Jasper County Democrat, Volume 6, Number 40, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 9 January 1904 — ALL FOR A TITLE; or THE BANKER’S WARD. [ARTICLE]

ALL FOR A TITLE; or THE BANKER’S WARD.

By ALBERT H. MODRICKER,

Author of

“John Q. Keiffer ft C 0.,” “ Won By Strategy,” “ The Tramp’s Stroke,” “No. 2,001,” Etc. Coprrieht. 1903. Bjr CatCAQO Nawsrsr** Umon.

CHAPTER XV. —(Continued.) j Encouraged by the doctor'* noble and | polite behavior, Beatrice accepted hie kind offer. In fact, at that moment ehe was unable to pay for hi* service*, as the money which she had brought’ with her had become exhausted long ago. “At present I accept your kind offer thankfully; but I ought to tell you a little secret —I am betrothed, and although I cannot cancel my debt ju*t now, iny future husband will gladly take upon himself this obligation.” Paul turned hi* face towards the window to conceal his disappointment. He had already pictured the hope of a happy domestic existence with her at his side; hut now it was suddenly shattered by Beatrice, though unintentionally. Bravely be battled against hie bitter fate, but resolved to render her the same assistance as heretofore. “Quite right, Miss Trevor. However, ■a long ns your betrothed is not here, you must confer this oflice upon me. We have become slightly acquainted,” he «dded, “and I hope you will not regard ma aa a rt ranger.” “No,” she answered. “That would not *nly be very unkind, but,unjust.” “Thank you! Will you please tell me how I can serve you?” “You would confer a great favor by suggesting some employment for me,” sha answered earnestly. “What! do you wish to seek work? Your nature is very little qualified to some in contact with the rough world.” “At present I may appear disqualified for wdrk; but you will be surprised when you nee me fully restored.” “I ardently wish your early convalescence, dear lady,” he said, adding: "Doe* your affianced know of this—that you are here?” Bitter tears came to her eyes. “Not yet,” she lamented, “but I hope he will know very soon. I received some ▼ery discouraging news to-day. I sent « letter to him, but he has not received It” “Well, he may come in person. I would lik • to see you happy.” “We a.-t not permitted to marry because I am not of age,” ehe said, confidentially. “Perhaps I had better apeak frankly. Please listen. We must wait thre# yet,r* before I can marry, and, until that time, I must earn my own livelihood. I have a guardian, but I wish to forget h!s very existence," she urged vehemently. “What would I not undergo in order to b* of any service to you? Poor lady, yon have chosen a hard lot, but do not forget that after rain comes sunshine. Your situation will be bettered, and happy is ha who can procure for you a joyful existence.” “Yost we will be happy together. You will he Lis friend, and he will be thankful to you for your kinduess. And how Is It with my prospect of getting work? Oan ypu not possibly suggest something?” “I will take It Into earnest consideration. Have you attained any experience —* talent —In any particular line—art. Miss Trevor?” “I am a fair pianist and can sing." "Perhaps you would like to assist in musical entertainments?” "Mr. Debano, I believe I could hardly Utter one note, embarrassed as I am; besides, some one may recognize me by my wnLnn. “ TWCB* “Then nothing remains but to work at home,” he said, laughingly. “Surely you pomeos a skilled band at embroidering, or, perhaps, can paint?” “Yes, yea," She quickly assured. "Well, as soon as your health permits, I will get you some orders,” and he resolved to give a few himself. “Rsally, really, can it be arranged?” ■he asked, almost In childish glee at the audden change In her hopes. “I must •arnestly otrive to take care of myself end get enough together to pay my debts.” “Would you please accept a little loan In advance for some of the work I want done for myself?” inquired Paul, blushing like a school boy. “No, no, dear doctor; borrowing dims fho purity of friendship. First I will Cmy hand at painting—you still promto get the orders?” “I will fulfill my promise* to-morrow,” ha replied, adding: “But where are the aervauta?” “Oh, that Is another secret,” die asserted, mirthfully. “Jufla and Kenneth intend to merry In a few days and me making the necessary preparations.” “Ah! I had missed them. Well, well «—a very nice young man. I will present him with a watch as a wedding gift, so that he can keep go<fl track of the minutes while away from your aide." Thus speaking, he withdrew from the plain but cleanly kept room.

CHAPTER XVI. The ground was covered with mow, and when the eon shone again through the gray clouds, treee and shrubs sent forth myriads of glittering crystalline sparks. Once more the golden rays tried to banish the slow perishing process of as tore; but the dark manes in the sky dimmed the sun and white flakes again commenced to cover the foliage. It was Christmas. The bells sent out their metallic tones far into the country fat accord with the Joyful voices of the merry lads and lasses of the village. Victor did not envy their merriment, though his heavy laden heart could not partidpats In their happy songs. Reminiscences began to emerge before Us ssind. Alas! bow often had ha enjoyed Christmas by the aide of the girl whom he loved so unspeakably. It was • dream. All the blissfulness of s reciprocal love had vanished—alone with his eonemnlng thoughts, be entered upon the beautiful sacred Christmas; not one word efoMees ceetdjie hear frembw-Mpo-SimS sf'tovn With a heavy sigh, ha

rose and made his toilet; then a low knock was heard and his dear old mother’s face appeared at the door. “My dear son, I want to be the first to congratulate you upon leaving your bed. Merry Christmas, Victor,” she added in a seemingly happy voice, but through tear bedimmed eyes. “Mother, my happiness la gone. Christmas doea not possess any cheerfulness for me any more,” he made answer, qnlte despondent. “Nobody can fill the aching void in my heart; not even tine most pure and angelic being on earth. I loved Beatrice to the utmost —I love her yet—always!” “Your sorrow is yet too recent. Time will change your heart, I hope,” she responded warmly. “If it should. It would require a great deal of time at least —perhaps never. I will go to work as soon aa I am able, which will help me to forget, perhaps. The world is large and I hope there is still n place left in it for me, though I am branded a thief. But now let us go; the bell has already rung for breakfast.” Mrs. Raymond conducted her son, for the first time in many weeks, to the table.

“Well, well,” exclaimed Count Edmund, joyfully. “Allow me to congratulate yon upon your recovery.” "Thanks! It is high time," replied Victor. “Besides, I have greatly impeded on your hospitality, and ought to come to a definite conclusion.” At these words Edith’s fnce turned pale, which was only perceived by Victor’s mother, who entertained a faint hope for the girl. “Do not be in too great haste,” interposed the old host, cheerily. “Why do you wish to leave In such a hurry? We are all very well pleased at being able to enjoy your company.” "Your kindness, dear count, makes me feel wretched. And is it not better to banish my gloomy thoughts by labor? What is your opinion, Miss Edith?” “I would propose that you try your strength by a walk to the church before I reply. The sky is clear, the distance Is not very great-and you can en*joy a little fresh air.” Accordingly, after breakfast, they were noon on their w>ay to the chapel. Never before had a sermon made such a deep impression upon Edith, while that morning's walk was destined to be indelibly stamped upon her memory like an illuminating morning star. And Victor? Was he also conscious of the sweat momenta? or did he think of another girl, who, he fancied, bowed her head in the hymn book in that pew yonder in the old church at Easton, or did he attentively follow the mininter’s words? Gertrude Stratmore was the eldest daughter of the count. She possessed gracious manners, a noble attitude, and a singularly fine form. The merry smile which played around her mouth on that Christmas morning was increased aa she noticed a light carriage ntop at the gate of the caatle and a young man of some thirty yeans alight. At his entrance her face flushed and her hand was longer retained than common courtesy demanded. “Welcome to Stratmore Castle!” exclaimed the counteea, extending her hand to the arrival, adding: “I see you did not fear the long distance.” “Oh, no. My mind was occupied by the thought* of your kindness, which, consequently, saved me from monotony,” he rejoined gallantly, and Nilssen’s look glided upon Gertrude’* beaming face. “Aa the morning is charming the young ladies should enjoy a stroll." r Gertrude and Constance gladly consented, and by mutual agreement the party followed a road which led past Dr. Ralston’s residence. The doctor took the place of his brother, Col. Ralston, and accompanied Baron Nilssen and the two ladies. "Now I will have my quiet wlnh fulfilled, Constance," said the doctor, his voice as happy as his face. “I never could have enjoyed Christmas without being in your presence.” "Console yourself, Anton,” she said, softly. “Do I not love you, and is not that all sufficient?” “Yes, I realize It, and will not envy the baron any further," he assured, pressing her hand. “But look at our companions.” pointing to Gertrude and Nilssen; “they seem to understand one another. And how la our patient programing. I am Immensely interested in him; bis fate arouses my deepest interest.” “Finely. He is a noble man, and yet I wish ho had never entered our house. He la loved too ardently by one. Poor Edith, she perceives the misfortune her heart endures, and yet she does not possess the power to save herself.” “Gertrude, a happy star, or, I might better say, your mother’s kindly Invitation, has brought us together to-day,” Baron Nilssen explained to the girl by his aide, bowing and taking her hand. “For a long time I have been wishing for a proper opportunity to converse with yon alone. Oan yon suffer my presence, dear Gertrude?” She shyly averted her face. “Dear Gertrude,” he continued, “I am so lonesome at Oakdale. Certainly I have many friend* and receive numerous invitations, but company doe* not have any attractions for me unless I can have it in my own home. I am longing for domestic life, of which I have been deprived since my father’s demise. Gertruds! corns to me; you will bring light and sunshine Into my deserted home. Will yon occupy H aa my wife?" Although the did not say a word, her features were so happy that he felt greatly encouraged. “Dear Oertnsde, may I regard year silane* as an equivalent to a ‘YaaF Oh, Gertrude, only please aay a low ’Yes’ and I will be satisfied.” “Yaa, I love you,” ah* oakl ahyly. “I lor* yen, Mr. Nilssen, and I am happy.”

“Then yon moat begin by addressing me as Lawrence, not Mr. Nilssen.” “Very well. Lawrence sounds much nicer.” I “That’s right, sweetheart.” Neither Count Edmund Stratmore nor Baron Nilssen found it convenient to postpone the wedding for a length of time, and it was scheduled to take place early in the spring. CHAPTER XVII. Whilst Raymond, though sick at heart, was permitted to spend Christmas surrounded by parents, friends, wealth and luxury, Beatrice passed the day lonesome and in gbject poverty, almost. Kenneth and Julia had married. They hath routed three rooms and had reserved, the best one for Beatrice, which they divided into two compartment* by meant of a curtain. The front part was to serve Beatrice as a parlor, the other as sleeping room. Julia being greatly attached to her former mistress, dispensed wkh many of her ornaments in order to make the latter’* rooms as cheerful a# possible. As Kenneth had managed to secure a good position on the police force their situation was a little more secure and comfortable. On the day following their marriage the young couple conducted Beatrice to thpir new abode. Beatrice’s eyes glided to the cheerful fire burning in the hearth, then to the curtains, the carpet and the rug before the sofa. Although the furnishings were not aa elegant or rich as those she had been accustomed to in Marsden’s house, every effort had been made to render the rooms as cheerful and comfortable as their limited means permitted. Here it waa that Beatrice passed Christmas, and it was with a grateful smile that she looked upon her faithful Julia. "How do you like our idea of dividing the room?” asked Julia, expectantly. “We thought that yon would like to have a room at your own disposal, although your presence will always be welcome in our own. You can work and do your writing tft the little table there by the window, and we hope you will not feel too discouraged while you wait for Mr. Raymond to escort you to his home aa his wife.” A low sob burst from Beatrice. “Julia,” she began, “I am very thankful but unhappy, and if I do not receive some tidings from Mr. Raymond very soon, I shall feel it my duty to depart for Easton myself.” “I could never consent, dear lady.” “Nevu*theless, I have resolved to go —I muit do so. Of course I must first earn enough rnqney to defray the traveling expenses, then I shall depart and endeavor to solve this mysterious silence.” “Please consider the danger. Miss Alberson,” admonished Julia. “Marsden might see and recognize you.” “I will travel at night, and, arriving there, go direct to Gen. Raymond, fromwham I expect to receive a hearty welcome,” and her face brightened visibly, at the thought of the chance of meeting Victor again. “Yea, but, first of all, you must be there —and to travel alone! I can hardly bear the idea. Suppose you should be recognised?” “That would be terrible, indeed, but then this suspense and anxiety is also dreadful. I will try to disguise myself —at least put on a heavy veil, and then nobody can recognize me. Are you satisfied now, JuHa?” “No, not quite. Miss Alberson. I will only /eel relieved when you have safely returned. However, let us first consult Kenneth. By . the way, have you anj. relative* there save Mr. Marsden?” “What do you mean, Julia? Even if I had, how could that concern Mr. Lath rap?” “I don’t know, but he claims to have seen a lady who bore a remarkable resemblance to you. He could not ascertain who it was. She was escorted from the Hotel De Monde.by an old gentleman. Later he met her again, this time coming from St. Paul’s Cathedral, and he swears he saw Count. Bozell at her side.” “Count Bozell!” exclaimed the girl, terrified. “Oh, if he is in not safe a moment. No, no; he must have been mistaken.” "He will not admit that he is mistaken. He would have taken the girl for you, Miss Alberson, wer* he not aware you were at home.” (To be continued.!