was not easy to + get a coherent answer. One had heard one report, and another another; he + had been seen from the Street Road on the north all the way around + eastward by the Red Lion and the Anvil, and in the rocky glen below the + Barton farm, to the lime-quarries of Tuffkenamon on the west. + </p> + <p> + “Unless we scatter, it'll be like looking for a needle in a haystack,” + remarked one of the more courageous volunteers. + </p> + <p> + “If they'd all had spunk enough to come,” said Barton, “we might ha' made + four parties, and gone out on each road. As it is, we're only strong + enough for two.” + </p> + <p> + “Seven to one?—that's too much odds in Sandy's favor!” cried a + light-headed youth, whereat the others all laughed, and some of them + blushed a little. + </p> + <p> + Barton bit his lip, and with a withering glance at the young man, replied,—“Then + we'll make three parties, and you shall be the third.” + </p> + <p> + Another quarter of an hour having elapsed, without any accession to the + troop, Barton reluctantly advised the men to get their arms, which had + been carelessly placed along the tavern-porch, and to mount for the chase. + </p> + <p> + Just then Joe and Jake Fairthorn, who had been dodging back and forth + through the village, watching the roads, made their appearance with the + announcement,— + </p> + <p> + “Hurray—there's another—comin' up from below, but it a'n't + Gilbert. He's stuck full o' pistols, but he's a-foot, and you must git him + a horse. I tell you, he looks like a real buster!” + </p> + <p> + “Who can it be?” asked Barton. + </p> + <p> + “We'll see, in a minute,” said the nearest volunteers, taking up their + muskets. + </p> + <p> + “There he is,—there he is!” cried Joe. + </p> + <p> + All eyes, turned towards the crossing of the roads, beheld, just rounding + the corner-house, fifty paces distant, a short, broad-shouldered, + determined figure, making directly for the tavern. His face was red and + freckled, his thin lips half-parted with a grin which showed the flash of + white teeth between them, and his eyes sparkled with the light of a cold, + fierce courage. He had a double-barrelled musket on his shoulder, and + there were four pistols in the tight leathern belt about his waist. + </p> + <p> + Barton turned deadly pale as he beheld this man. An astonished silence + fell upon the group, but, the next moment, some voice exclaimed, in an + undertone, which, nevertheless, every one heard,— + </p> + <p> + “By the living Lord! Sandy Flash himself!” + </p> + <p> + There was a general confused movement, of which Alfred Barton took + advantage to partly cover his heavy body by one of the porch-pillars. Some + of the volunteers started back, others pressed closer together. The pert + youth, alone, who was to form the third party, brought his musket to his + shoulder. + </p> + <p> + Quick as lightning Sandy Flash drew a pistol from his belt and levelled it + at the young man's breast. + </p> + <p> + “Ground arms!” he cried, “or you are a dead man.” + </p> + <p> + He was obeyed, although slowly and with grinding teeth. + </p> + <p> + “Stand aside!” he then commanded. “<i>You</i> have pluck, and I should + hate to shoot you. Make way, the rest o' ye! I've saved ye the trouble o' + ridin' far to find me. Whoever puts finger to trigger, falls. Back, back, + I say, and open the door for me!” + </p> + <p> + Still advancing as he spoke, and shifting his pistol so as to cover now + one, now another of the group, he reached the tavern-porch. Some one + opened the door of the barroom, which swung inwards. The highwayman strode + directly to the bar, and there stood, facing the open door, while he cried + to the trembling bar-keeper,— + </p> + <p> + “A glass o' Rye, good and strong!” + </p> + <p> + It was set before him. Holding the musket in his arm, he took the glass, + drank, wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, and then, spinning a + silver dollar into the air, said, as it rang upon the floor,— + </p> + <p> + “<i>I</i> stand treat to-day; let the rest o' the gentlemen drink at my + expense!” + </p> + <p> + He then walked out, and slowly retreated backwards towards the + corner-house, covering his retreat with the levelled pistol, and the flash + of his dauntless eye. + </p> + <p> + He had nearly reached the corner, when Gilbert Potter dashed up behind + him, with Roger all in a foam. Joe Fairthorn, seized with deadly terror + when he heard the terrible name, had set off at full speed for home; but + descrying Gilbert approaching on a gallop, changed his course, met the + latter, and gasped out the astounding intelligence. All this was the work + of a minute, and when Gilbert reached the corner, a single glance showed + him the true state of affairs. The confused group in front of the tavern, + some faces sallow with cowardice, some red with indignation and shame; the + solitary, retreating figure, alive in every nerve with splendid courage, + told him the whole story, which Joe's broken words had only half hinted. + </p> + <p> + Flinging himself from his horse, he levelled his musket, and cried out,— + </p> + <p> + “Surrender!” + </p> + <p> + Sandy Flash, with a sudden spring, placed his back against the house, + pointed his pistol at Gilbert, and said: “Drop your gun, or I fire!” + </p> + <p> + For answer, Gilbert drew the trigger; the crack of the explosion rang + sharp and clear, and a little shower of mortar covered Sandy Flash's + cocked hat. The ball had struck the wall about four inches above his head. + </p> + <p> + He leaped forward; Gilbert clubbed his musket and awaited him. They were + scarcely two yards apart; the highwayman's pistol-barrel was opposite + Gilbert's heart, and the two men were looking into each other's eyes. The + group in front of the tavern stood as if paralyzed, every man holding his + breath. + </p> + <p> + “Halt!” said Sandy Flash. “Halt! I hate bloodshed, and besides that, young + Potter, you're not the man that'll take me prisoner. I could blow your + brains out by movin' this finger, but <i>you</i>'re safe from any bullet + o' mine, whoever a'n't!” + </p> + <p> + At the last words a bright, mocking, malicious grin stole over his face. + Gilbert, amazed to find himself known to the highwayman, and puzzled with + certain familiar marks in the latter's countenance, was swiftly + enlightened by this grin. It was Fortune's face before him, without the + black hair and whiskers,—and Fortune's voice that spoke! + </p> + <p> + Sandy Flash saw the recognition. He grinned again. “You'll know your + friend, another time,” he said, sprang five feet backward, whirled, gained + the cover of the house, and was mounting his horse among the bushes at the + bottom of the garden, before any of the others reached Gilbert, who was + still standing as if thunder-struck. + </p> + <p> + By this time Sandy Flash had leaped the hedge and was careering like + lightning towards the shelter of the woods. The interest now turned upon + Gilbert Potter, who was very taciturn and thoughtful, and had little to + relate. They noticed, however, that his eyes were turned often and + inquiringly upon Alfred Barton, and that the latter as steadily avoided + meeting them. + </p> + <p> + When Gilbert went to bring Roger, who had quietly waited at the crossing + of the roads, Deb. Smith suddenly made her appearance. + </p> + <p> + “I seen it all,” she said. “I was a bit up the road, but I seen it. You + shouldn't ha' shot, Mr. Gilbert, though it isn't him that's born to be hit + with a bullet; but <i>you</i>'re safe enough from <i>his</i> bullets, + anyhow—whatever happens, <i>you</i>'re safe!” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, Deborah?” he exclaimed, as she almost repeated to him + Sandy Flash's very words. + </p> + <p> + “I mean what I say,” she answered. “<i>You</i> wouldn't be afeard, but + it'll be a comfort to your mother. I must have a drink o' whiskey after + that sight.” + </p> + <p> + With these words she elbowed her way into the barroom. Most of the Kennett + Volunteers were there engaged in carrying out a similar resolution. They + would gladly have kept the whole occurrence secret, but that was + impossible. It was known all over the country, in three days, and the + story of it has not yet died out of the local annals. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. — THE HUSKING FROLIC. + </h2> + <p> + Jake Fairthorn rushed into Dr. Deane's door with a howl of terror. + </p> + <p> + “Cousin Martha! Betsy!” he cried; “he's goin' to shoot Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + “None o' your tricks, boy!” Betsy Lavender exclaimed, in her most savage + tone, as she saw the paleness of Martha's face. “I'm up to 'em. Who'd + shoot Gilbert Potter? Not Alf Barton, I'll be bound; he'd be afeard to + shoot even Sandy Flash!” + </p> + <p> + “It's Sandy Flash,—he's there! Gilbert shot his hat off!” cried + Jake. + </p> + <p> + “The Lord have mercy!” And the next minute Miss Betsy found herself, she + scarcely knew how, in the road. + </p> + <p> + Both had heard the shot, but supposed that it was some volunteer + discharging an old load from his musket; they knew nothing of Sandy's + visit to the Unicorn, and Jake's announcement seemed simply incredible. + </p> + <p> + “O you wicked boy! What'll become o' you?” cried Miss Lavender, as she + beheld Gilbert Potter approaching, leading Roger by the bridle. But at the + same instant she saw, from the faces of the crowd, that something unusual + had happened. While the others instantly surrounded Gilbert, the young + volunteer who alone had made any show of fight, told the story to the two + ladies. Martha Deane's momentary shock of terror disappeared under the + rush of mingled pride and scorn which the narrative called up in her + heart. + </p> + <p> + “What a pack of cowards!” she exclaimed, her cheeks flushing,—“to + stand still and see the life of the only man that dares to face a robber + at the mercy of the robber's pistol!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert approached. His face was grave and thoughtful, but his eye + brightened as it met hers. No two hands ever conveyed so many and such + swift messages as theirs, in the single moment when they touched each + other. The other women of the village crowded around, and he was obliged, + though with evident reluctance, to relate his share in the event. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time the volunteers had issued from the tavern, and were + loudly discussing what course to pursue. The most of them were in favor of + instant pursuit. To their credit it must be said that very few of them + were actual cowards; they had been both surprised by the incredible daring + of the highwayman, and betrayed by the cowardly inefficiency of their own + leader. Barton, restored to his usual complexion by two glasses of + whiskey, was nearly ready to head a chase which he suspected would come to + nothing; but the pert young volunteer, who had been whispering with some + of the younger men, suddenly cried out,— + </p> + <p> + “I say, fellows, we've had about enough o' Barton's command; and I, for + one, am a-goin' to enlist under Captain Potter.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” “Agreed!” responded a number of others, and some eight or ten + stepped to one side. The few remaining around Alfred Barton began to look + doubtful, and all eyes were turned curiously upon him. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, however, stepped forward and said: “It's bad policy to divide our + forces just now, when we ought to be off on the hunt. Mr. Barton, we all + know, got up the company, and I am willing to serve under him, if he'll + order us to mount at once! If not, rather than lose more time, I'll head + as many as are ready to go.” + </p> + <p> + Barton saw how the tide was turning, and suddenly determined to cover up + his shame, if possible, with a mantle of magnanimity. + </p> + <p> + “The fellows are right, Gilbert!” he said. “You deserve to take the lead + to-day, so go ahead; I'll follow you!” + </p> + <p> + “Mount, then, all of you!” Gilbert cried, without further hesitation. In a + second he was on Roger's back. “You, Barton,” he ordered, “take three with + you and make for the New-Garden cross-road as fast as you can. Pratt, you + and three more towards the Hammer-and-Trowel; while I, with the rest, + follow the direct trail.” + </p> + <p> + No more time was wasted in talking. The men took their guns and mounted, + the two detached commands were told off, and in five minutes the village + was left to its own inhabitants. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert had a long and perplexing chase, but very little came of it. The + trail of Sandy Flash's horse was followed without much difficulty until it + struck the west branch of Redley Creek. There it suddenly ceased, and more + than an hour elapsed before some one discovered it, near the road, a + quarter of a mile further up the stream. Thence it turned towards the + Hammer-and-Trowel, but no one at the farm-houses on the road had seen any + one pass except a Quaker, wearing the usual broad-brimmed hat and drab + coat, and mounted on a large, sleepy-looking horse. + </p> + <p> + About the middle of the afternoon, Gilbert detected, in one of the lanes + leading across to the Street Road, the marks of a galloping steed, and + those who had a little lingering knowledge of wood-craft noticed that the + gallop often ceased suddenly, changed to a walk, and was then as suddenly + resumed. Along the Street Road no one had been seen except a Quaker, + apparently the same person. Gilbert and his hunters now suspected the + disguise, but the difficulty of following the trail had increased with + every hour of lost time; and after scouring along the Brandywine and then + crossing into the Pocopsin valley, they finally gave up the chase, late in + the day. It was the general opinion that Sandy had struck northward, and + was probably safe in one of his lairs among the Welch Mountains. + </p> + <p> + When they reached the Unicorn tavern at dusk, Gilbert found Joe Fairthorn + impatiently waiting for him. Sally had been “tearin' around like mad,” (so + Joe described his sister's excitement,) having twice visited the village + during the afternoon in the hope of seeing the hero of the day—after + Sandy Flash, of course, who had, and deserved, the first place. + </p> + <p> + “And, Gilbert,” said Joe, “I wasn't to forgit to tell you that we're + a-goin' to have a huskin' frolic o' Wednesday night,—day after + to-morrow, you know. Dad's behindhand with huskin', and the moon's goin' + to be full, and Mark he said Let's have a frolic, and I'm comin' home to + meet Gilbert anyhow, and so I'll be there. And Sally she said I'll have + Martha and lots o' girls, only we shan't come out into the field till + you're nigh about done. Then Mark he said That won't take long, and if you + don't help me with my shocks I won't come, and Sally she hit him, and so + it's all agreed. And you'll come, Gilbert, won't you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes, Joe,” Gilbert answered, a little impatiently; “tell Sally I'll + come.” Then he turned Roger's head towards home. + </p> + <p> + He was glad of the solitary ride which allowed him to collect his + thoughts. Fearless as was his nature, the danger he had escaped might well + have been cause for grave self-congratulation; but the thought of it + scarcely lingered beyond the moment of the encounter. The astonishing + discovery that the stranger, Fortune, and the redoubtable Sandy Flash were + one and the same person; the mysterious words which this person had + addressed to him; the repetition of the same words by Deb. Smith,—all + these facts, suggesting, as their common solution, some secret which + concerned himself, perplexed his mind, already more than sufficiently + occupied with mystery. + </p> + <p> + It suddenly flashed across his memory, as he rode homeward, that on the + evening when he returned from the fox-chase, his mother had manifested an + unusual interest in the strange huntsman, questioning him minutely as to + the latter's appearance. Was she—or, rather, had she been, at one + time of her life—acquainted with Sandy Flash? And if so— + </p> + <p> + “No!” he cried aloud, “it is impossible! It could not—cannot be!” + The new possibility which assailed him was even more terrible than his + previous belief in the dishonor of his birth. Better, a thousand times, he + thought, be basely born than the son of an outlaw! It seemed that every + attempt he made to probe his mother's secret threatened to overwhelm him + with a knowledge far worse than the fret of his ignorance. Why not be + patient, therefore, leaving the solution to her and to time? + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, a burning curiosity led him to relate to his mother, that + evening, the events of the day. He watched her closely as he described his + encounter with the highwayman, and repeated the latter's words. It was + quite natural that Mary Potter should shudder and turn pale during the + recital—quite natural that a quick expression of relief should shine + from her face at the close; but Gilbert could not be sure that her + interest extended to any one except himself. She suggested no explanation + of Sandy Flash's words, and he asked none. + </p> + <p> + “I shall know no peace, child,” she said, “until the money has been paid, + and the mortgage is in your hands.” + </p> + <p> + “You won't have long to wait, now, mother,” he answered cheerily. “I shall + see Mark on Wednesday evening, and therefore can start for Chester on + Friday, come rain or shine. As for Sandy Flash, he's no doubt up on the + Welch Mountain by this time. It isn't his way to turn up twice in + succession, in the same place.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't know him, Gilbert. He won't soon forget that you shot at him.” + </p> + <p> + “I seem to be safe enough, if he tells the truth.” Gilbert could not help + remarking. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter shook her head, and said nothing. + </p> + <p> + Two more lovely Indian-summer days went by, and as the wine-red sun slowly + quenched his lower limb in the denser smoke along the horizon, the great + bronzed moon struggled out of it, on the opposite rim of the sky. It was a + weird light and a weird atmosphere, such as we might imagine overspreading + Babylonian ruins, on the lone plains of the Euphrates; but no such fancies + either charmed or tormented the lusty, wide-awake, practical lads and + lasses, whom the brightening moon beheld on their way to the Fairthorn + farm. “The best night for huskin' that ever was,” comprised the sum of + their appreciation. + </p> + <p> + At the old farm-house there was great stir of preparation. Sally, with her + gown pinned up, dodged in and out of kitchen and sitting-room, catching + herself on every door-handle, while Mother Fairthorn, beaming with quiet + content, stood by the fire, and inspected the great kettles which were to + contain the materials for the midnight supper. Both were relieved when + Betsy Lavender made her appearance, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “Let down your gownd, Sally, and give <i>me</i> that ladle. What'd be a + mighty heap o' work for you, in that flustered condition, is child's-play + to the likes o' me, that's as steady as a cart-horse,—not that + self-praise, as the sayin' is, is any recommendation,—but my kickin' + and prancin' days is over, and high time, too.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Betsy, I'll not allow it!” cried Sally. “You must enjoy yourself, + too.” But she had parted with the ladle, while speaking, and Miss + Lavender, repeating the words “Enjoy yourself, too!” quietly took her + place in the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + The young men, as they arrived, took their way to the corn-field, piloted + by Joe and Jake Fairthorn. These boys each carried a wallet over his + shoulders, the jug in the front end balancing that behind, and the only + casualty that occurred was when Jake, jumping down from a fence, allowed + his jugs to smite together, breaking one of them to shivers. + </p> + <p> + “There, that'll come out o' your pig-money,” said Joe. + </p> + <p> + “I don't care,” Jake retorted, “if daddy only pays me the rest.” + </p> + <p> + The boys, it must be known, received every year the two smallest pigs of + the old sow's litter, with the understanding that these were to be their + separate property, on condition of their properly feeding and fostering + the whole herd. This duty they performed with great zeal and enthusiasm, + and numberless and splendid were the castles which they built with the + coming money; yet, alas! when the pigs were sold, it always happened that + Farmer Fairthorn found some inconvenient debt pressing him, and the boys' + pig-money was therefore taken as a loan,—only as a loan,—and + permanently invested. + </p> + <p> + There were between three and four hundred shocks to husk, and the young + men, armed with husking-pegs of hickory, fastened by a leathern strap over + the two middle fingers, went bravely to work. Mark Deane, who had reached + home that afternoon, wore the seventy-five dollars in a buckskin belt + around his waist, and anxiously awaited the arrival of Gilbert Potter, of + whose adventure he had already heard. Mark's presumed obligations to + Alfred Barton prevented him from expressing his overpowering contempt for + that gentleman's conduct, but he was not obliged to hold his tongue about + Gilbert's pluck and decision, and he did not. + </p> + <p> + The latter, detained at the house by Mother Fairthorn and Sally,—both + of whom looked upon him as one arisen from the dead,—did not reach + the field until the others had selected their rows, overturned the shocks, + and were seated in a rustling line, in the moonlight. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert!” shouted Mark, “come here! I've kep' the row next to mine, for + you! And I want to get a grip o' your hand, my bold boy!” + </p> + <p> + He sprang up, flinging an armful of stalks behind him, and with difficulty + restrained an impulse to clasp Gilbert to his broad breast. It was not the + custom of the neighborhood; the noblest masculine friendship would have + been described by the people in no other terms than “They are very thick,” + and men who loved each other were accustomed to be satisfied with the + knowledge. The strong moonlight revealed to Gilbert Potter the honest + heart which looked out of Mark's blue eyes, as the latter held his hand + like a vice, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “I've heard all about it.” + </p> + <p> + “More than there was occasion for, very likely,” Gilbert replied. “I'll + tell you my story some day, Mark; but tonight we must work and not talk.” + </p> + <p> + “All right, Gilbert. I say, though, I've got the money you wanted; we'll + fix the matter after supper.” + </p> + <p> + The rustling of the corn-stalks recommenced, and the tented lines of + shocks slowly fell as the huskers worked their way over the brow of the + hill, whence the ground sloped down into a broad belt of shade, cast by + the woods in the bottom. Two or three dogs which had accompanied their + masters coursed about the field, or darted into the woods in search of an + opossum-trail. Joe and Jake Fairthorn would gladly have followed them, but + were afraid of venturing into the mysterious gloom; so they amused + themselves with putting on the coats which the men had thrown aside, and + gravely marched up and down the line, commending the rapid and threatening + the tardy workers. + </p> + <p> + Erelong, the silence was broken by many a shout of exultation or banter, + many a merry sound of jest or fun, as the back of the night's task was + fairly broken. One husker mimicked the hoot of an owl in the thickets + below; another sang a melody popular at the time, the refrain of which + was,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Be it late or early, be it late or soon, + It's I will enjoy the sweet rose in June!” + </pre> + <p> + “Sing out, boys!” shouted Mark, “so the girls can hear you! It's time they + were comin' to look after us.” + </p> + <p> + “Sing, yourself!” some one replied. “You can out-bellow the whole raft.” + </p> + <p> + Without more ado, Mark opened his mouth and began chanting, in a ponderous + voice,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “On yonder mountain summit + My castle you will find, + Renown'd in ann-cient historee,— + My name it's Rinardine!” + </pre> + <p> + Presently, from the upper edge of the wood, several feminine voices were + heard, singing another part of the same song:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Beware of meeting Rinar, + All on the mountains high!” + </pre> + <p> + Such a shout of fun ran over the field, that the frighted owl ceased his + hooting in the thicket. The moon stood high, and turned the night-haze + into diffused silver. Though the hollows were chill with gathering frost, + the air was still mild and dry on the hills, and the young ladies, in + their warm gowns of home-made flannel, enjoyed both the splendor of the + night and the lively emulation of the scattered laborers. + </p> + <p> + “Turn to, and give us a lift, girls,” said Mark. + </p> + <p> + “Beware of meeting Rinar!” Sally laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Because you know what you promised him, Sally,” he retorted. “Come, a + bargain's a bargain; there's the outside row standin'—not enough of + us to stretch all the way acrost the field—so let's you and me take + that and bring it down square with th' others. The rest may keep my row + a-goin', if they can.” + </p> + <p> + Two or three of the other maidens had cut the supporting stalks of the + next shock, and overturned it with much laughing. “I can't husk, Mark,” + said Martha Deane, “but I'll promise to superintend these, if you will + keep Sally to her word.” + </p> + <p> + There was a little running hither and thither, a show of fight, a mock + scramble, and it ended by Sally tumbling over a pumpkin, and then being + carried off by Mark to the end of the outside row of shocks, some distance + in the rear of the line of work. Here he laid the stalks straight for her, + doubled his coat and placed it on the ground for a seat, and then took his + place on the other side of the shock. + </p> + <p> + Sally husked a few ears in silence, but presently found it more agreeable + to watch her partner, as he bent to the labor, ripping the covering from + each ear with one or two rapid motions, snapping the cob, and flinging the + ear over his shoulder into the very centre of the heap, without turning + his head. When the shock was finished, there were five stalks on her side, + and fifty on Mark's. + </p> + <p> + He laughed at the extent of her help, but, seeing how bright and beautiful + her face looked in the moonlight, how round and supple her form, + contrasted with his own rough proportions, he added, in a lower tone,— + </p> + <p> + “Never mind the work, Sally—I only wanted to have you with me.” + </p> + <p> + Sally was silent, but happy, and Mark proceeded to overthrow the next + shock. + </p> + <p> + When they were again seated face to face, he no longer bent so steadily + over the stalks, but lifted his head now and then to watch the gloss of + the moon on her black hair, and the mellow gleam that seemed to slide + along her cheek and chin, playing with the shadows, as she moved. + </p> + <p> + “Sally!” he said at last, “you must ha' seen, over and over ag'in, that I + like to be with you. Do you care for me, at all?” + </p> + <p> + She flushed and trembled a little as she answered,—“Yes, Mark, I + do.” + </p> + <p> + He husked half a dozen ears rapidly, then looked up again and asked,— + </p> + <p> + “Do you care enough for me, Sally, to take me for good and all? I can't + put it into fine speech, but I love you dearly and honestly; will you + marry me?” + </p> + <p> + Sally bent down her head, so choked with the long-delayed joy that she + found it impossible to speak. Mark finished the few remaining stalks and + put them behind him; he sat upon the ground at her feet. + </p> + <p> + “There's my hand, Sally; will you take it, and me with it?” + </p> + <p> + Her hand slowly made its way into his broad, hard palm. Once the surrender + expressed, her confusion vanished; she lifted her head for his kiss, then + leaned it on his shoulder and whispered,— + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mark, I've loved you for ever and ever so long a time!” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Sally, deary,” said he, “that's my case, too; and I seemed to feel + it in my bones that we was to be a pair; only, you know, I had to get a + foothold first. I couldn't come to you with empty hands—though, + faith! there's not much to speak of in 'em!” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind that, Mark,—I'm <i>so</i> glad you want me!” + </p> + <p> + And indeed she was; why should she not, therefore, say so? + </p> + <p> + “There's no need o' broken sixpences, or true-lovers' knots, I guess,” + said Mark, giving her another kiss. “I'm a plain-spoken fellow, and when I + say I want you for my wife, Sally, I mean it. But we mustn't be settin' + here, with the row unhusked; that'll never do. See if I don't make the + ears spin! And I guess you can help me a little now, can't you?” + </p> + <p> + With a jolly laugh, Mark picked up the corn-cutter and swung it above the + next shock. In another instant it would have fallen, but a loud shriek + burst out from the bundled stalks, and Joe Fairthorn crept forth on his + hands and knees. + </p> + <p> + The lovers stood petrified. “Why, you young devil!” exclaimed Mark, while + the single word “JOE!” which came from Sally's lips, contained the + concentrated essence of a thousand slaps. + </p> + <p> + “Don't—don't!” whimpered Joe. “I'll not tell anybody, indeed I + wont!” + </p> + <p> + “If you do,” threatened Mark, brandishing the corn-cutter, “it isn't your + legs I shall cut off, but your head, even with the shoulders. What were + you doin' in that shock?” + </p> + <p> + “I wanted to hear what you and Sally were savin' to each other. Folks said + you two was a-courtin',” Joe answered. + </p> + <p> + The comical aspect of the matter suddenly struck Mark, and he burst into a + roar of laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Mark, how can you?” said Sally, bridling a little. + </p> + <p> + “Well,—it's all in the fam'ly, after all. Joe, tarnation scamp as he + is, is long-headed enough to keep his mouth shut, rather than have people + laugh at his relations—eh, Joe?” + </p> + <p> + “I said I'd never say a word,” Joe affirmed, “and I won't. You see if I + even tell Jake. But I say, Mark, when you and Sally get married, will you + be my uncle?” + </p> + <p> + “It depends on your behavior,” Mark gravely answered, seating himself to + husk. Joe magnanimously left the lovers, and pitched over the third shock + ahead, upon which he began to husk with might and main, in order to help + them out with their task. + </p> + <p> + By the time the outside row was squared, the line had reached the bottom + of the slope, where the air was chill, although the shadows of the forest + had shifted from the field. Then there was a race among the huskers for + the fence, the girls promising that he whose row was first husked out, + should sit at the head of the table, and be called King of the Corn-field. + The stalks rustled, the cobs snapped, the ears fell like a shower of + golden cones, and amid much noise and merriment, not only the victor's row + but all the others were finished, and Farmer Fairthorn's field stood + husked from end to end. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert Potter had done his share of the work steadily, and as silently as + the curiosity of the girls, still excited by his recent adventure, would + allow. It was enough for him that he caught a chance word, now and then, + from Martha. The emulation of the race with which the husking closed + favored them, and he gladly lost a very fair chance of becoming King of + the Corn-field for the opportunity of asking her to assist him in + contriving a brief interview, on the way to the house. + </p> + <p> + Where two work together to the same end, there is no doubt about the + result, especially as, in this case, the company preferred returning + through the wood instead of crossing the open, high-fenced fields. When + they found themselves together, out of ear-shot of the others, Gilbert + lost no time in relating the particulars of his encounter with Sandy + Flash, the discovery he had made, and the mysterious assurance of Deb. + Smith. + </p> + <p> + Martha listened with the keenest interest. “It is very, very strange,” she + said, “and the strangest of all is that he should be that man, Fortune. As + for his words, I do not find them so singular. He has certainly the + grandest courage, robber as he is, and he admires the same quality in you; + no doubt you made a favorable impression upon him on the day of the + fox-chase; and so, although you are hunting him down, he will not injure + you, if he can help it. I find all that very natural, in a man of his + nature.” + </p> + <p> + “But Deb. Smith?” Gilbert asked. + </p> + <p> + “That,” said Martha, “is rather a curious coincidence, but nothing more, I + think. She is said to be a superstitious creature, and if you have ever + befriended her,—and you may have done so, Gilbert, without your good + heart being aware of it,—she thinks that her spells, or charms, or + what not, will save you from harm. No, I was wrong; it is not so very + strange, except Fortune's intimacy with Alfred Barton, which everybody was + talking about at the time.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert drew a deep breath of relief. How the darkness of his new fear + vanished, in the light of Martha's calm, sensible words! “How wonderfully + you have guessed the truth!”. he cried. “So it is; Deb. Smith thinks she + is beholden to me for kind treatment; she blew upon my palm, in a + mysterious way, and said she would stand by me in time of need! But that + about Fortune puzzles me. I can see that Barton is very shy of me since he + thinks I've made the discovery.” + </p> + <p> + “We must ask Betsy Lavender's counsel, there,” said Martha. “It is beyond + my depth.” + </p> + <p> + The supper smoked upon the table when they reached the farm-house. It had + been well earned, and it was enjoyed, both in a physical and a social + sense, to the very extent of the guests' capacities. The King sat at the + head of the table, and Gilbert Potter—forced into that position by + Mark—at the foot. Sally Fairthorn insisted on performing her duty as + handmaiden, although, as Betsy Lavender again and again declared, her room + was better than her help. Sally's dark eyes fairly danced and sparkled; + her full, soft lips shone with a scarlet bloom; she laughed with a wild, + nervous joyousness, and yet rushed about haunted with a fearful dread of + suddenly bursting into tears. Her ways were so well known, however, that a + little extra impulsiveness excited no surprise. Martha Deane was the only + person who discovered what had taken place. As the girls were putting on + their hats and cloaks in the bedroom, Sally drew her into the passage, + kissed her a number of times with passionate vehemence, and then darted + off without saying a word. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert rode home through the splendid moonlight, in the small hours of + the morning, with a light heart, and Mark's money-belt buckled around his + waist. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. — GILBERT ON THE ROAD TO CHESTER. + </h2> + <p> + Being now fully prepared to undertake his journey to Chester, Gilbert + remembered his promise to Alfred Barton. As the subject had not again been + mentioned between them,—probably owing to the excitement produced by + Sandy Flash's visit to Kennett Square, and its consequences,—he felt + bound to inform Barton of his speedy departure, and to renew his offer of + service. + </p> + <p> + He found the latter in the field, assisting Giles, who was hauling home + the sheaves of corn-fodder in a harvest-wagon. The first meeting of the + two men did not seem to be quite agreeable to either. Gilbert's suspicions + had been aroused, although he could give them no definite form, and Barton + shrank from any reference to what had now become a very sore topic. + </p> + <p> + “Giles,” said the latter, after a moment of evident embarrassment, “I + guess you may drive home with that load, and pitch it off; I'll wait for + you here.” + </p> + <p> + When the rustling wain had reached a convenient distance, Gilbert began,— + </p> + <p> + “I only wanted to say that I'm going to Chester tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes!” Barton exclaimed, “about that money? I suppose you want all o' + yours?” + </p> + <p> + “It's as I expected. But you said you could borrow elsewhere, and send it + by me.” + </p> + <p> + “The fact is,” said Barton, “that I've both borrowed and sent. I'm obliged + to you, all the same, Gilbert; the will's as good as the deed, you know; + but I got the money from—well, from a friend, who was about going + down on his own business, and so that stone killed both my birds. I ought + to ha' sent you word, by rights.” + </p> + <p> + “Is your <i>friend</i>,” Gilbert asked, “a safe and trusty man?” + </p> + <p> + “Safe enough, I guess—a little wild, at times, maybe; but he's not + such a fool as to lose what he'd never have a chance of getting again.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said Gilbert, “it's hardly likely that he's the same friend you + took such a fancy to, at the Hammer-and-Trowel, last spring?” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton started as if he had been shot, and a deep color spread over + his face. His lower jaw slackened and his eyes moved uneasily from side to + side. + </p> + <p> + “Who—who do you mean?” he stammered. + </p> + <p> + The more evident his embarrassment became, the more Gilbert was confirmed + in his suspicion that there was some secret understanding between the two + men. The thing seemed incredible, but the same point, he remembered had + occurred to Martha Deane's mind, when she so readily explained the other + circumstances. + </p> + <p> + “Barton,” he said, sternly, “you know very well whom I mean. What became + of your friend Fortune? Didn't you see him at the tavern, last Monday + morning?” + </p> + <p> + “Y-yes—oh, yes! I know who he is <i>now</i>, the damned scoundrel! + I'd give a hundred dollars to see him dance upon nothing!” + </p> + <p> + He clenched his fists, and uttered a number of other oaths, which need not + be repeated. His rage seemed so real that Gilbert was again staggered. + Looking at the heavy, vulgar face before him,—the small, restless + eyes, the large sensuous mouth, the forehead whose very extent, in + contradiction to ordinary laws, expressed imbecility rather than + intellect, it was impossible to associate great cunning and shrewdness + with such a physiognomy. Every line, at that moment, expressed pain and + exasperation. But Gilbert felt bound to go a step further. + </p> + <p> + “Barton,” he said, “didn't you know who Fortune was, on that day?” + </p> + <p> + “N-no—no! On that <i>day</i>—NO! Blast me if I did!” + </p> + <p> + “Not before you left him?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll admit that a suspicion of it came to me at the very last + moment—too late to be of any use. But come, damme! that's all over, + and what's the good o' talking? <i>You</i> tried your best to catch the + fellow, too, but he was too much for you! 'T isn't such an easy job, eh?” + </p> + <p> + This sort of swagger was Alfred Barton's only refuge, when he was driven + into a corner. Though some color still lingered in his face, he spread his + shoulders with a bold, almost defiant air, and met Gilbert's eye with a + steady gaze. The latter was not prepared to carry his examination further, + although he was still far from being satisfied. + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, Gilbert!” Barton presently resumed, “I mean no offence. You + showed yourself to be true blue, and you led the hunt as well as any man + could ha' done; but the very thought o' the fellow makes me mad, and I'll + know no peace till he's strung up. If I was your age, now! A man seems to + lose his spirit as he gets on in years, and I'm only sorry you weren't + made captain at the start, instead o' me. You <i>shall</i> be, from this + time on; I won't take it again!” + </p> + <p> + “One thing I'll promise you,” said Gilbert, with a meaning look, “that I + won't let him walk into the bar-room of the Unicorn, without hindrance.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll bet you won't!” Barton exclaimed. “All <i>I'm</i> afraid of is, that + he won't try it again.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll see; this highway-robbery must have an end. I must now be going. + Good-bye!” + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, Gilbert; take care o' yourself!” said Barton, in a very good + humor, now that the uncomfortable interview was over. “And, I say,” he + added, “remember that I stand ready to do you a good turn, whenever I + can!” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” responded Gilbert, as he turned Roger's head; but he said to + himself,—“when all other friends fail, I may come to <i>you</i>, not + sooner.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning showed signs that the Indian Summer had reached its + close. All night long the wind had moaned and lamented in the chimneys, + and the sense of dread in the outer atmosphere crept into the house and + weighed upon the slumbering inmates. There was a sound in the forest as of + sobbing Dryads, waiting for the swift death and the frosty tomb. The blue + haze of dreams which had overspread the land changed into an ashy, livid + mist, dragging low, and clinging to the features of the landscape like a + shroud to the limbs of a corpse. + </p> + <p> + The time, indeed, had come for a change. It was the 2nd of November; and + after a summer and autumn beautiful almost beyond parallel, a sudden and + severe winter was generally anticipated. In this way, even the most + ignorant field-hand recognized the eternal balance of Nature. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter, although the day had arrived for which she had so long and + fervently prayed, could not shake off the depressing influence of the + weather. After breakfast, when Gilbert began to make preparations for the + journey, she found herself so agitated that it was with difficulty she + could give him the usual assistance. The money, which was mostly in silver + coin, had been sewed into tight rolls, and was now to be carefully packed + in the saddle-bags: the priming of the pistols was to be renewed, and the + old, shrivelled covers of the holsters so greased, hammered out, and + padded that they would keep the weapons dry in case of rain. Although + Gilbert would reach Chester that evening,—the distance being not + more than twenty-four miles,—the preparations, principally on + account of his errand, were conducted with a grave and solemn sense of + their importance. + </p> + <p> + When, finally, everything was in readiness,—the saddle-bags so + packed that the precious rolls could not rub or jingle; the dinner of + sliced bread and pork placed over them, in a folded napkin; the pistols, + intended more for show than use, thrust into the antiquated holsters; and + all these deposited and secured on Roger's back,—Gilbert took his + mother's hand, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, mother! Don't worry, now, if I shouldn't get back until late + to-morrow evening; I can't tell exactly how long the business will take.” + </p> + <p> + He had never looked more strong and cheerful. The tears came to Mary + Potter's eyes, but she held them hack by a powerful effort. All she could + say—and her voice trembled in spite of herself—was,— + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, my boy! Remember that I've worked, and thought, and prayed, for + you alone,—and that I'd do more—I'd do <i>all</i>, if I only + could!” + </p> + <p> + His look said, “I do not forget!” He sat already in the saddle, and was + straightening the folds of his heavy cloak, so that it might protect his + knees. The wind had arisen, and the damp mist was driving down the glen, + mixed with scattered drops of a coming rain-storm. As he rode slowly away, + Mary Potter lifted her eyes to the dense gray of the sky, darkening from + moment to moment, listened to the murmur of the wind over the wooded hills + opposite, and clasped her hands with the appealing gesture which had now + become habitual to her. + </p> + <p> + “Two days more!” she sighed, as she entered the house,—“two days + more of fear and prayer! Lord forgive me that I am so weak of faith—that + I make myself trouble where I ought to be humble and thankful!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert rode slowly, because he feared the contents of his saddle-bags + would be disturbed by much jolting. Proof against wind and weather, he was + not troubled by the atmospheric signs, but rather experienced a healthy + glow and exhilaration of the blood as the mist grew thicker and beat upon + his face like the blown spray of a waterfall. By the time he had reached + the Carson farm, the sky contracted to a low, dark arch of solid wet, in + which there was no positive outline of cloud, and a dull, universal roar, + shorn of all windy sharpness, hummed over the land. + </p> + <p> + From the hill behind the farm-house, whence he could overlook the + bottom-lands of Redley Creek, and easily descry, on a clear day, the + yellow front of Dr. Deane's house in Kennett Square, he now beheld a dim + twilight chaos, wherein more and more of the distance was blotted out. Yet + still some spell held up the suspended rain, and the drops that fell + seemed to be only the leakage of the airy cisterns before they burst. The + fields on either hand were deserted. The cattle huddled behind the stacks + or crouched disconsolately in fence-corners. Here and there a farmer made + haste to cut and split a supply of wood for his kitchen-fire, or mended + the rude roof on which his pigs depended for shelter; but all these signs + showed how soon he intended to be snugly housed, to bide out the storm. + </p> + <p> + It was a day of no uncertain promise. Gilbert confessed to himself, before + he reached the Philadelphia road, that he would rather have chosen another + day for the journey; yet the thought of returning was farthest from his + mind. Even when the rain, having created its little pools and sluices in + every hollow of the ground, took courage, and multiplied its careering + drops, and when the wet gusts tore open his cloak and tugged at his + dripping hat, he cheerily shook the moisture from his cheeks and + eyelashes, patted Roger's streaming neck, and whistled a bar or two of an + old carol. + </p> + <p> + There were pleasant hopes enough to occupy his mind, without dwelling on + these slight external annoyances. He still tried to believe that his + mother's release would be hastened by the independence which lay folded in + his saddle-bags, and the thud of the wet leather against Roger's hide was + a sound to cheer away any momentary foreboding. Then, Martha—dear, + noble girl! She was his; it was but to wait, and waiting must be easy when + the end was certain. He felt, moreover, that in spite of his unexplained + disgrace, he had grown in the respect of his neighbors; that his + persevering integrity was beginning to bring its reward, and he thanked + God very gratefully that he had been saved from adding to his name any + stain of his own making. + </p> + <p> + In an hour or more the force of the wind somewhat abated, but the sky + seemed to dissolve into a massy flood. The rain rushed down, not in drops, + but in sheets, and in spite of his cloak, he was wet to the skin. For half + an hour he was obliged to halt in the wood between Old Kennett and Chadd's + Ford, and here he made the discovery that with all his care the holsters + were nearly full of water. Brown streams careered down the long, meadowy + hollow on his left, wherein many Hessian soldiers lay buried. There was + money buried with them, the people believed, but no one cared to dig among + the dead at midnight, and many a wild tale of frighted treasure-seekers + recurred to his mind. + </p> + <p> + At the bottom of the long hill flowed the Brandywine, now rolling swift + and turbid, level with its banks. Roger bravely breasted the flood, and + after a little struggle, reached the opposite side. Then across the + battle-meadow, in the teeth of the storm, along the foot of the low hill, + around the brow of which the entrenchments of the American army made a + clayey streak, until the ill-fated field, sown with grape-shot and bullets + which the farmers turned up every spring with their furrows, lay behind + him. The story of the day was familiar to him, from the narratives of + scores of eye-witnesses, and he thought to himself, as he rode onward, + wet, lashed by the furious rain, yet still of good cheer,—“Though + the fight was lost, the cause was won.” + </p> + <p> + After leaving the lovely lateral valley which stretches eastward for two + miles, at right angles to the course of the Brandywine, he entered a + rougher and wilder region, more thickly wooded and deeply indented with + abrupt glens. Thus far he had not met with a living soul. Chester was now + not more than eight or ten miles distant, and, as nearly as he could + guess, it was about two o'clock in the afternoon. With the best luck, he + could barely reach his destination by nightfall, for the rain showed no + signs of abating, and there were still several streams to be crossed. + </p> + <p> + His blood leaped no more so nimbly along his veins; the continued exposure + had at last chilled and benumbed him. Letting the reins fall upon Roger's + neck, he folded himself closely in his wet cloak, and bore the weather + with a grim, patient endurance. The road dropped into a rough glen, + crossed a stony brook, and then wound along the side of a thickly wooded + hill. On his right the bank had been cut away like a wall; on the left a + steep slope of tangled thicket descended to the stream. + </p> + <p> + One moment, Gilbert knew that he was riding along this road, Roger + pressing close to the bank for shelter from the wind and rain; the next, + there was a swift and tremendous grip on his collar, Roger slid from under + him, and he was hurled backwards, with great force, upon the ground. Yet + even in the act of falling, he seemed to be conscious that a figure sprang + down upon the road from the bank above. + </p> + <p> + It was some seconds before the shock, which sent a crash through his brain + and a thousand fiery sparkles into his eyes, passed away. Then a voice, + keen, sharp, and determined, which it seemed that he knew, exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “Damn the beast! I'll have to shoot him.” + </p> + <p> + Lifting his head with some difficulty, for he felt weak and giddy, and + propping himself on his arm, he saw Sandy Flash in the road, three or four + paces off, fronting Roger, who had whirled around, and with levelled ears + and fiery eyes, seemed to be meditating an attack. + </p> + <p> + The robber wore a short overcoat, made entirely of musk-rat skins, which + completely protected the arms in his belt. He had a large hunting-knife in + his left hand, and appeared to be feeling with his right for the stock of + a pistol. It seemed to Gilbert that nothing but the singular force of his + eye held back the horse from rushing upon him. + </p> + <p> + “Keep as you are, young man!” he cried, without turning his head, “or a + bullet goes into your horse's brain. I know the beast, and don't want to + see him slaughtered. If <i>you</i> don't, order him to be quiet!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, although he knew every trait of the noble animal's nature better + than those of many a human acquaintance, was both surprised and touched at + the instinct with which he had recognized an enemy, and the fierce courage + with which he stood on the defensive. In that moment of bewilderment, he + thought only of Roger, whose life hung by a thread, which his silence + would instantly snap. He might have seen—had there been time for + reflection—that nothing would have been gained, in any case, by the + animal's death; for, stunned and unarmed as he was, he was no match for + the powerful, wary highwayman. + </p> + <p> + Obeying the feeling which entirely possessed him, he cried,—“Roger! + Roger, old boy!” + </p> + <p> + The horse neighed a shrill, glad neigh of recognition, and pricked up his + ears. Sandy Flash stood motionless; he had let go of his pistol, and + concealed the knife in a fold of his coat. + </p> + <p> + “Quiet, Roger, quiet!” Gilbert again commanded. + </p> + <p> + The animal understood the tone, if not the words. He seemed completely + reassured, and advanced a step or two nearer. With the utmost swiftness + and dexterity, combined with an astonishing gentleness,—making no + gesture which might excite Roger's suspicion,—Sandy Flash thrust his + hand into the holsters, smiled mockingly, cut the straps of the + saddle-bags with a single movement of his keen-edged knife, tested the + weight of the bags, nodded, grinned, and then, stepping aside, he allowed + the horse to pass him. But he watched every motion of the head and ears, + as he did so. + </p> + <p> + Roger, however, seemed to think only of his master. Bending down his head, + he snorted warmly into Gilbert's pale face, and then swelled his sides + with a deep breath of satisfaction. Tears of shame, grief, and rage swam + in Gilbert's eyes. “Roger,” he said, “I've lost everything but you!” + </p> + <p> + He staggered to his feet and leaned against the bank. The extent of his + loss—the hopelessness of its recovery—the impotence of his + burning desire to avenge the outrage—overwhelmed him. The highwayman + still stood, a few paces off, watching him with a grim curiosity. + </p> + <p> + With a desperate effort, Gilbert turned towards him. “Sandy Flash,” he + cried, “do you know what you are doing?” + </p> + <p> + “I rather guess so,”—and the highwayman grinned. “I've done it + before, but never quite so neatly as this time.” + </p> + <p> + “I've heard it said, to your credit,” Gilbert continued, “that, though you + rob the rich, you sometimes give to the poor. This time you've robbed a + poor man.” + </p> + <p> + “I've only borrowed a little from one able to spare a good deal more than + I've got,—and the grudge I owe him isn't paid off yet.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not so!” Gilbert cried. “Every cent has been earned by my own and + my mother's hard work. I was taking it to Chester, to pay off a debt upon + the farm; and the loss and the disappointment will well nigh break my + mother's heart. According to your views of things, you owe me a grudge, + but you are outside of the law, and I did my duty as a lawful man by + trying to shoot you!” + </p> + <p> + “And I, <i>bein''</i> outside o' the law, as you say, have let you off + mighty easy, young man!” exclaimed Sandy Flash, his eyes shining angrily + and his teeth glittering. “I took you for a fellow o' pluck, not for one + that'd lie, even to the robber they call me! What's all this pitiful story + about Barton's money?” + </p> + <p> + “Barton's money!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh—ay! You didn't agree to take some o' his money to Chester?” The + mocking expression on the highwayman's face was perfectly diabolical. He + slung the saddle-bags over his shoulders, and turned to leave. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was so amazed that for a moment he knew not what to say. Sandy + Flash took three strides up the road, and then sprang down into the + thicket. + </p> + <p> + “It is not Barton's money!” Gilbert cried, with a last desperate appeal,—“it + is mine, mine and my mother's!” + </p> + <p> + A short, insulting laugh was the only answer. + </p> + <p> + “Sandy Flash!” he cried again, raising his voice almost to a shout, as the + crashing of the robber's steps through the brushwood sounded farther and + farther down the glen, “Sandy Flash! You have plundered a widow's honest + earnings to-day, and a curse goes with such plunder! Hark you! if never + before, you are cursed from this hour forth! I call upon God, in my + mother's name, to mark you!” + </p> + <p> + There was no sound in reply, except the dull, dreary hum of the wind and + the steady lashing of the rain. The growing darkness of the sky told of + approaching night, and the wild glen, bleak enough before, was now a scene + of utter and hopeless desolation to Gilbert's eyes. He was almost + unmanned, not only by the cruel loss, but also by the stinging sense of + outrage which it had left behind. A mixed feeling of wretched despondency + and shame filled his heart, as he leaned, chill, weary, and still weak + from the shock of his fall, upon Roger's neck. + </p> + <p> + The faithful animal turned his head from time to time, as if to question + his master's unusual demeanor. There was a look of almost human sympathy + in his large eyes; he was hungry and restless, yet would not move until + the word of command had been given. + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow!” said Gilbert, patting his cheek, “we've both fared ill + to-day. But you mustn't suffer any longer for my sake.” + </p> + <p> + He then mounted and rode onward through the storm. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. — ROGER REPAYS HIS MASTER. + </h2> + <p> + A mile or more beyond the spot where Gilbert Potter had been waylaid, + there was a lonely tavern, called the “Drovers' Inn.” Here he dismounted, + more for his horse's sake than his own, although he was sore, weary, and + sick of heart. After having carefully groomed Roger with his own hands, + and commended him to the special attentions of the ostler, he entered the + warm public room, wherein three or four storm-bound drovers were gathered + around the roaring fire of hickory logs. + </p> + <p> + The men kindly made way for the pale, dripping, wretched-looking stranger; + and the landlord, with a shrewd glance and a suggestion of “Something hot, + I reckon?” began mixing a compound proper for the occasion. Laying aside + his wet cloak, which was sent to the kitchen to be more speedily dried, + Gilbert presently sat in a cloud of his own steaming garments, and felt + the warmth of the potent liquor in his chilly blood. + </p> + <p> + All at once, it occurred to him that the highwayman had not touched his + person. There was not only some loose silver in his pockets, but Mark + Deane's money-belt was still around his waist. So much, at least, was + rescued, and he began to pluck up a little courage. Should he continue his + journey to Chester, explain the misfortune to the holder of his mortgage, + and give notice to the County Sheriff of this new act of robbery? Then the + thought came into his mind that in that case he might be detained a day or + two, in order to make depositions, or comply with some unknown legal form. + In the mean time the news would spread over the country, no doubt with + many exaggerations, and might possibly reach Kennett—even the ears + of his mother. That reflection decided his course. She must first hear the + truth from his mouth; he would try to give her cheer and encouragement, + though he felt none himself; then, calling his friends together, he would + hunt Sandy Flash like a wild beast until they had tracked him to his lair. + </p> + <p> + “Unlucky weather for ye, it seems?” remarked the curious landlord, who, + seated in a corner of the fireplace, had for full ten minutes been + watching Gilbert's knitted brows, gloomy, brooding eyes, and compressed + lips. + </p> + <p> + “Weather?” he exclaimed, bitterly. “It's not the weather. Landlord, will + you have a chance of sending to Chester to-morrow?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm going, if it clears up,” said one of the drovers. + </p> + <p> + “Then, my friend,” Gilbert continued, “will you take a letter from me to + the Sheriff?” + </p> + <p> + “If it's nothing out of the way,” the man replied. + </p> + <p> + “It's in the proper course of law—if there is any law to protect us. + Not a mile and a half from here, landlord, I have been waylaid and robbed + on the public road!” + </p> + <p> + There was a general exclamation of surprise, and Gilbert's story, which he + had suddenly decided to relate, in order that the people of the + neighborhood might be put upon their guard, was listened to with an + interest only less than the terror which it inspired. The landlady rushed + into the bar-room, followed by the red-faced kitchen wench, and both + interrupted the recital with cries of “Dear, dear!” and “Lord save us!” + The landlord, meanwhile, had prepared another tumbler of hot and hot, and + brought it forward, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “You need it, the Lord knows, and it shall cost you nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “What I most need now,” Gilbert said, “is pen, ink, and paper, to write + out my account. Then I suppose you can get me up a cold check, [Footnote: + A local term, in use at the time, signifying a “lunch.”] for I must start + homewards soon.” + </p> + <p> + “Not 'a cold check' after all that drenching and mishandling!” the + landlord exclaimed. “We'll have a hot supper in half an hour, and you + shall stay, and welcome. Wife, bring down one of Liddy's pens, the + schoolmaster made for her, and put a little vinegar into th' ink-bottle; + it's most dried up!” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes the necessary materials for a letter, all of the rudest + kind, were supplied, and the landlord and drovers hovered around as + Gilbert began to write, assisting him with the most extraordinary + suggestions. + </p> + <p> + “I'd threaten,” said a drover, “to write straight to General Washington, + unless they promise to catch the scoundrel in no time!” + </p> + <p> + “And don't forget the knife and pistol!” cried the landlord. + </p> + <p> + “And say the Tory farmers' houses ought to be searched!” + </p> + <p> + “And give his marks, to a hair!” + </p> + <p> + Amid all this confusion, Gilbert managed to write a brief, but + sufficiently circumstantial account of the robbery, calling upon the + County authorities to do their part in effecting the capture of Sandy + Flash. He offered his services and those of the Kennett troop, announcing + that he should immediately start upon the hunt, and expected to be + seconded by the law. + </p> + <p> + When the letter had been sealed and addressed, the drovers—some of + whom carried money with them, and had agreed to travel in company, for + better protection—eagerly took charge of it, promising to back the + delivery with very energetic demands for assistance. + </p> + <p> + Night had fallen, and the rain fell with it, in renewed torrents. The + dreary, universal hum of the storm rose again, making all accidental + sounds of life impertinent, in contrast with its deep, tremendous + monotone. The windows shivered, the walls sweat and streamed, and the wild + wet blew in under the doors, as if besieging that refuge of warm, red + fire-light. + </p> + <p> + “This beats the Lammas flood o' '68,” said the landlord, as he led the way + to supper. “I was a young man at the time, and remember it well. Half the + dams on Brandywine went that night.” + </p> + <p> + After a bountiful meal, Gilbert completely dried his garments and prepared + to set out on his return, resisting the kindly persuasion of the host and + hostess that he should stay all night. A restless, feverish energy filled + his frame. He felt that he could not sleep, that to wait idly would be + simple misery, and that only in motion towards the set aim of his fierce, + excited desires, could he bear his disappointment and shame. But the rain + still came down with a volume which threatened soon to exhaust the + cisterns of the air, and in that hope he compelled himself to wait a + little. + </p> + <p> + Towards nine o'clock the great deluge seemed to slacken. The wind arose, + and there were signs of its shifting, erelong, to the northwest, which + would bring clear weather in a few hours. The night was dark, but not + pitchy; a dull phosphoric gleam overspread the under surface of the sky. + The woods were full of noises, and every gully at the roadside gave token, + by its stony rattle, of the rain-born streams. + </p> + <p> + With his face towards home and his back to the storm, Gilbert rode into + the night. The highway was but a streak of less palpable darkness; the + hills on either hand scarcely detached themselves from the low, black + ceiling of sky behind them. Sometimes the light of a farm-house window + sparkled faintly, like a glow-worm, but whether far or near, he could not + tell; he only knew how blest must be the owner, sitting with wife and + children around his secure hearthstone,—how wretched his own life, + cast adrift in the darkness,—wife, home, and future, things of + doubt! + </p> + <p> + He had lost more than money; and his wretchedness will not seem unmanly + when we remember the steady strain and struggle of his previous life. As + there is nothing more stimulating to human patience, and courage, and + energy, than the certain prospect of relief at the end, so there is + nothing more depressing than to see that relief suddenly snatched away, + and the same round of toil thrust again under one's feet! This is the fate + of Tantalus and Sisyphus in one. + </p> + <p> + Not alone the money; a year, or two years, of labor would no doubt replace + what he had lost. But he had seen, in imagination, his mother's feverish + anxiety at an end; household help procured, to lighten her over-heavy + toil; the possibility of her release from some terrible obligation brought + nearer, as he hoped and trusted, and with it the strongest barrier broken + down which rose between him and Martha Deane. All these things which he + had, as it were, held in his hand, had been stolen from him, and the loss + was bitter because it struck down to the roots of the sweetest and + strongest fibres of his heart. The night veiled his face, but if some + hotter drops than those of the storm were shaken from his cheek, they left + no stain upon his manhood. + </p> + <p> + The sense of outrage, of personal indignity, which no man can appreciate + who has not himself been violently plundered, added its sting to his + miserable mood. He thirsted to avenge the wrong; Barton's words + involuntarily came back to him,—“I'll know no peace till the villain + has been strung up!” Barton! How came Sandy Flash to know that Barton + intended to send money by him? Had not Barton himself declared that the + matter should be kept secret? Was there some complicity between the latter + and Sandy Flash? Yet, on the other hand, it seemed that the highwayman + believed that he was robbing Gilbert of Barton's money. Here was an enigma + which he could not solve. + </p> + <p> + All at once, a hideous solution presented itself. Was it possible that + Barton's money was to be only <i>apparently</i> stolen—in reality + returned to him privately, afterwards? Possibly the rest of the plunder + divided between the two confederates? Gilbert was not in a charitable + mood; the human race was much more depraved, in his view, than twelve + hours before; and the inference which he would have rejected as monstrous, + that very morning, now assumed a possible existence. One thing, at least, + was certain; he would exact an explanation, and if none should be + furnished, he would make public the evidence in his hands. + </p> + <p> + The black, dreary night seemed interminable. He could only guess, here and + there, at a landmark, and was forced to rely more upon Roger's instinct of + the road than upon the guidance of his senses. Towards midnight, as he + judged, by the solitary crow of a cock, the rain almost entirely ceased. + The wind began to blow, sharp and keen, and the hard vault of the sky to + lift a little. He fancied that the hills on his right had fallen away, and + that the horizon was suddenly depressed towards the north. Roger's feet + began to splash in constantly deepening water, and presently a roar, + distinct from that of the wind, filled the air. + </p> + <p> + It was the Brandywine. The stream had overflowed its broad meadow-bottoms, + and was running high and fierce beyond its main channel. The turbid waters + made a dim, dusky gleam around him; soon the fences disappeared, and the + flood reached to his horse's belly. But he knew that the ford could be + distinguished by the break in the fringe of timber; moreover, that the + creek-bank was a little higher than the meadows behind it, and so far, at + least, he might venture. The ford was not more than twenty yards across, + and he could trust Roger to swim that distance. + </p> + <p> + The faithful animal pressed bravely on, but Gilbert soon noticed that he + seemed at fault. The swift water had forced him out of the road, and he + stopped, from time to time, as if anxious and uneasy. The timber could now + be discerned, only a short distance in advance, and in a few minutes they + would gain the bank. + </p> + <p> + What was that? A strange rustling, hissing sound, as of cattle trampling + through dry reeds,—a sound which quivered and shook, even in the + breath of the hurrying wind! Roger snorted, stood still, and trembled in + every limb; and a sensation of awe and terror struck a chill through + Gilbert's heart. The sound drew swiftly nearer, and became a wild, + seething roar, filling the whole breadth of the valley. + </p> + <p> + “Great God!” cried Gilbert, “the dam!—the dam has given way!” He + turned Roger's head, gave him the rein, struck, spurred, cheered, and + shouted. The brave beast struggled through the impeding flood, but the + advance wave of the coming inundation already touched his side. He + staggered; a line of churning foam bore down upon them, the terrible roar + was all around and over them, and horse and rider were whirled away. + </p> + <p> + What happened during the first few seconds, Gilbert could never distinctly + recall. Now they were whelmed in the water, now riding its careering tide, + torn through the tops of brushwood, jostled by floating logs and timbers + of the dam-breast, but always, as it seemed, remorselessly held in the + heart of the tumult and the ruin. + </p> + <p> + He saw, at last, that they had fallen behind the furious onset of the + flood, but Roger was still swimming with it, desperately throwing up his + head from time to time, and snorting the water from his nostrils. All his + efforts to gain a foothold failed; his strength was nearly spent, and + unless some help should come in a few minutes, it would come in vain. And + in the darkness, and the rapidity with which they were borne along, how + should help come? + </p> + <p> + All at once, Roger's course stopped. He became an obstacle to the flood, + which pressed him against some other obstacle below, and rushed over horse + and rider. Thrusting out his hand, Gilbert felt the rough bark of a tree. + Leaning towards it and clasping the log in his arms, he drew himself from + the saddle, while Roger, freed from his burden, struggled into the current + and instantly disappeared. + </p> + <p> + As nearly as Gilbert could ascertain, several timbers, thrown over each + other, had lodged, probably upon a rocky islet in the stream, the + uppermost one projecting slantingly out of the flood. It required all his + strength to resist the current which sucked, and whirled, and tugged at + his body, and to climb high enough to escape its force, without + overbalancing his support. At last, though still half immerged, he found + himself comparatively safe for a time, yet as far as ever from a final + rescue. + </p> + <p> + He must await the dawn, and an eternity of endurance lay in those few + hours. Meantime, perhaps, the creek would fall, for the rain had ceased, + and there were outlines of moving cloud in the sky. It was the night which + made his situation so terrible, by concealing the chances of escape. At + first, he thought most of Roger. Was his brave horse drowned, or had he + safely gained the bank below? Then, as the desperate moments went by, and + the chill of exposure and the fatigue of exertion began to creep over him, + his mind reverted, with a bitter sweetness, a mixture of bliss and agony, + to the two beloved women to whom his life belonged,—the life which, + alas! he could not now call his own, to give. + </p> + <p> + He tried to fix his thoughts on Death, to commend his soul to Divine + Mercy; but every prayer shaped itself into an appeal that he might once + more see the dear faces and bear the dear voices. In the great shadow of + the fate which hung over him, the loss of his property became as dust in + the balance, and his recent despair smote him with shame. He no longer + fiercely protested against the injuries of fortune, but entreated pardon + and pity for the sake of his love. + </p> + <p> + The clouds rolled into distincter masses, and the northwest wind still + hunted them across the sky, until there came, first a tiny rift for a + star, then a gap for a whole constellation, and finally a broad burst of + moonlight. Gilbert now saw that the timber to which he clung was lodged + nearly in the centre of the channel, as the water swept with equal force + on either side of him. Beyond the banks there was a wooded hill on the + left; on the right an overflowed meadow. He was too weak and benumbed to + trust himself to the flood, but he imagined that it was beginning to + subside, and therein lay his only hope. + </p> + <p> + Yet a new danger now assailed him, from the increasing cold. There was + already a sting of frost, a breath of ice, in the wind. In another hour + the sky was nearly swept bare of clouds, and he could note the lapse of + the night by the sinking of the moon. But he was by this time hardly in a + condition to note anything more. He had thrown himself, face downwards, on + the top of the log, his arms mechanically clasping it, while his mind sank + into a state of torpid, passive suffering, growing nearer to the dreamy + indifference which precedes death. His cloak had been torn away in the + first rush of the inundation, and the wet coat began to stiffen in the + wind, from the ice gathering over it. + </p> + <p> + The moon was low in the west, and there was a pale glimmer of the coming + dawn in the sky, when Gilbert Potter suddenly raised his head. Above the + noise of the water and the whistle of the wind, he heard a familiar sound,—the + shrill, sharp neigh of a horse. Lifting himself, with great exertion, to a + sitting posture, he saw two men, on horseback, in the flooded meadow, a + little below him. They stopped, seemed to consult, and presently drew + nearer. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert tried to shout, but the muscles of his throat were stiff, and his + lungs refused to act. The horse neighed again. This time there was no + mistake; it was Roger that he heard! Voice came to him, and he cried + aloud,—a hoarse, strange, unnatural cry. + </p> + <p> + The horsemen heard it, and rapidly pushed up the bank, until they reached + a point directly opposite to him. The prospect of escape brought a thrill + of life to his frame; he looked around and saw that the flood had indeed + fallen. + </p> + <p> + “We have no rope,” he heard one of the men say. “How shall we reach him?” + </p> + <p> + “There is no time to get one, now,” the other answered. “My horse is + stronger than yours. I'll go into the creek just below, where it's broader + and not so deep, and work my way up to him.” + </p> + <p> + “But one horse can't carry both.” + </p> + <p> + “His will follow, be sure, when it sees me.” + </p> + <p> + As the last speaker moved away, Gilbert saw a led horse plunging through + the water, beside the other. It was a difficult and dangerous undertaking. + The horseman and the loose horse entered the main stream below, where its + divided channel met and broadened, but it was still above the + saddle-girths, and very swift. Sometimes the animals plunged, losing their + foothold; nevertheless, they gallantly breasted the current, and inch by + inch worked their way to a point about six feet below Gilbert. It seemed + impossible to approach nearer. + </p> + <p> + “Can you swim?” asked the man. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert shook his head. “Throw me the end of Roger's bridle!” he then + cried. + </p> + <p> + The man unbuckled the bridle and threw it, keeping the end of the rein in + his hand. Gilbert tried to grasp it, but his hands were too numb. He + managed, however, to get one arm and his head through the opening, and + relaxed his hold on the log. + </p> + <p> + A plunge, and the man had him by the collar. He felt himself lifted by a + strong arm and laid across Roger's saddle. With his failing strength and + stiff limbs, it was no slight task to get into place, and the return, + though less laborious to the horses, was equally dangerous, because + Gilbert was scarcely able to support himself without help. + </p> + <p> + “You're safe now,” said the man, when they reached the bank, “but it's a + downright mercy of God that you're alive!” + </p> + <p> + The other horseman joined them, and they rode slowly across the flooded + meadow. They had both thrown their cloaks around Gilbert, and carefully + steadied him in the saddle, one on each side. He was too much exhausted to + ask how they had found him, or whither they were taking him,—too + numb for curiosity, almost for gratitude. + </p> + <p> + “Here's your saviour!” said one of the men, patting Roger's shoulder. “It + was all along of him that we found you. Want to know how? Well—about + three o'clock it was, maybe a little earlier, maybe a little later, my + wife woke me up. 'Do you hear that?' she says. I listened and heard a + horse in the lane before the door, neighing,—I can't tell you + exactly how it was,—like as if he'd call up the house. 'T was rather + queer, I thought, so I got up and looked out of window, and it seemed to + me he had a saddle on. He stamped, and pawed, and then he gave another + yell, and stamped again. Says I to my wife, 'There's something wrong + here,' and I dressed and went out. When he saw me, he acted the strangest + you ever saw; thinks I, if ever an animal wanted to speak, that animal + does. When I tried to catch him, he shot off, run down the lane a bit, and + then came back as strangely acting as ever. I went into the house and woke + up my brother, here, and we saddled our horses and started. Away went + yours ahead, stopping every minute to look round and see if we followed. + When we came to the water, I kind o' hesitated, but 't was no use; the + horse would have us go on, and on, till we found you. I never heard tell + of the like of it, in my born days!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert did not speak, but two large tears slowly gathered in his eyes, + and rolled down his cheeks. The men saw his emotion, and respected it. + </p> + <p> + In the light of the cold, keen dawn, they reached a snug farm-house, a + mile from the Brandywine. The men lifted Gilbert from the saddle, and + would have carried him immediately into the house, but he first leaned + upon Roger's neck, took the faithful creature's head in his arms, and + kissed it. + </p> + <p> + The good housewife was already up, and anxiously awaiting the return of + her husband and his brother. A cheery fire crackled on the hearth, and the + coffee-pot was simmering beside it. When Gilbert had been partially + revived by the warmth, the men conducted him into an adjoining bed-room, + undressed him, and rubbed his limbs with whiskey. Then, a large bowl of + coffee having been administered, he was placed in bed, covered with half a + dozen blankets, and the curtains were drawn over the windows. In a few + minutes he was plunged in a slumber almost as profound as that of the + death from which he had been so miraculously delivered. + </p> + <p> + It was two hours past noon when he awoke, and he no sooner fully + comprehended the situation and learned how the time had sped, than he + insisted on rising, although still sore, weak, and feverish. The good + farmer's wife had kept a huge portion of dinner hot before the fire, and + he knew that without compelling a show of appetite, he would not be + considered sufficiently recovered to leave. He had but one desire,—to + return home. So recently plucked from the jaws of Death, his life still + seemed to be an uncertain possession. + </p> + <p> + Finally Roger was led forth, quiet and submissive as of old,—having + forgotten his good deed as soon as it had been accomplished,—and + Gilbert, wrapped in the farmer's cloak, retraced his way to the main road. + As he looked across the meadow, which told of the inundation in its sweep + of bent, muddy grass, and saw, between the creekbank trees, the lodged + timber to which he had clung, the recollection of the night impressed him + like a frightful dream. It was a bright, sharp, wintry day,—the most + violent contrast to that which had preceded it. The hills on either side, + whose outlines he could barely guess in the darkness, now stood out from + the air with a hard, painful distinctness; the sky was an arch of cold, + steel-tinted crystal; and the north wind blew with a shrill, endless + whistle through the naked woods. + </p> + <p> + As he climbed the long hill west of Chadd's Ford, Gilbert noticed how the + meadow on his right had been torn by the flood gathered from the fields + above. In one place a Hessian skull had been snapped from the buried + skeleton, and was rolled to light, among the mud and pebbles. Not far off, + something was moving among the bushes, and he involuntarily drew rein. + </p> + <p> + The form stopped, appeared to crouch down for a moment, then suddenly rose + and strode forth upon the grass. It was a woman, wearing a man's flannel + jacket, and carrying a long, pointed staff in her hand. As she approached + with rapid strides, he recognized Deb. Smith. + </p> + <p> + “Deborah!” he cried, “what are you doing here?” + </p> + <p> + She set her pole to the ground and vaulted over the high picket-fence, + like an athlete. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she said, “if I'd ha' been shy o' you, Mr. Gilbert, you wouldn't + ha' seen me. I'm not one of them as goes prowlin' around among dead + bodies' bones at midnight; what I want, I looks for in the daytime.” + </p> + <p> + “Bones?” he asked. “You're surely not digging up the Hessians?” + </p> + <p> + “Not exackly; but, you see, the rain's turned out a few, and some on 'em, + folks says, was buried with lots o' goold platted up in their pig-tails. I + know o' one man that dug up two or three to git their teeth, (to sell to + the tooth-doctors, you know,) and when he took hold o' the pig-tail to + lift the head by, the hair come off in his hand, and out rattled ten good + goolden guineas. Now, if any money's washed out, there's no harm in a + body's pickin' of it up, as I see.” + </p> + <p> + “What luck have you had?” asked Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + “Nothin' to speak of; a few buttons, and a thing or two. But I say, Mr. + Gilbert, what luck ha' <i>you</i> had?” She had been keenly and curiously + inspecting his face. + </p> + <p> + “Deborah!” he exclaimed, “you're a false prophet! You told me that, + whatever happened, I was safe from Sandy Flash.” + </p> + <p> + “Eh?” + </p> + <p> + There was a shrill tone of surprise and curiosity in this exclamation. + </p> + <p> + “You ought to know Sandy Flash better, before you prophesy in his name,” + Gilbert repeated, in a stern voice. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Gilbert, tell me what you mean?” She grasped his leg with one + hand, while she twisted the other in Roger's mane, as if to hold both + horse and rider until the words were explained. + </p> + <p> + Thereupon he related to her in a brief, fierce way, all that had befallen + him. Her face grew red and her eyes flashed; she shook her fist and swore + under her breath, from time to time, while he spoke. + </p> + <p> + “You'll be righted, Mr. Gilbert!” she then cried, “you'll be righted, + never fear! Leave it to me! Haven't I always kep' my word to you? You're + believin' I lied the last time, and no wonder; but I'll prove the truth o' + my words yet—may the Devil git my soul, if I don't!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't think that I blame you, Deborah,” he said. “You were too sure of my + good luck, because you wished me to have it—that's all.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank ye for that! But it isn't enough for me. When I promise a thing, I + have power to keep my promise. Ax me no more questions; bide quiet awhile, + and if the money isn't back in your pocket by New-Year, I give ye leave to + curse me, and kick me, and spit upon me!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert smiled sadly and incredulously, and rode onward. He made haste to + reach home, for a dull pain began to throb in his head, and chill shudders + ran over his body. He longed to have the worst over which yet awaited him, + and gain a little rest for body, brain, and heart. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. — MARTHA DEANE TAKES A RESOLUTION. + </h2> + <p> + Mary Potter had scarcely slept during the night of her son's absence. A + painful unrest, such as she never remembered to have felt before, took + complete possession of her. Whenever the monotony of the drenching rain + outside lulled her into slumber for a few minutes, she was sure to start + up in bed with a vague, singular impression that some one had called her + name. After midnight, when the storm fell, the shrill wailing of the + rising wind seemed to forebode disaster. Although she believed Gilbert to + be safely housed in Chester, the fact constantly slipped from her memory, + and she shuddered at every change in the wild weather as if he were really + exposed to it. + </p> + <p> + The next day, she counted the hours with a feverish impatience. It seemed + like tempting Providence, but she determined to surprise her son with a + supper of unusual luxury for their simple habits, after so important and + so toilsome a journey. Sam had killed a fowl; it was picked and dressed, + but she had not courage to put it into the pot, until the fortune of the + day had been assured. + </p> + <p> + Towards sunset she saw, through the back-kitchen-window, a horseman + approaching from the direction of Carson's. It seemed to be Roger, but + could that rider, in the faded brown cloak, be Gilbert? His cloak was + blue; he always rode with his head erect, not hanging like this man's, + whose features she could not see. Opposite the house, he lifted his head—it + <i>was</i> Gilbert, but how old and haggard was his face! + </p> + <p> + She met him at the gate. His cheeks were suddenly flushed, his eyes + bright, and the smile with which he looked at her seemed to be joyous; yet + it gave her a sense of pain and terror. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Gilbert!” she cried; “what has happened?” + </p> + <p> + He slid slowly and wearily off the horse, whose neck he fondled a moment + before answering her. + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” he said at last, “you have to thank Roger that I am here + tonight. I have come back to you from the gates of death; will you be + satisfied with that for a while?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand you, my boy! You frighten me; haven't you been at + Chester?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” he answered, “there was no use of going.” + </p> + <p> + A presentiment of the truth came to her, but before she could question him + further, he spoke again. + </p> + <p> + “Mother, let us go into the house. I'm cold and tired; I want to sit in + your old rocking-chair, where I can rest my head. Then I'll tell you + everything; I wish I had an easier task!” + </p> + <p> + She noticed that his steps were weak and slow, felt that his hands were + like ice, and saw his blue lips and chattering teeth. She removed the + strange cloak, placed her chair in front of the fire, seated him in it, + and then knelt upon the floor to draw off his stiff, sodden top-boots. He + was passive as a child in her hands. Her care for him overcame all other + dread, and not until she had placed his feet upon a stool, in the full + warmth of the blaze, given him a glass of hot wine and lavender, and + placed a pillow under his head, did she sit down at his side to hear the + story. + </p> + <p> + “I thought of this, last night,” he said, with a faint smile; “not that I + ever expected to see it. The man was right; it's a mercy of God that I + ever got out alive!” + </p> + <p> + “Then be grateful to God, my boy!” she replied, “and let me be grateful, + too. It will balance misfortune,—for that there it misfortune in + store for us. I see plainly.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert then spoke. The narrative was long and painful, and he told it + wearily and brokenly, yet with entire truth, disguising nothing of the + evil that had come upon them. His mother sat beside him, pale, stony, + stifling the sobs that rose in her throat, until he reached the period of + his marvellous rescue, when she bent her head upon his arm and wept aloud. + </p> + <p> + “That's all, mother!” he said at the close; “it's hard to bear, but I'm + more troubled on your account than on my own.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I feared we were over-sure!” she cried. “I claimed payment before it + was ready. The Lord chooses His own time, and punishes them that can't + wait for His ways to be manifest! It's terribly hard; and yet, while His + left hand smites, His right hand gives mercy! He might ha' taken you, my + boy, but He makes a miracle to save you for me!” + </p> + <p> + When she had outwept her passionate tumult of feeling, she grew composed + and serene. “Haven't I yet learned to be patient, in all these years?” she + said. “Haven't I sworn to work out with open eyes the work I took in + blindness? And after waiting twenty-five years, am I to murmur at another + year or two? No, Gilbert! It's to be done; I <i>will</i> deserve my + justice! Keep your courage, my boy; be brave and patient, and the sight of + you will hold me from breaking down!” + </p> + <p> + She arose, felt his hands and feet, set his pillow aright, and then + stooped and kissed him. His chills had ceased; a feeling of heavy, + helpless languor crept over him. + </p> + <p> + “Let Sam see to Roger, mother!” he murmured. “Tell him not to spare the + oats.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd feed him with my own hands, Gilbert, if I could leave you. I'd put + fine wheat-bread into his manger, and wrap him in blankets off my own bed! + To think that Roger,—that I didn't want you to buy,—Lord + forgive me, I was advising your own death!” + </p> + <p> + It was fortunate for Mary Potter that she saw a mysterious Providence, + which, to her mind, warned and yet promised while it chastised, in all + that had occurred. This feeling helped her to bear a disappointment, which + would otherwise have been very grievous. The idea of an atoning ordeal, + which she must endure in order to be crowned with the final justice, and + so behold her life redeemed, had become rooted in her nature. To Gilbert + much of this feeling was inexplicable, because he was ignorant of the + circumstances which had called it into existence. But he saw that his + mother was not yet hopeless, that she did not seem to consider her + deliverance as materially postponed, and a glimmer of hope was added to + the relief of having told his tale. + </p> + <p> + He was still feverish, dozing and muttering in uneasy dreams, as he lay + back in the old rocking-chair, and Mary Potter, with Sam's help, got him + to bed, after administering a potion which she was accustomed to use in + all complaints, from mumps to typhus fever. + </p> + <p> + As for Roger, he stood knee-deep in clean litter, with half a bushel of + oats before him. + </p> + <p> + The next morning Gilbert did not arise, and as he complained of great + soreness in every part of his body, Sam was dispatched for Dr. Deane. + </p> + <p> + It was the first time this gentleman had ever been summoned to the Potter + farm-house. Mary Potter felt considerable trepidation at his arrival, both + on account of the awe which his imposing presence inspired, and the + knowledge of her son's love for his daughter,—a fact which, she + rightly conjectured, he did not suspect. As he brought his ivory-headed + cane, his sleek drab broadcloth, and his herbaceous fragrance into the + kitchen, she was almost overpowered. + </p> + <p> + “How is thy son ailing?” he asked. “He always seemed to me to be a very + healthy young man.” + </p> + <p> + She described the symptoms with a conscientious minuteness. + </p> + <p> + “How was it brought on?” he asked again. + </p> + <p> + She had not intended to relate the whole story, but only so much of it as + was necessary for the Doctor's purposes; but the commencement excited his + curiosity, and he knew so skilfully how to draw one word after another, + suggesting further explanations without directly asking them, that Mary + Potter was led on and on, until she had communicated all the particulars + of her son's misfortune. + </p> + <p> + “This is a wonderful tale thee tells me,” said the Doctor—“wonderful! + Sandy Flash, no doubt, has reason to remember thy son, who, I'm told, + faced him very boldly on Second-day morning. It is really time the country + was aroused; we shall hardly be safe in our own houses. And all night in + the Brandywine flood—I don't wonder thy son is unwell. Let me go up + to him.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane's prescriptions usually conformed to the practice of his day,—bleeding + and big doses,—and he would undoubtedly have applied both of these + in Gilbert's case, but for the latter's great anxiety to be in the saddle + and on the hunt of his enemy. He stoutly refused to be bled, and the + Doctor had learned, from long observation, that patients of a certain + class must be humored rather than coerced. So he administered a double + dose of Dover's Powders, and prohibited the drinking of cold water. His + report was, on the whole, reassuring to Mary Potter. Provided his + directions were strictly followed, he said, her son would be up in two or + three days; but there <i>might</i> be a turn for the worse, as the shock + to the system had been very great, and she ought to have assistance. + </p> + <p> + “There's no one I can call upon,” said she, “without it's Betsy Lavender, + and I must ask you to tell her for me, if you think she can come.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll oblige thee, certainly,” the Doctor answered. “Betsy <i>is</i> with + us, just now, and I don't doubt but she can spare a day or two. She may be + a little headstrong in her ways, but thee'll find her a safe nurse.” + </p> + <p> + It was really not necessary, as the event proved. Rest and warmth were + what Gilbert most needed. But Dr. Deane always exaggerated his patient's + condition a little, in order that the credit of the latter's recovery + might be greater. The present case was a very welcome one, not only + because it enabled him to recite a most astonishing narrative at + second-hand, but also because it suggested a condition far more dangerous + than that which the patient actually suffered. He was the first person to + bear the news to Kennett Square, where it threw the village into a state + of great excitement, which rapidly spread over the neighborhood. + </p> + <p> + He related it at his own tea-table that evening, to Martha and Miss Betsy + Lavender. The former could with difficulty conceal her agitation; she + turned red and pale, until the Doctor finally remarked,— + </p> + <p> + “Why, child, thee needn't be so frightened.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind!” exclaimed Miss Betsy, promptly coming to the rescue, “it's + enough to frighten anybody. It fairly makes me shiver in my shoes. If Alf. + Barton had ha' done his dooty like a man, this wouldn't ha' happened!” + </p> + <p> + “I've no doubt Alfred did the best he could, under the circumstances,” the + Doctor sternly remarked. + </p> + <p> + “Fiddle-de-dee!” was Miss Betsy's contemptuous answer. “He's no more + gizzard than a rabbit. But that's neither here nor there; Mary Potter + wants me to go down and help, and go I will!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I think thee might as well go down to-morrow morning, though I'm in + hopes the young man may be better, if he minds my directions,” said the + Doctor. + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow mornin'? Why not next week? When help's wanted, give it <i>right + away</i>; don't let the grass grow under your feet, say I! Good luck that + I gev up Mendenhall's home-comin' over t' the Lion, or I wouldn't ha' been + here; so another cup o' tea, Martha, and I'm off!” + </p> + <p> + Martha left the table at the same time, and followed Miss Betsy up-stairs. + Her eyes were full of tears, but she did not tremble, and her voice came + firm and clear. + </p> + <p> + “I am going with you,” she said. + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender whirled around and looked at her a minute, without saying a + word. + </p> + <p> + “I see you mean it, child. Don't think me hard or cruel, for I know your + feelin's as well as if they was mine; but all the same, I've got to look + ahead, and back'ards, and on this side and that, and so lookin', and so + judgin', accordin' to my light, which a'n't all tied up in a napkin, what + I've got to say is, and ag'in don't think me hard, it won't do!” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy,” Martha Deane persisted, “a misfortune like this brings my duty + with it. Besides, he may be in great danger; he may have got his death,”— + </p> + <p> + “Don't begin talkin' that way,” Miss Lavender interrupted, “or you'll put + me out o' patience. I'll say that for your father, he's always mortal + concerned for a bad case, Gilbert Potter or not; and I can mostly tell the + heft of a sickness by the way he talks about it,—so that's settled; + and as to dooties, it's very well and right, I don't deny it, but never + mind, all the same, I said before, the whole thing's a snarl, and I say it + ag'in, and unless you've got the end o' the ravellin's in your hand, the + harder you pull, the wuss you'll make it!” + </p> + <p> + There was good sense in these words, and Martha Deane felt it. Her + resolution began to waver, in spite of the tender instinct which told her + that Gilbert Potter now needed precisely the help and encouragement which + she alone could give. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Betsy,” she murmured, her tears falling without restraint, “it's hard + for me to seem so strange to him, at such a time!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” answered the spinster, setting her comb tight with a fierce thrust, + “it's hard every one of us can't have our own ways in this world! But + don't take on now, Martha dear; we only have your father's word, and not + to be called a friend's, but <i>I'll</i> see how the land lays, and + tomorrow evenin', or next day at th' outside, you'll know everything fair + and square. Neither you nor Gilbert is inclined to do things rash, and + what you <i>both</i> agree on, after a proper understanding I guess'll be + pretty nigh right. There! where's my knittin'-basket?” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender trudged off, utterly fearless of the night walk of two + miles, down the lonely road. In less than an hour she knocked at the door + of the farm-house, and was received with open arms by Mary Potter. Gilbert + had slept the greater part of the day, but was now awake, and so restless, + from the desire to leave his bed, that his mother could with difficulty + restrain him. + </p> + <p> + “Set down and rest yourself, Mary!” Miss Betsy exclaimed. “I'll go up and + put him to rights.” + </p> + <p> + She took a lamp and mounted to the bed-room. Gilbert, drenched in + perspiration, and tossing uneasily under a huge pile of blankets, sprang + up as her gaunt figure entered the door. She placed the lamp on a table, + pressed him down on the pillow by main force, and covered him up to the + chin. + </p> + <p> + “Martha?” he whispered, his face full of intense, piteous eagerness. + </p> + <p> + “Will you promise to lay still and sweat, as you're told + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Now let me feel your pulse. That'll do; now for your tongue! Tut, tut! + the boy's not so bad. I give you my word you may get up and dress yourself + to-morrow mornin', if you'll only hold out to-night. And as for + thorough-stem tea, and what not, I guess you've had enough of 'em; but you + can't jump out of a sick-spell into downright peartness, at one jump!” + </p> + <p> + “Martha, Martha!” Gilbert urged. + </p> + <p> + “You're both of a piece, I declare! There was she, this very night, dead + set on comin' down with me, and mortal hard it was to persuade her to be + reasonable!” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender had not a great deal to relate, but Gilbert compelled her to + make up by repetition what she lacked in quantity. And at every repetition + the soreness seemed to decrease in his body, and the weakness in his + muscles, and hope and courage to increase in his heart. + </p> + <p> + “Tell her,” he exclaimed, “it was enough that she wanted to come. That + alone has put new life into me!” + </p> + <p> + “I see it has,” said Miss Lavender, “and now, maybe, you've got life + enough to tell me all the ups and downs o' this affair, for I can't say as + I rightly understand it.” + </p> + <p> + The conference was long and important. Gilbert related every circumstance + of his adventure, including the mysterious allusion to Alfred Barton, + which he had concealed from his mother. He was determined, as his first + course, to call the volunteers together and organize a thorough hunt for + the highwayman. Until that had been tried, he would postpone all further + plans of action. Miss Lavender did not say much, except to encourage him + in this determination. She felt that there was grave matter for reflection + in what had happened. The threads of mystery seemed to increase, and she + imagined it possible that they might all converge to one unknown point. + </p> + <p> + “Mary,” she said, when she descended to the kitchen, “I don't see but what + the boy's goin' on finely. Go to bed, you, and sleep quietly; I'll take + the settle, here, and I promise you I'll go up every hour through the + night, to see whether he's kicked his coverin's off.” + </p> + <p> + Which promise she faithfully kept, and in the morning Gilbert came down to + breakfast, a little haggard, but apparently as sound as ever. Even the + Doctor, when he arrived, was slightly surprised at the rapid improvement. + </p> + <p> + “A fine constitution for medicines to work on,” he remarked. “I wouldn't + wish thee to be sick, but when thee is, it's a pleasure to see how thy + system obeys the treatment.” + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane, during Miss Lavender's absence, had again discussed, in her + heart, her duty to Gilbert. Her conscience was hardly satisfied with the + relinquishment of her first impulse. She felt that there was, there must + be, something for her to do in this emergency. She knew that he had + toiled, and dared, and suffered for her sake, while she had done nothing. + It was not pride,—at least not the haughty quality which bears an + obligation uneasily,—but rather the impulse, at once brave and + tender, to stand side by side with him in the struggle, and win an equal + right to the final blessing. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon Miss Lavender returned, and her first business was to + give a faithful report of Gilbert's condition and the true story of his + misfortune, which she repeated, almost word for word, as it came from his + lips. It did not differ materially from that which Martha had already + heard, and the direction which her thoughts had taken, in the mean time, + seemed to be confirmed. The gentle, steady strength of purpose that looked + from her clear blue eyes, and expressed itself in the firm, sharp curve of + her lip, was never more distinct than when she said,— + </p> + <p> + “Now, Betsy, all is clear to me. You were right before, and I am right + now. I must see Gilbert when he calls the men together, and after that I + shall know how to act.” + </p> + <p> + Three days afterwards, there was another assemblage of the Kennett + Volunteers at the Unicorn Tavern. This time, however, Mark Deane was on + hand, and Alfred Barton did not make his appearance. That Gilbert Potter + should take the command was an understood matter. The preliminary + consultation was secretly held, and when Dougherty, the Irish ostler, + mixed himself, as by accident, among the troop, Gilbert sharply ordered + him away. Whatever the plan of the chase was, it was not communicated to + the crowd of country idlers; and there was, in consequence, some grumbling + at, and a great deal of respect for, the new arrangement. + </p> + <p> + Miss Betsy Lavender had managed to speak to Gilbert before the others + arrived; therefore, after they had left, to meet the next day, equipped + for a possible absence of a week, he crossed the road and entered Dr. + Deane's house. + </p> + <p> + This time the two met, not so much as lovers, but rather as husband and + wife might meet after long absence and escape from imminent danger. Martha + Deane knew how cruel and bitter Gilbert's fate must seem to his own heart, + and she resolved that all the cheer which lay in her buoyant, courageous + nature should be given to him. Never did a woman more sweetly blend the + tones of regret and faith, sympathy and encouragement. + </p> + <p> + “The time has come, Gilbert,” she said at last, “when our love for each + other must no longer be kept a secret—at least from the few who, + under other circumstances, would have a right to know it. We must still + wait, though no longer (remember that!) than we were already agreed to + wait; but we should betray ourselves, sooner or later, and then the + secret, discovered by others, would seem to hint at a sense of shame. We + shall gain respect and sympathy, and perhaps help, if we reveal it + ourselves. Even if you do not take the same view, Gilbert, think of this, + that it is my place to stand beside you in your hour of difficulty and + trial; that other losses, other dangers, may come, and you could not, you + must not, hold me apart when my heart tells me we should be together!” + </p> + <p> + She laid her arms caressingly over his shoulders, and looked in his face. + A wonderful softness and tenderness touched his pale, worn countenance. + “Martha,” he said, “remember that my disgrace will cover you, yet awhile.” + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + That one word, proud, passionate, reproachful, yet forgiving, sealed his + lips. + </p> + <p> + “So be it!” he cried. “God knows, I think but of you. If I selfishly + considered myself, do you think I would hold back my own honor?” + </p> + <p> + “A poor honor,” she said, “that I sit comfortably at home and love you, + while you are face to face with death!” + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane's resolution was inflexibly taken. That same evening she went + into the sitting-room, where her father was smoking a pipe before the open + stove, and placed her chair opposite to his. + </p> + <p> + “Father,” she said, “thee has never asked any questions concerning Alfred + Barton's visit.” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor started, and looked at her keenly, before replying. Her voice + had its simple, natural tone, her manner was calm and self-possessed; yet + something in her firm, erect posture and steady eye impressed him with the + idea that she had determined on a full and final discussion of the + question. + </p> + <p> + “No, child,” he answered, after a pause. “I saw Alfred, and he said thee + was rather taken by surprise. He thought, perhaps, thee didn't rightly + know thy own mind, and it would be better to wait a little. That is the + chief reason why I haven't spoken to thee.” + </p> + <p> + “If Alfred Barton said that, he told thee false,” said she. “I knew my own + mind, as well then as now. I said to him that nothing could ever make me + his wife.” + </p> + <p> + “Martha!” the Doctor exclaimed, “don't be hasty! If Alfred is a little + older”— + </p> + <p> + “Father!” she interrupted, “never mention this thing again! Thee can + neither give me away, nor sell me; though I am a woman, I belong to + myself. Thee knows I'm not hasty in anything. It was a long time before I + rightly knew my own heart; but when I did know it and found that it had + chosen truly, I gave it freely, and it is gone from me forever!” + </p> + <p> + “Martha, Martha!” cried Dr. Deane, starting from his seat, “what does all + this mean?” + </p> + <p> + “It means something which it is thy right to know, and therefore I have + made up my mind to tell thee, even at the risk of incurring thy lasting + displeasure. It means that I have followed the guidance of my own heart + and bestowed it on a man a thousand times better and nobler than Alfred + Barton ever was, and, if the Lord spares us to each other, I shall one day + be his wife!” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor glared at his daughter in speechless amazement. But she met his + gaze steadily, although her face grew a shade paler, and the expression of + the pain she could not entirely suppress, with the knowledge of the + struggle before her, trembled a little about the corners of her lips. + </p> + <p> + “Who is this man?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert Potter.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane's pipe dropped from his hand and smashed upon the iron hearth. + </p> + <p> + “Martha Deane!” he cried. “Does the d—— <i>what</i> possesses + thee? Wasn't it enough that thee should drive away the man I had picked + out for thee, with a single view to thy own interest and happiness; but + must thee take up, as a wicked spite to thy father, with almost the only + man in the neighborhood who brings thee nothing but poverty and disgrace? + It shall not be—it shall never be!” + </p> + <p> + “It <i>must</i> be, father,” she said gently. “God hath joined our hearts + and our lives, and no man—not even thee—shall put them + asunder. If there were disgrace, in the eyes of the world,—which I + now know there is not,—Gilbert has wiped it out by his courage, his + integrity, and his sufferings. If he is poor, I am well to do.” + </p> + <p> + “Thee forgets,” the Doctor interrupted, in a stern voice, “the time isn't + up!” + </p> + <p> + “I know that unless thee gives thy consent, we must wait three years; but + I hope, father, when thee comes to know Gilbert better, thee will not be + so hard. I am thy only child, and my happiness cannot be indifferent to + thee. I have tried to obey thee in all things”— + </p> + <p> + He interrupted her again. “Thee's adding another cross to them I bear for + thee already! Am I not, in a manner, thy keeper, and responsible for thee, + before the world and in the sight of the Lord? But thee hardened thy heart + against the direction of the Spirit, and what wonder, then, that it's + hardened against me?” + </p> + <p> + “No, father,” said Martha, rising and laying her hand softly upon his arm, + “I <i>obeyed</i> the Spirit in that other matter, as I obey my conscience + in this. I took my duty into my own hands, and considered it in a humble, + and, I hope, a pious spirit. I saw that there were innocent needs of + nature, pleasant enjoyments of life, which did not conflict with sincere + devotion, and that I was not called upon to renounce them because others + happened to see the world in a different light. In this sense, thee is not + my keeper; I must render an account, not to thee, but to Him who gave me + my soul. Neither is thee the keeper of my heart and its affections. In the + one case and the other my right is equal,—nay, it stands as far + above thine as Heaven is above the earth!” + </p> + <p> + In the midst of his wrath, Dr. Deane could not help admiring his daughter. + Foiled and exasperated as he was by the sweet, serene, lofty power of her + words, they excited a wondering respect which he found it difficult to + hide. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Martha!” he said, “thee has a wonderful power, if it were only + directed by the true Light! But now, it only makes the cross heavier. + Don't think that I'll ever consent to see thee carry out thy strange and + wicked fancies! Thee must learn to forget this man, Potter, and the sooner + thee begins the easier it will be!” + </p> + <p> + “Father,” she answered, with a sad smile, “I'm sorry thee knows so little + of my nature. The wickedness would be in forgetting. It is very painful to + me that we must differ. Where my duty was wholly owed to thee, I have + never delayed to give it; but here it is owed to Gilbert Potter,—owed, + and will be given.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough, Martha!” cried the Doctor, trembling with anger; “don't mention + his name again!” + </p> + <p> + “I will not, except when the same duty requires it to be mentioned. But, + father, try to think less harshly of the name; it will one day be mine!” + </p> + <p> + She spoke gently and imploringly, with tears in her eyes. The conflict had + been, as she said, very painful; but her course was plain, and she dared + not flinch a step at the outset. The difficulties must be met face to + face, and resolutely assailed, if they were ever to be overcome. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane strode up and down the room in silence, with his hands behind + his back. Martha stood by the fire, waiting his further speech, but he did + not look at her, and at the end of half an hour, commanded shortly and + sharply, without turning his head,— + </p> + <p> + “Go to bed!” + </p> + <p> + “Good-night, father,” she said, in her usual clear sweet voice, and + quietly left the room. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. — A CROSS-EXAMINATION. + </h2> + <p> + The story of Gilbert Potter's robbery and marvellous escape from death ran + rapidly through the neighborhood, and coming, as it did, upon the heels of + his former adventure, created a great excitement. He became almost a hero + in the minds of the people. It was not their habit to allow any man to <i>quite</i> + assume so lofty a character as that, but they granted to Gilbert fully as + much interest as, in their estimation, any human being ought properly to + receive. Dr. Deane was eagerly questioned, wherever he went; and if his + garments could have exhaled the odors of his feelings, his questioners + would have smelled aloes and asafoetida instead of sweet-marjoram and + bergamot. But—in justice to him be it said—he told and retold + the story very correctly; the tide of sympathy ran so high and strong, + that he did not venture to stem it on grounds which could not be publicly + explained. + </p> + <p> + The supposed disgrace of Gilbert's birth seemed to be quite forgotten for + the time; and there was no young man of spirit in the four townships who + was not willing to serve under his command. More volunteers offered, in + fact, than could be profitably employed. Sandy Flash was not the game to + be unearthed by a loud, numerous, sweeping hunt; traps, pitfalls, secret + and unwearied following of his many trails, were what was needed. So much + time had elapsed that the beginning must be a conjectural beating of the + bushes, and to this end several small companies were organized, and the + country between the Octorara and the Delaware very effectually scoured. + </p> + <p> + When the various parties reunited, after several days, neither of them + brought any positive intelligence, but all the greater store of guesses + and rumors. Three or four suspicious individuals had been followed and + made to give an account of themselves; certain hiding-places, especially + the rocky lairs along the Brandywine and the North Valley-Hill, were + carefully examined, and some traces of occupation, though none very + recent, were discovered. Such evidence as there was seemed to indicate + that part of the eastern branch of the Brandywine, between the forks of + the stream and the great Chester Valley, as being the probable retreat of + the highwayman, and a second expedition was at once organized. The + Sheriff, with a posse of men from the lower part of the county, undertook + to watch the avenues of escape towards the river. + </p> + <p> + This new attempt was not more successful, so far as its main object was + concerned, but it actually stumbled upon Sandy Flash's trail, and only + failed by giving tongue too soon and following too impetuously. Gilbert + and his men had a tantalizing impression (which later intelligence proved + to have been correct) that the robber was somewhere near them,—buried + in the depths of the very wood they were approaching, dodging behind the + next barn as it came into view, or hidden under dead leaves in some + rain-washed gulley. Had they but known, one gloomy afternoon in late + December, that they were riding under the cedar-tree in whose close, + cloudy foliage he was coiled, just above their heads! Had they but guessed + who the deaf old woman was, with her face muffled from the cold, and six + cuts of blue yarn in her basket! But detection had not then become a + science, and they were far from suspecting the extent of Sandy Flash's + devices and disguises. + </p> + <p> + Many of the volunteers finally grew tired of the fruitless chase, and + returned home; others could only spare a few days from their winter + labors; but Gilbert Potter, with three or four faithful and courageous + young fellows,—one of whom was Mark Deane,—returned again and + again to the search, and not until the end of December did he confess + himself baffled. By this time all traces of the highwayman were again + lost; he seemed to have disappeared from the country. + </p> + <p> + “I believe Pratt's right,” said Mark, as the two issued from the + Marlborough woods, on their return to Kennett Square. “Chester County is + too hot to hold him.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps so,” Gilbert answered, with a gloomy face. He was more keenly + disappointed at the failure than he would then confess, even to Mark. The + outrage committed upon him was still unavenged, and thus his loss, to his + proud, sensitive nature, carried a certain shame with it. Moreover, the + loss itself must speedily be replaced. He had half flattered himself with + the hope of capturing not only Sandy Flash, but his plunder; it was hard + to forget that, for a day or two, he had been independent,—hard to + stoop again to be a borrower and a debtor! + </p> + <p> + “What are the county authorities good for?” Mark exclaimed. “Between you + and me, the Sheriff's a reg'lar puddin'-head. I wish you was in his + place.” + </p> + <p> + “If Sandy is safe in Jersey, or down on the Eastern Shore, that would do + no good. It isn't enough that he leaves us alone, from this time on; he + has a heavy back-score to settle.” + </p> + <p> + “Come to think on it, Gilbert,” Mark continued, “isn't it rather queer + that you and him should be thrown together in such ways? There was + Barton's fox-chase last spring; then your shootin' at other, at the + Square; and then the robbery on the road. It seems to me as if he picked + you out to follow you, and yet I don't know why.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert started. Mark's words reawakened the dark, incredible suspicion + which Martha Deane had removed. Again he declared to himself that he would + not entertain the thought, but he could not reject the evidence that there + was something more than accident in all these encounters. If any one + besides Sandy Flash were responsible for the last meeting, it must be + Alfred Barton. The latter, therefore, owed him an explanation, and he + would demand it. + </p> + <p> + When they reached the top of the “big hill” north of the Fairthorn + farm-house, whence they looked eastward down the sloping corn-field which + had been the scene of the husking-frolic, Mark turned to Gilbert with an + honest blush all over his face, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “I don't see why you shouldn't know it, Gilbert. I'm sure Sally wouldn't + care; you're almost like a brother to her.” + </p> + <p> + “What?” Gilbert asked, yet with a quick suspicion of the coming + intelligence. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I guess you know, well enough, old fellow. I asked her that night, + and it's all right between us. What do you say to it, now?” + </p> + <p> + “Mark, I'm glad of it; I wish you joy, with all my heart!” Gilbert + stretched out his hand, and as he turned and looked squarely into Mark's + half-bashful yet wholly happy face, he remembered Martha's words, at their + last interview. + </p> + <p> + “You are like a brother to me, Mark,” he said, “and you shall have <i>my</i> + secret. What would you say if I had done the same thing?” + </p> + <p> + “No?” Mark exclaimed; “who?” + </p> + <p> + “Guess!” + </p> + <p> + “Not—not Martha?” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert smiled. + </p> + <p> + “By the Lord! It's the best day's work <i>you</i>'ve ever done! Gi' me y'r + hand ag'in; we'll stand by each other faster than ever, now!” + </p> + <p> + When they stopped at Fairthorn's, the significant pressure of Gilbert's + hand brought a blush into Sally's cheek; but when Mark met Martha with his + tell-tale face, she answered with a proud and tender smile. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert's first business, after his return, was to have a consultation + with Miss Betsy Lavender, who alone knew of the suspicions attaching to + Alfred Barton. The spinster had, in the mean time, made the matter the + subject of profound and somewhat painful cogitation. She had ransacked her + richly stored memory of persons and events, until her brain was like a + drawer of tumbled clothes; had spent hours in laborious mental research, + becoming so absorbed that she sometimes gave crooked answers when spoken + to, and was haunted with a terrible dread of having thought aloud; and had + questioned the oldest gossips right and left, coming as near the hidden + subject as she dared. When they met, she communicated the result to + Gilbert in this wise: + </p> + <p> + “'T a'n't agreeable for a body to allow they're flummuxed, but if <i>I</i> + a'n't, this time, I'm mighty near onto it. It's like lookin' for a set o' + buttons that'll match, in a box full o' tail-ends o' things. This'n 'd do, + and that'n 'd do; but you can't put this'n and that'n together; and here's + got to be square work, everything fittin' tight and hangin' plumb, or + it'll be throwed back onto your hands, and all to be done over ag'in. I + dunno when I've done so much head-work and to no purpose, follerin' here + and guessin' there, and nosin' into everything that's past and gone; and + so my opinion is, whether you like it or not, but never mind, all the + same, I can't do no more than give it, that we'd better drop what's past + and gone, and look a little more into these present times!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Betsy,” said Gilbert, with a stern, determined face, “this is what + I shall do. I am satisfied that Barton is connected, in some way, with + Sandy Flash. What it is, or whether the knowledge will help us, I can't + guess; but I shall force Barton to tell me!” + </p> + <p> + “To tell me. That might do, as far as it goes,” she remarked, after a + moment's reflection. “It won't be easy; you'll have to threaten as well as + coax, but I guess you can git it out of him in the long run, and maybe I + can help you here, two bein' better than one, if one is but a + sheep's-head.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't see, Betsy, that I need to call on you.” + </p> + <p> + “This way, Gilbert. It's a strong p'int o' law, I've heerd tell, not that + I know much o' law, Goodness knows, nor ever want to, but never mind, it's + a strong p'int when there's two witnesses to a thing,—one to clinch + what the t'other drives in; and you must have a show o' law to work on + Alf. Barton, or I'm much mistaken!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert reflected a moment. “It can do no harm,” he then said; “can you go + with me, now?” + </p> + <p> + “Now's the time! If we only git the light of a farden-candle out o' him, + it'll do me a mortal heap o' good; for with all this rakin' and scrapin' + for nothin', I'm like a heart pantin' after the water-brooks, though a + mouth would be more like it, to my thinkin', when a body's so awful dry as + that comes to!” + </p> + <p> + The two thereupon took the foot-path down through the frozen fields and + the dreary timber of the creek-side, to the Barton farm-house. As they + approached the barn, they saw Alfred Barton sitting on a pile of straw and + watching Giles, who was threshing wheat. He seemed a little surprised at + their appearance; but as Gilbert and he had not met since their interview + in the corn-field before the former's departure for Chester, he had no + special cause for embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + “Come into the house,” he said, leading the way. + </p> + <p> + “No,” Gilbert answered, “I came here to speak with you privately. Will you + walk down the lane?” + </p> + <p> + “No objection, of course,” said Barton, looking from Gilbert to Miss + Lavender, with a mixture of curiosity and uneasiness. “Good news, I hope; + got hold of Sandy's tracks, at last?” + </p> + <p> + “One of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you don't say so! Where?” + </p> + <p> + “Here!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert stopped and faced Barton. They were below the barn, and out of + Giles's hearing. + </p> + <p> + “Barton,” he resumed, “you know what interest I have in the arrest of that + man, and you won't deny my right to demand of you an account of your + dealings with him. When did you first make his acquaintance?” + </p> + <p> + “I've told you that, already; the matter has been fully talked over + between us,” Barton answered, in a petulant tone. + </p> + <p> + “It has not been fully talked over. I require to know, first of all, + precisely when, and under what circumstances, you and Sandy Flash came + together. There is more to come, so let us begin at the beginning.” + </p> + <p> + “Damme, Gilbert, <i>you</i> were there, and saw as much as I did. How + could I know who the cursed black-whiskered fellow was?” + </p> + <p> + “But you found it out,” Gilbert persisted, “and the manner of your finding + it out must be explained.” + </p> + <p> + Barton assumed a bold, insolent manner. “I don't see as that follows,” he + said. “It has nothing in the world to do with his robbery of you; and as + for Sandy Flash, I wish to the Lord you'd get hold of him, yourself, + instead of trying to make me accountable for his comings and goings!” + </p> + <p> + “He's tryin' to fly off the handle,” Miss Lavender remarked. “I'd drop + that part o' the business a bit, if I was you, and come to the t'other + proof.” + </p> + <p> + “What the devil have <i>you</i> to do here?” asked Barton. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Betsy is here because I asked her,” Gilbert said. “Because all that + passes between us may have to be repeated in a court of justice, and two + witnesses are better than one!” + </p> + <p> + He took advantage of the shock which these words produced upon Barton, and + repeated to him the highwayman's declarations, with the inference they + might bear if not satisfactorily explained. “I kept my promise,” he added, + “and said nothing to any living soul of your request that I should carry + money for you to Chester. Sandy Flash's information, therefore, must have + come, either directly or indirectly, from you.” + </p> + <p> + Barton had listened with open mouth and amazed eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Why, the man is a devil!” he cried. “I, neither, never said a word of the + matter to any living soul!” + </p> + <p> + “Did you really send any money?” Gilbert asked. + </p> + <p> + “That I did! I got it of Joel Ferris, and it happened he was bound for + Chester, the very next day, on his own business; and so, instead of + turning it over to me, he just paid it there, according to my directions. + You'll understand, this is between ourselves?” + </p> + <p> + He darted a sharp, suspicious glance at Miss Betsy Lavender, who gravely + nodded her head. + </p> + <p> + “The difficulty is not yet explained,” said Gilbert, “and perhaps you'll + <i>now</i> not deny my right to know something more of your first + acquaintance with Sandy Flash?” + </p> + <p> + “Have it then!” Barton exclaimed, desperately—“and much good may it + do you! I thought his name was Fortune, as much as you did, till nine + o'clock that night, when he put a pistol to my breast in the woods! If you + think I'm colloguing with him, why did he rob me under threat of murder,—money, + watch, and everything?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah-ha!” said Miss Lavender, “and so that's the way your watch has been + gittin' mended all this while? Mainspring broke, as I've heerd say; well, + I don't wonder! Gilbert, I guess this much is true. Alf. Barton'd never + live so long without that watch, and that half-peck o' seals, if he could + help it!” + </p> + <p> + “This, too, may as well be kept to ourselves,” Barton suggested. “It isn't + agreeable to a man to have it known that he's been so taken in as I was, + and that's just the reason why I kept it to myself; and, of course, I + shouldn't like it to get around.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert could do no less than accept this part of the story, and it + rendered his later surmises untenable. But the solution which he sought + was as far off as ever. + </p> + <p> + “Barton,” he said, after a long pause, “will you do your best to help me + in finding out how Sandy Flash got the knowledge?” + </p> + <p> + “Only show me a way! The best would be to catch him and get it from his + own mouth.” + </p> + <p> + He looked so earnest, so eager, and—as far as the traces of cunning + in his face would permit—so honest, that Gilbert yielded to a sudden + impulse, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “I believe you, Barton. I've done you wrong in my thoughts,—not + willingly, for I don't want to think badly of you or any one else,—but + because circumstances seemed to drive me to it. It would have been better + if you had told me of your robbery at the start.” + </p> + <p> + “You're right there, Gilbert! I believe I was an outspoken fellow enough, + when I was young, and all the better for it, but the old man's driven me + into a curst way of keeping dark about everything, and so I go on heaping + up trouble for myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Trouble for myself, Alf. Barton,” said Miss Lavender, “that's the truest + word you've said this many a day. Murder will out, you know, and so will + robbery, and so will—other things. More o' your doin's is known, not + that they're agreeabler, but on the contrary, quite the reverse, and as + full need to be explained, though it don't seem to matter much, yet it + may, who can tell? And now look here, Gilbert; my crow is to be picked, + and you've seen the color of it, but never mind, all the same, since + Martha's told the Doctor, it can't make much difference to you. And this + is all between ourselves, you understand?” + </p> + <p> + The last words were addressed to Barton, with a comical, unconscious + imitation of his own manner. He guessed something of what was coming, + though not the whole of it, and again became visibly uneasy; but he + stammered out,—“Yes; oh, yes! of course.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert could form a tolerably correct idea of the shape and size of Miss + Lavender's crow. He did not feel sure that this was the proper time to + have it picked, or even that it should be picked at all; but he imagined + that Miss Lavender had either consulted Martha Deane, or that she had wise + reasons of her own for speaking. He therefore remained silent. + </p> + <p> + “First and foremost,” she resumed, “I'll tell you, Alf. Barton, what we + know o' your doin's, and then it's for you to judge whether we'll know any + more. Well, you've been tryin' to git Martha Deane for a wife, without + wantin' her in your heart, but rather the contrary, though it seems queer + enough when a body comes to think of it, but never mind; and your father's + druv you to it; and you were of a cold shiver for fear she'd take you, and + yet you want to let on it a'n't settled betwixt and between you—oh, + you needn't chaw your lips and look yaller about the jaws, it's the Lord's + truth; and now answer me this, <i>what do you mean?</i> and maybe you'll + say what right have I got to ask, but never mind, all the same, if I + haven't, Gilbert Potter has, for it's him that Martha Deane has promised + to take for a husband!” + </p> + <p> + It was a day of surprises for Barton. In his astonishment at the last + announcement, he took refuge from the horror of Miss Lavender's first + revelations. One thing was settled,—all the fruits of his painful + and laborious plotting were scattered to the winds. Denial was of no use, + but neither could an honest explanation, even if he should force himself + to give it, be of any possible service. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” he asked, “is this true?—about <i>you</i>, I mean.” + </p> + <p> + “Martha Deane and I are engaged, and were already at the time when you + addressed her,” Gilbert answered. + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens! I hadn't the slightest suspicion of it. Well—I don't + begrudge you your luck, and of course I'll draw back, and never say + another word, now or ever.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>You</i> wouldn't ha' been comfortable with Martha Deane, anyhow,” Miss + Lavender grimly remarked. “'T isn't good to hitch a colt-horse and an old + spavined critter in one team. But that's neither here nor there; you + ha'n't told us why you made up to her for a purpose, and kep' on + pretendin' she didn't know her own mind.” + </p> + <p> + “I've promised Gilbert that I won't interfere, and that's enough,” said + Barton, doggedly. + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender was foiled for a moment, but she presently returned to the + attack. “I dunno as it's enough, after what's gone before,” she said. + “Couldn't you go a step furder, and lend Gilbert a helpin' hand, whenever + and whatever?” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy!” Gilbert exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Let me alone, lad! I don't speak in Gilbert's name, nor yet in Martha's; + only out o' my own mind. I don't ask you to do anything, but I want to + know how it stands with your willin'ness.” + </p> + <p> + “I've offered, more than once, to do him a good turn, if I could; but I + guess my help wouldn't be welcome,” Barton answered. The sting of the + suspicion rankled in his mind, and Gilbert's evident aversion sorely + wounded his vanity. + </p> + <p> + “Wouldn't be welcome. Then I'll only say this; maybe I've got it in my + power, and 't isn't sayin' much, for the mouse gnawed the mashes o' the + lion's net, to help you to what you're after, bein' as it isn't Martha, + and can't be her money. S'pose I did it o' my own accord, leavin' you to + feel beholden to me, or not, after all's said and done?” + </p> + <p> + But Alfred Barton was proof against even this assault. He was too dejected + to enter, at once, into a new plot, the issue of which would probably be + as fruitless as the others. He had already accepted a sufficiency of + shame, for one day. This last confession, if made, would place his + character in a still grosser and meaner light; while, if withheld, the + unexplained motive might be presented as a partial justification of his + course. He had been surprised into damaging admissions; but here he would + take a firm stand. + </p> + <p> + “You're right so far, Betsy,” he said, “that I had a reason—a good + reason, it seemed to me, but I may be mistaken—for what I did. It + concerns no one under Heaven but my own self; and though I don't doubt + your willingness to do me a good turn, it would make no difference—you + couldn't help one bit. I've given the thing up, and so let it be!” + </p> + <p> + There was nothing more to be said, and the two cross-examiners took their + departure. As they descended to the creek, Miss Lavender remarked, as if + to herself,— + </p> + <p> + “No use—it can't be screwed out of him! So there's one cur'osity the + less; not that I'm glad of it, for not knowin' worries more than knowin', + whatsoever and whosoever. And I dunno as I think any the wuss of him for + shuttin' his teeth so tight onto it.” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton waited until the two had disappeared behind the timber in + the bottom. Then he slowly followed, stealing across the fields and around + the stables, to the back-door of the Unicorn bar-room. It was noticed + that, although he drank a good deal that afternoon, his ill-humor was not, + as usual, diminished thereby. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. — DEB. SMITH TAKES A RESOLUTION. + </h2> + <p> + It was a raw, overcast evening in the early part of January. Away to the + west there was a brownish glimmer in the dark-gray sky, denoting sunset, + and from that point there came barely sufficient light to disclose the + prominent features of a wild, dreary, uneven landscape. + </p> + <p> + The foreground was a rugged clearing in the forest, just where the crest + of a high hill began to slope rapidly down to the Brandywine. The dark + meadows, dotted with irregular lakes of ice, and long, dirty drifts of + unmelted snow, but not the stream itself, could be seen. Across the narrow + valley rose a cape, or foreland, of the hills beyond, timbered nearly to + the top, and falling, on either side, into deep lateral glens,—those + warm nooks which the first settlers loved to choose, both from their snug + aspect of shelter, and from the cold, sparkling springs of water which + every one of them held in its lap. Back of the summits of all the hills + stretched a rich, rolling upland, cleared and mapped into spacious fields, + but showing everywhere an edge of dark, wintry woods against the darkening + sky. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of this clearing stood a rough cabin, or rather half-cabin, + of logs; for the back of it was formed by a ledge of slaty rocks, some ten + or twelve feet in height, which here cropped out of the hill-side. The raw + clay with which the crevices between the logs had been stopped, had fallen + out in many places; the roof of long strips of peeled bark was shrivelled + by wind and sun, and held in its place by stones and heavy branches of + trees, and a square tower of plastered sticks in one corner very + imperfectly suggested a chimney. There was no inclosed patch of + vegetable-ground near, no stable, improvised of corn-shocks, for the + shelter of cow or pig, and the habitation seemed not only to be + untenanted, but to have been forsaken years before. + </p> + <p> + Yet a thin, cautious thread of smoke stole above the rocks, and just as + the starless dusk began to deepen into night, a step was heard, slowly + climbing upward through the rustling leaves and snapping sticks of the + forest. A woman's figure, wearily scaling the hill under a load which + almost concealed the upper part of her body, for it consisted of a huge + wallet, a rattling collection of articles tied in a blanket, and two or + three bundles slung over her shoulders with a rope. When at last, panting + from the strain, she stood beside the cabin, she shook herself, and the + articles, with the exception of the wallet, tumbled to the ground. The + latter she set down carefully, thrust her arm into one of the ends and + drew forth a heavy jug, which she raised to her mouth. The wind was + rising, but its voice among the trees was dull and muffled; now and then a + flake of snow dropped out of the gloom, as if some cowardly, insulting + creature of the air were spitting at the world under cover of the night. + </p> + <p> + “It's likely to be a good night,” the woman muttered, “and he'll be on the + way by this time. I must put things to rights.” + </p> + <p> + She entered the cabin by a narrow door in the southern end. Her first care + was to rekindle the smouldering fire from a store of boughs and dry + brushwood piled in one corner. When a little flame leaped up from the + ashes, it revealed an interior bare and dismal enough, yet very cheery in + contrast with the threatening weather outside. The walls were naked logs + and rock, the floor of irregular flat stones, and no furniture remained + except some part of a cupboard or dresser, near the chimney. Two or three + short saw-cuts of logs formed as many seats, and the only sign of a bed + was a mass of dry leaves, upon which a blanket had been thrown, in a + hollow under the overhanging base of the rock. + </p> + <p> + Untying the blanket, the woman drew forth three or four rude cooking + utensils, some dried beef and smoked sausages, and two huge round loaves + of bread, and arranged them upon the one or two remaining shelves of the + dresser. Then she seated herself in front of the fire, staring into the + crackling blaze, which she mechanically fed from time to time, muttering + brokenly to herself in the manner of one accustomed to be much alone. + </p> + <p> + “It was a mean thing, after what I'd said,—my word used to be wuth + somethin', but times seems to ha' changed. If they have, why shouldn't I + change with 'em, as well's anybody else? Well, why need it matter? I've + got a bad name.... No, that'll never do! Stick to what you're about, or + you'll be wuthlesser, even, than they says you are!” + </p> + <p> + She shook her hard fist, and took another pull at the jug. + </p> + <p> + “It's well I laid in a good lot o' <i>that</i>,” she said. “No better + company for a lonesome night, and it'll stop his cussin', I reckon, + anyhow. Eh? What's that?” + </p> + <p> + From the wood came a short, quick yelp, as from some stray dog. She rose, + slipped out the door, and peered into the darkness, which was full of + gathering snow. After listening a moment, she gave a low whistle. It was + not answered, but a stealthy step presently approached, and a form, + dividing itself from the gloom, stood at her side. + </p> + <p> + “All right, Deb?” + </p> + <p> + “Right as I can make it. I've got meat and drink, and I come straight from + the Turk's Head, and Jim says the Sheriff's gone back to Chester, and + there's been nobody out these three days. Come in and take bite and sup, + and then tell me everything.” + </p> + <p> + They entered the cabin. The door was carefully barred, and then Sandy + Flash, throwing off a heavy overcoat, such as the drovers were accustomed + to wear, sat down by the fire. His face was redder than its wont, from + cold and exposure, and all its keen, fierce lines were sharp and hard. As + he warmed his feet and hands at the blaze, and watched Deb. Smith while + she set the meat upon the coals, and cut the bread with a heavy + hunting-knife, the wary, defiant look of a hunted animal gradually + relaxed, and he said,— + </p> + <p> + “Faith, Deb., this is better than hidin' in the frost. I believe I'd ha' + froze last night, if I hadn't got down beside an ox for a couple o' hours. + It's a dog's life they've led me, and I've had just about enough of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why not give it up, Sandy, for good and all? I'll go out with you to + the Backwoods, after—after things is settled.” + </p> + <p> + “And let 'em brag they frightened me away!” he exclaimed, with an oath. + “Not by a long shot, Deb. I owe 'em a score for this last chase—I'll + make the rich men o' Chester County shake in their shoes, and the officers + o' the law, and the Volunteers, damme! before I've done with 'em. When I + go away for good, I'll leave somethin' behind me for them to remember me + by!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, never mind; eat a bit—the meat's ready, and see here, Sandy! + I carried this all the way.” + </p> + <p> + He seized the jug and took a long draught. “You're a good 'un, Deb.,” he + said. “A man isn't half a man when his belly's cold and empty.” + </p> + <p> + He fell to, and ate long and ravenously. Warmed at last, both by fire and + fare, and still more by his frequent potations, he commenced the story of + his disguises and escapes, laughing at times with boisterous + self-admiration, swearing brutally and bitterly at others, over the + relentless energy with which he had been pursued. Deb. Smith listened with + eager interest, slapping him upon the back with a force of approval which + would have felled an ordinary man, but which Sandy Flash cheerfully + accepted as a caress. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” he said at the close, “after I sneaked between Potter's troop + and the Sheriff's, and got down into the lower corner o' the county, I + managed to jump aboard a grain-sloop bound for Newport, but they were + froze in at the mouth o' Christeen; so I went ashore, dodged around + Wilmington, (where I'm rather too well known,) and come up Whitely Creek + as a drover from Mar'land. But from Grove up to here, I've had to look out + mighty sharp, takin' nigh onto two days for what I could go straight + through in half a day.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I guess you're safe here, Sandy,” she said; “they'll never think o' + lookin' for you twice't in the same place. Why didn't you send word for me + before? You've kep' me a mortal long time a-waitin', and down on the + Woodrow farm would ha' done as well as here.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a little too near that Potter. He'd smell me out as quick as if I + was a skunk to windward of him. Besides, it's time I was pitchin' on a few + new holes; we must talk it over together, Deb.” + </p> + <p> + He lifted the jug again to his mouth. Deb. Smith, although she had kept + nearly even pace with him, was not so sensible to the potency of the + liquor, and was watching for the proper degree of mellowness, in order to + broach the subject over which she had been secretly brooding since his + arrival. + </p> + <p> + “First of all, Sandy,” she now said, “I want to talk to you about Gilbert + Potter. The man's my friend, and I thought you cared enough about me to + let my friends alone.” + </p> + <p> + “So I do, Deb., when they let me alone. I had a right to shoot the fellow, + but I let him off easy, as much for your sake as because he was carryin' + another man's money.” + </p> + <p> + “That's not true!” she cried. “It was his own money, every cent of it,—hard-earned + money, meant to pay off his debts; and I can say it because I helped him + earn it, mowin' and reapin' beside him in the harvest-field, thrashin' + beside him in the barn, eatin' at his table, and sleepin' under his roof. + I gev him my word he was safe from you, but you've made me out a liar, + with no more thought o' me than if I'd been a stranger or an enemy!” + </p> + <p> + “Come, Deb., don't get into your tantrums. Potter may be a decent fellow, + as men go, for anything I know, but you're not beholden to him because he + treated you like a Christian as you are. You seem to forgit that he tried + to take my life,—that he's hardly yet giv' up huntin' me like a wild + beast! Damn him, if the money <i>was</i> his, which I don't believe, it + wouldn't square accounts between us. You think more o' his money than o' + my life, you huzzy!” + </p> + <p> + “No I don't, Sandy!” she protested, “no I don't. You know me better'n + that. What am I here for, to-night? Have I never helped you, and hid you, + and tramped the country for you back and forth, by day and by night,—and + for what? Not for money, but because I'm your wife, whether or not priest + or 'squire has said it. I thought you cared for me, I did, indeed; I + thought you might do one thing to please me!” + </p> + <p> + There was a quivering motion in the muscles of her hard face; her lips + were drawn convulsively, with an expression which denoted weeping, + although no tears came to her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Don't be a fool!” Sandy exclaimed. “S'pose you have served me, isn't it + somethin' to have a man to serve? What other husband is there for you in + the world, than me,—the only man that isn't afeard o' your fist? + You've done your duty by me, I'll allow, and so have I done mine by you!” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” she begged, “do this one thing over and above your duty. Do it, + Sandy, as a bit o' kindness to me, and put upon me what work you please, + till I've made it up to you! You dunno what it is, maybe, to have one + person in the world as shows a sort o' respect for you—that gives + you his hand honestly, like a gentleman, and your full Chris'en name. It + does good when a body's been banged about as I've been, and more used to + curses than kind words, and not a friend to look after me if I was layin' + at Death's door—and I don't say you wouldn't come, Sandy, but you + can't. And there's no denyin' that he had the law on his side, and isn't + more an enemy than any other man. Maybe he'd even be a friend in need, as + far as he dared, if you'd only do it”— + </p> + <p> + “Do what? What in the Devil's name is the woman drivin' at?” yelled Sandy + Flash. + </p> + <p> + “Give back the money; it's his'n, not Barton's,—I know it. Tell me + where it is, and I'll manage the whole thing for you. It's got to be paid + in a month or two, folks says, and they'll come on him for it, maybe take + and sell his farm—sell th' only house, Sandy, where I git my rights, + th' only house where I git a bit o' peace an' comfort! You wouldn't be + that hard on me?” + </p> + <p> + The highwayman took another deep drink and rose to his feet. His face was + stern and threatening. “I've had enough o' this foolery,” he said. “Once + and for all, Deb., don't you poke your nose into my affairs! Give back the + money? Tell you where it is? Pay him for huntin' me down? I could take you + by the hair and knock your head ag'in the wall, for them words!” + </p> + <p> + She arose also and confronted him. The convulsive twitching of her mouth + ceased, and her face became as hard and defiant as his. “Sandy Flash, mark + my words!” she exclaimed. “You're a-goin' the wrong way, when you stop + takin' only from the Collectors and the proud rich men, and sparin' the + poor. Instead o' doin' good to balance the bad, it'll soon be all bad, and + you no better 'n a common thief! You needn't show your teeth; it's true, + and I say it square to y'r face!” + </p> + <p> + She saw the cruel intensity of his anger, but did not flinch. They had had + many previous quarrels, in which neither could claim any very great + advantage over the other; but the highwayman was now in an impatient and + exasperated mood, and she dared more than she suspected in defying him. + </p> + <p> + “You ——!” (the epithet he used cannot be written,) “will you + stop your jaw, or shall I stop it for you? I'm your master, and I give you + your orders, and the first order is, Not another word, now and never, + about Potter or his money!” + </p> + <p> + He had never before outraged her by such a word, never before so brutally + asserted his claim to her obedience. All the hot, indignant force of her + fierce, coarse nature rose in resistance. She was thoroughly aroused and + fearless. The moment had come, she felt, when the independence which had + been her compensation amid all the hardships and wrongs of her life, was + threatened,—when she must either preserve it by a desperate effort, + or be trampled under foot by this man, whom she both loved and feared, and + in that moment, hated. + </p> + <p> + “I'll not hold my jaw!” she cried, with flashing eyes. “Not even at your + biddin', Sandy Flash! I'll not rest till I have the money out o' you; + there's no law ag'inst stealin' from a thief!” + </p> + <p> + The answer was a swift, tremendous blow of the highwayman's fist, + delivered between her eyes. She fell, and lay for a moment stunned, the + blood streaming from her face. Then with a rapid movement, she seized the + hunting-knife which lay beside the fire, and sprang to her feet. + </p> + <p> + The knife was raised in her right hand, and her impulse was to plunge it + into his heart. But she could not avoid his eyes; they caught and held her + own, as if by some diabolical fascination. He stood motionless, apparently + awaiting the blow. Nothing in his face or attitude expressed fear; only + all the power of the man seemed to be concentrated in his gaze, and to + hold her back. The impulse once arrested, he knew, it would not return. + The eyes of each were fixed on the other's, and several minutes of awful + silence thus passed. + </p> + <p> + Finally, Deb. Smith slightly shuddered, as if with cold, her hand slowly + fell, and without a word she turned away to wash her bloody face. + </p> + <p> + Sandy Flash grinned, took another drink of whiskey, resumed his seat + before the fire, and then proceeded to fill his pipe. He lit and smoked it + to the end, without turning his head, or seeming to pay the least + attention to her movements. She, meanwhile, had stopped the flow of blood + from her face, bound a rag around her forehead, and lighted her own pipe, + without speaking. The highwayman first broke the silence. + </p> + <p> + “As I was a-sayin',” he remarked, in his ordinary tone, “we've got to look + out for new holes, where the scent isn't so strong as about these. What do + you think o' th' Octorara?” + </p> + <p> + “Where?” she asked. Her voice was hoarse and strange, but he took no + notice of it, gazing steadily into the fire as he puffed out a huge cloud + of smoke. + </p> + <p> + “Well, pretty well down,” he said. “There's a big bit o' woodland, nigh + onto two thousand acres, belongin' to somebody in Baltimore that doesn't + look at it once't in ten years, and my thinkin' is, it'd be as safe as the + Backwoods. I must go to—it's no difference where—to-morrow + mornin', but I'll be back day after to-morrow night, and you needn't stir + from here till I come. You've grub enough for that long, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “It'll do,” she muttered. + </p> + <p> + “Then, that's enough. I must be off an hour before day, and I'm devilish + fagged and sleepy, so here goes!” + </p> + <p> + With these words he rose, knocked the ashes out of his pipe, and stretched + himself on the bed of leaves. She continued to smoke her pipe. + </p> + <p> + “Deb.,” he said, five minutes afterwards, “I'm not sure o' wakin'. You + look out for me,—do you hear?” + </p> + <p> + “I hear,” she answered, in the same low, hoarse voice, without turning her + head. In a short time Sandy Flash's deep breathing announced that he + slept. Then she turned and looked at him with a grim, singular smile, as + the wavering fire-light drew clear pictures of his face which the darkness + as constantly wiped out again. By-and-by she noiselessly moved her seat + nearer to the wall, leaned her head against the rough logs, and seemed to + sleep. But, even if it were sleep, she was conscious of his least + movement, and started into alert wakefulness, if he turned, muttered in + dreams, or crooked a finger among the dead leaves. From time to time she + rose, stole out of the cabin and looked at the sky. Thus the night passed + away. + </p> + <p> + There was no sign of approaching dawn in the dull, overcast, snowy air; + but a blind, animal instinct of time belonged to her nature, and about two + hours before sunrise, she set about preparing a meal. When all was ready, + she bent over Sandy Flash, seized him by the shoulder, and shook his eyes + open. + </p> + <p> + “Time!” was all she said. + </p> + <p> + He sprang up, hastily devoured the bread and meat, and emptied the jug of + its last remaining contents. + </p> + <p> + “Hark ye, Deb.,” he exclaimed, when he had finished, “you may as well + trudge over to the Turk's Head and fill this while I'm gone. We'll need + all of it, and more, tomorrow night. Here's a dollar, to pay for't. Now I + must be on the tramp, but you may look for me to-morrow, an hour after + sun.” + </p> + <p> + He examined his pistols, stuck them in his belt, threw his drover's cloak + over his shoulders, and strode out of the cabin. She waited until the + sound of his footsteps had died away in the cold, dreary gloom, and then + threw herself upon the pallet which he had vacated. This time she slept + soundly, until hours after the gray winter day had come up the sky. + </p> + <p> + Her eyes were nearly closed by the swollen flesh, and she laid handfuls of + snow upon her face, to cool the inflamation. At first, her movements were + uncertain, expressing a fierce conflict, a painful irresolution of + feeling; she picked up the hunting-knife, looked at it with a ghastly + smile, and then threw it from her. Suddenly, however, her features + changed, and every trace of her former hesitation vanished. After + hurriedly eating the fragments left from Sandy's breakfast, she issued + from the cabin and took a straight and rapid course eastward, up and over + the hill. + </p> + <p> + During the rest of that day and the greater part of the next, the cabin + was deserted. + </p> + <p> + It was almost sunset, and not more than an hour before Sandy Flash's + promised return, when Deb. Smith again made her appearance. Her face was + pale, (except for the dark blotches around the eyes,) worn, and haggard; + she seemed to have grown ten years older in the interval. + </p> + <p> + Her first care was to rekindle the fire and place the replenished jug in + its accustomed place. Then she arranged and rearranged the rude blocks + which served for seats, the few dishes and the articles of food on the + shelf, and, when all had been done, paced back and forth along the narrow + floor, as if pushed by some invisible, tormenting power. + </p> + <p> + Finally a whistle was heard, and in a minute afterwards Sandy Flash + entered the door. The bright blaze of the hearth shone upon his bold, + daring, triumphant face. + </p> + <p> + “That's right, Deb.,” he said. “I'm dry and hungry, and here's a rabbit + you can skin and set to broil in no time. Let's look at you, old gal! The + devil!—I didn't mean to mark you like that. Well, bygones is + bygones, and better times is a-comin'.” + </p> + <p> + “Sandy!” she cried, with a sudden, appealing energy, “Sandy—once't + more! Won't you do for me what I want o' you?” + </p> + <p> + His face darkened in an instant. “Deb!” was all the word he uttered, but + she understood the tone. He took off his pistol-belt and laid it on the + shelf. “Lay there, pets!” he said; “I won't want you to-night. A long + tramp it was, and I'm glad it's over. Deb., I guess I've nigh tore off one + o' my knee-buckles, comin' through the woods.” + </p> + <p> + Placing his foot upon one of the logs, he bent down to examine the buckle. + Quick as lightning, Deb., who was standing behind him, seized each of his + arms, just above the elbows, with her powerful hands, and drew them + towards each other upon his back. At the same time she uttered a shrill, + wild cry,—a scream so strange and unearthly in its character that + Sandy Flash's blood chilled to hear it. + </p> + <p> + “Curse you, Deb., what are you doing? Are you clean mad?” he ejaculated, + struggling violently to free his arms. + </p> + <p> + “Which is strongest now?” she asked; “my arms, or your'n? I've got you, + I'll hold you, and I'll only let go when I please!” + </p> + <p> + He swore and struggled, but he was powerless in her iron grip. In another + minute the door of the cabin was suddenly burst open, and two armed men + sprang upon him. More rapidly than the fact can be related, they snapped a + pair of heavy steel handcuffs upon his wrists, pinioned his arms at his + sides, and bound his knees together. Then, and not till then, Deb. Smith + relaxed her hold. + </p> + <p> + Sandy Flash made one tremendous muscular effort, to test the strength of + his bonds, and then stood motionless. His white teeth flashed between his + parted lips, and there was a dull, hard glare in his eyes which told that + though struck dumb with astonishment and impotent rage, he was still + fearless, still unsubdued. Deb. Smith, behind him, leaned against the + wall, pale and panting. + </p> + <p> + “A good night's work!” remarked Chaffey, the constable, as he possessed + himself of the musket, pistol-belt, and hunting-knife. “I guess this + pitcher won't go to the well any more.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll see,” Sandy exclaimed, with a sneer. “You've got me, not through + any pluck o' your'n, but through black, underhanded treachery. You'd + better double chain and handcuff me, or I may be too much for you yet!” + </p> + <p> + “I guess you'll do,” said the constable, examining the cords by the light + of a lantern which his assistant had in the mean time fetched from + without. “I'll even untie your knees, for you've to walk over the hill to + the next farm-house, where we'll find a wagon to carry you to Chester + jail. I promise you more comfortable quarters than these, by daylight.” + </p> + <p> + The constable then turned to Deb. Smith, who had neither moved nor spoken. + </p> + <p> + “You needn't come with us without you want to,” he said. “You can get your + share of the money at any time; but you must remember to be ready to + appear and testify, when Court meets.” + </p> + <p> + “Must I do that?” she gasped. + </p> + <p> + “Why, to be sure! It's a reg'lar part of the trial, and can't be left out, + though there's enough to hang the fellow ten times over, without you.” + </p> + <p> + The two unbound Sandy Flash's knees and placed themselves on each side of + him, the constable holding a cocked pistol in his right hand. + </p> + <p> + “March is the word, is it?” said the highwayman. “Well, I'm ready. Potter + was right, after all; he said there'd be a curse on the money, and there + is; but I never guessed the curse'd come upon me through <i>you</i>, Deb!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Sandy!” she cried, starting forward, “you druv me to it! The curse + was o' your own makin'—and I gev you a last chance to-night, but you + throwed it from you!” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, Deb,” he answered, “if I've got my curse, don't think you'll + not have your'n! Go down to Chester and git your blood-money, and see + what'll come of it, and what'll come to you!” + </p> + <p> + He turned towards her as he spoke, and the expression of his face seemed + so frightful that she shuddered and covered her eyes. The next moment, the + old cabin door creaked open, fell back with a crash, and she was alone. + </p> + <p> + She stared around at the dreary walls. The sound of their footsteps had + died away, and only the winter night-wind wailed through the crannies of + the hut. Accustomed as she was to solitary life and rudest shelter, and to + the companionship of her superstitious fancies, she had never before felt + such fearful loneliness, such overpowering dread. She heaped sticks upon + the fire, sat down before it, and drank from the jug. Its mouth was still + wet from his lips, and it seemed that she was already drinking down the + commencement of the curse. + </p> + <p> + Her face worked, and hard, painful groans burst from her lips. She threw + herself upon the floor and grovelled there, until the woman's relief which + she had almost unlearned forced its forgotten way, through cramps and + agonies, to her eyes. In the violent passion of her weeping and moaning, + God saw and pitied, that night, the struggles of a dumb, ignorant, yet not + wholly darkened nature. + </p> + <p> + Two hours afterwards she arose, sad, stern, and determined, packed + together the things she had brought with her, quenched the fire (never + again to be relighted) upon the hearth, and took her way, through cold and + darkness, down the valley. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. — TWO ATTEMPTS. + </h2> + <p> + The news of Sandy Flash's capture ran like wildfire through the county. As + the details became more correctly known, there was great rejoicing but + greater surprise, for Deb. Smith's relation to the robber, though possibly + surmised by a few, was unsuspected by the community at large. In spite of + the service which she had rendered by betraying her paramour into the + hands of justice, a bitter feeling of hostility towards her was developed + among the people, and she was generally looked upon as an accomplice to + Sandy Flash's crimes, who had turned upon him only when she had ceased to + profit by them. + </p> + <p> + The public attention was thus suddenly drawn away from Gilbert Potter, and + he was left to struggle, as he best might, against the difficulties + entailed by his loss. He had corresponded with Mr. Trainer, the + conveyancer in Chester, and had learned that the money still due must not + only be forthcoming on the first of April, but that it probably could not + be obtained there. The excitement for buying lands along the Alleghany, + Ohio, and Beaver rivers, in western Pennsylvania, had seized upon the few + capitalists of the place, and Gilbert's creditor had already been + subjected to inconvenience and possible loss, as one result of the + robbery. Mr. Trainer therefore suggested that he should make a new loan in + his own neighborhood, where the spirit of speculation had not yet reached. + </p> + <p> + The advice was prudent and not unfriendly, although of a kind more easy to + give than to carry into execution. Mark's money-belt had been restored, + greatly against the will of the good-hearted fellow (who would have + cheerfully lent Gilbert the whole amount had he possessed it), and there + was enough grain yet to be threshed and sold, to yield something more than + a hundred dollars; but this was all which Gilbert could count upon from + his own resources. He might sell the wagon and one span of horses, + reducing by their value the sum which he would be obliged to borrow; yet + his hope of recovering the money in another year could only be realized by + retaining them, to continue, from time to time, his occupation of hauling + flour. + </p> + <p> + Although the sympathy felt for him was general and very hearty, it never + took the practical form of an offer of assistance, and he was far too + proud to accept that plan of relief which a farmer, whose barn had been + struck by lightning and consumed, had adopted, the previous year,—going + about the neighborhood with a subscription-list, and soliciting + contributions. His nearest friends were as poor as, or poorer than, + himself, and those able to aid him felt no call to tender their services. + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane knew of this approaching trouble, not from Gilbert's own + lips, for she had seen him but once and very briefly since his return from + the chase of Sandy Flash. It was her cousin Mark, who, having entered into + an alliance, offensive and defensive, with her lover, betrayed + (considering that the end sanctioned the means) the confidence reposed in + him. + </p> + <p> + The thought that her own coming fortune lay idle, while Gilbert might be + saved by the use of a twentieth part of it, gave Martha Deane no peace. + The whole belonged to him prospectively, yet would probably be of less + service when it should be legally her own to give, than the fragment which + now would lift him above anxiety and humiliation. The money had been + bequeathed to her by a maternal aunt, whose name she bore, and the + provisions by which the bequest was accompanied, so light and reasonable + be fore, now seemed harsh and unkind. The payment of the whole sum, or any + part of it, she saw, could not be anticipated. But she imagined there must + be a way to obtain a loan of the necessary amount, with the bequest as + security. With her ignorance of business matters, she felt the need of + counsel in this emergency; yet her father was her guardian, and there + seemed to be no one else to whom she could properly apply. Not Gilbert, + for she fancied he might reject the assistance she designed, and therefore + she meant to pay the debt before it became due, without his knowledge; nor + Mark, nor Farmer Fairthorn. Betsy Lavender, when appealed to, shook her + head, and remarked,— + </p> + <p> + “Lord bless you, child! a wuss snarl than ever. I'm gittin' a bit skeary, + when you talk o' law and money matters, and that's the fact. Not that I + find fault with your wishin' to do it, but the contrary, and there might + be ways, as you say, only I'm not lawyer enough to find 'em, and as to + advisin' where I don't see my way clear, Defend me from it!” + </p> + <p> + Thus thrown back upon herself, Martha was forced to take the alternative + which she would gladly have avoided, and from which, indeed, she hoped + nothing,—an appeal to her father. Gilbert Potter's name had not + again been mentioned between them. She, for her part, had striven to + maintain her usual gentle, cheerful demeanor, and it is probable that Dr. + Deane made a similar attempt; but he could not conceal a certain coldness + and stiffness, which made an uncomfortable atmosphere in their little + household. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Betsy,” Martha said (they were in her room, upstairs), “Father has + just come in from the stable, I see. Since there is no other way, I will + go down and ask his advice.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't mean it, child!” cried the spinster. + </p> + <p> + Martha left the room, without answer. + </p> + <p> + “She's got <i>that</i> from him, anyhow,” Miss Betsy remarked, “and which + o' the two is stubbornest, I couldn't undertake to say. If he's dead-set + on the wrong side, why, she's jist as dead-set on the right side, and that + makes a mortal difference. I don't see why I should be all of a trimble, + that only sets here and waits, while she's stickin' her head into the + lion's mouth; but so it is! Isn't about time for <i>you</i> to be doin' + somethin', Betsy Lavender!” + </p> + <p> + Martha Deane entered the front sitting-room with a grave, deliberate step. + The Doctor sat at his desk, with a pair of heavy silver-rimmed spectacles + on his nose, looking over an antiquated “Materia Medica.” His upper lip + seemed to have become harder and thinner, at the expense of the under one, + which pouted in a way that expressed vexation and ill-temper. He was, in + fact, more annoyed than he would have confessed to any human being. Alfred + Barton's visits had discontinued, and he could easily guess the reason. + Moreover, a suspicion of Gilbert Potter's relation to his daughter was + slowly beginning to permeate the neighborhood; and more than once, within + the last few days, all his peculiar diplomacy had been required to parry a + direct question. He foresaw that the subject would soon come to the notice + of his elder brethren among the Friends, who felt self-privileged to + rebuke and remonstrate, even in family matters of so delicate a nature. + </p> + <p> + It was useless, the Doctor knew, to attempt coercion with Martha. If any + measure could succeed in averting the threatened shame, it must be kindly + persuasion, coupled with a calm, dispassionate appeal to her + understanding. The quiet, gentle way in which she had met his anger, he + now saw, had left the advantage of the first encounter on her side. His + male nature and long habit of rule made an equal self-control very + difficult, on his part, and he resolved to postpone a recurrence to the + subject until he should feel able to meet his daughter with her own + weapons. Probably some reflection of the kind then occupied his mind, in + spite of the “Materia Medica” before him. + </p> + <p> + “Father,” said Martha, seating herself with a bit of sewing in her hand, + “I want to ask thee a few questions about business matters.” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor looked at her. “Well, thee's taking a new turn,” he remarked. + “Is it anything very important?” + </p> + <p> + “Very important,” she answered; “it's about my own fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought thee understood, Martha, that that matter was all fixed and + settled, until thee's twenty-five, unless—unless”— + </p> + <p> + Here the Doctor hesitated. He did not wish to introduce the sore subject + of his daughter's marriage. + </p> + <p> + “I know what thee means, father. Unless I should sooner marry, with thy + consent. But I do not expect to marry now, and therefore do not ask thy + permission. What I want to know is, whether I could not obtain a loan of a + small sum of money, on the security of the legacy?” + </p> + <p> + “That depends on circumstances,” said the Doctor, slowly, and after a long + pause, during which he endeavored to guess his daughter's design. “It + might be,—yes, it might be; but, Martha, surely thee doesn't want + for money? Why should thee borrow?” + </p> + <p> + “Couldn't thee suppose, father, that I need it for some good purpose? I've + always had plenty, it is true; but I don't think thee can say I ever + squandered it foolishly or thoughtlessly. This is a case where I wish to + make an investment,—a permanent investment.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, indeed? I always fancied thee cared less for money than a prudent + woman ought. How much might this investment be?” + </p> + <p> + “About six hundred dollars,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + “Six hundred!” exclaimed the Doctor; “that's a large sum to venture, a + large sum! Since thee can only raise it with my help, thee'll certainly + admit my right, as thy legal guardian, if not as thy father, to ask where, + how, and on what security the money will be invested?” + </p> + <p> + Martha hesitated only long enough to reflect that her father's assertion + was probably true, and without his aid she could do nothing. “Father,” she + then said, “<i>I</i> am the security.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand thee, child.” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that my whole legacy will be responsible to the lender for its + repayment in three years from this time. The security <i>I</i> ask, I have + in advance; it is the happiness of my life!” + </p> + <p> + “Martha! thee doesn't mean to say that thee would”— + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane could get no further. Martha, with a sorrowful half-smile, took + up his word. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, father, I would. Lest thee should not have understood me right, I + repeat that I would, and will, lift the mortgage on Gilbert Potter's farm. + He has been very unfortunate, and there is a call for help which nobody + heeds as he deserves. If I give it now, I simply give a part in advance. + The whole will be given afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane's face grew white, and his lip trembled, in spite of himself. It + was a minute or two before he ventured to say, in a tolerably steady + voice,— + </p> + <p> + “Thee still sets up thy right (as thee calls it) against mine, but mine is + older built and will stand. To help thee to this money would only be to + encourage thy wicked fancy for the man. Of course, I can't do it; I wonder + thee should expect it of me. I wonder, indeed, thee should think of taking + as a husband one who borrows money of thee almost as soon as he has spoken + his mind!” + </p> + <p> + For an instant Martha Deane's eyes flashed. “Father!” she cried, “it is + not so! Gilbert doesn't even know my desire to help him. I must ask this + of thee, to speak no evil of him in my hearing. It would only give me + unnecessary pain, not shake my faith in his honesty and goodness. I see + thee will not assist me, and so I must endeavor to find whether the thing + cannot be done without thy assistance. In three years more the legacy will + be mine, I shall go to Chester, and consult a lawyer, whether my own note + for that time could not be accepted!” + </p> + <p> + “I can spare thee the trouble,” the Doctor said. “In case of thy death + before the three years are out, who is to pay the note? Half the money + falls to me, and half to thy uncle Richard. Thy aunt Martha was wise. It + truly seems as if she had foreseen just what has happened, and meant to + baulk thy present rashness. Thee may go to Chester, and welcome, if thee + doubts my word; but unless thee can give positive assurance that thee will + be alive in three years' time, I don't know of any one foolish enough to + advance thee money.” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor's words were cruel enough; he might have spared his triumphant, + mocking smile. Martha's heart sank within her, as she recognized her utter + helplessness. Not yet, however, would she give up the sweet hope of + bringing aid; for Gilbert's sake she would make another appeal. + </p> + <p> + “I won't charge thee, father, with being intentionally unkind. It would + almost seem, from thy words, that thee is rather glad than otherwise, + because my life is uncertain. If I <i>should</i> die, would thee not care + enough for my memory to pay a debt, the incurring of which brought me + peace and happiness during life? <i>Then</i>, surely, thee would forgive; + thy heart is not so hard as thee would have me believe; thee wishes me + happiness, I cannot doubt, but thinks it will come in <i>thy</i> way, not + in mine. Is it not possible to grant me this—only this—and + leave everything else to time?” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane was touched and softened by his daughter's words. Perhaps he + might even have yielded to her entreaty at once, had not a harsh and + selfish condition presented itself in a very tempting form to his mind. + </p> + <p> + “Martha,” he said, “I fancy that thee looks upon this matter of the loan + in the light of a duty, and will allow that thy motives may be weighty to + thy own mind. I ask thee to calm thyself, and consider things clearly. If + I grant thy request, I do so against my own judgment, yea,—since it + concerns thy interests,—against my own conscience. This is not a + thing to be lightly done, and if I should yield, I might reasonably expect + some little sacrifice of present inclination—yet all for thy future + good—on thy part. I would cheerfully borrow the six hundred dollars + for thee, or make it up from my own means, if need be, to know that the + prospect of thy disgrace was averted. Thee sees no disgrace, I am aware, + and pity that it is so; but if thy feeling for the young man is entirely + pure and unselfish, it should be enough to know that thee had saved him + from ruin, without considering thyself bound to him for life.” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor sharply watched his daughter's face while he spoke. She looked + up, at first, with an eager, wondering light of hope in her eyes,—a + light that soon died away, and gave place to a cloudy, troubled + expression. Then the blood rose to her cheeks, and her lips assumed the + clear, firm curve which always reflected the decisions of her mind. + </p> + <p> + “Father,” she said, “I see thee has learned how to tempt, as well as + threaten. For the sake of doing a present good, thee would have me bind + myself to do a life-long injustice. Thee would have me take an external + duty to balance a violation of the most sacred conscience of my heart. How + little thee knows me! It is not alone that I am necessary to Gilbert + Potter's happiness, but also that he is necessary to mine. Perhaps it is + the will of Heaven that so great a bounty should not come to me too + easily, and I must bear, without murmuring, that my own father is set + against me. Thee may try me, if thee desires, for the coming three years, + but I can tell thee as well, now, what the end will be. Why not rather + tempt me by offering the money Gilbert needs, on the condition of my + giving up the rest of the legacy to thee? That would be a temptation, I + confess.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” he exclaimed, with rising exasperation, “if thee has hardened thy + heart against all my counsels for thy good, I will at least keep my own + conscience free. I will not help thee by so much as the moving of a + finger. All I can do is, to pray that thy stubborn mind may be bent, and + gradually led back to the Light!” + </p> + <p> + He put away the book, took his cane and broad-brimmed hat, and turned to + leave the room. Martha rose, with a sad but resolute face, and went + up-stairs to her chamber. + </p> + <p> + Miss Betsy Lavender, when she learned all that had been said, on both + sides, was thrown into a state of great agitation and perplexity of mind. + She stared at Martha Deane, without seeming to see her, and muttered from + time to time such fragmentary phrases as,—“If I was right-down + sure,” or, “It'd only be another weepon tried and throwed away, at the + wust.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you thinking of, Betsy?” Martha finally asked. + </p> + <p> + “Thinkin' of? Well, I can't rightly tell you. It's a bit o' knowledge that + come in my way, once't upon a time, never meanin' to make use of it in all + my born days, and I wouldn't now, only for your two sakes; not that it + concerns you a mite; but never mind, there's ten thousand ways o' workin' + on men's minds, and I can't do no more than try my way.” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon Miss Lavender arose, and would have descended to the encounter + at once, had not Martha wisely entreated her to wait a day or two, until + the irritation arising from her own interview had had time to subside in + her father's mind. + </p> + <p> + “It's puttin' me on nettles, now that I mean fast and firm to do it; but + you're quite right, Martha,” the spinster said. + </p> + <p> + Three or four days afterwards she judged the proper time had arrived, and + boldly entered the Doctor's awful presence. “Doctor,” she began, “I've + come to have a little talk, and it's no use beatin' about the bush, + plainness o' speech bein' one o' my ways; not that folks always thinks it + a virtue, but oftentimes the contrary, and so may you, maybe; but when + there's a worry in a house, it's better, whatsoever and whosoever, to have + it come to a head than go on achin' and achin', like a blind bile!” + </p> + <p> + “H'm,” snorted the Doctor, “I see what thee's driving at, and I may as + well tell thee at once, that if thee comes to me from Martha, I've heard + enough from her, and more than enough.” + </p> + <p> + “More 'n enough,” repeated Miss Lavender. “But you're wrong. I come + neither from Martha, nor yet from Gilbert Potter; but I've been thinkin' + that you and me, bein' old,—in a measure, that is,—and not so + direckly concerned, might talk the thing over betwixt and between us, and + maybe come to a better understandin' for both sides.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane was not altogether disinclined to accept this proposition. + Although Miss Lavender sometimes annoyed him, as she rightly conjectured, + by her plainness of speech, he had great respect for her shrewdness and + her practical wisdom. If he could but even partially win her to his views, + she would be a most valuable ally. + </p> + <p> + “Then say thy say, Betsy,” he assented. + </p> + <p> + “Thy say, Betsy. Well, first and foremost, I guess we may look upon Alf. + Barton's courtin' o' Martha as broke off for good, the fact bein' that he + never wanted to have her, as he's told me since with his own mouth.” + </p> + <p> + “What?” Dr. Deane exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “With his own mouth.” Miss Lavender repeated. “And as to his reasons for + lettin' on, I don't know 'em. Maybe you can guess 'em, as you seem to ha' + had everything cut and dried betwixt and between you; but that's neither + here nor there—Alf. Barton bein' out o' the way, why, the coast's + clear, and so Gilbert's case is to be considered by itself; and let's come + to the p'int, namely, what you've got ag'in him?” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder thee can ask, Betsy! He's poor, he's base-born, without position + or influence in the neighborhood,—in no way a husband for Martha + Deane! If her head's turned because he has been robbed, and marvellously + saved, and talked about, I suppose I must wait till she comes to her right + senses.” + </p> + <p> + “I rather expect,” Miss Lavender gravely remarked, “that they were bespoke + before all that happened, and it's not a case o' suddent fancy, but + somethin' bred in the bone and not to be cured by plasters. We won't talk + o' that now, but come back to Gilbert Potter, and I dunno as you're quite + right in any way about his bein's and doin's. With that farm o' his'n, he + can't be called poor, and I shouldn't wonder, though I can't give no + proofs, but never mind, wait awhile and you'll see, that he's not + base-born, after all; and as for respect in the neighborhood, there's not + a man more respected nor looked up to,—so the last p'int's settled, + and we'll take the t' other two; and I s'pose you mean his farm isn't + enough?” + </p> + <p> + “Thee's right,” Dr. Deane said. “As Martha's guardian, I am bound to watch + over her interests, and every prudent man will agree with me that her + husband ought at least to be as well off as herself.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, all I've got to say, is, it's lucky for you that Naomi Blake didn't + think as you do, when she married you. What's sass for the goose ought to + be sass for the gander (meanin' you and Gilbert), and every prudent man + will agree with me.” + </p> + <p> + This was a home-thrust, which Dr. Deane was not able to parry. Miss + Lavender had full knowledge whereof she affirmed, and the Doctor knew it. + </p> + <p> + “I admit that there might be other advantages,” he said, rather pompously, + covering his annoyance with a pinch of snuff,—“advantages which + partly balance the want of property. Perhaps Naomi Blake thought so too. + But here, I think, it would be hard for thee to find such. Or does thee + mean that the man's disgraceful birth is a recommendation?” + </p> + <p> + “Recommendation? No!” Miss Lavender curtly replied. + </p> + <p> + “We need go no further, then. Admitting thee's right in all other + respects, here is cause enough for me. I put it to thee, as a sensible + woman, whether I would not cover both myself and Martha with shame, by + allowing her marriage with Gilbert Potter?” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender sat silently in her chair and appeared to meditate. + </p> + <p> + “Thee doesn't answer,” the Doctor remarked, after a pause. + </p> + <p> + “I dunno how it come about,” she said, lifting her head and fixing her + dull eyes on vacancy; “I was thinkin' o' the time I was up at Strasburg, + while your brother was livin', more 'n twenty year ago.” + </p> + <p> + With all his habitual self-control and gravity of deportment, Dr. Deane + could not repress a violent start of surprise. He darted a keen, fierce + glance at Miss Betsy's face, but she was staring at the opposite wall, + apparently unconscious of the effect of her words. + </p> + <p> + “I don't see what that has to do with Gilbert Potter,” he presently said, + collecting himself with an effort. + </p> + <p> + “Nor I, neither,” Miss Lavender absently replied, “only it happened that I + knowed Eliza Little,—her that used to live at the Gap, you know,—and + just afore she died, that fall the fever was so bad, and I nussin' her, + and not another soul awake in the house, she told me a secret about your + brother's boy, and I must say few men would ha' acted as Henry done, and + there's more 'n one mighty beholden to him.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane stretched out his hand as if he would close her mouth. His face + was like fire, and a wild expression of fear and pain shot from his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Betsy Lavender,” he said, in a hollow voice, “thee is a terrible woman. + Thee forces even the secrets of the dying from them, and brings up + knowledge that should be hidden forever. What can all this avail thee? Why + does thee threaten me with appearances, that cannot now be explained, all + the witnesses being dead?” + </p> + <p> + “Witnesses bein' dead,” she repeated. “Are you sorry for that?” + </p> + <p> + He stared at her in silent consternation. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor,” she said, turning towards him for the first time, “there's no + livin' soul that knows, except you and me, and if I seem hard, I'm no + harder than the knowledge in your own heart. What's the difference, in the + sight o' the Lord, between the one that has a bad name and the one that + has a good name? Come, you set yourself up for a Chris'en, and so I ask + you whether you're the one that ought to fling the first stone; whether + repentance—and there's that, of course, for you a'n't a nateral bad + man, Doctor, but rather the contrary—oughtn't to be showed in deeds, + to be wuth much! You're set ag'in Martha, and your pride's touched, which + I can't say as I wonder at, all folks havin' pride, me among the rest, not + that I've much to be proud of, Goodness knows; but never mind, don't you + talk about Gilbert Potter in that style, leastways before me!” + </p> + <p> + During this speech, Dr. Deane had time to reflect. Although aghast at the + unexpected revelation, he had not wholly lost his cunning. It was easy to + perceive what Miss Lavender intended to do with the weapon in her hands, + and his aim was to render it powerless. + </p> + <p> + “Betsy,” he said, “there's one thing thee won't deny,—that, if there + was a fault, (which I don't allow), it has been expiated. To make known + thy suspicions would bring sorrow and trouble upon two persons for whom + thee professes to feel some attachment; if thee could prove what thee + thinks, it would be a still greater misfortune for them than for me. They + are young, and my time is nearly spent. We all have serious burdens which + we must bear alone, and thee mustn't forget that the same consideration + for the opinion of men which keeps thee silent, keeps me from consenting + to Martha's marriage with Gilbert Potter. We are bound alike.” + </p> + <p> + “We're not!” she cried, rising from her seat. “But I see it's no use to + talk any more, now. Perhaps since you know that there's a window in you, + and me lookin' in, you'll try and keep th' inside o' your house in better + order. Whether I'll act accordin' to my knowledge or not, depends on how + things turns out, and so sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof, or + however it goes!” + </p> + <p> + With these words she left the room, though foiled, not entirely hopeless. + </p> + <p> + “It's like buttin' over an old stone-wall,” she said to Martha. “The first + hit with a rammer seems to come back onto you, and jars y'r own bones, and + may be the next, and the next; and then little stones git out o' place, + and then the wall shakes, and comes down,—and so we've been a-doin'. + I guess I made a crack to-day, but we'll see.” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. — THE LAST OF SANDY FLASH. + </h2> + <p> + The winter crept on, February was drawing to a close, and still Gilbert + Potter had not ascertained whence the money was to be drawn which would + relieve him from embarrassment. The few applications he had made were + failures; some of the persons really had no money to invest, and others + were too cautious to trust a man who, as everybody knew, had been + unfortunate. In five weeks more the sum must be made up, or the mortgage + would be foreclosed. + </p> + <p> + Both Mary Potter and her son, in this emergency, seemed to have adopted, + by accident or sympathy, the same policy towards each other,—to + cheer and encourage, in every possible way. Gilbert carefully concealed + his humiliation, on returning home from an unsuccessful appeal for a loan, + and his mother veiled her renewed sinking of the heart, as she heard of + his failure, under a cheerful hope of final success, which she did not + feel. Both had, in fact, one great consolation to fall back upon,—she + that he had been mercifully saved to her, he that he was beloved by a + noble woman. + </p> + <p> + All the grain that could be spared and sold placed but little more than a + hundred dollars in Gilbert's hands, and he began seriously to consider + whether he should not be obliged to sell his wagon and team. He had been + offered a hundred and fifty dollars, (a very large sum, in those days,) + for Roger, but he would as soon have sold his own right arm. Not even to + save the farm would he have parted with the faithful animal. Mark Deane + persisted in increasing his seventy-five dollars to a hundred, and forcing + the loan upon his friend; so one third of the amount was secure, and there + was still hope for the rest. + </p> + <p> + It is not precisely true that there had been no offer of assistance. There + was <i>one</i>, which Gilbert half-suspected had been instigated by Betsy + Lavender. On a Saturday afternoon, as he visited Kennett Square to have + Roger's fore-feet shod, he encountered Alfred Barton at the blacksmith's + shop, on the same errand. + </p> + <p> + “The man I wanted to see!” cried the latter, as Gilbert dismounted. + “Ferris was in Chester last week, and he saw Chaffey, the constable, you + know, that helped catch Sandy; and Chaffey told him he was sure, from + something Sandy let fall, that Deb. Smith had betrayed him out of revenge, + because he robbed you. I want to know how it all hangs together.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert suddenly recalled Deb. Smith's words, on the day after his escape + from the inundation, and a suspicion of the truth entered his mind for the + first time. + </p> + <p> + “It must have been so!” he exclaimed. “She has been a better friend to me + than many people of better name.” + </p> + <p> + Barton noticed the bitterness of the remark, and possibly drew his own + inference from it. He looked annoyed for a moment, but presently beckoned + Gilbert to one side, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “I don't know whether you've given up your foolish suspicions about me and + Sandy; but the trial comes off next week, and you'll have to be there as a + witness, of course, and can satisfy yourself, if you please, that my + explanation was nothing but the truth. I've not felt so jolly in twenty + years, as when I heard that the fellow was really in the jug!” + </p> + <p> + “I told you I believed your words,” Gilbert answered, “and that settles + the matter. Perhaps I shall find out how Sandy learned what you said to me + that evening, on the back-porch of the Unicorn, and if so, I am bound to + let you know it.” + </p> + <p> + “See here, Gilbert!” Barton resumed. “Folks say you must borrow the money + you lost, or the mortgage on your farm will be foreclosed. Is that so? and + how much money might it be, altogether, if you don't mind telling?” + </p> + <p> + “Not so much, if those who have it to lend, had a little faith in me,—some + four or five hundred dollars.” + </p> + <p> + “That ought to be got, without trouble,” said Barton. “If I had it by me, + I'd lend it to you in a minute; but you know I borrowed from Ferris + myself, and all o' my own is so tied up that I couldn't move it without + the old man getting on my track. I'll tell you what I'll do, though; I'll + indorse your note for a year, if it can be kept a matter between ourselves + and the lender. On account of the old man, you understand.” + </p> + <p> + The offer was evidently made in good faith, and Gilbert hesitated, + reluctant to accept it, and yet unwilling to reject it in a manner that + might seem unfriendly. + </p> + <p> + “Barton,” he said at last, “I've never yet failed to meet a money + obligation. All my debts, except this last, have been paid on the day I + promised, and it seems a little hard that my own name, alone, shouldn't be + good for as much as I need. Old Fairthorn would give me his indorsement, + but I won't ask for it; and I mean no offence when I say that I'd rather + get along without yours, if I can. It's kind in you to make the offer, and + to show that I'm not ungrateful, I'll beg you to look round among your + rich friends and help me to find the loan.” + </p> + <p> + “You're a mighty independent, fellow, Gilbert, but I can't say as I blame + you for it. Yes, I'll look round in a few days, and maybe I'll stumble on + the right man by the time I see you again.” + </p> + <p> + When Gilbert returned home, he communicated this slight prospect of relief + to his mother. “Perhaps I am a little too proud,” he said; “but you've + always taught me, mother, to be beholden to no man, if I could help it; + and I should feel more uneasy under an obligation to Barton than to most + other men. You know I must go to Chester in a few days, and must wait till + I'm called to testify. There will then be time to look around, and perhaps + Mr. Trainer may help me yet.” + </p> + <p> + “You're right, boy!” Mary Potter cried, with flashing eyes. “Keep your + pride; it's not of the mean kind! Don't ask for or take any man's + indorsement!” + </p> + <p> + Two days before the time when Gilbert was summoned to Chester, Deb. Smith + made her appearance at the farm. She entered the barn early one morning, + with a bundle in her hand, and dispatched Sam, whom she found in the + stables, to summon his master. She looked old, weather-beaten, and + haggard, and her defiant show of strength was gone. + </p> + <p> + In betraying Sandy Flash into the hands of justice, she had acted from a + fierce impulse, without reflecting upon the inevitable consequences of the + step. Perhaps she did not suspect that she was also betraying herself, and + more than confirming all the worst rumors in regard to her character. In + the universal execration which followed the knowledge of her lawless + connection with Sandy Flash, and her presumed complicity in his crimes, + the merit of her service to the county was lost. The popular mind, knowing + nothing of her temptations, struggles, and sufferings, was harsh, cold, + and cruel, and she felt the weight of its verdict as never before. A few + persons of her own ignorant class, who admired her strength and courage in + their coarse way, advised her to hide until the first fury of the storm + should be blown over. Thus she exaggerated the danger, and even felt + uncertain of her reception by the very man for whose sake she had done the + deed and accepted the curse. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, however, when he saw her worn, anxious face, the eyes, like those + of a dumb animal, lifted to his with an appeal which she knew not how to + speak, felt a pang of compassionate sympathy. + </p> + <p> + “Deborah!” he said, “you don't look well; come into the house and warm + yourself!” + </p> + <p> + “No!” she cried, “I won't darken your door till you've heerd what I've got + to say. Go 'way, Sam; I want to speak to Mr. Gilbert, alone.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert made a sign, and Sam sprang down the ladder, to the stables under + the threshing-floor. + </p> + <p> + “Mayhap you've heerd already,” she said. “A blotch on a body's name + spreads fast and far. Mine was black enough before, God knows, but they've + blackened it more.” + </p> + <p> + “If all I hear is true,” Gilbert exclaimed, “you've blackened it for my + sake, Deborah. I'm afraid you thought I blamed you, in some way, for not + preventing my loss; but I'm sure you did what you could to save me from + it!” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, lad, that I did! But the devil seemed to ha' got into him. Awful + words passed between us, and then—the devil got into <i>me</i>, and—you + know what follered. He wouldn't believe the money was your'n, or I don't + think he'd ha' took it; he wasn't a bad man at heart, Sandy wasn't, only + stubborn at the wrong times, and brung it onto himself by that. But you + know what folks says about me?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't care what they say, Deborah!” Gilbert cried. “I know that you are + a true and faithful friend to me, and I've not had so many such in my life + that I'm likely to forget what you've tried to do!” + </p> + <p> + Her hard, melancholy face became at once eager and tender. She stepped + forward, put her hand on Gilbert's arm, and said, in a hoarse, earnest, + excited whisper,— + </p> + <p> + “Then maybe you'll take it? I was almost afeard to ax you,—I thought + you might push me away, like the rest of 'em; but you'll take it, and + that'll seem like a liftin' of the curse! You won't mind how it was got, + will you? I had to git it in that way, because no other was left to me!” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, Deborah?” + </p> + <p> + “The money, Mr. Gilbert! They allowed me half, though the constables was + for thirds, but the Judge said I'd arned the full half,—God knows, + ten thousand times wouldn't pay me!—and I've got it here, tied up + safe. It's your'n, you know, and maybe there a'n't quite enough, but as + fur as it goes; and I'll work out the amount o' the rest, from time to + time, if you'll let me come onto your place!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was powerfully and yet painfully moved. He forgot his detestation + of the relation in which Deb. Smith had stood to the highwayman, in his + gratitude for her devotion to himself. He felt an invincible repugnance + towards accepting her share of the reward, even as a loan; it was + “blood-money,” and to touch it in any way was to be stained with its + color; yet how should he put aside her kindness without inflicting pain + upon her rude nature, made sensitive at last by abuse, persecution, and + remorse? + </p> + <p> + His face spoke in advance of his lips, and she read its language with + wonderful quickness. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” she cried, “I mistrusted how it'd be; you don't want to say it right + out, but I'll say it for you! You think the money'd bring you no luck,—maybe + a downright curse,—and how can I say it won't? Ha'n't it cursed me? + Sandy said it would, even as your'n follered him. What's it good for, + then? It burns my hands, and them that's clean, won't touch it. There, you + damned devil's-bait,—my arm's sore, and my heart's sore, wi' the + weight o' you!” + </p> + <p> + With these words she flung the cloth, with its bunch of hard silver coins, + upon the threshing-floor. It clashed like the sound of chains. Gilbert saw + that she was sorely hurt. Tears of disappointment, which she vainly strove + to hold back, rose to her eyes, as she grimly folded her arms, and facing + him, said,— + </p> + <p> + “Now, what am I to do?” + </p> + <p> + “Stay here for the present, Deborah,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “Eh? A'n't I summonsed? The job I undertook isn't done yet; the wust + part's to come! Maybe they'll let me off from puttin' the rope round his + neck, but I a'n't sure o' that!” + </p> + <p> + “Then come to me afterwards,” he said, gently, striving to allay her + fierce, self-accusing mood. “Remember that you always have a home and a + shelter with me, whenever you need them. And I'll take your money,” he + added, picking it up from the floor,—“take it in trust for you, + until the time shall come when you will be willing to use it. Now go in to + my mother.” + </p> + <p> + The woman was softened and consoled by his words. But she still hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe she won't—she won't”— + </p> + <p> + “She will!” Gilbert exclaimed. “But if you doubt, wait here until I come + back.” + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter earnestly approved of his decision, to take charge of the + money, without making use of it. A strong, semi-superstitious influence + had so entwined itself with her fate, that she even shrank from help, + unless it came in an obviously pure and honorable form. She measured the + fulness of her coming justification by the strict integrity of the means + whereby she sought to deserve it. Deb. Smith, in her new light, was no + welcome guest, and with all her coarse male strength, she was still woman + enough to guess the fact; but Mary Potter resolved to think only that her + son had been served and befriended. Keeping that service steadily before + her eyes, she was able to take the outcast's hand, to give her shelter and + food, and, better still, to soothe her with that sweet, unobtrusive + consolation which only a woman can bestow,—which steals by avenues + of benevolent cunning into a nature that would repel a direct expression + of sympathy. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, however, Deb. Smith left the house, saying to Gilbert,—“You + won't see me ag'in, without it may be in Court, till after all's over; and + then I may have to ask you to hide me for awhile. Don't mind what I've + said; I've no larnin', and can't always make out the rights o' things,—and + sometimes it seems there's two Sandys, a good 'un and a bad 'un, and + meanin' to punish one, I've ruined 'em both!” + </p> + <p> + When Gilbert reached Chester, the trial was just about to commence. The + little old town on the Delaware was crowded with curious strangers, not + only from all parts of the county, but even from Philadelphia and the + opposite New-Jersey shore. Every one who had been summoned to testify was + beset by an inquisitive circle, and none more so than himself. The + Court-house was packed to suffocation; and the Sheriff, heavily armed, + could with difficulty force a way through the mass. When the clanking of + the prisoner's irons was heard, all the pushing, struggling, murmuring + sounds ceased until the redoubtable highwayman stood in the dock. + </p> + <p> + He looked around the Court-room with his usual defiant air, and no one + observed any change of expression, as his eyes passed rapidly over Deb. + Smith's face, or Gilbert Potter's. His hard red complexion was already + beginning to fade in confinement, and his thick hair, formerly + close-cropped for the convenience of disguises, had grown out in not + ungraceful locks. He was decidedly a handsome man, and his bearing seemed + to show that he was conscious of the fact. + </p> + <p> + The trial commenced. To the astonishment of all, and, as it was afterwards + reported, against the advice of his counsel, the prisoner plead guilty to + some of the specifications of the indictment, while he denied others. The + Collectors whom he had plundered were then called to the witness-stand, + but the public seemed to manifest less interest in the loss of its own + money, than in the few cases where private individuals had suffered, and + waited impatiently for the latter. + </p> + <p> + Deb. Smith had so long borne the curious gaze of hundreds of eyes, + whenever she lifted her head, that when her turn came, she was able to + rise and walk forward without betraying any emotion. Only when she was + confronted with Sandy Flash, and he met her with a wonderfully strange, + serious smile, did she shudder for a moment and hastily turn away. She + gave her testimony in a hard, firm voice, making her statements as brief + as possible, and volunteering nothing beyond what was demanded. + </p> + <p> + On being dismissed from the stand, she appeared to hesitate. Her eyes + wandered over the faces of the lawyers, the judges, and the jurymen, as if + with a dumb appeal, but she did not speak. Then she turned towards the + prisoner, and some words passed between them, which, in the general + movement of curiosity, were only heard by the two or three persons who + stood nearest. + </p> + <p> + “Sandy!” she was reported to have said, “I couldn't help myself; take the + curse off o' me!” + </p> + <p> + “Deb., it's too late,” he answered. “It's begun to work, and it'll work + itself out!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert noticed the feeling of hostility with which Deb. Smith was + regarded by the spectators,—a feeling that threatened to manifest + itself in some violent way, when the restraints of the place should be + removed. He therefore took advantage of the great interest with which his + own testimony was heard, to present her character in the light which her + services to him shed upon it. This was a new phase of the story, and + produced a general movement of surprise. Sandy Flash, it was noticed, + sitting with his fettered hands upon the rail before him, leaned forward + and listened intently, while an unusual flush deepened upon his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + The statements, though not strictly in evidence, were permitted by the + Court, and they produced the effect which Gilbert intended. The excitement + reached its height when Deb. Smith, ignorant of rule, suddenly rose and + cried out,— + </p> + <p> + “It's true as Gospel, every word of it! Sandy, do you hear?” + </p> + <p> + She was removed by the constable, but the people, as they made way, + uttered no word of threat or insult. On the contrary, many eyes rested on + her hard, violent, wretched face with an expression of very genuine + compassion. + </p> + <p> + The trial took its course, and terminated with the result which everybody—even + the prisoner himself—knew to be inevitable. He was pronounced + guilty, and duly sentenced to be hanged by the neck until he was dead. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert employed the time which he could spare from his attendance at the + Court, in endeavoring to make a new loan, but with no positive success. + The most he accomplished was an agreement, on the part of his creditor, + that the foreclosure might be delayed two or three weeks, provided there + was a good prospect of the money being obtained. In ordinary times he + would have had no difficulty; but, as Mr. Trainer had written, the + speculation in western lands had seized upon capitalists, and the amount + of money for permanent investment was already greatly diminished. + </p> + <p> + He was preparing to return home, when Chaffey, the constable, came to him + with a message from Sandy Flash. The latter begged for an interview, and + both Judge and Sheriff were anxious that Gilbert should comply with his + wishes, in the hope that a full and complete confession might be obtained. + It was evident that the highwayman had accomplices, but he steadfastly + refused to name them, even with the prospect of having his sentence + commuted to imprisonment for life. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert did not hesitate a moment. There were doubts of his own to be + solved,—questions to be asked, which Sandy Flash could alone answer. + He followed the constable to the gloomy, high-walled jail-building, and + was promptly admitted by the Sheriff into the low, dark, heavily barred + cell, wherein the prisoner sat upon a wooden stool, the links of his + leg-fetters passed through a ring in the floor. + </p> + <p> + Sandy Flash lifted his face to the light, and grinned, but not with his + old, mocking expression. He stretched out his hand which Gilbert took,—hard + and cold as the rattling chain at his wrist. Then, seating himself with a + clash upon the floor, he pushed the stool towards his visitor, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Set down, Potter. Limited accommodations, you see. Sheriff, you needn't + wait; it's private business.” + </p> + <p> + The Sheriff locked the iron door behind him, and they were alone. + </p> + <p> + “Potter,” the highwayman began, “you see I'm trapped and done for, and + all, it seems, on account o' that little affair o' your'n. You won't think + it means much, now, when I say I was in the wrong there; but I swear I + was! I had no particular spite ag'in Barton, but he's a swell, and I like + to take such fellows down; and I was dead sure you were carryin' his + money, as you promised to.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me one thing,” Gilbert interrupted; “how did you know I promised to + take money for him?” + </p> + <p> + “I knowed it, that's enough; I can give you, word for word, what both o' + you said, if you doubt me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, as I thought, it was Barton himself!” Gilbert cried. + </p> + <p> + Sandy Flash burst into a roaring laugh. “<i>Him!</i> Ah-ha! you think we + go snacks, eh? Do I look like a fool? Barton'd give his eye-teeth to put + the halter round my neck with his own hands! No, no, young man; I have + ways and ways o' learnin' things that you nor him'll never guess.” + </p> + <p> + His manner, even more than his words, convinced Gilbert Barton was + absolved, but the mystery remained. “You won't deny that you have + friends?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe,” Sandy replied, in a short, rough tone. “That's nothin' to you,” + he continued; “but what I've got to say is, whether or no you're a friend + to Deb., she thinks you are. Do you mean to look after her, once't in a + while, or are you one o' them that forgits a good turn?” + </p> + <p> + “I have told her,” said Gilbert, “that she shall always have a home and a + shelter in my house. If it's any satisfaction to you, here's my hand on + it!” + </p> + <p> + “I believe you, Potter. Deb.'s done ill by me; she shouldn't ha' bullied + me when I was sore and tetchy, and fagged out with <i>your</i> curst + huntin' of me up and down! But I'll do that much for her and for you. + Here; bend your head down; I've got to whisper.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert leaned his ear to the highwayman's mouth. + </p> + <p> + “You'll only tell <i>her,</i> you understand?” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert assented. + </p> + <p> + “Say to her these words,—don't forgit a single one of 'em!—Thirty + steps from the place she knowed about, behind the two big chestnut-trees, + goin' towards the first cedar, and a forked sassyfrack growin' right over + it. What she finds, is your'n.” + </p> + <p> + “Sandy!” Gilbert exclaimed, starting from his listening posture. + </p> + <p> + “Hush, I say! You know what I mean her to do,—give you your money + back. I took a curse with it, as you said. Maybe that's off o' me, now!” + </p> + <p> + “It is!” said Gilbert, in a low tone, “and forgiveness—mine and my + mother's—in the place of it. Have you any”—he hesitated to say + the words—“any last messages, to her or anybody else, or anything + you would like to have done?” + </p> + <p> + “Thank ye, no!—unless Deb. can find my black hair and whiskers. Then + you may give 'em to Barton, with my dutiful service.” + </p> + <p> + He laughed at the idea, until his chains rattled. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert's mind was haunted with the other and darker doubt, and he + resolved, in this last interview, to secure himself against its + recurrence. In such an hour he could trust the prisoner's words. + </p> + <p> + “Sandy,” he asked, “have you any children?” + </p> + <p> + “Not to my knowledge; and I'm glad of it.” + </p> + <p> + “You must know,” Gilbert continued, “what the people say about my birth. + My mother is bound from telling me who my father was, and I dare not ask + her any questions. Did you ever happen to know her, in your younger days, + or can you remember anything that will help me to discover his name?” + </p> + <p> + The highwayman sat silent, meditating, and Gilbert felt that his heart was + beginning to beat painfully fast, as he waited for the answer. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Sandy, at last, “I did know Mary Potter when I was a boy, and + she knowed me, under another name. I may say I liked her, too, in a boy's + way, but she was older by three or four years, and never thought o' + lookin' at me. But I can't remember anything more; if I was out o' this, + I'd soon find out for you!” + </p> + <p> + He looked up with an eager, questioning glance, which Gilbert totally + misunderstood. + </p> + <p> + “What was your other name?” he asked, in a barely audible voice. + </p> + <p> + “I dunno as I need tell it,” Sandy answered; “what'd be the good? There's + some yet livin', o' the same name, and they wouldn't thank me.” + </p> + <p> + “Sandy!” Gilbert cried desperately, “answer this one question,—don't + go out of the world with a false word in your mouth!—You are not my + father?” + </p> + <p> + The highwayman looked at him a moment, in blank amazement. “No, so help me + God!” he then said. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert's face brightened so suddenly and vividly that Sandy muttered to + himself,—“I never thought I was that bad.” + </p> + <p> + “I hear the Sheriff at the outside gate,” he whispered again. “Don't + forgit—thirty steps from the place she knowed about—behind the + two big chestnut-trees, goin' towards the first cedar—and a forked + sassyfrack growin' right over it! Good-bye, and good-luck to the whole o' + your life!” + </p> + <p> + The two clasped hands with a warmth and earnestness which surprised the + Sheriff. Then Gilbert went out from his old antagonist. + </p> + <p> + That night Sandy Flash made an attempt to escape from the jail, and very + nearly succeeded. It appeared, from some mysterious words which he + afterwards let fall, and which Gilbert alone could have understood, that + he had a superstitious belief that something he had done would bring him a + new turn of fortune. The only result of the attempt was to hasten his + execution. Within ten days from that time he was transformed from a living + terror into a romantic name. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. — GILBERT INDEPENDENT. + </h2> + <p> + Gilbert Potter felt such an implicit trust in Sandy Flash's promise of + restitution, that, before leaving Chester, he announced the forthcoming + payment of the mortgage to its holder. His homeward ride was like a + triumphal march, to which his heart beat the music. The chill March winds + turned into May-breezes as they touched him; the brown meadows were quick + with ambushed bloom. Within three or four months his life had touched such + extremes of experience, that the fate yet to come seemed to evolve itself + speedily and naturally from that which was over and gone. Only one + obstacle yet remained in his path,—his mother's secret. Towards that + he was powerless; to meet all others he was brimming with strength and + courage. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter recognized, even more keenly and with profounder faith than + her son, the guidance of some inscrutable Power. She did not dare to + express so uncertain a hope, but something in her heart whispered that the + day of her own deliverance was not far off, and she took strength from it. + </p> + <p> + It was nearly a week before Deb. Smith made her appearance. Gilbert, in + the mean time, had visited her cabin on the Woodrow farm, to find it + deserted, and he was burning with impatience to secure, through her, the + restoration of his independence. He would not announce his changed + prospects, even to Martha Deane, until they were put beyond further risk. + The money once in his hands, he determined to carry it to Chester without + loss of time. + </p> + <p> + When Deb. arrived, she had a weary, hunted look, but she was unusually + grave and silent, and avoided further reference to the late tragical + episode in her life. Nevertheless, Gilbert led her aside and narrated to + her the particulars of his interview with Sandy Flash. Perhaps he + softened, with pardonable equivocation, the latter's words in regard to + her; perhaps he conveyed a sense of forgiveness which had not been + expressed; for Deb. more than once drew the corners of her hard palms + across her eyes. When he gave the marks by which she was to recognize a + certain spot, she exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “It was hid the night I dreamt of him! I knowed he must ha' been nigh, by + that token. O, Mr. Gilbert, he said true! I know the place; it's not so + far away; this very night you'll have y'r money back!” + </p> + <p> + After it was dark she set out, with a spade upon her shoulder, forbidding + him to follow, or even to look after her. Both mother and son were too + excited to sleep. They sat by the kitchen-fire, with one absorbing thought + in their minds, and speech presently became easier than silence. + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said Gilbert, “when—I mean <i>if</i>—she brings the + money, all that has happened will have been for good. It has proved to us + that we have true friends (and I count my Roger among them), and I think + that our independence will be worth all the more, since we came so nigh + losing it again.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, my boy,” she replied; “I was over-hasty, and have been lessoned. When + I bend my mind to submit, I make more headway than when I try to take the + Lord's work into my own hands. I'm fearsome still, but it seems there's a + light coming from somewhere,—I don't know where.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you feel that way, mother?” he exclaimed. “Do you think—let me + mention it this once!—that the day is near when you will be free to + speak? Will there be anything more you can tell me, when we stand free + upon our own property?” + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter looked upon his bright, wistful, anxious face, and sighed. “I + can't tell—I can't tell,” she said. “Ah, my boy, you would + understand it, if I dared say one thing, but that might lead you to guess + what mustn't be told; and I will be faithful to the spirit as well as the + letter. It must come soon, but nothing you or I can do would hasten it a + minute.” + </p> + <p> + “One word more, mother,” he persisted, “will our independence be no help + to you?” + </p> + <p> + “A great help,” she answered, “or, maybe, a great comfort would be the + true word. Without it, I might be tempted to—but see, Gilbert, how + can I talk? Everything you say pulls at the one thing that cuts my mouth + like a knife, because it's shut tight on it! And the more because I owe it + to you,—because I'm held back from my duty to my child,—maybe, + every day putting a fresh sorrow into his heart! Oh, it's not easy, + Gilbert; it don't grow lighter from use, only my faith is the stronger and + surer, and that helps me to bear it.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother, I meant never to have spoken of this again,” he said. “But you're + mistaken; it is no sorrow; I never knew what it was to have a light heart, + until you told me your trouble, and the question came to my mouth to-night + because I shall soon feel strong in my own right as a man, and able to do + more than you might guess. If, as you say, no man can help you, I will + wait and be patient with you.” + </p> + <p> + “That's all we can do now, my child. I wasn't reproaching you for + speaking, for you've held your peace a long while, when I know you've been + fretting; but this isn't one of the troubles that's lightened by speech, + because all talking must go around the outside, and never touch the thing + itself.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” he said, and gazed for a long time into the fire, without + speaking. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter watched his face, in the wavering light of the flame. She + marked the growing decision of the features, the forward, fearless glance + of the large, deep-set eye, the fuller firmness and sweetness of the + mouth, and the general expression, not only of self-reliance, but of + authority, which was spread over the entire countenance. Both her pride in + her son, and her respect for him, increased as she gazed. Heretofore, she + had rather considered her secret as her own property, her right to which + he should not question; but now it seemed as if she were forced to + withhold something that of right belonged to him. Yet no thought that the + mysterious obligation might be broken ever entered her mind. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was thinking of Martha Deane. He had passed that first timidity of + love which shrinks from the knowledge of others, and longed to tell his + mother what noble fidelity and courage Martha had exhibited. Only the + recollection of the fearful swoon into which she had fallen bound his + tongue; he felt that the first return to the subject must come from her. + She lay back in her chair and seemed to sleep; he rose from time to time, + went out into the lane and listened,—and so the hours passed away. + </p> + <p> + Towards midnight a heavy step was heard, and Deb. Smith, hot, panting, her + arms daubed with earth, and a wild light in her eyes, entered the kitchen. + With one hand she grasped the ends of her strong tow-linen apron, with the + other she still shouldered the spade. She knelt upon the floor between the + two, set the apron in the light of the fire, unrolled the end of a + leathern saddle-bag, and disclosed the recovered treasure. + </p> + <p> + “See if it's all right!” she said. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter and Gilbert bent over the rolls and counted them. It was the + entire sum, untouched. + </p> + <p> + “Have you got a sup o' whiskey, Mr. Gilbert?” Deb. Smith asked. “Ugh! I'm + hot and out o' breath, and yet I feel mortal cold. There was a screech-owl + hootin' in the cedar; and I dunno how't is, but there always seems to be + things around, where money's buried. You can't see 'em, but you hear 'em. + I thought I'd ha' dropped when I turned up the sassyfrack bush, and got + hold on it; and all the way back I feared a big arm'd come out o' every + fence-corner, and snatch it from me!” [Footnote: It does not seem to have + been generally known in the neighborhood that the money was unearthed. A + tradition of that and other treasure buried by Sandy Flash, is still kept + alive; and during the past ten years two midnight attempts have been made + to find it, within a hundred yards of the spot indicated in the + narrative.] + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter set the kettle on the fire, and Deb. Smith was soon refreshed + with a glass of hot grog. Then she lighted her pipe and watched the two as + they made preparations for the journey to Chester on the morrow, now and + then nodding her head with an expression which chased away the haggard + sorrow from her features. + </p> + <p> + This time the journey was performed without incident. The road was safe, + the skies were propitious, and Gilbert Potter returned from Chester an + independent man, with the redeemed mortgage in his pocket. His first care + was to assure his mother of the joyous fact; his next to seek Martha + Deane, and consult with her about their brightening future. + </p> + <p> + On the way to Kennett Square, he fell in with Mark, who was radiant with + the promise of Richard Rudd's new house, secured to him by the shrewd + assistance of Miss Betsy Lavender. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you what it is, Gilbert,” said he; “don't you think I might as + well speak to Daddy Fairthorn about Sally? I'm gettin' into good business + now, and I guess th' old folks might spare her pretty soon.” + </p> + <p> + “The sooner, Mark, the better for you; and you can buy the wedding-suit at + once, for I have your hundred dollars ready.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't mean that you wont use it, Gilbert?” + </p> + <p> + Who so delighted as Mark, when he heard Gilbert's unexpected story? “Oh, + glory!” he exclaimed; “the tide's turnin', old fellow! What'll you bet + you're not married before I am? It's got all over the country that you and + Martha are engaged, and that the Doctor's full o' gall and wormwood about + it; I hear it wherever I go, and there's more for you than there is + against you, I tell you that!” + </p> + <p> + The fact was as Mark had stated. No one was positively known to have + spread the rumor, but it was afloat and generally believed. The result was + to invest Gilbert with a fresh interest. His courage in confronting Sandy + Flash, his robbery, his wonderful preservation from death, and his + singular connection, through Deb. Smith, with Sandy Flash's capture, had + thrown a romantic halo around his name, which was now softly brightened by + the report of his love. The stain of his birth and the uncertainty of his + parentage did not lessen this interest, but rather increased it; and as + any man who is much talked about in a country community will speedily find + two parties created, one enthusiastically admiring, the other + contemptuously depreciating him, so now it happened in this case. + </p> + <p> + The admirers, however, were in a large majority, and they possessed a + great advantage over the detractors, being supported by a multitude of + facts, while the latter were unable to point to any act of Gilbert + Potter's life that was not upright and honorable. Even his love of Martha + Deane was shorn of its presumption by her reciprocal affection. The rumor + that she had openly defied her father's will created great sympathy, for + herself and for Gilbert, among the young people of both sexes,—a + sympathy which frequently was made manifest to Dr. Deane, and annoyed him + not a little. His stubborn opposition to his daughter's attachment + increased, in proportion as his power to prevent it diminished. + </p> + <p> + We may therefore conceive his sensations when Gilbert Potter himself + boldly entered his presence. The latter, after Mark's description, very + imperfect though it was, of Martha's courageous assertion of the rights of + her heart, had swiftly made up his mind to stand beside her in the + struggle, with equal firmness and equal pride. He would openly seek an + interview with her, and if he should find her father at home, as was + probable at that hour, would frankly and respectfully acknowledge his + love, and defend it against any attack. + </p> + <p> + On entering the room, he quietly stepped forward with extended hand, and + saluted the Doctor, who was so taken by surprise that he mechanically + answered the greeting before he could reflect what manner to adopt towards + the unwelcome visitor. + </p> + <p> + “What might be thy business with me?” he asked, stiffly, recovering from + the first shock. + </p> + <p> + “I called to see Martha,” Gilbert answered. “I have some news which she + will be glad to hear.” + </p> + <p> + “Young man,” said the Doctor, with his sternest face and voice, “I may as + well come to the point with thee, at once. If thee had had decency enough + to apply to me before speaking thy mind to Martha, it would have saved us + all a great deal of trouble. I could have told thee then, as I tell thee + now, that I will never consent to her marriage with thee. Thee must give + up all thought of such a thing.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do so,” Gilbert replied, “when Martha tells me with her own mouth + that such is her will. I am not one of the men who manage their hearts + according to circumstances. I wish, indeed, I were more worthy of Martha; + but I am trying to deserve her, and I know no better way than to be + faithful as she is faithful. I mean no disrespect to you, Dr. Deane. You + are her father; you have every right to care for her happiness, and I will + admit that you honestly think I am not the man who could make her happy. + All I ask is, that you should wait a little and know me better. Martha and + I have both decided that we must wait, and there is time enough for you to + watch my conduct, examine my character, and perhaps come to a more + favorable judgment of me.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane saw that it would be harder to deal with Gilbert Potter than he + had imagined. The young man stood before him so honestly and fearlessly, + meeting his angry gaze with such calm, frank eyes, and braving his + despotic will with such a modest, respectful opposal, that he was forced + to withdraw from his haughty position, and to set forth the same reasons + which he had presented to his daughter. + </p> + <p> + “I see,” he said, with a tone slightly less arrogant, “that thee is + sensible, in some respects, and therefore I put the case to thy + understanding. It's too plain to be argued. Martha is a rich bait for a + poor man, and perhaps I oughtn't to wonder—knowing the heart of man + as I do—that thee was tempted to turn her head to favor thee; but + the money is not yet hers, and I, as her father, can never allow that thy + poverty shall stand for three years between her and some honorable man to + whom her money would be no temptation! Why, if all I hear be true, thee + hasn't even any certain roof to shelter a wife; thy property, such as it + is, may be taken out of thy hands!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert could not calmly hear these insinuations. All his independent + pride of character was aroused; a dark flush came into his face, the blood + was pulsing hotly through his veins, and indignant speech was rising to + his lips, when the inner door unexpectedly opened, and Martha entered the + room. + </p> + <p> + She instantly guessed what was taking place, and summoned up all her + self-possession, to stand by Gilbert, without increasing her father's + exasperation. To the former, her apparition was like oil on troubled + waters. His quick blood struck into warm channels of joy, as he met her + glowing eyes, and felt the throb of her soft, elastic palm against his + own. Dr. Deane set his teeth, drew up his under lip, and handled his cane + with restless fingers. + </p> + <p> + “Father,” said Martha, “if you are talking of me, it is better that I + should be present. I am sure there is nothing that either thee or Gilbert + would wish to conceal from me.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Martha!” Gilbert exclaimed; “I came to bring you good news. The + mortgage on my farm is lifted, and I am an independent man!” + </p> + <p> + “Without my help! Does thee hear that, father?” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert did not understand her remark; without heeding it, he continued,— + </p> + <p> + “Sandy Flash, after his sentence, sent for me and told me where the money + he took from me was to be found. I carried it to Chester, and have paid + off all my remaining debt. Martha, your father has just charged me with + being tempted by your property. I say to you, in his presence, put it + beyond my reach,—give it away, forfeit the conditions of the legacy,—let + me show truly whether I ever thought of money in seeking you!” + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” she said, gently, “father doesn't yet know you as I do. Others + will no doubt say the same thing, and we must both make up our minds to + have it said; yet I cannot, for that, relinquish what is mine of right. We + are not called upon to sacrifice to the mistaken opinions of men; your + life and mine will show, and manifest to others in time, whether it is a + selfish tie that binds us together.” + </p> + <p> + “Martha!” Dr. Deane exclaimed, feeling that he should lose ground, unless + this turn of the conversation were interrupted; “thee compels me to show + thee how impossible the thing is, even if this man were of the richest. + Admitting that he is able to support a family, admitting that thee waits + three years, comes into thy property, and is still of a mind to marry him + against my will, can thee forget—or has he so little consideration + for thee as to forget—that he bears his mother's name?” + </p> + <p> + “Father!” + </p> + <p> + “Let me speak, Martha,” said Gilbert, lifting his head, which had drooped + for a moment. His voice was earnest and sorrowful, yet firm. “It is true + that I bear my mother's name. It is the name of a good, an honest, an + honorable, and a God-fearing woman. I wish I could be certain that the + name which legally belongs to me will be as honorable and as welcome. But + Martha knows, and you, her father, have a right to know, that I shall have + another. I have not been inconsiderate. I trampled down my love for her, + as long as I believed it would bring disgrace. I will not say that now, + knowing her as I do, I could ever give her up, even if the disgrace was + not removed,”— + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Gilbert!” Martha interrupted. + </p> + <p> + “But there is none, Dr. Deane,” he continued, “and when the time comes, my + birth will be shown to be as honorable as your own, or Mark's.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane was strangely excited at these words. His face colored, and he + darted a piercing, suspicious glance at Gilbert. The latter, however, + stood quietly before him, too possessed by what he had said to notice the + Doctor's peculiar expression; but it returned to his memory afterwards. + </p> + <p> + “Why,” the Doctor at last stammered, “I never heard of this before!” + </p> + <p> + “No,” Gilbert answered, “and I must ask of you not to mention it further, + at present. I must beg you to be patient until my mother is able to + declare the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “What keeps her from it?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” Gilbert sadly replied. + </p> + <p> + “Come!” cried the Doctor, as sternly as ever, “this is rather a likely + story! If Potter isn't thy name, what is?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” Gilbert repeated. + </p> + <p> + “No; nor no one else! How dare thee address my daughter,—talk of + marriage with her,—when thee don't know thy real name? What name + would thee offer to her in exchange for her own? Young man, I don't + believe thee!” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” said Martha, rising and moving to Gilbert's side. + </p> + <p> + “Martha, go to thy room!” the Doctor cried. “And as for thee, Gilbert + Potter, or Gilbert Anything, I tell thee, once and for all, never speak of + this thing again,—at least, until thee can show a legal name and an + honorable birth! Thee has not prejudiced me in thy favor by thy devices, + and it stands to reason that I should forbid thee to see my daughter,—to + enter my doors!” + </p> + <p> + “Dr. Deane,” said Gilbert, with sad yet inflexible dignity, “it is + impossible, after what you have said, that I should seek to enter your + door, until my words are proved true, and I am justified in your eyes. The + day may come sooner than you think. But I will do nothing secretly; I + won't promise anything to you that I can't promise to myself; and so I + tell you, honestly and above-board, that while I shall not ask Martha to + share my life until I can offer her my true name, I must see her from time + to time. I'm not fairly called upon to give up that.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Gilbert,” said Martha, who had not yet moved from her place by his + side, “it is as necessary to my happiness as to yours. I will not ask you + to come here again; you cannot, and must not, even for my sake; but when I + need your counsel and your sympathy, and there is no other way left, I + will go to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Martha!” Dr. Deane exclaimed; but the word conveys no idea of his wrath + and amazement. + </p> + <p> + “Father,” she said, “this is thy house, and it is for thee to direct, + here. Within its walls, I will conduct myself according to thy wishes; I + will receive no guest whom thee forbids, and will even respect thy views + in regard to my intercourse with our friends; but unless thee wants to + deprive me of all liberty, and set aside every right of mine as an + accountable being, thee must allow me sometimes to do what both my heart + and my conscience command!” + </p> + <p> + “Is it a woman's place,” he angrily asked, “to visit a man?” + </p> + <p> + “When the two have need of each other, and God has joined their hearts in + love and in truth, and the man is held back from reaching the woman, then + it is her place to go to him!” + </p> + <p> + Never before had Dr. Deane beheld upon his daughter's sweet, gentle face + such an expression of lofty spiritual authority. While her determination + really outraged his conventional nature, he felt that it came from a + higher source than his prohibition. He knew that nothing which he could + urge at that moment would have the slightest weight in her mind, and + moreover, that the liberal, independent customs of the neighborhood, as + well as the respect of his sect for professed spiritual guidance, withheld + him from any harsh attempt at coercion. He was powerless, but still + inflexible. + </p> + <p> + As for Martha, what she had said was simply included in what she was + resolved to do; the greater embraced the less. It was a defiance of her + father's authority, very painful from the necessity of its assertion, but + rendered inevitable by his course. She knew with what tenacity he would + seize and hold every inch of relinquished ground; she felt, as keenly as + Gilbert himself, the implied insult which he could not resent; and her + pride, her sense of justice, and the strong fidelity of her woman's heart, + alike impelled her to stand firm. + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, Martha!” Gilbert said, taking her hand “I must wait.” + </p> + <p> + “We wait together, Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII. — MISS LAVENDER MAKES A GUESS. + </h2> + <p> + There were signs of spring all over the land, and Gilbert resumed his + farm-work with the fresh zest which the sense of complete ownership gave. + He found a purchaser for his wagon, sold one span of horses, and thus had + money in hand for all the coming expenses of the year. His days of + hauling, of anxiety, of painful economy, were over; he rejoiced in his + fully developed and recognized manhood, and was cheered by the respect and + kindly sympathy of his neighbors. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, the gossip, not only of Kennett, but of Marlborough, Pennsbury, + and New-Garden, was as busy as ever. No subject of country talk equalled + in interest the loves of Gilbert Potter and Martha Deane. Mark, too + open-hearted to be intrusted with any secret, was drawn upon wherever he + went, and he revealed more (although he was by no means Martha's + confidant) than the public had any right to know. The idlers at the + Unicorn had seen Gilbert enter Dr. Deane's house, watched his return + therefrom, made shrewd notes of the Doctor's manner when he came forth + that evening, and guessed the result of the interview almost as well as if + they had been present. + </p> + <p> + The restoration of Gilbert's plundered money, and his hardly acquired + independence as a landholder, greatly strengthened the hands of his + friends. There is no logic so convincing as that of good luck; in + proportion as a man is fortunate (so seems to run the law of the world), + he attracts fortune to him. A good deed would not have helped Gilbert so + much in popular estimation, as this sudden and unexpected release from his + threatened difficulties. The blot upon his name was already growing + fainter, and a careful moral arithmetician might have calculated the point + of prosperity at which it would cease to be seen. + </p> + <p> + Nowhere was the subject discussed with greater interest and excitement + than in the Fairthorn household. Sally, when she first heard the news, + loudly protested her unbelief; why, the two would scarcely speak to each + other, she said; she had seen Gilbert turn his back on Martha, as if he + couldn't bear the sight of her; it ought to be, and she would be glad if + it was, but it wasn't! + </p> + <p> + When, therefore, Mark confirmed the report, and was led on, by degrees, to + repeat Gilbert's own words, Sally rushed out into the kitchen with a + vehemence which left half her apron hanging on the door-handle, torn off + from top to bottom in her whirling flight, and announced the fact to her + mother. + </p> + <p> + Joe, who was present, immediately cried out,— + </p> + <p> + “O, Sally! now I may tell about Mark, mayn't I?” + </p> + <p> + Sally seized him by the collar, and pitched him out the kitchen-door. Her + face was the color of fire. + </p> + <p> + “My gracious, Sally!” exclaimed Mother Fairthorn, in amazement; “what's + that for?” + </p> + <p> + But Sally had already disappeared, and was relating her trouble to Mark, + who roared with wicked laughter, whereupon she nearly cried with vexation. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind,” said he; “the boy's right. I told Gilbert this very + afternoon that it was about time to speak to the old man; and he allowed + it was. Come out with me and don't be afeard—I'll do the talkin'.” + </p> + <p> + Hand in hand they went into the kitchen, Sally blushing and hanging back a + little. Farmer Fairthorn had just come in from the barn, and was warming + his hands at the fire. Mother Fairthorn might have had her suspicions, but + it was her nature to wait cheerfully, and say nothing. + </p> + <p> + “See here, Daddy and Mammy!” said Mark, “have either o' you any objections + to Sally and me bein' a pair?” + </p> + <p> + Farmer Fairthorn smiled, rubbed his hands together, and turning to his + wife, asked,—“What has Mammy to say to it?” + </p> + <p> + She looked up at Mark with her kindly eyes, in which twinkled something + like a tear, and said,—“I was guessin' it might turn out so between + you two, and if I'd had anything against you, Mark, I wouldn't ha' let it + run on. Be a steady boy, and you'll make Sally a steady woman. She's had + pretty much her own way.” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon Farmer Fairthorn, still rubbing his hands, ventured to remark,—“The + girl might ha' done worse.” This was equivalent to a hearty commendation + of the match, and Mark so understood it. Sally kissed her mother, cried a + little, caught her gown on a corner of the kitchen-table, and thus the + betrothal was accepted as a family fact. Joe and Jake somewhat disturbed + the bliss of the evening, it is true, by bursting into the room from time + to time, staring significantly at the lovers, and then rushing out again + with loud whoops and laughter. + </p> + <p> + Sally could scarcely await the coming of the next day, to visit Martha + Deane. At first she felt a little piqued that she had not received the + news from Martha's own lips, but this feeling speedily vanished in the + sympathy with her friend's trials. She was therefore all the more + astonished at the quiet, composed bearing of the latter. The tears she had + expected to shed were not once drawn upon. + </p> + <p> + “O, Martha!” she cried, after the first impetuous outburst of feeling,—“to + think that it has all turned out just as I wanted! No, I don't quite mean + that; you know I couldn't wish you to have crosses; but about Gilbert! And + it's too bad—Mark has told me dreadful things, but I hope they're + not all true; you don't look like it; and I'm so glad, you can't think!” + </p> + <p> + Martha smiled, readily untangling Sally's thoughts, and said,—“I + mustn't complain, Sally. Nothing has come to pass that I had not prepared + my mind to meet. We will only have to wait a little longer than you and + Mark.” + </p> + <p> + “No you won't!” Sally exclaimed. “I'll make Mark wait, too! And everything + must be set right—somebody must do something! Where's Betsy + Lavender?” + </p> + <p> + “Here!” answered the veritable voice of the spinster, through the open + door of the small adjoining room. + </p> + <p> + “Gracious, how you frightened me!” cried Sally. “But, Betsy, you seem to + be able to help everybody; why can't you do something for Martha and + Gilbert?” + </p> + <p> + “Martha and Gilbert. That's what I ask myself, nigh onto a hundred times a + day, child. But there's things that takes the finest kind o' wit to see + through, and you can't make a bead-purse out of a sow's-ear, neither jerk + Time by the forelock, when there a'n't a hair, as you can see, to hang on + to. I dunno as you'll rightly take my meanin'; but never mind, all the + same, I'm flummuxed, and it's the longest and hardest flummux o' my life!” + </p> + <p> + Miss Betsy Lavender, it must here be explained, was more profoundly + worried than she was willing to admit. Towards Martha she concealed the + real trouble of her mind under the garb of her quaint, jocular speech, + which meant much or little, as one might take it. She had just returned + from one of her social pilgrimages, during which she had heard nothing but + the absorbing subject of gossip. She had been questioned and + cross-questioned, entreated by many, as Sally had done, to do something + (for all had great faith in her powers), and warned by a few not to meddle + with what did not concern her. Thus she had come back that morning, + annoyed, discomposed, and more dissatisfied with herself than ever before, + to hear Martha's recital of what had taken place during her absence. + </p> + <p> + In spite of Martha's steady patience and cheerfulness, Miss Lavender knew + that the painful relation in which she stood to her father would not be + assuaged by the lapse of time. She understood Dr. Deane's nature quite as + well as his daughter, and was convinced that, for the present, neither + threats nor persuasions would move his stubborn resistance. According to + the judgment of the world (the older part of it, at least), he had still + right on his side. Facts were wanted; or, rather, the <i>one</i> fact upon + which resistance was based must be removed. + </p> + <p> + With all this trouble, Miss Lavender had a presentiment that there was + work for her to do, if she could only discover what it was. Her faith in + her own powers of assistance was somewhat shaken, and she therefore + resolved to say nothing, promise nothing, until she had both hit upon a + plan and carried it into execution. + </p> + <p> + Two or three days after Sally's visit, on a mild, sunny morning in the + beginning of April, she suddenly announced her intention of visiting the + Potter farm-house. + </p> + <p> + “I ha'n't seen Mary since last fall, you know, Martha,” she said; “and + I've a mortal longin' to wish Gilbert joy o' his good luck, and maybe say + a word to keep him in good heart about you. Have you got no message to + send by me?” + </p> + <p> + “Only my love,” Martha answered; “and tell him how you left me. He knows I + will keep my word; when I need his counsel, I will go to him.” + </p> + <p> + “If more girls talked and thought that way, us women'd have fairer + shakes,” Miss Lavender remarked, as she put on her cloak and pattens. + </p> + <p> + When she reached the top of the hill overlooking the glen, she noticed + fresh furrows in the field on her left. Clambering through the fence, she + waited until the heads of a pair of horses made their appearance, rising + over the verge of the hill. As she conjectured, Gilbert Potter was behind + them, guiding the plough-handle. He was heartily glad to see her, and + halted his team at the corner of the “land.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't know as you'd speak to me,” said she, with assumed grimness. + “Maybe you wouldn't, if I didn't come direct from <i>her.</i> Ah, you + needn't look wild; it's only her love, and what's the use, for you had it + already; but never mind, lovyers is never satisfied; and she's chipper and + peart enough, seein' what she has to bear for your sake, but she don't + mind that, on the contrary, quite the reverse, and I'm sure you don't + deserve it!” + </p> + <p> + “Did she tell you what passed between us, the last time?” Gilbert asked. + </p> + <p> + “The last time. Yes. And jokin' aside, which often means the contrary in + my crooked ways o' talkin', a'n't it about time somethin' was done?” + </p> + <p> + “What can be done?” + </p> + <p> + “I dunno,” said Miss Lavender, gravely. “You know as well as I do what's + in the way, or rather none of us knows <i>what</i> it is, only <i>where</i> + it is; and a thing unbeknown may be big or little; who can tell? And + latterly I've thought, Gilbert, that maybe your mother is in the fix of a + man I've heerd tell on, that fell into a pit, and ketched by the last + bush, and hung on, and hung on, till he could hold on no longer; so he gev + himself up to death, shet his eyes and let go, and lo and behold! the + bottom was a matter o' six inches under his feet! Leastways, everything + p'ints to a sort o' skeary fancy bein' mixed up with it, not a thing to + laugh at, I can tell you, but as earnest as sin, for I've seen the likes, + and maybe easy to make straight if you could only look into it yourself; + but you think there's no chance o' that?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Gilbert. “I've tried once too often, already; I shall not try + again.” + </p> + <p> + “Try again,” Miss Lavender repeated. “Then why not?”—but here she + paused, and seemed to meditate. The fact was, she had been tempted to ask + Gilbert's advice in regard to the plan she was revolving in her brain. The + tone of his voice, however, was discouraging; she saw that he had taken a + firm and gloomy resolution to be silent,—his uneasy air hinted that + he desired to avoid further talk on this point. So, with a mental + reprimand of the indiscretion into which her sympathy with him had nearly + betrayed her, she shut her teeth and slightly bit her tongue. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” she said; “I hope it'll come out before you're both old and + sour with waitin', that's all! I don't want such true-love as your'n to be + like firkin-butter at th' end; for as fresh, and firm, and well-kep' as + you please, it ha'n't got the taste o' the clover and the sweet-grass; but + who knows? I may dance at your weddin', after all, sooner'n I mistrust; + and so I'm goin' down to spend the day with y'r mother!” + </p> + <p> + She strode over the furrow and across the weedy sod, and Gilbert resumed + his ploughing. As she approached the house, Miss Lavender noticed that the + secured ownership of the property was beginning to express itself in + various slight improvements and adornments. The space in front of the + porch was enlarged, and new flower-borders set along the garden-paling; + the barn had received a fresh coat of whitewash, as well as the trunks of + the apple-trees, which shone like white pillars; and there was a bench + with bright straw bee-hives under the lilac-bush. Mary Potter was at work + in the garden, sowing her early seeds. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do declare!” exclaimed Miss Lavender, after the first cordial + greetings were over. “Seems almost like a different place, things is so + snugged up and put to rights.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Mary Potter; “I had hardly the heart, before, to make it + everything that we wanted; and you can't think what a satisfaction I have + in it now.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I can! Give me the redishes, while you stick in them beets. I've got + a good forefinger for plantin' 'em,—long and stiff; and I can't + stand by and see you workin' alone, without fidgets.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender threw off her cloak and worked with a will. When the + gardening was finished, she continued her assistance in the house, and + fully earned her dinner before she sat down to it. Then she insisted on + Mary Potter bringing out her sewing, and giving her something more to do; + it was one of her working-days, she said; she had spent rather an idle + winter; and moreover, she was in such spirits at Gilbert's good fortune, + that she couldn't be satisfied without doing something for him, and to sew + up the seams of his new breeches was the very thing! Never had she been so + kind, so cheerful, and so helpful, and Mary Potter's nature warmed into + happy content in her society. + </p> + <p> + No one should rashly accuse Miss Lavender if there was a little design in + this. The task she had set herself to attempt was both difficult and + delicate. She had divided it into two portions, requiring very different + tactics, and was shrewd enough to mask, in every possible way, the one + from which she had most hopes of obtaining a result. She made no + reference, at first, to Gilbert's attachment to Martha Deane, but seemed + to be wholly absorbed in the subject of the farm; then, taking wide sweeps + through all varieties of random gossip, preserving a careless, + thoughtless, rattling manner, she stealthily laid her pitfalls for the + unsuspecting prey. + </p> + <p> + “I was over't Warren's t' other day,” she said, biting off a thread, “and + Becky had jist come home from Phildelphy. There's new-fashioned bonnets + comin' up, she says. She stayed with Allen's, but who they are I don't + know. Laws! now I think on it, Mary, you stayed at Allen's, too, when you + were there!” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Mary Potter, “it was at—Treadwell's.” + </p> + <p> + “Treadwell's? I thought you told me Allen's. All the same to me, Allen or + Treadwell; I don't know either of 'em. It's a long while since I've been + in Phildelphy, and never likely to go ag'in. I don't fancy trampin' over + them hard bricks, though, to be sure, a body sees the fashions; but what + with boxes tumbled in and out o' the stores, and bar'ls rollin', and carts + always goin' by, you're never sure o' y'r neck; and I was sewin' for + Clarissa Lee, Jackson that was, that married a dry goods man, the noisiest + place that ever was; you could hardly hear yourself talk; but a body gets + used to it, in Second Street, close't to Market, and were you anywheres + near there?” + </p> + <p> + “I was in Fourth Street,” Mary Potter answered, with a little hesitation. + Miss Lavender secretly noticed her uneasiness, which, she also remarked, + arose not from suspicion, but from memory. + </p> + <p> + “What kind o' buttons are you goin' to have, Mary?” she asked. “Horn + splits, and brass cuts the stuff, and mother o' pearl wears to eternity, + but they're so awful dear. Fourth Street, you said? One street's like + another to me, after you get past the corners. I'd always know Second, + though, by the tobacco-shop, with the wild Injun at the door, liftin' his + tommyhawk to skulp you—ugh!—but never mind, all the same, + skulp away for what I care, for I a'n't likely ever to lay eyes on you + ag'in!” + </p> + <p> + Having thus, with perhaps more volubility than was required, covered up + the traces of her design, Miss Lavender cast about how to commence the + second and more hopeless attack. It was but scant intelligence which she + had gained, but in that direction she dared not venture further. What she + now proposed to do required more courage and less cunning. + </p> + <p> + Her manner gradually changed; she allowed lapses of silence to occur, and + restricted her gossip to a much narrower sweep. She dwelt, finally, upon + the singular circumstances of Sandy Flash's robbery of Gilbert, and the + restoration of the money. + </p> + <p> + “Talkin' o' Deb. Smith,” she then said, “Mary, do you mind when I was here + last harvest, and the talk we had about Gilbert? I've often thought on it + since, and how I guessed right for once't, for I know the ways o' men, if + I am an old maid, and so it's come out as I said, and a finer couple than + they'll make can't be found in the county!” + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter looked up, with a shadow of the old trouble on her face. “You + know all about it, Betsy, then?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Bless your soul, Mary, everybody knows about it! There's been nothin' + else talked about in the neighborhood for the last three weeks; why, + ha'n't Gilbert told you o' what passed between him and Dr. Deane, and how + Martha stood by him as no woman ever stood by a man?” + </p> + <p> + An expression of painful curiosity, such as shrinks from the knowledge it + craves, came into Mary Potter's eyes. “Gilbert has told me nothing,” she + said, “since—since that time.” + </p> + <p> + “That time. I won't ask you <i>what</i> time; it's neither here nor there; + but you ought to know the run o' things, when it's common talk.” And + therewith Miss Lavender began at the beginning, and never ceased until she + had brought the history, in all its particulars, down to that very day. + She did not fail to enlarge on the lively and universal Interest in the + fortunes of the lovers which was manifested by the whole community. Mary + Potter's face grew paler and paler as she spoke, but the tears which some + parts of the recital called forth were quenched again, as it seemed, by + flashes of aroused pride. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” Miss Lavender concluded, “you see just how the matter stands. I'm + not hard on you, savin' and exceptin' that facts is hard, which they + sometimes are I don't deny; but here we're all alone with our two selves, + and you'll grant I'm a friend, though I may have queer ways o' showin' it; + and why shouldn't I say that all the trouble comes o' Gilbert bearin' your + name?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't I know it!” Mary Potter cried. “Isn't my load heaped up heavier as + it comes towards the end? What can I do but wait till the day when I can + give Gilbert his father's name?” + </p> + <p> + “His father's name! Then you can do it, some day? I suspicioned as much. + And you've been bound up from doin' it, all this while,—and that's + what's been layin' so heavy on your mind, wasn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy,” said Mary Potter, with sudden energy, “I'll say as much as I + dare, so that I may keep my senses. I fear, sometimes, I'll break together + for want of a friend like you, to steady me while I walk the last steps of + my hard road. Gilbert was born in wedlock; I'm not bound to deny that; but + I committed a sin,—not the sin people charge me with,—and the + one that persuaded me to it has to answer for more than I have. I bound + myself not to tell the name of Gilbert's father,—not to say where or + when I was married, not to do or say anything to put others On the track, + until—but there's the sin and the trouble and the punishment all in + one. If I told that, you might guess the rest. You know what a name I've + had to bear, but I've taken my cross and fought my way, and put up with + all things, that I might deserve the fullest justification the Lord has in + His hands. If I had known all beforehand, Betsy,—but I expected the + release in a month or two, and it hasn't come in twenty-five years!” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty-five years!” repeated Miss Lavender, heedless of the drops running + down her thin face. “If there was a sin, Mary, even as big as a yearlin' + calf, you've worked off the cost of it, years ago! If you break your word + now, you'll stand justified in the sight o' the Lord, and of all men, and + even if you think a scrimption of it's left, remember your dooty to + Gilbert, and take a less justification for his sake!” + </p> + <p> + “I've been tempted that way, Betsy, but the end I wanted has been set in + my mind so long I can't get it out. I've seen the Lord's hand so manifest + in these past days, that I'm fearsome to hurry His judgments. And then, + though I try not to, I'm waiting from day to day,—almost from hour + to hour,—and it seems that if I was to give up and break my vow, He + would break it for me the next minute afterwards, to punish my + impatience!” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” Miss Lavender exclaimed, “it must be your husband's death you're + waitin' for!” + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter started up with a wild look of alarm. “No—no—not + his death!” she cried. “I should want him to—be living! Ask me no + more questions; forget what I've said, if it don't incline you to + encourage me! That's why I've told you so much!” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender instantly desisted from further appeal. She rose, put her + arm around Mary Potter's waist, and said,—“I didn't mean to frighten + or to worry you, deary. I may think your conscience has worked on itself, + like, till it's ground a bit too sharp; but I see just how you're fixed, + and won't say another word, without it's to give comfort. An open + confession's good for the soul, they say, and half a loaf's better than no + bread, and you haven't violated your word a bit, and so let it do you + good!” + </p> + <p> + In fact, when Mary Potter grew calm, she was conscious of a relief the + more welcome because it was so rare in her experience. Miss Lavender, + moreover, hastened to place Gilbert's position in a more cheerful light, + and the same story, repeated for a different purpose, now assumed quite + another aspect. She succeeded so well, that she left behind her only + gratitude for the visit. + </p> + <p> + Late in the afternoon she came forth from the farmhouse, and commenced + slowly ascending the hill. She stopped frequently and looked about her; + her narrow forehead was wrinkled, and the base of her long nose was set + between two deep furrows. Her lips were twisted in a pucker of great + perplexity, and her eyes were nearly closed in a desperate endeavor to + solve some haunting, puzzling question. + </p> + <p> + “It's queer,” she muttered to herself, when she had nearly reached the top + of the hill,—“it's mortal queer! Like a whip-poor-will on a + moonlight night: you hear it whistlin' on the next fence-rail, it doesn't + seem a yard off; you step up to ketch it, and there's nothin' there; then + you step back ag'in, and 'whip-poor-will! whip-poor-will!' whistles louder + 'n ever,—and so on, the whole night, and some folks says they can + throw their voices outside o' their bodies, but that's neither here nor + there. + </p> + <p> + “Now why can't I ketch hold o' this thing? It isn't a yard off me, I'll be + snaked! And I dunno what ever she said that makes me think so, but I feel + it in my bones, and no use o' callin' up words; it's one o' them things + that comes without callin', when they come at all, and I'm so near + guessin' I'll have no peace day or night.” + </p> + <p> + With many similar observations she resumed her walk, and presently reached + the border of the ploughed land. Gilbert's back was towards her; he was on + the descending furrow. She looked at him, started, suddenly lost her + breath, and stood with open mouth and wide, fixed eyes. + </p> + <h3> + “HA-HA-A! HA-HA-A-A!” + </h3> + <p> + Loud and shrill her cry rang across the valley. It was like the yell of a + war-horse, scenting the battle afar off. All the force of her lungs and + muscles expended itself in the sound. + </p> + <p> + The next instant she dropped upon the moist, ploughed earth, and sat + there, regardless of gown and petticoat. “Good Lord!” she repeated to + herself, over and over again. Then, seeing Gilbert approaching, startled + by the cry, she slowly arose to her feet. + </p> + <p> + “A good guess,” she said to herself, “and what's more, there's ways o' + provin' it. He's comin', and he mustn't know; you're a fool, Betsy + Lavender, not to keep your wits better about you, and go rousin' up the + whole neighborhood; good look that your face is crooked and don't show + much o' what's goin' on inside!” + </p> + <p> + “What's the matter, Betsy?” asked Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + “Nothin'—one o' my crazy notions,” she said. “I used to holler like + a kildeer when I was a girl and got out on the Brandywine hills alone, and + I s'pose I must ha' thought about it, and the yell sort o' come of itself, + for it just jerked me off o' my feet; but you needn't tell anybody that I + cut such capers in my old days, not that folks'd much wonder, but the + contrary, for they're used to me.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert laughed heartily, but he hardly seemed satisfied with the + explanation. “You're all of a tremble,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Am I? Well, it's likely,—and my gownd all over mud; but there's one + favor I want to ask o' you, and no common one, neither, namely, the loan + of a horse for a week or so.” + </p> + <p> + “A horse?” Gilbert repeated. + </p> + <p> + “A horse. Not Roger, by no means; I couldn't ask that, and he don't know + me, anyhow; but the least rough-pacin' o' them two, for I've got + considerable ridin' over the country to do, and I wouldn't ask you, but + it's a busy time o' year, and all folks isn't so friendly.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have whatever you want, Betsy,” he said. “But you've heard + nothing?”— + </p> + <p> + “Nothin' o' one sort or t'other. Make yourself easy, lad.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, however, had been haunted by new surmises in regard to Dr. Deane. + Certain trifles had returned to his memory since the interview, and rather + than be longer annoyed with them, he now opened his heart to Miss + Lavender. + </p> + <p> + A curious expression came over her face. “You've got sharp eyes and ears + Gilbert,” she said. “Now supposin' I wanted your horse o' purpose to clear + up your doubts in a way to satisfy you, would you mind lettin' me have + it?” + </p> + <p> + “Take even Roger!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “No, that bay'll do. Keep thinkin' <i>that's</i> what I'm after, and ask + me no more questions.” + </p> + <p> + She crossed the ploughed land, crept through the fence, and trudged up the + road. When a clump of bushes on the bank had hid Gilbert from her sight, + she stopped, took breath, and chuckled with luxurious satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Betsy Lavender,” she said, with marked approval, “you're a cuter old + thing than I took you to be!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. — MYSTERIOUS MOVEMENTS. + </h2> + <p> + The next morning Sam took Gilbert's bay horse to Kennett Square, and + hitched him in front of Dr. Deane's door. Miss Lavender, who was on the + look-out, summoned the boy into the house, to bring her own side-saddle + down from the garret, and then proceeded to pack a small valise, with + straps corresponding to certain buckles behind the saddle. Martha Deane + looked on with some surprise at this proceeding, but as Miss Lavender + continued silent, she asked no questions. + </p> + <p> + “There!” exclaimed the spinster, when everything was ready, “now I'm good + for a week's travel, if need be! You want to know where I'm goin', child, + I see, and you might as well out with the words, though not much use, for + I hardly know myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy,” said Martha, “you seem so strange, so unlike yourself, ever since + you came home last evening. What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “I remembered somethin', on the way up; my head's been so bothered that I + forgot things, never mind what, for I must have some business o' my own or + I wouldn't seem to belong to myself; and so I've got to trapes round + considerable,—money matters and the likes,—and folks a'n't + always ready for you to the minute; therefore count on more time than + what's needful, say I.” + </p> + <p> + “And you can't guess when you will be back?” Martha asked. + </p> + <p> + “Hardly under a week. I want to finish up everything and come home for a + good long spell.” + </p> + <p> + With these words she descended to the road, valise in hand, buckled it to + the saddle, and mounted the horse. Then she said good-bye to Martha, and + rode briskly away, down the Philadelphia road. + </p> + <p> + Several days passed and nothing was heard of her. Gilbert Potter remained + on his farm, busy with the labor of the opening spring; Mark Deane was + absent, taking measurements and making estimates for the new house, and + Sally Fairthorn spent all her spare time in spinning flax for a store of + sheets and table-cloths, to be marked “S. A. F.” in red silk, when duly + woven, hemmed, and bleached. + </p> + <p> + One afternoon, during Miss Lavender's absence, Dr. Deane was again called + upon to attend Old-man Barton. It was not an agreeable duty, for the + Doctor suspected that something more than medical advice was in question. + He had not visited the farm-house since his discovery of Martha's + attachment to Gilbert Potter,—had even avoided intercourse with + Alfred Barton, towards whom his manner became cold and constrained. It was + a sore subject in his thoughts, and both the Bartons seemed to be, in some + manner, accessory to his disappointment. + </p> + <p> + The old man complained of an attack of “buzzing in the head,” which + molested him at times, and for which bleeding was the Doctor's usual + remedy. His face had a flushed, congested, purple hue, and there was an + unnatural glare in his eyes; but the blood flowed thickly and sluggishly + from his skinny arm, and a much longer time than usual elapsed before he + felt relieved. + </p> + <p> + “Gad, Doctor!” he said, when the vein had been closed, “the spring weather + brings me as much fulness as a young buck o' twenty. I'd be frisky yet, + if't wasn't for them legs. Set down, there; you've news to tell me!” + </p> + <p> + “I think, Friend Barton,” Dr. Deane answered, “thee'd better be quiet a + spell. Talking isn't exactly good for thee.” + </p> + <p> + “Eh?” the old man growled; “maybe you'd like to think so, Doctor. If I am + house-bound, I pick up some things as they go around. And I know why you + let our little matter drop so suddent.” + </p> + <p> + He broke off with a short, malicious laugh, which excited the Doctor's + ire. The latter seated himself, smoothed his garments and his face, became + odorous of bergamot and wintergreen, and secretly determined to repay the + old man for this thrust. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what thee may have heard, Friend Barton,” he remarked, in + his blandest voice. “There is always plenty of gossip in this + neighborhood, and some persons, no doubt, have been too free with my name,—mine + and my daughter's, I may say. But I want thee to know that that has + nothing to do with the relinquishment of my visits to thee. If thee's + curious to learn the reason, perhaps thy son Alfred may be able to give it + more circumstantially than I can.” + </p> + <p> + “What, what, what!” exclaimed the old man. “The boy told you not to come, + eh?” + </p> + <p> + “Not in so many words, mind thee; but he made it unnecessary,—quite + unnecessary. In the first place, he gave me no legal evidence of any + property, and until that was done, my hands were tied. Further, he seemed + very loath to address Martha at all, which was not so singular, + considering that he never took any steps, from the first, to gain her + favor; and then he deceived me into imagining that she wanted time, after + she had positively refused his addresses. He is mistaken, and thee too, if + you think that I am very anxious to have a man of no spirit and little + property for my son-in-law!” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor's words expressed more than he intended. They not only stung, + but betrayed his own sting. Old-man Barton crooked his claws around his + hickory staff, and shook with senile anger; while his small, keen eyes + glared on his antagonist's face. Yet he had force enough to wait until the + first heat of his feeling subsided. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor,” he then said, “mayhap my boy's better than a man o' no name and + no property. He's worth, anyways, what I choose to make him worth. Have + you made up y'r mind to take the t'other, that you've begun to run him + down, eh?” + </p> + <p> + They were equally matched, this time. The color came into Dr. Deane's + face, and then faded, leaving him slightly livid about the mouth. He + preserved his external calmness, by a strong effort, but there was a + barely perceptible tremor in his voice, as he replied,— + </p> + <p> + “It is not pleasant to a man of my years to be made a fool of, as I have + every reason to believe thy son has attempted. If I had yielded to his + persuasions, I should have spent much time—all to no purpose, I + doubt not—in endeavoring to ascertain what thee means to do for him + in thy will. It was, indeed, the only thing he seemed to think or care + much about. If he has so much money of his own, as thee says, it is + certainly not creditable that he should be so anxious for thy decease.” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor had been watching the old man as he spoke, and the increasing + effect of his words was so perceptible that he succeeded in closing with + an agreeable smile and a most luxurious pinch of snuff. He had not + intended to say so much, at the commencement of the conversation, but he + had been sorely provoked, and the temptation was irresistible. + </p> + <p> + The effect was greater than he had imagined. Old Barton's face was so + convulsed, that, for a few minutes, the Doctor feared an attack of + complete paralysis. He became the physician again, undid his work as much + as possible, and called Miss Ann into the room, to prevent any renewal of + the discussion. He produced his stores of entertaining gossip, and + prolonged his stay until all threatening symptoms of the excitement seemed + to be allayed. The old man returned to his ordinary mood, and listened, + and made his gruff comments, but with temporary fits of abstraction. After + the Doctor's departure, he scarcely spoke at all, for the remainder of the + evening. + </p> + <p> + A day or two afterwards, when Alfred Barton returned in the evening from a + sale in the neighborhood, he was aware of a peculiar change in his + father's manner. His first impression was that the old man, contrary to + Dr. Deane's orders, had resumed his rations of brandy, and exceeded the + usual allowance. There was a vivid color on his flabby cheeks; he was + alert, talkative, and frequently chuckled to himself, shifting the hickory + staff from hand to hand, or rubbing his gums backward and forward on its + rounded end. + </p> + <p> + He suddenly asked, as Alfred was smoking his pipe before the fire,— + </p> + <p> + “Know what I've been thinkin' of, to-day, boy?” + </p> + <p> + “No, daddy; anything about the crops?” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! ha! a pretty good crop for somebody it'll be! Nearly time for me to + make my will, eh? I'm so old and weak—no life left in me—can't + last many days!” + </p> + <p> + He laughed with a hideous irony, as he pronounced these words. His son + stared at him, and the fire died out in the pipe between his teeth. Was + the old man getting childish? he asked himself. But no; he had never + looked more diabolically cunning and watchful. + </p> + <p> + “Why, daddy,” Alfred said at last, “I thought—I fancied, at least, + you'd done that, long ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe I have, boy; but maybe I want to change it. I had a talk with the + Doctor when he came down to bleed me, and since there's to be no match + between you and the girl”— + </p> + <p> + He paused, keeping his eyes on his son's face, which lengthened and grew + vacant with a vague alarm. + </p> + <p> + “Why, then,” he presently resumed, “<i>you</i>'re so much poorer by the + amount o' her money. Would it be fair, do you think, if I was to put that + much to what I might ha' meant for you before? Don't you allow you ought + to have a little more, on account o' your disapp'intment? + </p> + <p> + “If you think so, dad, it's all right,” said the son, relighting his pipe. + “I don't know, though what Elisha'd say to it; but then, he's no right to + complain, for he married full as much as I'd ha' got.” + </p> + <p> + “That he did, boy; and when all's said and done, the money's my own to do + with it what I please. There's no law o' the oldest takin' all. Yes, yes, + I'll have to make a new will!” + </p> + <p> + A serene joy diffused itself through Alfred Barton's breast. He became + frank, affectionate, and confidential. + </p> + <p> + “To tell you the truth, dad,” he said, “I was mighty afraid you'd play the + deuce with me, because all's over between me and Martha Deane. You seemed + so set on it.” + </p> + <p> + “So I was—so I was,” croaked the old man, “but I've got over it + since I saw the Doctor. After all I've heerd, she's not the wife for you; + it's better as it is. You'd rayther have the money without her, tell the + truth now, you dog, ha! ha!” + </p> + <p> + “Damme, dad, you've guessed it!” Alfred cried, joining in the laugh. + “She's too high-flown for me. I never fancied a woman that's ready to take + you down, every other word you say; and I'll tell you now, that I hadn't + much stomach for the match, at any time; but you wanted it, you know, and + I've done what I could, to please you.” + </p> + <p> + “You're a good boy, Alfred,—a mighty good boy.” + </p> + <p> + There was nothing very amusing in this opinion, but the old man laughed + over it, by fits and starts, for a long time. + </p> + <p> + “Take a drop o' brandy, boy!” he said. “You may as well have my share, + till I'm ready to begin ag'in.” + </p> + <p> + This was the very climax of favor. Alfred arose with a broad beam of + triumph on his face, filled the glass, and saying,—“Here's long life + to you, dad!” turned it into his mouth. + </p> + <p> + “Long life?” the old man muttered. “It's pretty long as it is,—eighty-six + and over; but it may be ninety-six, or a hundred and six; who knows? + Anyhow, boy, long or short, I'll make a new will.” + </p> + <p> + Giles was now summoned, to wheel him into the adjoining room and put him + to bed. Alfred Barton took a second glass of brandy (after the door was + closed), lighted a fresh pipe, and seated himself again before the embers + to enjoy the surprise and exultation of his fortune. To think that he had + worried himself so long for that which finally came of itself! Half his + fear of the old man, he reflected, had been needless; in many things he + had acted like the veriest fool! Well, it was a consolation to know that + all his anxieties were over. The day that should make him a rich and + important man might be delayed (his father's strength and vitality were + marvellous), but it was certain to come. + </p> + <p> + Another day or two passed by, and the old man's quick, garrulous, cheerful + mood continued, although he made no further reference to the subject of + the will. Alfred Barton deliberated whether he should suggest sending for + Lawyer Stacy, but finally decided not to hazard his prospects by a show of + impatience. He was therefore not a little surprised when his sister Ann + suddenly made her appearance in the barn, where he and Giles were mending + some dilapidated plough-harness, and announced that the lawyer was even + then closeted with their father. Moreover, for the first time in his + knowledge, Ann herself had been banished from the house. She clambered + into the hay-mow, sat down in a comfortable spot, and deliberately plied + her knitting-needles. + </p> + <p> + Ann seemed to take the matter as coolly as if it were an every-day + occurrence, but Alfred could not easily recover from his astonishment. + There was more than accident here, he surmised. Mr. Stacy had made his + usual visit, not a fortnight before; his father's determination had + evidently been the result of his conversation with Dr. Deane; and in the + mean time no messenger had been sent to Chester, neither was there time + for a letter to reach there. Unless Dr. Deane himself were concerned in + secretly bringing about the visit,—a most unlikely circumstance,—Alfred + Barton could not understand how it happened. + </p> + <p> + “How did th' old man seem, when you left the house?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “'Pears to me I ha'n't seen him so chipper these twenty years,” said Ann. + </p> + <p> + “And how long are they to be left alone?” + </p> + <p> + “No tellin',” she answered, rattling her needles. “Mr. Stacy'll come, when + all's done; and not a soul is to go any nearder the house till he gives + the word.” + </p> + <p> + Two hours, three hours, four hours passed away, before the summons came. + Alfred Barton found himself so curiously excited that he was fain to leave + the harness to Giles, and quiet himself with a pipe or two in the meadow. + He would have gone up to the Unicorn for a little stronger refreshment, + but did not dare to venture out of sight of the house. Miss Ann was the + perfect image of Patience in a hay-mow, smiling at his anxiety. The motion + of her needles never ceased, except when she counted the stitches in + narrowing. + </p> + <p> + Towards sunset, Mr. Stacy made his appearance at the barn-door, but his + face was a sealed book. + </p> + <p> + On the morning of that very day, another mysterious incident occurred. + Jake Fairthorn had been sent to Carson's on the old gray mare, on some + farm-errand,—perhaps to borrow a pick-axe or a post-spade. He had + returned as far as the Philadelphia road, and was entering the thick wood + on the level before descending to Redley Creek, when he perceived Betsy + Lavender leading Gilbert Potter's bay horse through a gap in the fence, + after which she commenced putting up the rails behind her. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Miss Betsy! what are you doin'?” cried Jake, spurring up to the + spot. + </p> + <p> + “Boys should speak when they're spoken to, and not come where they're not + wanted,” she answered, in a savage tone. “Maybe I'm goin' to hunt bears.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, please, let me go along!” eagerly cried Jake, who believed in bears. + </p> + <p> + “Go along! Yes, and be eat up.” Miss Lavender looked very much annoyed. + Presently, however, her face became amiable; she took a buckskin purse out + of her pocket, selected a small silver coin, and leaning over the fence, + held it out to Jake. + </p> + <p> + “Here!” she said, “here's a 'levenpenny-bit for you, if you'll be a good + boy, and do exackly as I bid you. Can you keep from gabblin', for two + days? Can you hold your tongue and not tell anybody till day after + to-morrow that you seen me here, goin' into the woods?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, that's easy as nothin'!” cried Jake, pocketing the coin. Miss + Lavender, leading the horse, disappeared among the trees. + </p> + <p> + But it was not quite so easy as Jake supposed. He had not been at home ten + minutes, before the precious piece of silver, transferred back and forth + between his pocket and his hand in the restless ecstasy of possession, was + perceived by Joe. Then, as Jake stoutly refused to tell where it came + from, Joe rushed into the kitchen, exclaiming,— + </p> + <p> + “Mammy, Jake's stole a levy!” + </p> + <p> + This brought out Mother Fairthorn and Sally, and the unfortunate Jake, + pressed and threatened on all sides, began to cry lamentably. + </p> + <p> + “She'll take it from me ag'in, if I tell,” he whimpered. + </p> + <p> + “She? Who?” cried both at once, their curiosity now fully excited; and the + end of it was that Jake told the whole story, and was made wretched. + </p> + <p> + “Well!” Sally exclaimed, “this beats all! Gilbert Potter's bay horse, too! + Whatever could she be after? I'll have no peace till I tell Martha, and so + I may as well go up at once, for there's something in the wind, and if she + don't know already, she ought to!” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon Sally put on her bonnet, leaving her pewters half scoured, and + ran rather than walked to the village. Martha Deane could give no + explanation of the circumstance, but endeavored, for Miss Lavender's sake, + to conceal her extreme surprise. + </p> + <p> + “We shall know what it means,” she said, “when Betsy comes home, and if + it's anything that concerns me, I promise, Sally, to tell you. It may, + however, relate to some business of her own, and so, I think, we had + better quietly wait and say nothing about it.” + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, after Sally's departure, Martha meditated long and uneasily + upon what she had heard. The fact that Miss Lavender had come back from + the Potter farmhouse in so unusual a frame of mind, borrowed Gilbert's + horse, and set forth on some mysterious errand, had already disquieted + her. More than the predicted week of absence had passed, and now Miss + Lavender, instead of returning home, appeared to be hiding in the woods, + anxious that her presence in the neighborhood should not be made known. + Moreover she had been seen by the landlord of the Unicorn, three days + before, near Logtown, riding towards Kennett Square. + </p> + <p> + These mysterious movements filled Martha Deane with a sense of anxious + foreboding. She felt sure that they were connected, in some way, with + Gilbert's interests, and Miss Lavender's reticence now seemed to indicate + a coming misfortune which she was endeavoring to avert. If these fears + were correct, Gilbert needed her help also. He could not come to her; was + she not called upon to go to him? + </p> + <p> + Her resolution was soon taken, and she only waited until her father had + left on a visit to two or three patients along the Street Road. His + questions, she knew, would bring on another painful conflict of will, and + she would save her strength for Gilbert's necessities. To avoid the + inferences of the tavern loungers, she chose the longer way, eastward out + of the village to the cross-road running past the Carson place. + </p> + <p> + All the sweet, faint tokens of Spring cheered her eyes and calmed the + unrest of her heart, as she rode. Among the dead leaves of the woods, the + snowy blossoms of the blood-root had already burst forth in starry + clusters; the anemones trembled between the sheltering knees of the old + oaks, and here and there a single buttercup dropped its gold on the + meadows. These things were so many presentiments of brighter days in + Nature, and they awoke a corresponding faith in her own heart. + </p> + <p> + As she approached the Potter farm she slackened her horse's pace, and + deliberated whether she should ride directly to the house or seek for + Gilbert in the fields. She had not seen Mary Potter since that eventful + Sunday, the previous summer, and felt that Gilbert ought to be consulted + before a visit which might possibly give pain. Her doubts were suddenly + terminated by his appearance, with Sam and an ox-cart, in the road before + her. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert could with difficulty wait until the slow oxen had removed Sam out + of hearing. + </p> + <p> + “Martha! were you coming to me?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “As I promised, Gilbert,” she said. “But do not look so anxious. If there + really is any trouble, I must learn it of you.” + </p> + <p> + She then related to him what she had noticed in Miss Lavender's manner, + and learned of her movements. He stood before her, listening, with his + hand on the mane of her horse, and his eyes intently fixed on her face. + She saw the agitation her words produced, and her own vague fears + returned. + </p> + <p> + “Can you guess her business, Gilbert?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Martha,” he answered, “I only know that there is something in her mind, + and I believe it concerns me. I am afraid to guess anything more, because + I have only my own wild fancies to go upon, and it won't do to give 'em + play!” + </p> + <p> + “What are those fancies, Gilbert? May I not know?” + </p> + <p> + “Can you trust me a little, Martha?” he implored. “Whatever I know, you + shall know; but if I sometimes seek useless trouble for myself, why should + I seek it for you? I'll tell you now one fear I've kept from you, and + you'll see what I mean.” + </p> + <p> + He related to her his dread that Sandy Flash might prove to be his father, + and the solution of it in the highwayman's cell. “Have I not done right?” + he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I am not sure, Gilbert,” she replied, with a brave smile; “you might have + tested my truth, once more, if you had spoken your fears.” + </p> + <p> + “I need no test, Martha; and you won't press me for another, now. I'll + only say, and you'll be satisfied with it, that Betsy seemed to guess what + was in my mind, and promised, or rather expected, to come back with good + news.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said Martha, “I must wait until she makes her appearance.” + </p> + <p> + She had hardly spoken the words, before a figure became visible between + the shock-headed willows, where the road crosses the stream. A bay horse—and + then Betsy Lavender herself! + </p> + <p> + Martha turned her horse's head, and Gilbert hastened forward with her, + both silent and keenly excited. + </p> + <p> + “Well!” exclaimed Miss Betsy, “what are you two a-doin' here?” + </p> + <p> + There was news in her face, both saw; yet they also remarked that the + meeting did not seem to be entirely welcome to her. + </p> + <p> + “I came,” said Martha, “to see whether Gilbert could tell me why you were + hiding in the woods, instead of coming home.” + </p> + <p> + “It's that—that good-for-nothin' serpent, Jake Fairthorn!” cried + Miss Lavender. “I see it all now. Much Gilbert could tell you, howsever, + or you him, o' <i>my</i> business, and haven't I a right to it, as well as + other folks; but never mind, fine as it's spun it'll come to the sun, as + they say o' flax and sinful doin's; not that such is mine, but you may + think so if you like, and you'll know in a day or two, anyhow!” + </p> + <p> + Martha saw that Miss Lavender's lean hands were trembling, and guessed + that her news must be of vital importance. “Betsy,” she said, “I see you + don't mean to tell us; but one word you can't refuse—is it good or + bad?” + </p> + <p> + “Good or bad?” Miss Lavender repeated, growing more and more nervous, as + she looked at the two anxious faces. “Well, it isn't bad, so peart + yourselves up, and ask me no more questions, this day, nor yet to-morrow, + maybe; because if you do, I'll just screech with all my might; I'll + holler, Gilbert, wuss 'n you heerd, and much good that'll do you, givin' + me a crazy name all over the country. I'm in dead earnest; if you try to + worm anything more out o' me, I'll screech; and so I was goin' to bring + your horse home, Gilbert, and have a talk with your mother, but you've + made me mortal weak betwixt and between you; and I'll ride back with + Martha, by your leave, and you may send Sam right away for the horse. No; + let Sam come now, and walk alongside, to save me from Martha's cur'osity.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender would not rest until this arrangement was made. The two + ladies then rode away through the pale, hazy sunset, leaving Gilbert + Potter in a fever of impatience, dread, and hope. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. — THE FUNERAL. — + </h2> + <p> + The next morning, at daybreak, Dr. Deane was summoned in haste to the + Barton farm-house. Miss Betsy Lavender, whose secrets, whatever they were, + had interfered with her sleep, heard Giles's first knock, and thrust her + night-cap out the window before he could repeat it. The old man, so Giles + announced, had a bad spell,—a 'plectic fit, Lawyer Stacy called it, + and they didn't know as he'd live from one hour to another. + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender aroused the Doctor, then dressed herself in haste, and + prepared to accompany him. Martha, awakened by the noise, came into the + spinster's room in her night-dress. + </p> + <p> + “Must you go, Betsy?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Child, it's a matter o' life and death, more likely death; and Ann's a + dooless critter at best, hardly ever off the place, and need o' Chris'en + help, if there ever was such; so don't ask me to stay, for I won't, and + all the better for me, for I daresn't open my lips to livin' soul till + I've spoke with Mary Potter!” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender took the foot-path across the fields, accompanied by Giles, + who gave up his saddled horse to Dr. Deane. The dawn was brightening in + the sky as they reached the farm-house, where they found Alfred Barton + restlessly walking backwards and forwards in the kitchen, while Ann and + Mr. Stacy were endeavoring to apply such scanty restoratives—consisting + principally of lavender and hot bricks—as the place afforded. + </p> + <p> + An examination of the eyes and the pulse, and a last abortive attempt at + phlebotomy, convinced Dr. Deane that his services were no longer needed. + Death, which so many years before had lamed half the body, now asserted + his claim to the whole. A wonderfully persistent principle of vitality + struggled against the clogged functions, for two or three hours, then + yielded, and the small fragment of soul in the old man was cast adrift, + with little chance of finding a comfortable lodging in any other world. + </p> + <p> + Ann wandered about the kitchen in a dazed state, dropping tears + everywhere, and now and then moaning,—“O Betsy, how'll I ever get up + the funeral dinner?” while Alfred, after emptying the square bottle of + brandy, threw himself upon the settle and went to sleep. Mr. Stacy and + Miss Lavender, who seemed to know each other thoroughly at the first + sight, took charge of all the necessary arrangements; and as Alfred had + said,—“<i>I</i> can't look after anything; do as you two like, and + don't spare expense!” they ordered the coffin, dispatched messengers to + the relatives and neighbors, and soothed Ann's unquiet soul by selecting + the material for the dinner, and engaging the Unicorn's cook. + </p> + <p> + When all was done, late in the day, Miss Lavender called Giles and said,—“Saddle + me a horse, and if no side-saddle, a man's'll do, for go I must; it's + business o' my own, Mr. Stacy, and won't wait for me; not that I want to + do more this day than what I've done. Goodness knows; but I'll have a fit, + myself, if I don't!” + </p> + <p> + She reached the Potter farm-house at dark, and both mother and son were + struck with her flushed, excited, and yet weary air. Their supper was + over, but she refused to take anything more than a cup of tea; her speech + was forced, and more rambling and disconnected than ever. When Mary Potter + left the kitchen to bring some fresh cream from the spring-house, Miss + Lavender hastily approached Gilbert, laid her hand on his shoulder, and + said,— + </p> + <p> + “Lad, be good this once't, and do what I tell you. Make a reason for goin' + to bed as soon as you can; for I've been workin' in your interest all this + while, only I've got that to tell your mother, first of all, which you + mustn't hear; and you may hope as much as you please, for the news isn't + bad, as'll soon be made manifest!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was strangely impressed by her solemn, earnest manner, and + promised to obey. He guessed, and yet feared to believe, that the long + release of which his mother had spoken bad come at last; how else, he + asked himself, should Miss Lavender become possessed of knowledge which + seemed so important? As early as possible he went up to his bedroom, + leaving the two women alone. The sound of voices, now high and hurried, + now, apparently, low and broken, came to his ears. He resisted the + temptation to listen, smothered his head in the pillow to further muffle + the sounds, and after a long, restless struggle with his own mind, fell + asleep. Deep in the night he was awakened by the noise of a shutting door, + and then all was still. + </p> + <p> + It was very evident, in the morning, that he had not miscalculated the + importance of Miss Lavender's communication. Was this woman, whose face + shone with such a mingled light of awe and triumph, his mother? Were these + features, where the deep lines of patience were softened into curves of + rejoicing, the dark, smouldering gleam of sorrow kindled into a flashing + light of pride, those he had known from childhood? As he looked at her, in + wonder renewed with every one of her movements and glances, she took him + by the hand and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert, wait a little!” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender insisted on having breakfast by sunrise, and as soon as the + meal was over demanded her horse. Then first she announced the fact of + Old-man Barton's death, and that the funeral was to be on the following + day. + </p> + <p> + “Mary, you must be sure and come,” she said, as she took leave; “I know + Ann expects it of you. Ten o'clock, remember!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert noticed that his mother laid aside her sewing, and when the + ordinary household labor had been performed, seated herself near the + window with a small old Bible, which he had never before seen in her + hands. There was a strange fixedness in her gaze, as if only her eyes, not + her thoughts, were directed upon its pages. The new expression of her face + remained; it seemed already to have acquired as permanent a stamp as the + old. Against his will he was infected by its power, and moved about in + barn and field all day with a sense of the unreality of things, which was + very painful to his strong, practical nature. + </p> + <p> + The day of the old man's funeral came. Sam led up the horses, and waited + at the gate with them to receive his master's parting instructions. + Gilbert remarked with surprise that his mother placed a folded paper + between the leaves of the Bible, tied the book carefully in a linen + handkerchief, and carried it with her. She was ready, but still hesitated, + looking around the kitchen with the manner of one who had forgotten + something. Then she returned to her own room, and after some minutes, came + forth, paler than before, but proud, composed, and firm. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” she said, almost in a whisper, “I have tried you sorely, and + you have been wonderfully kind and patient. I have no right to ask + anything more; I <i>could</i> tell you everything now, but this is not the + place nor the time I had thought of, for so many years past. Will you let + me finish the work in the way pointed out to me?” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” he answered, “I cannot judge in this matter, knowing nothing. I + must be led by you; but, pray, do not let it be long?” + </p> + <p> + “It will not be long, my boy, or I wouldn't ask it. I have one more duty + to perform, to myself, to you, and to the Lord, and it must be done in the + sight of men. Will you stand by me, not question my words, not interfere + with my actions, however strange they may seem, but simply believe and + obey?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, mother,” he said, “because you make me feel that I must.” + </p> + <p> + They mounted, and side by side rode up the glen. Mary Potter was silent; + now and then her lips moved, not, as once, in some desperate appeal of the + heart for pity and help, but as with a thanksgiving so profound that it + must needs be constantly renewed, to be credited. + </p> + <p> + After passing Carson's, they took the shorter way across the fields, and + approached the Barton farm-house from below. A large concourse of people + was already assembled; and the rude black hearse, awaiting its burden in + the lane, spread the awe and the gloom of death over the scene. The + visitors were grouped around the doors, silent or speaking cautiously in + subdued tones; and all new-comers passed into the house to take their last + look at the face, of the dead. + </p> + <p> + The best room, in which the corpse lay, was scarcely used once in a year, + and many of the neighbors had never before had occasion to enter it. The + shabby, antiquated furniture looked cold and dreary from disuse, and the + smell of camphor in the air hardly kept down the musty, mouldy odors which + exhaled from the walls. The head and foot of the coffin rested on two + chairs placed in the centre of the room; and several women, one of whom + was Miss Betsy Lavender, conducted the visitors back and forth, as they + came. The members of the bereaved family were stiffly ranged around the + walls, the chief mourners consisting of the old man's eldest son, Elisha, + with his wife and three married sons, Alfred, and Ann. + </p> + <p> + Mary Potter took her son's arm, and they passed through the throng at the + door, and entered the house. Gilbert silently returned the nods of + greeting; his mother neither met nor avoided the eyes of others. Her step + was firm, her head erect, her bearing full of pride and decision. Miss + Lavender, who met her with a questioning glance at the door, walked beside + her to the room of death, and then—what was remarkable in her—became + very pale. + </p> + <p> + They stood by the coffin. It was not a peaceful, solemn sight, that yellow + face, with its wrinkles and creases and dark blotches of congealed blood, + made more pronounced and ugly by the white shroud and cravat, yet a tear + rolled down Mary Potter's cheek as she gazed upon it. Other visitors came, + and Gilbert gently drew her away, to leave the room; but with a quick + pressure upon his arm, as if to remind him of his promise, she quietly + took her seat near the mourners, and by a slight motion indicated that he + should seat himself at her side. + </p> + <p> + It was an unexpected and painful position; but her face, firm and calm, + shamed his own embarrassment. He saw, nevertheless, that the grief of the + mourners was not so profound as to suppress the surprise, if not + indignation, which the act called forth. The women had their handkerchiefs + to their eyes, and were weeping in a slow, silent, mechanical way; the men + had handkerchiefs in their hands, but their faces were hard, apathetic, + and constrained. + </p> + <p> + By-and-by the visitors ceased; the attending women exchanged glances with + each other and with the mourners, and one of the former stepped up to Mary + Potter and said gently,— + </p> + <p> + “It is only the family, now.” + </p> + <p> + This was according to custom, which required that just before the coffin + was closed, the members of the family of the deceased should be left alone + with him for a few minutes, and take their farewell of his face, + undisturbed by other eyes. Gilbert would have risen, but his mother, with + her hand on his arm, quietly replied,— + </p> + <p> + “We belong to the family.” + </p> + <p> + The woman withdrew, though with apparent doubt and hesitation, and they + were left alone with the mourners. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert could scarcely trust his senses. A swift suspicion of his mother's + insanity crossed his mind; but when he looked around the room and beheld + Alfred Barton gazing upon her with a face more livid than that of the dead + man, this suspicion was followed by another, no less overwhelming. For a + few minutes everything seemed to whirl and spin before his eyes; a light + broke upon him, but so unexpected, so incredible, that it came with the + force of a blow. + </p> + <p> + The undertaker entered the room and screwed down the lid of the coffin; + the pall-bearers followed and carried it to the hearse. Then the mourners + rose and prepared to set forth, in the order of their relation to the + deceased. Elisha Barton led the way, with his wife; then Ann, clad in her + Sunday black, stepped forward to take Alfred's arm. + </p> + <p> + “Ann,” said Mary Potter, in a low voice, which yet was heard by every + person in the room, “that is my place.” + </p> + <p> + She left Gilbert and moved to Alfred Barton's side. Then, slightly + turning, she said,—“Gilbert, give your arm to your aunt.” + </p> + <p> + For a full minute no other word was said. Alfred Barton stood motionless, + with Mary Potter's hand on his arm. A fiery flush succeeded to his pallor; + his jaw fell, and his eyes were fixed upon the floor. Ann took Gilbert's + arm in a helpless, bewildered way. + </p> + <p> + “Alfred, what does all this mean?” Elisha finally asked. + </p> + <p> + He said nothing; Mary Potter answered for him,—“It is right that he + should walk with his wife rather than his sister.” + </p> + <p> + The horses and chairs were waiting in the lane, and helping neighbors were + at the door; but the solemn occasion was forgotten, in the shock produced + by this announcement. Gilbert started and almost reeled; Ann clung to him + with helpless terror; and only Elisha, whose face grew dark and + threatening, answered. + </p> + <p> + “Woman,” he said, “you are out of your senses! Leave us; you have no + business here!” + </p> + <p> + She met him with a proud, a serene and steady countenance. “Elisha,” she + answered, “we are here to bury your father and my father-in-law. Let be + until the grave has closed over him; then ask Alfred whether I could dare + to take my rightful place before to-day.” + </p> + <p> + The solemn decision of her face and voice struck him dumb. His wife + whispered a few words in his ear, and he turned away with her, to take his + place in the funeral procession. + </p> + <p> + It was Alfred Barton's duty to follow, and if it was not grief which + impelled him to bury his face in his handkerchief as they issued from the + door, it was a torture keener than was ever mingled with grief,—the + torture of a mean nature, pilloried in its meanest aspect for the public + gaze. Mary, (we must not call her Potter, and cannot yet call her Barton,) + rather led him than was led by him, and lifted her face to the eyes of + men. The shame which she might have felt, as his wife, was lost in the one + overpowering sense of the justification for which she had so long waited + and suffered. + </p> + <p> + When the pair appeared in the yard, and Gilbert followed with Miss Ann + Barton on his arm, most of the funeral guests looked on in stupid wonder, + unable to conceive the reason of the two thus appearing among the + mourners. But when they had mounted and were moving off, a rumor of the + startling truth ran from lip to lip. The proper order of the procession + was forgotten; some untied their horses in haste and pushed forward to + convince themselves of the astonishing fact; others gathered into groups + and discussed it earnestly. Some had suspected a relation of the kind, all + along, so they said; others scouted at the story, and were ready with + explanations of their own. But not a soul had another thought to spare for + Old-man Barton that day. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane and Martha heard what had happened as they were mounting their + horses. When they took their places in the line, the singular + companionship, behind the hearse, was plainly visible. Neither spoke a + word, but Martha felt that her heart was beating fast, and that her + thoughts were unsteady. + </p> + <p> + Presently Miss Lavender rode up and took her place at her side. Tears were + streaming from her eyes, and she was using her handkerchief freely. It was + sometime before she could command her feelings enough to say, in a husky + whisper,— + </p> + <p> + “I never thought to ha' had a hand in such wonderful doin's, and how I + held up through it, I can't tell. Glory to the Lord, the end has come; + but, no—not yet—not quite; only enough for one day, Martha; + isn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy,” said Martha, “please ride a little closer, and explain to me how + it came about. Give me one or two points for my mind to rest on, for I + don't seem to believe even what I see.” + </p> + <p> + “What I see. No wonder, who could? Well, it's enough that Mary was married + to Alf. Barton a matter o' twenty-six year ago, and that he swore her to + keep it secret till th' old man died, and he's been her husband all this + while, and knowed it!” + </p> + <p> + “Father!” Martha exclaimed in a low, solemn voice, turning to Dr. Deane, + “think, now, what it was thee would have had me do!” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor was already aware of his terrible mistake. “Thee was led, + child,” he answered, “thee was led! It was a merciful Providence.” + </p> + <p> + “Then might thee not also admit that I have been led in that other + respect, which has been so great a trial to thee?” + </p> + <p> + He made no reply. + </p> + <p> + The road to Old Kennett never seemed so long; never was a corpse so + impatiently followed. A sense of decency restrained those who were not + relatives from pushing in advance of those who were; yet it was, very + tantalizing to look upon the backs of Alfred Barton and Mary, Gilbert and + Ann, when their faces must be such a sight to see! + </p> + <p> + These four, however, rode in silence. Each, it may be guessed, was + sufficiently occupied with his or her own sensations,—except, + perhaps, Ann Barton, who had been thrown so violently out of her quiet, + passive round of life by her father's death, that she was incapable of any + great surprise. Her thoughts were more occupied with the funeral-dinner, + yet to come, than with the relationship of the young man at her side. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert slowly admitted the fact into his mind, but he was so unprepared + for it by anything in his mother's life or his own intercourse with Alfred + Barton, that he was lost in a maze of baffled conjectures. While this + confusion lasted, he scarcely thought of his restoration to honor, or the + breaking down of that fatal barrier between him and Martha Deane. His + first sensation was one of humiliation and disappointment. How often had + he been disgusted with Alfred Barton's meanness and swagger! How much + superior, in many of the qualities of manhood, was even the highwayman, + whose paternity he had so feared! As he looked at the broad, heavy form + before him, in which even the lines of the back expressed cowardice and + abject shame, he almost doubted whether his former disgrace was not + preferable to his present claim to respect. + </p> + <p> + Then his eyes turned to his mother's figure, and a sweet, proud joy swept + away the previous emotion. Whatever the acknowledged relationship might be + to him, to her it was honor—yea, more than honor; for by so much and + so cruelly as she had fallen below the rights of her pure name as a woman, + the higher would she now be set, not only in respect, but in the reverence + earned by her saintly patience and self-denial. The wonderful + transformation of her face showed him what this day was to her life, and + he resolved that no disappointment of his own should come between her and + her triumph. + </p> + <p> + To Gilbert the way was not too long, nor the progress too slow. It gave + him time to grow familiar, not only with the fact, but with his duty. He + forcibly postponed his wandering conjectures, and compelled his mind to + dwell upon that which lay immediately before him. + </p> + <p> + It was nearly noon before the hearse reached Old Kennett meeting-house. + The people of the neighborhood, who had collected to await its arrival, + came forward and assisted the mourners to alight. Alfred Barton + mechanically took his place beside his wife, but again buried his face in + his handkerchief. As the wondering, impatient crowd gathered around, + Gilbert felt that all was known, and that all eyes were fixed upon himself + and his mother, and his face reflected her own firmness and strength. From + neither could the spectators guess what might be passing in their hearts. + They were both paler than usual, and their resemblance to each other + became very striking. Gilbert, in fact, seemed to have nothing of his + father except the peculiar turn of his shoulders and the strong build of + his chest. + </p> + <p> + They walked over the grassy, briery, unmarked mounds of old graves to the + spot where a pile of yellow earth denoted Old Barton's resting-place. When + the coffin had been lowered, his children, in accordance with custom, drew + near, one after the other, to bend over and look into the narrow pit. + Gilbert led up his trembling aunt, who might have fallen in, had he not + carefully supported her. As he was withdrawing, his eyes suddenly + encountered those of Martha Deane, who was standing opposite, in the + circle of hushed spectators. In spite of himself a light color shot into + his face, and his lips trembled. The eager gossips, who had not missed + even the wink of an eyelid, saw this fleeting touch of emotion, and whence + it came. Thenceforth Martha shared their inspection; but from the sweet + gravity of her face, the untroubled calm of her eyes, they learned nothing + more. + </p> + <p> + When the grave had been filled, and the yellow mound ridged and patted + with the spade, the family returned to the grassy space in front of the + meeting-house, and now their more familiar acquaintances, and many who + were not, gathered around to greet them and offer words of condolence. An + overpowering feeling of curiosity was visible upon every face; those who + did not venture to use their tongues, used their eyes the more. + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton was forced to remove the handkerchief from his face, and its + haggard wretchedness (which no one attributed to grief for his father's + death), could no longer be hidden. He appeared to have suddenly become an + old man, with deeper wrinkles, slacker muscles, and a helpless, tottering + air of weakness. The corners of his mouth drooped, hollowing his cheeks, + and his eyes seemed unable to bear up the weight of the lids; they darted + rapidly from side to side, or sought the ground, not daring to encounter, + for more than an instant, those of others. + </p> + <p> + There was no very delicate sense of propriety among the people, and very + soon an inquisitive old Quaker remarked,— + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mary, is this true that I hear? Are you two man and wife?” + </p> + <p> + “We are,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Bless us! how did it happen?” + </p> + <p> + The bystanders became still as death, and all ears were stretched to catch + the answer. But she, with proud, impenetrable calmness, replied,— + </p> + <p> + “It will be made known.” + </p> + <p> + And with these words the people were forced, that day to be satisfied. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI. — THE WILL. — + </h2> + <p> + During the homeward journey from the grave, Gilbert and his mother were + still the central figures of interest. That the members of the Barton + family were annoyed and humiliated, was evident to all eyes; but it was a + pitiful, undignified position, which drew no sympathy towards them, while + the proud, composed gravity of the former commanded respect. The young men + and women, especially, were unanimously of the opinion that Gilbert had + conducted himself like a man. They were disappointed, it was true, that he + and Martha Deane had not met, in the sight of all. It was impossible to + guess whether she had been already aware of the secret, or how the + knowledge of it would affect their romantic relation to each other. + </p> + <p> + Could the hearts of the lovers have been laid bare, the people would have + seen that never had each felt such need of the other,—never had they + been possessed with such restless yearning. To the very last, Gilbert's + eyes wandered from time to time towards the slender figure in the + cavalcade before him, hoping for the chance of a word or look; but + Martha's finer instinct told her that she must yet hold herself aloof. She + appreciated the solemnity of the revelation, saw that much was yet + unexplained, and could have guessed, even without Miss Lavender's + mysterious hints, that the day would bring forth other and more important + disclosures. + </p> + <p> + As the procession drew nearer Kennett Square, the curiosity of the funeral + guests, baulked and yet constantly stimulated, began to grow disorderly. + Sally Fairthorn was in such a flutter that she scarcely knew what she said + or did; Mark's authority alone prevented her from dashing up to Gilbert, + regardless of appearances. The old men, especially those in plain coats + and broad-brimmed hats, took every opportunity to press near the mourners; + and but for Miss Betsy Lavender, who hovered around the latter like a + watchful dragon, both Gilbert and his mother would have been seriously + annoyed. Finally the gate at the lane-end closed upon them, and the + discomfited public rode on to the village, tormented by keen envy of the + few who had been bidden to the funeral-dinner. + </p> + <p> + When Mary alighted from her horse, the old lawyer approached her. + </p> + <p> + “My name is Stacy, Mrs. Barton,” he said, “and Miss Lavender will have + told you who I am. Will you let me have a word with you in private?” + </p> + <p> + She slightly started at the name he had given her; it was the first + symptom of agitation she had exhibited. He took her aside, and began + talking earnestly in a low tone. Elisha Barton looked on with an amazed, + troubled air, and presently turned to his brother. + </p> + <p> + “Alfred,” he said, “it is quite time all this was explained.” + </p> + <p> + But Miss Lavender interfered. + </p> + <p> + “It's your right, Mr. Elisha, no denyin' that, and the right of all the + fam'ly; so we've agreed to have it done afore all together, in the lawful + way, Mr. Stacy bein' a lawyer; but dinner first, if you please, for eatin' + 's good both for grief and cur'osity, and it's hard tellin' which is + uppermost in this case. Gilbert, come here!” + </p> + <p> + He was standing alone, beside the paling. He obeyed her call. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert, shake hands with your uncle and aunt Mr. Elisha, this is your + nephew, Gilbert Barton, Mr. Alfred's son.” + </p> + <p> + They looked at each other for a moment. There was that in Gilbert's face + which enforced respect. Contrasted with his father, who stood on one side, + darting stealthy glances at the group from the corners of his eyes, his + bearing was doubly brave and noble. He offered his hand in silence, and + both Elisha Barton and his wife felt themselves compelled to take it. Then + the three sons, who knew the name of Gilbert Potter, and were more + astonished than shocked at the new relationship, came up and greeted their + cousin in a grave but not unfriendly way. + </p> + <p> + “That's right!” exclaimed Miss Lavender. “And now come in to dinner, all + o' ye! I gev orders to have the meats dished as soon as the first horse + was seen over the rise o' the hill, and it'll all be smokin' on the + table.” + </p> + <p> + Though the meal was such as no one had ever before seen in the Barton + farm-house, it was enjoyed by very few of the company. The sense of + something to come after it made them silent and uncomfortable. Mr. Stacy, + Miss Lavender, and the sons of Elisha Barton, with their wives, carried on + a scattering, forced conversation, and there was a general feeling of + relief when the pies, marmalade, and cheese had been consumed, and the + knives and forks laid crosswise over the plates. + </p> + <p> + When they arose from the table, Mr. Stacy led the way into the parlor. A + fire, in the mean time, had been made in the chill, open fireplace, but it + scarcely relieved the dreary, frosty aspect of the apartment. The presence + of the corpse seemed to linger there, attaching itself with ghastly + distinctness to the chair and hickory staff in a corner. + </p> + <p> + The few dinner-guests who were not relatives understood that this meeting + excluded them, and Elisha Barton was therefore surprised to notice, after + they had taken their seats, that Miss Lavender was one of the company. + </p> + <p> + “I thought,” he said, with a significant look, “that it was to be the + family only.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Lavender is one of the witnesses to the will,” Mr. Stacy answered, + “and her presence is necessary, moreover, as an important testimony in + regard to some of its provisions.” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton and Gilbert both started at these words, but from very + different feelings. The former, released from public scrutiny, already + experienced a comparative degree of comfort, and held up his head with an + air of courage; yet now the lawyer's announcement threw him into an + agitation which it was not possible to conceal. Miss Lavender looked + around the circle, coolly nodded her head to Elisha Barton, and said + nothing. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stacy arose, unlocked a small niche let into the wall of the house, + and produced the heavy oaken casket in which the old man kept the + documents relating to his property. This he placed upon a small table + beside his chair, opened it, and took out the topmost paper. He was + completely master of the situation, and the deliberation with which he + surveyed the circle of excited faces around him seemed to indicate that he + enjoyed the fact. + </p> + <p> + “The last will and testament of Abiah Barton, made the day before his + death,” he said, “revokes all former wills, which were destroyed by his + order, in the presence of myself and Miss Elizabeth Lavender.” + </p> + <p> + All eyes were turned upon the spinster, who again nodded, with a face of + preternatural solemnity. + </p> + <p> + “In order that you, his children and grandchildren,” Mr. Stacy continued, + “may rightly understand the deceased's intention in making this last will, + when the time comes for me to read it, I must first inform you that he was + acquainted with the fact of his son Alfred's marriage with Mary Potter.” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton half sprang from his seat, and then fell back with the same + startled, livid face, which Gilbert already knew. The others held their + breath in suspense,—except Mary, who sat near the lawyer, firm, + cold, and unmoved. + </p> + <p> + “The marriage of Alfred Barton and Mary Potter must therefore be + established, to <i>your</i> satisfaction,” Mr. Stacy resumed, turning + towards Elisha. “Alfred Barton, I ask you to declare whether this woman is + your lawfully wedded wife?” + </p> + <p> + A sound almost like a groan came from his throat, but it formed the + syllable,—“Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Further, I ask you to declare whether Gilbert Barton, who has until this + day borne his mother's name of Potter, is your lawfully begotten son?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “To complete the evidence,” said the lawyer, “Mary Barton, give me the + paper in your hands.” + </p> + <p> + She untied the handkerchief, opened the Bible, and handed Mr. Stacy the + slip of paper which Gilbert had seen her place between the leaves that + morning. The lawyer gave it to Elisha Barton, with the request that he + would read it aloud. + </p> + <p> + It was the certificate of a magistrate at Burlington, in the Colony of New + Jersey, setting forth that he had united in wedlock Alfred Barton and Mary + Potter. The date was in the month of June, 1771. + </p> + <p> + “This paper,” said Elisha, when he had finished reading, “appears to be + genuine. The evidence must have been satisfactory to you, Mr. Stacy, and + to my father, since it appears to have been the cause of his making a new + will; but as this new will probably concerns me and my children, I demand + to know why; if the marriage was legal, it has been kept secret so long? + The fact of the marriage does not explain what has happened to-day.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stacy turned towards Gilbert's mother, and made a sign. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I explain it in my way, Alfred?” she asked, “or will you, in + yours?” + </p> + <p> + “There's but one story,” he answered, “and I guess it falls to your place + to tell it.” + </p> + <p> + “It does!” she exclaimed. “You, Elisha and Ann, and you, Gilbert, my + child, take notice that every word of what I shall say is the plain God's + truth. Twenty-seven years ago, when I was a young woman of twenty, I came + to this farm to help Ann with the house-work. You remember it, Ann; it was + just after your mother's death. I was poor; I had neither father nor + mother, but I was as proud as the proudest, and the people called me + good-looking. You were vexed with me, Ann, because the young men came now + and then, of a Sunday afternoon; but I put up with your hard words. You + did not know that I understood what Alfred's eyes meant when he looked at + me; I put up with you because I believed I could be mistress of the house, + in your place. You have had your revenge of me since, if you felt the want + of it—so let that rest!” + </p> + <p> + She paused. Ann, with her handkerchief to her eyes, sobbed out,—“Mary, + I always liked you better 'n you thought.” + </p> + <p> + “I can believe it,” she continued, “for I have been forced to look into my + heart and learn how vain and mistaken I then was. But I liked Alfred, in + those days; he was a gay young man, and accounted good-looking, and there + were merry times just before the war, and he used to dress bravely, and + was talked about as likely to marry this girl or that. My head was full of + him, and I believed my heart was. I let him see from the first that it + must be honest love between us, or not at all; and the more I held back, + the more eager was he, till others began to notice, and the matter was + brought to his father's ears.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember that!” cried Elisha, suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “Yet it was kept close,” she resumed. “Alfred told me that the old man had + threatened to cut him out of his will if he should marry me, and I saw + that I must leave the farm; but I gave out that I was tired of the + country, and wanted to find service in Philadelphia. I believed that + Alfred would follow me in a week or two, and he did. He brought news I + didn't expect, and it turned my head upside down. His father had had a + paralytic stroke, and nobody believed he'd live more than a few weeks. It + was in the beginning of June, and the doctors said he couldn't get over + the hot weather. Alfred said to me, Why wait?—you'll be taking up + with some city fellow, and I want you to be my wife at once. On my side I + thought, Let him be made rich and free by his father's death, and wives + will be thrown in his way; he'll lose his liking for me, by little and + little, and somebody else will be mistress of the farm. So I agreed, and + we went to Burlington together, as being more out of the way and easier to + be kept secret; but just before we came to the Squire's, he seemed to grow + fearsome all at once, lest it should be found out, and he bought a Bible + and swore me by my soul's salvation never to say I was married to him + until after his father died. Here's the Bible, Alfred! Do you remember it? + Here, here's the place where I kissed it when I took the oath!” + </p> + <p> + She rose from her seat, and held it towards him. No one could doubt the + solemn truth of her words. He nodded his head mechanically, unable to + speak. Still standing, she turned towards Elisha Barton, and exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “<i>He</i> took the same oath, but what did it mean to him! What does it + mean to a man? I was young and vain; I thought only of holding fast to my + good luck! I never thought of—of”—(here her faced flushed, and + her voice began to tremble)—“of <i>you</i>, Gilbert! I fed my pride + by hoping for a man's death, and never dreamed I was bringing a curse on a + life that was yet to come! Perhaps he didn't then, either; the Lord pardon + me if I judge him too hard. What I charge him with, is that he held me to + my oath, when—when the fall went by and the winter, and his father + lived, and his son was to be born! It was always the same,—Wait a + little, a month or so, maybe; the old man couldn't live, and it was the + difference between riches and poverty for us. Then I begged for poverty + and my good name, and after that he kept away from me. Before Gilbert was + born, I hoped I might die in giving him life; then I felt that I must live + for his sake. I saw my sin, and what punishment the Lord had measured out + to me, and that I must earn His forgiveness; and He mercifully hid from my + sight the long path that leads to this day; for if the release hadn't + seemed so near, I never could have borne to wait!” + </p> + <p> + All the past agony of her life seemed to discharge itself in these words. + They saw what the woman had suffered, what wonderful virtues of patience + and faith had been developed from the vice of her pride, and there was no + heart in the company so stubborn as to refuse her honor. Gilbert's eyes + were fixed on her face with an absorbing expression of reverence; he + neither knew nor heeded that there were tears on his cheeks. The women + wept in genuine emotion, and even the old lawyer was obliged to wipe his + dimmed spectacles. + </p> + <p> + Elisha rose, and approaching Alfred, asked, in a voice which he strove to + make steady,—“Is all this true?” + </p> + <p> + Alfred sank his head; his reply was barely audible,— + </p> + <p> + “She has said no more than the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said Elisha, taking her hand, “I accept you, Mary Barton, and + acknowledge your place in our family.” + </p> + <p> + Elisha's wife followed, and embraced her with many tears, and lastly Ann, + who hung totteringly upon her shoulder as she cried,— + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Mary, indeed I always liked you; I never wished you any harm!” + </p> + <p> + Thus encouraged, Alfred Barton made a powerful effort. There seemed but + one course for him to take; it was a hard one, but he took it. + </p> + <p> + “Mary,” he said, “you have full right and justice on your side. I've acted + meanly towards you—meaner, I'm afraid, than any man before ever + acted towards his wife. Not only to you, but to Gilbert; but I always + meant to do my duty in the end. I waited from month to month, and year to + year, as you did; and then things got set in their way, and it was harder + and harder to let out the truth. I comforted myself—that wasn't + right, either, I know,—but I comforted myself with the thought that + you were doing well; I never lost sight of you, and I've been proud of + Gilbert, though I didn't dare show it, and always wanted to lend him a + helping hand, if he'd let me.” + </p> + <p> + She drew herself up and faced him with flashing eyes. + </p> + <p> + “How did you mean to do your duty by me? How did you mean to lend Gilbert + a helping hand? Was it by trying to take a second wife during my lifetime, + and that wife the girl whom Gilbert loves?” + </p> + <p> + Her questions cut to the quick, and the shallow protestations he would + have set up were stripped off in a moment, leaving bare every cowardly + shift of his life. Nothing was left but the amplest confession. + </p> + <p> + “You won't believe me, Mary,” he stammered, feebly weeping with pity of + his own miserable plight, “and I can't ask to—but it's the truth! + Give me your Bible! I'll kiss the place you kissed, and swear before God + that I never meant to marry Martha Deane! I let the old man think so, + because he hinted it'd make a difference in his will, and he drove me—he + and Dr. Deane together—to speak to her. I was a coward and a fool + that I let myself be driven that far, but I couldn't and wouldn't have + married her!” + </p> + <p> + “The whole snarl's comin' undone,” interrupted Miss Lavender. “I see the + end on't. Do you mind that day, Alf. Barton, when I come upon you suddent, + settin' on the log and sayin' 'I can't see the way,'—the very day, + I'll be snaked, that you spoke to the Doctor about Martha Deane!—and + then <i>you</i> so mortal glad that she wouldn't have you! You <i>have</i> + acted meaner 'n dirt; I don't excuse him, Mary; but never mind, justice is + justice, and he's told the truth this once't.” + </p> + <p> + “Sit down, friends!” said Mr. Stacy. “Before the will is read, I want Miss + Lavender to relate how it was that Abiah Barton and myself became + acquainted with the fact of the marriage.” + </p> + <p> + The reading of the will had been almost forgotten in the powerful interest + excited by Mary Barton's narrative. The curiosity to know its contents + instantly revived, but was still subordinate to that which the lawyer's + statement occasioned. The whole story was so singular, that it seemed as + yet but half explained. + </p> + <p> + “Well, to begin at the beginnin',” said Miss Lavender, “it all come o' my + wishin' to help two true-lovyers, and maybe you'll think I'm as foolish as + I'm old, but never mind, I'll allow that; and I saw that nothin' could be + done till Gilbert got his lawful name, and how to get it was the trouble, + bein' as Mary was swore to keep secret. The long and the short of it is, I + tried to worm it out o' her, but no use; she set her teeth as tight as + sin, and all I did learn was, that when she was in Phildelphy—I + knowed Gilbert was born there, but didn't let on—she lived at + Treadwells, in Fourth Street Then turnin' over everything in my mind, I + suspicioned that she must be waitin' for somebody to die, and that's what + held her bound; it seemed to me I must guess right away, but I couldn't + and couldn't, and so goin' up the hill, nigh puzzled to death, Gilbert + ploughin' away from me, bendin' his head for'ard a little—there! + turn round, Gilbert! turn round, Alf. Barton I Look at them two sets o' + shoulders!” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender's words were scarcely comprehensible, but all saw the + resemblance between father and son, in the outline of the shoulders, and + managed to guess her meaning. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she continued, “it struck me then and there, like a streak o' + lightnin'; I screeched and tumbled like a shot hawk, and so betwixt the + saddle and the ground, as the sayin' is, it come to me—not mercy, + but knowledge, all the same, you know what I mean; and I saw them was Alf. + Barton's shoulders, and I remembered the old man was struck with palsy the + year afore Gilbert was born, and I dunno how many other things come to me + all of a heap; and now you know, Gilbert, what made me holler. I borrowed + the loan o' his bay horse and put off for Phildelphy the very next day, + and a mortal job it was; what with bar'ls and boxes pitched hither and + yon, and people laughin' at y'r odd looks,—don't talk o' Phildelphy + manners to me, for I've had enough of 'em!—and old Treadwell dead + when I did find him, and the daughter married to Greenfield in the brass + and tin-ware business, it's a mercy I ever found out anything.” + </p> + <p> + “Come to the point, Betsy,” said Elisha, impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “The point, Betsy. The p'int 's this: I made out from the Greenfield woman + that the man who used to come to see Mary Potter was the perfect pictur' + o' young Alf. Barton; then to where she went next, away down to the + t'other end o' Third Street, boardin', he payin' the board till just afore + Gilbert was born—and that's enough, thinks I, let me get out o' this + rackety place. So home I posted, but not all the way, for no use to tell + Mary Potter, and why not go right to Old-man Barton, and let him know who + his daughter-in-law and son is, and see what'll come of it? Th' old man, + you must know, always could abide me better 'n most women, and I wasn't a + bit afeard of him, not lookin' for legacies, and wouldn't have 'em at any + such price; but never mind. I hid my horse in the woods and sneaked into + the house across the fields, the back way, and good luck that nobody was + at home but Ann, here; and so I up and told the old man the whole story.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil!” Alfred Barton could not help exclaiming, as he recalled his + father's singular manner on the evening of the day in question. + </p> + <p> + “Devil!” Miss Lavender repeated. “More like an angel put it into my head. + But I see Mr. Elisha's fidgetty, so I'll make short work o' the rest. He + curst and swore awful, callin' Mr. Alfred a mean pup, and I dunno what + all, but he hadn't so much to say ag'in Mary Potter; he allowed she was a + smart lass, and he'd heerd o' Gilbert's doin's, and the lad had grit in + him. 'Then,' says I, 'here's a mighty wrong been done, and it's for you to + set it right afore you die, and if you manage as I tell you, you can be + even with Mr. Alfred;' and he perks up his head and asks how, and says I + 'This way'—but what I said'll be made manifest by Mr. Stacy, without + my jumpin' ahead o' the proper time. The end of it was, he wound up by + sayin',—'Gad, if Stacy was only here!' 'I'll bring him!' says I, and + it was fixed betwixt and between us two, Ann knowin' nothin' o' the + matter; and off I trapesed back to Chester, and brung Mr. Stacy, and if + that good-for-nothin' Jake Fairthorn hadn't ha' seen me”— + </p> + <p> + “That will do, Miss Lavender,” said Mr. Stacy, interrupting her. “I have + only to add that Abiah Barton was so well convinced of the truth of the + marriage, that his new will only requires the proof which has to-day been + furnished, in order to express his intentions fully and completely. It was + his wish that I should visit Mary Barton on the very morning afterwards; + but his sudden death prevented it, and Miss Lavender ascertained, the same + evening, that Mary, in view of the neglect and disgrace which she had + suffered, demanded to take her justification into her own hands. My + opinion coincided with that of Miss Lavender, that she alone had the right + to decide in the matter, and that we must give no explanation until she + had asserted, in her own way, her release from a most shameful and cruel + bond.” + </p> + <p> + It was a proud moment of Miss Lavender's life, when, in addition to her + services, the full extent of which would presently be known, a lawyer of + Mr. Stacy's reputation so respectfully acknowledged the wisdom of her + judgment. + </p> + <p> + “If further information upon any point is required,” observed the lawyer, + “it may be asked for now; otherwise, I will proceed to the reading of the + will.” + </p> + <p> + “Was—was my father of sound mind,—that is, competent to + dispose of his property?” asked Elisha Barton, with a little hesitation. + </p> + <p> + “I hope the question will not be raised,” said Mr. Stacy, gravely; “but if + it is I must testify that he was in as full possession of his faculties as + at any time since his first attack, twenty-six years ago.” + </p> + <p> + He then read the will, amid the breathless silence of the company. The old + man first devised to his elder son, Elisha Barton, the sum of twenty + thousand dollars, investments secured by mortgages on real estate; an + equal amount to his daughter-in-law, Mary, provided she was able to + furnish legal proof of her marriage to his son, Alfred Barton; five + thousand dollars each to his four grand-children, the three sons of + Elisha, and Gilbert Barton; ten thousand dollars to his daughter Ann; and + to his son Alfred the occupancy and use of the farm during his life, the + property, at his death, to pass into the hands of Gilbert Barton. There + was also a small bequest to Giles, and the reversions of the estate were + to be divided equally among all the heirs. The witnesses to the will were + James Stacy and Elizabeth Lavender. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert and his mother now recognized, for the first time, what they owed + to the latter. A sense of propriety kept them silent; the fortune which + had thus unexpectedly fallen into their hands was the least and poorest + part of their justification. Miss Lavender, also, was held to silence, but + it went hard with her. The reading of the will gave her such an exquisite + sense of enjoyment that she felt quite choked in the hush which followed + it. + </p> + <p> + “As the marriage is now proven,” Mr. Stacy said, folding up the paper, + “there is nothing to prevent the will from being carried into effect.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I suppose not,” said Elisha; “it is as fair as could be expected.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother, what do you say?” asked Gilbert, suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “Your grandfather wanted to do me justice, my boy,” said she. “Twenty + thousand dollars will not pay me for twenty-five years of shame; no money + could; but it was the only payment he had to offer. I accept this as I + accepted my trials. The Lord sees fit to make my worldly path smooth to my + feet, and I have learned neither to reject mercy nor wrath.” + </p> + <p> + She was not elated; she would not, on that solemn day, even express + gratification in the legacy, for her son's sake. Though her exalted mood + was but dimly understood by the others, they felt its influence. If any + thought of disputing the will, on the ground of his father's incompetency, + had ever entered Elisha Barton's mind, he did not dare, then or + afterwards, to express it. + </p> + <p> + The day was drawing to a close, and Elisha Barton, with his sons, who + lived in the adjoining township of Pennsbury, made preparations to leave. + They promised soon to visit Gilbert and his mother. Miss Lavender, taking + Gilbert aside, announced that she was going to return to Dr. Deane's. + </p> + <p> + “I s'pose I may tell her,” she said, trying to hide her feelings under a + veil of clumsy irony, “that it's all up betwixt and between you, now + you're a rich man; and of course as she wouldn't have the father, she + can't think o' takin' the son.” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy,” he whispered, “tell her that I never yet needed her love so much + as now, and that I shall come to her tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you know the door stands open, even accordin' to the Doctor's + words.” + </p> + <p> + As Gilbert went forth to look after the horses, Alfred Barton followed + him. The two had not spoken directly to each other during the whole day. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” said the father, putting his hand on the son's shoulder, “you + know, now, why it always cut me, to have you think ill of me. I deserve + it, for I've been no father to you; and after what you've heard to-day, I + may never have a chance to be one. But if you <i>could</i> give me a + chance—if you could”— + </p> + <p> + Here his voice seemed to fail. Gilbert quietly withdrew his shoulder from + the hand, hesitated a moment, and then said,—“Don't ask me anything + now, if you please. I can only think of my mother to-day.” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton walked to the garden-fence, leaned his arms upon it, and his + head upon them. He was still leaning there, when mother and son rode by in + the twilight, on their way home. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII. — THE LOVERS. + </h2> + <p> + Both mother and son made the homeward ride in silence. A wide space, a + deep gulf of time, separated them from the morning. The events of the day + had been so startling, so pregnant with compressed fate, the emotions they + had undergone had been so profound, so mixed of the keenest elements of + wonder, pain, and pride, that a feeling of exhaustion succeeded. The old + basis of their lives seemed to have shifted, and the new foundations were + not yet firm under their feet. + </p> + <p> + Yet, as they sat together before the hearth-fire that evening, and the + stern, proud calm of Gilbert's face slowly melted into a gentler and + tenderer expression, his mother was moved to speak. + </p> + <p> + “This has been my day,” she said; “it was appointed and set apart for me + from the first; it belonged to me, and I have used it, in my right, from + sun to sun. But I feel now, that it was not my own strength alone that + held me up. I am weak and weary, and it almost seems that I fail in + thanksgiving. Is it, Gilbert, because you do not rejoice as I had hoped + you would?” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” he answered, “whatever may happen in my life, I can never feel + so proud of myself, as I felt to-day, to be your son. I do rejoice for + your sake, as I shall for my own, no doubt, when I get better used to the + truth. You could not expect me, at once, to be satisfied with a father who + has not only acted so cruelly towards you, but whom I have suspected of + being my own rival and enemy. I don't think I shall ever like the new name + as well as the old, but it is enough for me that the name brings honor and + independence to you!” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I ought to ha' told you this morning, Gilbert I thought only of + the justification, not of the trial; and it seemed easier to speak in + actions, to you and to all men at once, as I did, than to tell the story + quietly to you alone. I feared it might take away my strength, if I didn't + follow, step by step, the course marked out for me.” + </p> + <p> + “You were right, mother!” he exclaimed. “What trial had I, compared with + yours? What tale had I to tell—what pain to feel, except that if I + had not been born, you would have been saved twenty-five years of + suffering!” + </p> + <p> + “No, Gilbert!—never say, never think that! I see already the + suffering and the sorrow dying away as if they'd never been, and you left + to me for the rest of life the Lord grants; to me a son has been more than + a husband!” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” he asked in an anxious, hesitating tone, “would you consider that + I was not quite so much a son—that any part of my duty to you was + lost—if I wished to bring you a daughter, also?”. + </p> + <p> + “I know what you mean, Gilbert Betsy Lavender has told me all. I am glad + you spoke of it, this day; it will put the right feeling of thanksgiving + into my heart and yours. Martha Deane never stood between us, my boy; it + was I that stood between you and her!” + </p> + <p> + “Mother!” he cried, a joyous light shining from his face, “you love her? + You are willing that she should be my wife?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, Gilbert; willing, and thankful, and proud.” + </p> + <p> + “But the very name of her struck you down! You fell into a deadly faint + when I told you I had spoken my mind to her!” + </p> + <p> + “I see, my boy,” she said; “I see now why you never mentioned her name, + from that time. It was not Martha Deane, but the name of the one you + thought wanted to win her away from you,—your father's name, + Gilbert,—that seemed to put a stop to my life. The last trial was + the hardest of all, but don't you see it was only the bit of darkness that + comes before the daylight?” + </p> + <p> + While this new happiness brought the coveted sense of thanksgiving to + mother and son, and spread an unexpected warmth and peace over the close + of the fateful day, there was the liveliest excitement in Kennett Square, + over Miss Lavender's intelligence. That lady had been waylaid by a dozen + impatient questioners before she could reach the shelter of Dr. Deane's + roof; and could only purchase release by a hurried statement of the main + facts, in which Alfred Barton's cruelty, and his wife's wonderful fidelity + to her oath, and the justice done to her and Gilbert by the old man's + will, were set forth with an energy that multiplied itself as the gossip + spread. + </p> + <p> + In the adjoining townships, it was reported and believed, the very next + day, that Alfred Barton had tried to murder his wife and poison his father—that + Mary had saved the latter, and inherited, as her reward, the entire + property. + </p> + <p> + Once safely housed, Miss Lavender enjoyed another triumph. She related the + whole story, in every particular, to Martha Deane, in the Doctor's + presence, taking especial care not to omit Alfred's words in relation to + his enforced wooing. + </p> + <p> + “And there's one thing I mustn't forgit, Martha,” she declared, at the + close of her narrative. “Gilbert sends word to you that he needs your + true-love more 'n ever, and he's comin' up to see you to-morrow; and says + I to him, The door's open, even accordin' to the Doctor's words; and so it + is, for he's got his true name, and free to come. You're a man o' your + word, Doctor, and nothin' 's been said or done, thank Goodness, that can't + be easy mended!” + </p> + <p> + What impression this announcement made upon Dr. Deane could not be guessed + by either of the women. He rose, went to the window, looked into the night + for a long time without saying a word, and finally betook himself to his + bed. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, although there were no dangerous cases on his hands, he + rode away, remarking that he should not be home again until the evening. + Martha knew what this meant, and also what Miss Lavender meant in hurrying + down to Fairthorn's, soon after the Doctor's departure. She became + restless with tender expectation; her cheeks burned, and her fingers + trembled so that she was forced to lay aside her needle-work. It seemed + very long since she had even seen Gilbert; it was a long time (in the + calendar of lovers) since the two had spoken to each other. She tried to + compare the man he had been with the man he now was,—Gilbert poor, + disgraced and in trouble, with Gilbert rich and honorably born; and it + almost seemed as if the latter had impoverished her heart by taking from + it the need of that faithful, passionate sympathy which she had bestowed + upon the former. + </p> + <p> + The long hour of waiting came to an end. Roger was once more tethered at + the gate, and Gilbert was in the room. It was not danger, this time, + beyond the brink of which they met, but rather a sudden visitation of + security; yet both were deeply and powerfully agitated. Martha was the + first to recover her composure. Withdrawing herself from Gilbert's arms, + she said,— + </p> + <p> + “It was not right that the tests should be all on my side. Now it is my + turn to try you, Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + Even her arch, happy smile did not enlighten him. “How, Martha?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Since you don't know, you are already tested. But how grave you look! + Have I not yet learned all of this wonderful, wonderful history? Did Betsy + Lavender keep something back?” + </p> + <p> + “Martha!” he cried, “you shame me out of the words I had meant to say. But + they were doubts of my own position, not of you. Is my new name better or + worse in your ears, than my old one?” + </p> + <p> + “To me you are only Gilbert,” she answered, “as I am Martha to you. What + does it matter whether we write Potter or Barton? Either is good in + itself, and so would any other name be; but Barton means something, as the + world goes, and therefore we will take it. Gilbert, I have put myself in + your place, since I learned the whole truth. I guessed you would come to + me with a strange, uncertain feeling,—not a doubt, but rather a + wonder; and I endeavored to make your new circumstances clear to my mind. + Our duty to your mother is plain; she is a woman beside whom all other + women we know seem weak and insignificant. It is not that which troubled + you, I am sure, when you thought of me. Let me say, then, that so far as + our relation to your father is concerned, I will be guided entirely by + your wishes.” + </p> + <p> + “Martha,” he said, “that <i>is</i> my trouble,—or, rather, my + disappointment,—that with my true name I must bring to you and + fasten upon you the whole mean and shameful story! One parent must always + be honored at the expense of the other, and my name still belongs to the + one that is disgraced.” + </p> + <p> + “I foresaw your feeling, Gilbert. You were on the point of making another + test for me; that is not fair. The truth has come too suddenly,—the + waters of your life have been stirred too deeply; you must wait until they + clear. Leave that to Alfred Barton and your mother. To me, I confess, he + seems very weak rather than very bad. I can now understand the pains which + his addresses to me must have cost him. If I ever saw fear on a man's + face, it was on his when he thought I might take him at his word. But, to + a man like you, a mean nature is no better than a bad one. Perhaps I feel + your disappointment as deeply as you can; yet it is our duty to keep this + feeling to ourselves. For your mother's sake, Gilbert; you must not let + the value of her justification be lessened in her eyes. She deserves all + the happiness you and I can give her, and if she is willing to receive me, + some day, as a daughter”— + </p> + <p> + Gilbert interrupted her words by clasping her in his arms. “Martha!” he + exclaimed, “your heart points out the true way because it is true to the + core! In these things a woman sees clearer than a man; when I am with you + only, I seem to have proper courage and independence—I am twice + myself! Won't you let me claim you—take you—soon? My mother + loves you; she will welcome you as my wife, and will your father still + stand between us?” + </p> + <p> + Martha smiled. “My father is a man of strong will,” she said, “and it is + hard for him to admit that his judgment was wrong. We must give him a + little time,—not urge, not seem to triumph, spare his pride, and + trust to his returning sense of what is right. You might claim reparation, + Gilbert, for his cruel words; I could not forbid you; but after so much + strife let there be peace, if possible.” + </p> + <p> + “It is at least beyond his power,” Gilbert replied, “to accuse me of + sordid motives. As I said before, Martha, give up your legacy, if need be, + but come to me!” + </p> + <p> + “As <i>I</i> said before, Gilbert, the legacy is honestly mine, and I will + come to you with it in my hands.” + </p> + <p> + Then they both began to smile, but it was a conflict of purpose which drew + them nearer together, in both senses,—an emulation of unselfish + love, which was compromised by clasping arms and silent lips. + </p> + <p> + There was a sudden noise in the back part of the house. A shrill voice was + heard, exclaiming,—“I will—I will! don't hold me!”—the + door burst open, and Sally Fairthorn whirled into the room, with the skirt + of her gown torn loose, on one side, from the body. Behind her followed + Miss Lavender, in a state of mingled amusement and anger. + </p> + <p> + Sally kissed Martha, then Gilbert, then threw an arm around the neck of + each, crying and laughing hysterically: “O Martha! O Gilbert! you'll be + married first,—I said it,—but Mark and I must be your + bridesmaids; don't laugh, you know what I mean; and Betsy wouldn't have me + break in upon you; but I waited half an hour, and then off, up here, she + after me, and we're both out o' breath! Did ever, ever such a thing + happen!” + </p> + <p> + “You crazy thing!” cried Miss Lavender. “No, such a thing never happened, + and wouldn't ha' happened this time, if I'd ha' been a little quicker on + my legs; but never mind, it serves me right; you two are to blame, for why + need I trouble my head furder about ye? There's cases, they say, where + two's company, and three's overmuch; but you may fix it for yourselves + next time, and welcome; and there's one bit o' wisdom I've got by it,—foller + true-lovyers, and they'll wear your feet off, and then want you to go on + the stumps!” + </p> + <p> + “We won't relieve you yet, Betsy,” said Gilbert; “will we, Martha? The + good work you've done for us isn't finished.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't finished. Well, you'll gi' me time to make my will, first. How long + d' ye expect me to last, at this rate? Is my bones brass and my flesh + locus'-wood? Am I like a tortle, that goes around the fields a hundred + years?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” Gilbert answered, “but you shall be like an angel, dressed all in + white, with roses in your hair. Sally and Mark, you know, want to be the + first bridesmaids”— + </p> + <p> + Sally interrupted him with a slap, but it was not very violent, and he did + not even attempt to dodge it. + </p> + <p> + “Do you hear, Betsy?” said Martha. “It must be as Gilbert says.” + </p> + <p> + “A pretty fool you'd make o' me,” Miss Lavender remarked, screwing up her + face to conceal her happy emotion. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert soon afterwards left for home, but returned towards evening, + determined, before all things, to ascertain his present standing with Dr. + Deane. He did not anticipate that the task had been made easy for him; but + this was really the case. Wherever Dr. Deane had been that day, whoever he + had seen, the current of talk all ran one way. When the first surprise of + the news had been exhausted, and the Doctor had corrected various + monstrous rumors from his own sources of positive knowledge, one inference + was sure to follow,—that now there could be no objection to his + daughter becoming Gilbert Barton's wife. He was sounded, urged, almost + threatened, and finally returned home with the conviction that any further + opposition must result in an immense sacrifice of popularity. + </p> + <p> + Still, he was not ready to act upon that conviction, at once. He met + Gilbert with a bland condescension, and when the latter, after the first + greeting, asked,— + </p> + <p> + “Have I now the right to enter your house?” + </p> + <p> + The Doctor answered,— + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. Thee has kept thy word, and I will willingly admit that I did + thee wrong in suspecting thee of unworthy devices. I may say, also, that + so far as I was able to judge, I approved of thy behavior on the day of + thy grandfather's funeral. In all that has happened heretofore, I have + endeavored to act cautiously and prudently; and thee will grant, I doubt + not, that thy family history is so very far out of the common way, as that + no man could be called upon to believe it without the strongest evidence. + Of course, all that I brought forward against thee now falls to the + ground.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust, then,” Gilbert said, “that you have no further cause to forbid + my engagement with Martha. My mother has given her consent, and we both + hope for yours.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane appeared to reflect, leaning back in his chair, with his cane + across his knees. “It is a very serious thing,” he said, at last,—“very + serious, indeed. Not a subject for hasty decision. Thee offered, if I + remember rightly, to give me time to know thee better; therefore thee + cannot complain if I were now disposed to accept thy offer.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert fortunately remembered Martha's words, and restrained his + impatience. + </p> + <p> + “I will readily give you time, Dr. Deane,” he replied, “provided you will + give me opportunities. You are free to question all who know me, of + course, and I suppose you have done so. I will not ask you to take the + trouble to come to me, in order that we may become better acquainted, but + only that you will allow me to come to you.” + </p> + <p> + “It would hardly be fair to deny thee that much,” said the Doctor. + </p> + <p> + “I will ask no more now. I never meant, from the first, to question your + interest in Martha's happiness, or your right to advise her. It may be too + soon to expect your consent, but at least you'll hold back your refusal?” + </p> + <p> + “Thee's a reasonable young man, Gilbert,” the Doctor remarked, after a + pause which was quite unnecessary. “I like that in thee. We are both + agreed, then, that while I shall be glad to see thee in my house, and am + willing to allow to Martha and thee the intercourse proper to a young man + and woman, it is not yet to be taken for granted that I sanction your + desired marriage. Remember me kindly to thy mother, and say, if thee + pleases, that I shall soon call to see her.” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert had scarcely reached home that evening, before Deb. Smith, who had + left the farm-house on the day following the recovery of the money, + suddenly made her appearance. She slipped into the kitchen without + knocking, and crouched down in a corner of the wide chimney-place, before + she spoke. Both mother and son were struck by the singular mixture of + shyness and fear in her manner. + </p> + <p> + “I heerd all about it, to-day,” she presently said, “and I wouldn't ha' + come here, if I'd ha' knowed where else to go to. They're after me, this + time, Sandy's friends, in dead earnest; they'll have my blood, if they can + git it; but you said once't you'd shelter me, Mr. Gilbert!” + </p> + <p> + “So I will, Deborah!” he exclaimed; “do you doubt my word?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I don't; but I dunno how't is—you're rich now, and as well-born + as the best of 'em, and Mary's lawful-married and got her lawful name; and + you both seem to be set among the folks that can't feel for a body like + me; not that your hearts is changed, only it comes different to me, + somehow.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay here, Deborah, until you feel sure you're safe,” said Mary. “If + Gilbert or I should refuse to protect you, your blood would be upon our + heads. I won't blame you for doubting us; I know how easy it is to lose + faith in others; but if you think I was a friend to you while my name was + disgraced, you must also remember that I knew the truth then as well as + the world knows it now.” + </p> + <p> + “Bless you for sayin' that, Mary! There wasn't much o' my name at any + time; but what little I might ha' had is clean gone—nothin' o' me + left but the strong arm! I'm not a coward, as you know, Mr. Gilbert; I'll + meet any man, face to face, in a fair and open fight. Let 'em come in + broad day, and on the high road!—not lay in wait in bushes and + behind fences, to shoot me down unawares.” + </p> + <p> + They strove to quiet her fears, and little by little she grew composed. + The desperate recklessness of her mood contrasted strangely with her + morbid fear of an ambushed enemy. Gilbert suspected that it might be a + temporary insanity, growing out of her remorse for having betrayed Sandy + Flash. When she had been fed, and had smoked a pipe or two, she seemed + quite to forget it, and was almost her own self when she went up to her + bed in the western room. + </p> + <p> + The moon, three quarters full, was hanging over the barn, and made a + peaceful, snowy light about the house. She went to the window, opened it, + and breathed the cool air of the April night. The “herring-frogs” were + keeping up an incessant, birdlike chirp down the glen, and nearer at hand + the plunging water of the mill-race made a soothing noise. It really + seemed that the poor creature had found a quiet refuge at last. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly, something rustled and moved behind the mass of budding lilacs, + at the farther corner of the garden-paling. She leaned forward; the next + moment there was a flash, the crack of a musket rang sharp and loud + through the dell, followed by a whiz and thud at her very ear. A thin + drift of smoke rose above the bushes, and she saw a man's figure springing + to the cover of the nearest apple-tree. In another minute, Gilbert made + his appearance, gun in hand. + </p> + <p> + “Shoot him, Gilbert!” cried Deb. Smith; “it's Dougherty!” + </p> + <p> + Whoever it was, the man escaped; but by a singular coincidence, the Irish + ostler disappeared that night from the Unicorn tavern, and was never again + seen in the neighborhood. + </p> + <p> + The bullet had buried itself in the window-frame, after having passed + within an inch or two of Deb. Smith's head. [Footnote: The hole made by + the bullet still remains in the window-frame of the old farm-house.] To + Gilbert's surprise, all her fear was gone; she was again fierce and + defiant, and boldly came and went, from that night forth, saying that no + bullet was or would be cast, to take her life. + </p> + <p> + Therein she was right; but it was a dreary life and a miserable death + which awaited her. For twenty-five years she wandered about the + neighborhood, achieving wonders in spinning, reaping and threshing, by the + undiminished force of her arm, though her face grew haggard and her hair + gray; sometimes plunging into wild drinking-bouts with the rough male + companions of her younger days; sometimes telling a new generation, with + weeping and violent self-accusation, the story of her treachery; but + always with the fearful conviction of a yet unfulfilled curse hanging over + her life. Whether it was ever made manifest, no man could tell; but when + she was found lying dead on the floor of her lonely cabin on the Woodrow + farm, with staring, stony eyes, and the lines of unspeakable horror on her + white face, there were those who recalled her own superstitious + forebodings, and believed them. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII. — HUSBAND AND WIFE. + </h2> + <p> + It may readily be guessed that such extraordinary developments as those + revealed in the preceding chapters produced more than a superficial + impression upon a quiet community like that of Kennett and the adjoining + townships. People secluded from the active movements of the world are + drawn to take the greater interest in their own little family histories,—a + feeling which by-and-by amounts to a partial sense of ownership, + justifying not only any degree of advice or comment, but sometimes even + actual interference. + </p> + <p> + The Quakers, who formed a majority of the population, and generally + controlled public sentiment in domestic matters, through the purity of + their own domestic life, at once pronounced in favor of Mary Barton. The + fact of her having taken an oath was a slight stumbling-block to some; but + her patience, her fortitude, her submission to what she felt to be the + Divine Will, and the solemn strength which had upborne her on the last + trying day, were qualities which none could better appreciate. The fresh, + warm sympathies of the younger people, already given to Gilbert and + Martha, now also embraced her; far and wide went the wonderful story, + carrying with it a wave of pity and respect for her, of contempt and + denunciation for her husband. + </p> + <p> + The old Friends and their wives came to visit her, in their stately + chairs; almost daily, for a week or two, the quiet of the farm was + invaded, either by them, or by the few friends who had not forsaken her in + her long disgrace, and were doubly welcome now. She received them all with + the same grave, simple dignity of manner, gratefully accepting their + expressions of sympathy, and quietly turning aside the inconsiderate + questions that would have probed too deeply and painfully. + </p> + <p> + To an aged Friend,—a preacher of the sect,—who plumply asked + her what course she intended to pursue towards her husband, she replied,— + </p> + <p> + “I will not trouble my season of thanksgiving. What is right for me to do + will be made manifest when the occasion comes.” + </p> + <p> + This reply was so entirely in the Quaker spirit that the old man was + silenced. Dr. Deane, who was present, looked upon her with admiration. + </p> + <p> + Whatever conjectures Alfred Barton might have made in advance, of the + consequences which would follow the disclosure of his secret marriage, + they could have borne no resemblance to the reality. It was not in his + nature to imagine the changes which the years had produced in his wife. He + looked forward to wealth, to importance in the community, and probably + supposed that she would only be too glad to share the proud position with + him. There would be a little embarrassment at first, of course; but his + money would soon make everything smooth. + </p> + <p> + Now, he was utterly defeated, crushed, overwhelmed. The public judgment, + so much the more terrible where there is no escape from it, rolled down + upon him. Avoided or coldly ignored by the staid, respectable farmers, + openly insulted by his swaggering comrades of the fox-hunt and the + bar-room, jeered at and tortured by the poor and idle hangers-on of the + community, who took a malicious pleasure in thus repaying him for his + former haughtiness and their own humility, he found himself a moral + outcast. His situation became intolerable. He no longer dared to show + himself in the village, or upon the highways, but slunk about the house + and farm, cursing himself, his father and the miserable luck of his life. + </p> + <p> + When, finally, Giles begged to know how soon his legacy would be paid, and + hinted that he couldn't stay any longer than to get possession of the + money, for, hard as it might be to leave an old home, he must stop going + to the mill, or getting the horses shod, or sitting in the Unicorn + bar-room of a Saturday night, and a man might as well be in jail at once, + and be done with it—when Alfred Barton heard all this, he + deliberated, for a few minutes, whether it would not be a good thing to + cut his own throat. + </p> + <p> + Either that, or beg for mercy; no other course was left. + </p> + <p> + That evening he stole up to the village, fearful, at every step, of being + seen and recognized, and knocked timidly at Dr. Deane's door. Martha and + her father were sitting together, when he came into the room, and they + were equally startled at his appearance. His large frame seemed to have + fallen in, his head was bent, and his bushy whiskers had become quite + gray; deep wrinkles seamed his face; his eyes were hollow, and the corners + of his mouth drooped with an expression of intolerable misery. + </p> + <p> + “I wanted to say a word to Miss Martha, if she'll let me,” he said, + looking from one to the other. + </p> + <p> + “I allowed thee to speak to my daughter once too often,” Dr. Deane sternly + replied. “What thee has to say now, must be said in my presence.” + </p> + <p> + He hesitated a moment, then took a chair and sat down, turning towards + Martha. “It's come to this,” he said, “that I must have a little mercy, or + lay hands on my own life. I haven't a word to say for myself; I deserve it + all. I'll do anything that's wanted of me—whatever Mary says, or + people think is her right that she hasn't yet got, if it's mine to give. + You said you wished me well, Miss Martha, even at the time I acted so + shamefully; I remember that, and so I ask you to help me.” + </p> + <p> + She saw that he spoke truth, at last, and all her contempt and disgust + could not keep down the quick sensation of pity which his wretchedness + inspired. But she was unprepared for his appeal, and uncertain how to + answer it. + </p> + <p> + “What would you have me do?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Go to Mary on my behalf! Ask her to pardon me, if she can, or say what I + can do to earn her pardon—that the people may know it. They won't be + so hard on me, if they know she's done that. Everything depends on her, + and if it's true, as they say, that she's going to sue for a divorce and + take back her own name for herself and Gilbert, and cut loose from me + forever, why, it'll just”— + </p> + <p> + He paused, and buried his face in his hands. + </p> + <p> + “I have not heard of that,” said Martha. + </p> + <p> + “Haven't you?” he asked. “But it's too likely to be true.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not go directly to Mary, yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, Miss Martha, if you'll go with me, and maybe say a kind word now + and then,—that is, if you think it isn't too soon for mercy!” + </p> + <p> + “It is never too soon to <i>ask</i> for mercy,” she said, coming to a + sudden decision. “I will go with you; let it be tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Martha,” warned Dr. Deane, “isn't thee a little hasty?” + </p> + <p> + “Father, I decide nothing. It is in Mary's hands. He thinks my presence + will give him courage, and that I cannot refuse.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning, the people of Kennett Square were again startled out of + their proprieties by the sight of Alfred Barton, pale, agitated, and + avoiding the gaze of every one, waiting at Dr. Deane's gate, and then + riding side by side with Martha down the Wilmington road. An hour before, + she had dispatched Joe Fairthorn with a note to Gilbert, informing him of + the impending visit. Once on the way, she feared lest she had ventured too + far; it might be, as her father had said, too hasty; and the coming + meeting with Gilbert and his mother disquieted her not a little. It was a + silent, anxious ride for both. + </p> + <p> + When they readied the gate, Gilbert was on hand to receive them. His face + always brightened at the sight of Martha, and his hands lifted her as + tenderly as ever from the saddle. “Have I done right?” she anxiously + whispered. + </p> + <p> + “It is for mother to say,” he whispered back. + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton advanced, offering his hand. Gilbert looked upon his + father's haggard, imploring face, a moment; a recollection of his own + disgrace shot into his heart, to soften, not to exasperate; and he + accepted the hand. Then he led the way into the house. + </p> + <p> + Mary Barton had simply said to her son,—“I felt that he would come, + sooner or later, and that I must give him a hearing—better now, + perhaps, since you and Martha will be with me.” + </p> + <p> + They found her awaiting them, pale and resolute. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert and Martha moved a little to one side, leaving the husband and + wife facing each other. Alfred Barton was too desperately moved to shrink + from Mary's eyes; he strove to read something in her face, which might + spare him the pain of words; but it was a strange face he looked upon. Not + that of the black-eyed, bright-cheeked girl, with the proud carriage of + her head and the charming scorn of her red lip, who had mocked, + fascinated, and bewildered him. The eyes were there, but they had sunk + into the shade of the brows, and looked upon him with an impenetrable + expression; the cheeks were pale, the mouth firm and rigid, and out of the + beauty which seduced had grown a power to resist and command. + </p> + <p> + “Will you shake hands with me, Mary?” he faltered. + </p> + <p> + She said nothing, but moved her right hand slightly towards him. It lay in + his own a moment, cold and passive. + </p> + <p> + “Mary!” he cried, falling on his knees at her feet, “I'm a ruined, + wretched man! No one speaks to me but to curse; I've no friend left in the + world; the very farmhand leaves me! I don't know what'll become of me, + unless you feel a little pity—not that I deserve any, but I ask it + of you, in the name of God!” + </p> + <p> + Martha clung to Gilbert's arm, trembling, and more deeply moved than she + was willing to show. Mary Barton's face was convulsed by some passing + struggle, and when she spoke, her voice was hoarse and broken. + </p> + <p> + “You know what it is, then,” she said, “to be disgraced in the eyes of the + world. If you have suffered so much in these two weeks, you may guess what + I have borne for twenty-five years!” + </p> + <p> + “I see it now, Mary!” he cried, “as I never saw it before. Try me! Tell me + what to do!” + </p> + <p> + “The Lord has done it, already; there is nothing left.” + </p> + <p> + He groaned; his head dropped hopelessly upon his breast. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert felt that Martha's agitation ceased. She quietly released her hold + of his arm, lifted her head, and spoke,— + </p> + <p> + “Mother, forgive me if I speak when I should hold my peace; I would only + remind you that there is yet one thing left. It is true, as you say; the + Lord has justified you in His own way, and at His own time, and has + revenged the wrong done to you by branding the sin committed towards + Himself. Now He leaves the rest to your own heart. Think that He holds + back and waits for the words that shall declare whether you understand the + spirit in which He deals towards His children!” + </p> + <p> + “Martha, my dear child!” Mary Barton exclaimed,—“what can I do?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not for me to advise you, mother. You, who put my impatient pride + to shame, and make my love for Gilbert seem selfish by contrast with your + long self-sacrifice! What right have I, who have done nothing, to speak to + you, who have done so much that we never can reckon it? But, remember that + in the Lord's government of the world pardon follows repentance, and it is + not for us to exact like for like, to the uttermost farthing!” + </p> + <p> + Mary Barton sank into a chair, covered her face with her hands, and wept + aloud. + </p> + <p> + There were tears in Martha's eyes; her voice trembled, and her words came + with a softness and tenderness that soothed while they pierced: + </p> + <p> + “Mother, I am a woman like yourself; and, as a woman, I feel the terrible + wrong that has been done to you. It may be as hard for you now to forget, + as then to bear; but it is certainly greater and nobler to forgive than to + await justice! Because I reverence you as a strong and pure and + great-hearted woman—because I want to see the last and best and + sweetest grace of our sex added to your name—and lastly, for + Gilbert's sake, who can feel nothing but pain in seeing his father + execrated and shunned—I ask your forgiveness for your husband!” + </p> + <p> + “Mary!” Alfred Barton cried, lifting up his head in a last appeal, “Mary, + this much, at least! Don't go to the courts for a divorce! Don't get back + your own name for yourself and Gilbert! Keep mine, and make it more + respectable for me! And I won't ask you to pardon me, for I see you + can't!” + </p> + <p> + “It is all clear to me, at last!” said Mary Barton. “I thank you, Martha, + my child, for putting me in the right path. Alfred, don't kneel to me; if + the Lord can pardon, who am I that I should be unforgiving? I fear me I + was nigh to forfeit His mercy. Gilbert, yours was half the shame; yours is + half the wrong; can you join me in pardoning your father and my husband?” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was powerfully moved by the conflict of equally balanced emotions, + and but for the indication which Martha had given, he might not at once + have been able to decide. But it seemed now that his course was also + clear. He said,— + </p> + <p> + “Mother, since you have asked the question, I know how it should be + answered. If you forgive your husband, I forgive my—my father.” + </p> + <p> + He stepped forward, seized Alfred Barton gently by the shoulder, and + raised him to his feet Mary Barton then took her husband's hand in hers, + and said, in a solemn voice,— + </p> + <p> + “I forgive you, Alfred, and will try to forget I know not what you may + have heard said, but I never meant to go before the court for a divorce. + Your name is a part of my right, a part of Gilbert's—our son's—right; + it is true that you have debased the name, but we will keep it and make it + honorable! We will not do that to the name of Barton which you have done + to the name of Potter!” + </p> + <p> + It was very evident that though she had forgiven, she had not yet + forgotten. The settled endurance of years could not be unlearned in a + moment. Alfred Barton felt that her forgiveness implied no returning + tenderness, not even an increase of respect; but it was more than he had + dared to hope, and he felt humbly grateful. He saw that a consideration + for Gilbert's position had been the chief element to which he owed his + wife's relenting mood, and this knowledge was perhaps his greatest + encouragement. + </p> + <p> + “Mary,” he said, “you are kinder than I deserve. I wish I could make you + and Gilbert understand all that I have felt. Don't think my place was + easy; it wasn't. It was a hell of another kind. I have been punished in my + way, and will be now to the end o' my life, while you two will be looked + up to, and respected beyond any in the neighborhood; and if I'm not + treated like a dog, it'll only be for your sakes! Will you let me say to + the people that you have pardoned me? Will you say it yourselves?” + </p> + <p> + Martha, and perhaps Gilbert also, felt that it was the reflected image of + Alfred Barton's meanness, as it came back to him in the treatment he had + experienced, rather than his own internal consciousness of it, which + occasioned his misery. But his words were true thus far; his life was + branded by it, and the pardon of those he had wronged could not make that + life more than tolerable. + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” said Gilbert, replying to him. “There has been enough of + secrets. I am not ashamed of forgiveness—my shame is, that + forgiveness is necessary.” + </p> + <p> + Alfred Barton looked from mother to son with a singular, wistful + expression. He seemed uncertain whether to speak or how to select his + words. His vain, arrogant spirit was completely broken, but no finer moral + instinct came in its place to guide him; his impulses were still coarse, + and took, from habit, the selfish color of his nature. There are some + persons whom even humiliation clothes with a certain dignity; but he was + not one of them. There are others whose tact, in such emergencies, assumes + the features of principle, and sets up a feeble claim to respect; but this + quality is a result of culture, which he did not possess. He simply saw + what would relieve him from the insupportable load of obloquy under which + he groaned, and awkwardly hazarded the pity he had excited, in asking for + it. + </p> + <p> + “Mary,” he stammered, “I—I hardly know how to say the words, but + you'll understand me; I want to make good to you all the wrong I did, and + there seems no way but this,—if you'll let me care for you, slave + for you, anything you please; you shall have your own say in house and + farm; Ann'll give up everything to you. She always liked you, she says, + and she's lonely since th' old man died and nobody comes near us—not + just at once, I mean, but after awhile, when you've had time to think of + it, and Gilbert's married. You're independent in your own right, I know, + and needn't do it; but, see! it'd give me a chance, and maybe Gilbert + wouldn't feel quite so hard towards me, and”— + </p> + <p> + He stopped, chilled by the increasing coldness of his wife's face. She did + not immediately reply; to Martha's eye she seemed to be battling with some + proud, vindictive instinct. But she spoke at last, and calmly: + </p> + <p> + “Alfred, you should not have gone so far. I have pardoned you, and that + means more than the words. It means that I must try to overcome the + bitterness of my recollections, that I must curb the tongues of others + when they are raised against you, must greet you when we meet, and in all + proper ways show the truth of my forgiveness to the world. Anger and + reproach may be taken from the heart, and yet love be as far off as ever. + If anything ever could lead me back to you it would not be love, but duty + to my son, and his desire; but I cannot see the duty now. I may never see + it. Do not propose this thing again. I will only say, if it be any comfort + to you, that if you try to show your repentance as I my pardon, try to + clean your name from the stain you have cast upon it, my respect shall + keep pace with that of your neighbors, and I shall in this way, and in no + other, be drawn nearer to you!” + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” said Alfred Barton, “I never knew your mother before to-day. + What she says gives me some hope, and yet it makes me afraid. I'll try to + bring her nearer, I will, indeed; but I've been governed so long by th' + old man that I don't seem to have any right strength o' my own. I must + have some help, and you're the only one I can ask it of; will you come and + see me sometimes? I've been so proud of you, all to myself, my boy! and if + I thought you could once call me 'father' before I die”— + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was not proof against these words and the honest tears by which + they were accompanied. Many shy hesitating tokens of affection in his + former intercourse with Alfred Barton, suddenly recurred to his mind, with + their true interpretation. His load had been light, compared to his + mother's; he had only learned the true wrong in the hour of reparation; + and moreover, in assuming his father's name he became sensitive to the + prominence of its shame. + </p> + <p> + “Father,” he answered, “if you have forfeited a son's obedience, you have + still a man's claim to be helped. Mother is right; it is in your power to + come nearer to us. She must stand aside and wait; but I can cross the line + which separates you, and from this time on I shall never cross it to + remind you of what is past and pardoned, but to help you, and all of us, + to forget it!” + </p> + <p> + Martha laid her hand upon Gilbert's shoulder, leaned up and kissed him + upon the cheek. + </p> + <p> + “Rest here!” she said. “Let a good word close the subject! Gilbert, take + your father out and show him your farm. Mother, it is near dinner-time; I + will help you set the table. After dinner, Mr. Barton, you and I will ride + home together.” + </p> + <p> + Her words were obeyed; each one felt that no more should be said at that + time. Gilbert showed the barn, the stables, the cattle in the meadow, and + the fields rejoicing in the soft May weather; Martha busied herself in + kitchen and cellar, filling up the pauses of her labor with cheerful talk; + and when the four met at the table, so much of the constraint in their + relation to each other had been conquered, that a stranger would never + have dreamed of the gulf which had separated them a few hours before. + Martha shrewdly judged that when Alfred Barton had eaten at his wife's + table, they would both meet more easily in the future. She did not expect + that the breach could ever be quite filled; but she wished, for Gilbert's + sake, to make it as narrow as possible. + </p> + <p> + After dinner, while the horses were being saddled, the lovers walked down + the garden-path, between the borders of blue iris and mountain-pink. + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert,” said Martha, “are you satisfied with what has happened?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he answered, “but it has shown to me that something more must be + done.” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “Martha, are these the only two who should be brought nearer?” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with a puzzled face. There was a laughing light in his + eyes, which brought a new lustre to here, and a delicate blush to her fair + cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “Is it not too soon for me to come?” she whispered. + </p> + <p> + “You have come,” he answered; “you were in your place; and it will be + empty—the house will be lonely, the farm without its mistress—until + you return to us!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV. — THE WEDDING. + </h2> + <p> + The neighborhood had decreed it There was but one just, proper, and + satisfactory conclusion to all these events. The decision of Kennett was + unanimous that its story should be speedily completed. New-Garden, + Marlborough, and Pennsbury, so far as heard from, gave their hearty + consent; and the people would have been seriously disappointed—the + tide of sympathy might even have been checked—had not Gilbert Barton + and Martha Deane prepared to fulfil the parts assigned to them. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane, of course, floated with the current. He was too shrewd to stand + forth as a conspicuous obstacle to the consummation of the popular sense + of justice. He gave, at once, his full consent to the nuptials, and took + the necessary steps, in advance, for the transfer of his daughter's + fortune into her own hands. In short, as Miss Lavender observed, there was + an end of snarls. The lives of the lovers were taken up, as by a skilful + hand, and evenly reeled together. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert now might have satisfied his ambition (and the people, under the + peculiar circumstances of the case, would have sanctioned it) by buying + the finest farm in the neighborhood; but Martha had said,— + </p> + <p> + “No other farm can be so much <i>yours</i>, and none so welcome a home to + me. Let us be satisfied with it, at least for the first years.” + </p> + <p> + And therein she spoke wisely. + </p> + <p> + It was now the middle of May, and the land was clothed in tender green, + and filled with the sweet breath of sap and bud and blossom. The vivid + emerald of the willow-trees, the blush of orchards, and the cones of snowy + bloom along the wood-sides, shone through and illumined even the days of + rain. The Month of Marriage wooed them in every sunny morning, in every + twilight fading under the torch of the lovers' star. + </p> + <p> + In spite of Miss Lavender's outcries, and Martha's grave doubts, a + fortnight's delay was all that Gilbert would allow. He would have + dispensed with bridal costumes and merrymakings,—so little do men + understand of these matters; but he was hooted down, overruled, ignored, + and made to feel his proper insignificance. Martha almost disappeared from + his sight during the interval. She was sitting upstairs in a confusion of + lutestring, whalebone, silk, and cambric; and when she came down to him + for a moment, the kiss had scarcely left her lips before she began to + speak of the make of his new coat, and the fashion of the articles he was + still expected to furnish. + </p> + <p> + If he visited Fairthorn's, it was even worse. The sight of him threw Sally + into such a flutter that she sewed the right side of one breadth to the + wrong side of another, attempted to clear-starch a woollen stocking, or + even, on one occasion, put a fowl into the pot, unpicked and undressed. It + was known all over the country that Sally and Mark Deane were to be + bridesmaid and groomsman, and they both determined to make a brave + appearance. + </p> + <p> + But there was another feature of the coming nuptials which the people did + not know. Gilbert and Martha had determined that Miss Betsy Lavender + should be second bridesmaid, and Martha had sent to Wilmington for a + purple silk, and a stomacher of the finest cambric, in which to array her. + A groomsman of her age was not so easy to find; but young Pratt, who had + stood so faithfully by Gilbert during the chase of Sandy Flash, merrily + avowed his willingness to play the part; and so it was settled without + Miss Lavender's knowledge. + </p> + <p> + The appointed morning came, bringing a fair sky, mottled with gentle, + lingering clouds, and a light wind from the west. The wedding company were + to meet at Kennett Square, and then ride to Squire Sinclair's, where the + ceremony would be performed by that magistrate; and before ten o'clock, + the hour appointed for starting, all the surrounding neighborhood poured + into the village. The hitching-bar in front of the Unicorn, and every post + of fence or garden-paling, was occupied by the tethered horses. The + wedding-guests, comprising some ten or fifteen persons, assembled at Dr. + Deane's, and each couple, as they arrived, produced an increasing + excitement among the spectators. + </p> + <p> + The fact that Alfred Barton had been formally pardoned by his wife and + son, did not lessen the feeling with which he was regarded, but it + produced a certain amount of forbearance. The people were curious to know + whether he had been bidden to the wedding, and the conviction was general + that he had no business to be there. The truth is, it had been left free + to him whether to come or not, and he had very prudently chosen to be + absent. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane had set up a “chair,” which was to be used for the first time on + this occasion. It was a ponderous machine, with drab body and wheels, and + curtains of drab camlet looped up under its stately canopy. When it + appeared at the gate, the Doctor came forth, spotless in attire, bland, + smiling, a figure of sober gloss and agreeable odors. He led Mary Barton + by the hand; and her steel-colored silk and white crape shawl so well + harmonized with his appearance, that the two might have been taken for man + and wife. Her face was calm, serene, and full of quiet gratitude. They + took their places in the chair, the lines were handed to the Doctor, and + he drove away, nodding right and left to the crowd. + </p> + <p> + Now the horses were brought up in pairs, and the younger guests began to + mount. The people gathered closer and closer; and when Sam appeared, + leading the well-known and beloved Roger, there was a murmur which, in a + more demonstrative community, would have been a cheer. Somebody had + arranged a wreath of lilac and snowy viburnum, and fastened it around + Roger's forehead; and he seemed to wear it consciously and proudly. Many a + hand was stretched forth to pat and stroke the noble animal, and everybody + smiled when he laid his head caressingly over the neck of Martha's gray. + </p> + <p> + Finally, only six horses remained unmounted; then there seemed to be a + little delay in-doors. It was explained when young Pratt appeared, bold + and bright, leading the reluctant Miss Lavender, rustling in purple + splendor, and blushing—actually blushing—as she encountered + the eyes of the crowd. The latter were delighted. There was no irony in + the voice that cried,—“Hurrah for Betsy Lavender!” and the cheer + that followed was the expression of a downright, hearty good will. She + looked around from her saddle, blushing, smiling, and on the point of + bursting into tears; and it was a godsend, as she afterwards remarked, + that Mark Deane and Sally Fairthorn appeared at that moment. + </p> + <p> + Mark, in sky-blue coat and breeches, suggested, with his rosy face and + yellow locks, a son of the morning; while Sally's white muslin and + cherry-colored scarf heightened the rich beauty of her dark hair and eyes, + and her full, pouting lips. They were a buxom pair, and both were too + happy in each other and in the occasion, to conceal the least expression + of it. + </p> + <p> + There now only remained our hero and heroine, who immediately followed. No + cheer greeted them, for the wonderful chain of circumstances which had + finally brought them together, made the joy of the day solemn, and the + sympathy of the people reverential. Mark and Sally represented the delight + of betrothal; these two the earnest sanctity of wedlock. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was plainly yet richly dressed in a bottle-green coat, with white + waistcoat and breeches; his ruffles, gloves, hat, and boots were + irreproachable. So manly looking a bridegroom had not been seen in Kennett + for many a day. Martha's dress of heavy pearl-gray satin was looped up + over a petticoat of white dimity, and she wore a short cloak of white + crape. Her hat, of the latest style, was adorned with a bunch of roses and + a white, drooping feather. In the saddle, she was charming; and as the + bridal pair slowly rode forward, followed by their attendants in the + proper order, a murmur of admiration, in which there was no envy and no + ill-natured qualification, went after them. + </p> + <p> + A soft glitter of sunshine, crossed by the shadows of slow-moving clouds, + lay upon the landscape. Westward, the valley opened in quiet beauty, the + wooded hills on either side sheltering, like protecting arms, the white + farmhouses, the gardens, and rosy orchards scattered along its floor. On + their left, the tall grove rang with the music of birds, and was gay, + through all its light-green depths, with the pink blossoms of the wild + azalea. The hedges, on either side, were purple with young sprays, and a + bright, breathing mass of sweet-brier and wild grape crowned the + overhanging banks, between which the road ascended the hill beyond. + </p> + <p> + At first the company were silent; but the enlivening motion of the horses, + the joy of the coming summer, the affectionate sympathy of Nature, soon + disposed them to a lighter mood. At Hallowell's, the men left their hoes + in the corn-field, and the women their household duties, to greet them by + the roadside. Mark looked up at the new barn, and exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “Not quite a year ago! Do you mind it, Gilbert?” + </p> + <p> + Martha pointed to the green turf in front of the house, and said with an + arch voice,— + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert, do you remember the question you put to me, that evening?” + </p> + <p> + And finally Sally burst out, in mock indignation,— + </p> + <p> + “Gilbert, there's where you snapped me up, because I wanted you to dance + with Martha; what do you think of yourself now?” + </p> + <p> + “You all forget,” he answered, “that you are speaking of somebody else.” + </p> + <p> + “How? somebody else?” asked Sally. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I mean Gilbert Potter.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a bad turn-off,” remarked Miss Lavender. “He's too much for you. But + I'm glad, anyhow, you've got your tongues, for it was too much like a + buryin' before, and me fixed up like King Solomon, what for, I'd like to + know? and the day made o' purpose for a weddin', and true-love all right + for once't—I'd like just to holler and sing and make merry to my + heart's content, with a nice young man alongside o' me, too, a thing that + don't often happen!” + </p> + <p> + They were heartily, but not boisterously, merry after this; but as they + reached the New-Garden road, there came a wild yell from the rear, and the + noise of galloping hoofs. Before the first shock of surprise had subsided, + the Fairthorn gray mare thundered up, with Joe and Jake upon her back, the + scarlet lining of their blue cloaks flying to the wind, their breeches + covered with white hair from the mare's hide, and their faces wild with + delight. They yelled again as they drew rein at the head of the + procession. + </p> + <p> + “Why, what upon earth”—began Sally; but Joe saved her the necessity + of a question. + </p> + <p> + “Daddy said we shouldn't go!” he cried. “But we <i>would</i>,—we got + Bonnie out o' the field, and put off! Cousin Martha, you'll let us go + along and see you get married; won't you, now? Maybe we'll never have + another chance!” + </p> + <p> + This incident produced great amusement. The boys received the permission + they coveted, but were ordered to the rear Mark reminding them that as he + was soon to be their uncle, they must learn, betimes, to give heed to his + authority. + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet, Mark!” exclaimed Sally, with a gentle slap. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't begrudge it to 'em,” said Miss Lavender. “It's somethin' + for 'em to remember when they're men-grown; and they belong to the fam'ly, + which I don't; but never mind, all the same, no more do you, Mr. Pratt; + and I wish I was younger, to do credit to you!” + </p> + <p> + Merrily trotted the horses along the bit of level upland; and then, as the + land began to fall towards the western branch of Redley Creek, they saw + the Squire's house on a green knoll to the north, and Dr. Deane's new + chair already resting in the shade of the gigantic sycamore at the door. + The lane-gates were open, the Squire's parlor was arranged for their + reception; and after the ladies had put themselves to rights, in the upper + rooms, the company gathered together for the ceremony. + </p> + <p> + Sunshine, and hum of bees, and murmur of winds, and scent of flowers, came + in through the open windows, and the bridal pair seemed to stand in the + heart of the perfect spring-time. Yet tears were shed by all the women + except the bride; and Sally Fairthorn was so absorbed by the rush of her + emotions, that she came within an ace of saying “I will!” when the Squire + put the question to Martha. The ceremony was brief and plain, but the + previous history of the parties made it very impressive. When they had + been pronounced man and wife, and the certificate of marriage had been + duly signed and witnessed by all present, Mary Barton stepped forward and + kissed her son and daughter with a solemn tenderness. Then the pent-up + feelings of all the others broke loose, and the amount of embracing which + followed was something quite unusual for Kennett. Betsy Lavender was not + cheated out of her due share; on the contrary, it was ever afterwards + reported that she received more salutes than even the bride. She was + kissed by Gilbert, by Mark, by her young partner, by Dr. Deane, and lastly + by the jolly Squire himself,—to say nothing of the feminine kisses, + which, indeed, being very imperfect gifts, hardly deserve to be recorded. + </p> + <p> + “Well!” she exclaimed, pushing her ruffled hair behind her ears, and + smoothing down her purple skirt, “to think o' my bein' kissed by so many + men, in my old days!—but why not?—it may be my last chance, as + Joe Fairthorn says, and laugh if you please, I've got the best of it; and + I don't belie my natur', for twistin' your head away and screechin' is + only make-believe, and the more some screeches the more they want to be + kissed; but fair and square, say I,—if you want it take it, and + that's just what I've done!” + </p> + <p> + There was a fresh rush for Miss Lavender after this, and she stood her + ground with commendable patience, until Mark ventured to fold her in a + good-natured hug, when she pushed him away, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “For the Lord's sake, don't spile my new things! There—go 'way, now! + I've had enough to last me ten year!” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Deane soon set out with Mary Barton, in the chair, and the rest of the + company mounted their horses, to ride back to Kennett Square by the other + road, past the quarries and across Tuffkenamon. + </p> + <p> + As they halted in the broad, shallow bed of the creek, letting their + horses drink from the sparkling water, while the wind rollicked among the + meadow bloom of golden saxifrage and scarlet painted-cup and blue + spiderwort before them, the only accident of the day occurred; but it was + not of a character to disturb their joyous mood. + </p> + <p> + The old Fairthorn mare stretched her neck to its utmost length before she + bent it to drink, obliging Joe to lean forwards over her shoulder, to + retain his hold of the short rein. Jake, holding on to Joe, leaned with + him, and they waited in this painful posture till the mare slowly filled + herself from the stream. Finally she seemed to be satisfied; she paused, + snorted, and then, with wide nostrils, drank an equal amount of air. Her + old sides swelled; the saddle-girth, broken in two places long before, and + mended with tow-strings, suddenly parted, and Joe, Jake, saddle and all, + tumbled down her neck into the water. They scrambled out in a lamentable + plight, soused and dripping, amid the endless laughter of the company, and + were glad to keep to the rear for the remainder of the ride. + </p> + <p> + In Dr. Deane's house, meanwhile, there were great preparations for the + wedding-dinner. A cook had been brought from Wilmington, at an unheard-of + expense, and the village was filled with rumors of the marvellous dishes + she was to produce. There were pippins encased in orange-peel and baked; a + roasted peacock, with tail spread; a stuffed rock-fish; a whole ham + enveloped in dough, like a loaf of bread, and set in the oven; and a + wilderness of the richest and rarest pies, tarts, and custards. + </p> + <p> + Whether all these rumors were justified by the dinner, we will not + undertake to say; it is certain that the meal, which was spread in the + large sitting-room, was most bountiful. No one was then shocked by the + decanters of Port and Canary wine upon the sideboard, or refused to + partake of the glasses of foamy egg-nog offered to them from time to time, + through the afternoon. The bride-cake was considered a miracle of art, and + the fact that Martha divided it with a steady hand, making the neatest and + cleanest of cuts, was considered a good omen for her married life. Bits of + the cake were afterwards in great demand throughout the neighborhood, not + so much to eat, as to dream upon. + </p> + <p> + The afternoon passed away rapidly, with mirth and noise, in the adjoining + parlor. Sally Fairthorn found a peculiar pleasure in calling her friend + “Martha Barton!” whereupon Mark said,— + </p> + <p> + “Wait a bit, Martha, and you can pay her back. Daddy Fairthorn promised + this morning to give me a buildin' lot off the field back o' the corner, + and just as soon as Rudd's house is up, I'm goin' to work at mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Mark, do hush!” Sally exclaimed, reddening, “and before everybody!” + </p> + <p> + Miss Lavender sat in the midst, stately, purple, and so transformed that + she professed she no longer knew her own self. She was, nevertheless, the + life of the company; the sense of what she had done to bring on the + marriage was a continual source of inspiration. Therefore, when songs were + proposed and sung, and Mark finally called upon her, uproariously seconded + by all the rest, she was moved, for the last time in her life, to comply. + </p> + <p> + “I dunno what you mean, expectin' such a thing o' me,” she said. “Tears to + me I'm fool enough already, settin' here in purple and fine linen, like + the Queen o' Rome,—not that I don't like singin', but the contrary, + quite the reverse; but with me it'd be a squawk and nothin' else; and fine + feathers may make fine birds for what I care, more like a poll-parrot than + a nightingale, and they say you must stick thorns into 'em to make 'em + sing; but I guess it'll be t' other way, and my singin'll stick thorns + into you!” + </p> + <p> + They would take no denial; she could and must sing them a song. She held + out until Martha said, “for my wedding-day, Betsy!” and Gilbert added, + “and mine, too.” Then she declared, “Well, if I must, I s'pose I must But + as for weddin'-songs, such as I've heerd in my younger days, I dunno one + of 'em, and my head's pretty much cleared o' such things, savin' and + exceptin' one that might be a sort o' warnin' for Mark Deane, who knows?—not + that there's sea-farin' men about these parts; but never mind, all the + same; if you don't like it, Mark, you've brung it onto yourself!” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon, after shaking herself, gravely composing her face, and clearing + her throat, she began, in a high, shrill, piercing voice, rocking her head + to the peculiar lilt of the words, and interpolating short explanatory + remarks, to sing— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE BALLAD OF THE HOUSE-CARPENTER. + + “'Well-met, well-met, my own true-love!' +</pre> + <p> + “<i>She</i> says,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'Well-met, well-met, cried <i>he</i>; + For't is I have returned from the salt, salt sea, + And it's all for the love of thee!' + + “'It's I might ha' married a king's daughter fair,' +</pre> + <p> + “<i>He</i> goes on sayin',— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'And fain would she ha' married me, + But it's I have refused those crowns of gold, + And it's all for the love of thee!' +</pre> + <p> + “Then <i>she</i>,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'If you might ha' married a king's daughter fair,' + I think you are for to blame; + For it's I have married a house-carpentèr, + And I think he's a fine young man!' +</pre> + <p> + “So look out, Mark! and remember, all o' you, that they're talkin' turn + about; and he begins— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'If you'll forsake your house-carpentèr + And go along with me, + I'll take you to where the grass grows green + On the banks of the sweet Wil-lee!' + + “'If I forsake my house-carpentèr. + And go along with thee, + It's what have you got for to maintain me upon, + And to keep me from slave-ree?' + + “'It's I have sixteen ships at sea, + All sailing for dry land, + And four-and-twenty sailors all on board + Shall be at your command!' + + “She then took up her lovely little babe, + And she gave it kisses three; + 'Lie still, lie still, my lovely little babe, + And keep thy father compa-nee!' + + “She dressed herself in rich array, + And she walked in high degree, + And the four-and-twenty sailors took 'em on board. + And they sailed for the open sea! + + “They had not been at sea two weeks, + And I'm sure it was not three, + Before this maid she began for to weep, + And she wept most bitter-lee. + + “'It's do you weep for your gold?' cries he; + 'Or do you weep for your store, + Or do you weep for your house-carpenter + You never shall see any more?' + + “'I do not weep for my gold,' cries she, + 'Nor I do not weep for my store, + But it's I do weep for my lovely little babe, + I never shall see any more!' + + “They had not been at sea three weeks, + And I'm sure it was not four, + When the vessel it did spring a leak, + And it sank to rise no more!” + </pre> + <p> + “Now, Mark, here comes the Moral: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Oh, cruel be ye, sea-farin' men, + Oh, cruel be your lives,— + A-robbing of the house-carpenters, + And a-taking of their wives!” + </pre> + <p> + The shouts and laughter which greeted the conclusion of Miss Lavender's + song brought Dr. Deane into the room. He was a little alarmed lest his + standing in the Society might be damaged by so much and such unrestrained + merriment under his roof. Still he had scarcely the courage to reprimand + the bright, joyous faces before him; he only smiled, shook his head, and + turned to leave. + </p> + <p> + “I'm a-goin', too,” said Miss Lavender, rising. “The sun's not an hour + high, and the Doctor, or somebody, must take Mary Barton home; and it's + about time the rest o' you was makin' ready; though they've gone on with + the supper, there's enough to do when you get there!” + </p> + <p> + The chair rolled away again, and the bridal party remounted their horses + in the warm, level light of the sinking sun. They were all in their + saddles except Gilbert and Martha. + </p> + <p> + “Go on!” he cried, in answer to their calls; “we will follow.” + </p> + <p> + “It won't be half a home-comin', without you're along,” said Mark; “but I + see you want it so. Come on, boys and girls!” + </p> + <p> + Gilbert returned to the house and met Martha, descending the stairs in her + plain riding-dress. She descended into his open arms, and rested there, + silent, peaceful, filled with happy rest. + </p> + <p> + “My wife at last, and forever!” he whispered. + </p> + <p> + They mounted and rode out of the village. The fields were already + beginning to grow gray under the rosy amber of the western sky. The breeze + had died away, but the odors it had winnowed from orchard and meadow still + hung in the air. Faint cheeps and chirps of nestling life came from the + hedges and grassy nooks of bank and thicket, but they deepened, not + disturbed, the delicious repose settling upon the land. Husband and wife + rode slowly, and their friendly horses pressed nearer to each other, and + there was none to see how their eyes grew deeper and darker with perfect + tenderness, their lips more sweetly soft and warm, with the unspoken, + because unspeakable, fortune of love. In the breath of that happy twilight + all the pangs of the Past melted away; disgrace, danger, poverty, trial, + were behind them; and before them, nestling yet unseen in the green dell + which divided the glimmering landscape, lay the peace, the shelter, the + life-long blessing of Home. + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Story Of Kennett, by Bayard Taylor + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE STORY OF KENNETT *** + +***** This file should be named 8680-h.htm or 8680-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/8/6/8/8680/ + + +Text file produced by Charles Aldarondo, Tiffany Vergon, Michelle +Shephard, Charles Franks, and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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