Saturday Evening Mail, Volume 6, Number 17, Terre Haute, Vigo County, 23 October 1875 — Page 6

THE MAIL

A PAPER FOR THE PEOPLE.

THE OLD VA GA DOND'SSTOIi Y.

BY n. M. RKOVTXK.

*}ut in the Ix^owly strict, Under (be pitlleMl sky. »v Homeless and weary and woru,

My bungO'^oKondl! KorMkr-n and wrrtchfd and sad, Mr dog vm trtie alone, And yet but an hour ago

We quarreled over a bone!

A* I Journey along the ay, With ragged and dirty clothes, Th« naucy gam Ins revile,

Laugh and mock at my woes! The elder people deride With an air of saintly grace, And Mrornfiilly shut the'lxr

In the old vagabond'* lac I Ho It was all of my life, Though I wonder often why I've se«-iiied wullv out of place,

A ml only w« t!tiy to die! Those that I lov«d were false, And my fond hopes paused away Cunning av'riee, fawning, sleek,

Marie me an ea*y prey

Yet long, long years ago, There was one who loved me well. Butth* tempter en me—her way of shame

Was the way that leads to hell! After that my life was dark, And I followed the wa she led, Till my heart was pierced by moans

Of my starving child for bread!

What followed seemed like a dream— Into the street I rt«l— Jn a bakery door I stood, (ilared at the kwvm ol bread An a dog snaps at a crust,

I took one—turned to go— .And thebakt-r's clutch on'niy throat Wa* loose*! by a fearful blow I 3 was mad. I think.'bnt I lied,

With a wild and Joy ftil cry in ray hand was lh« loaf of bread My little one should not die! And I smiled as I saw her eat,

As I m'ver shall smile again: Tb«'V dragged me away to Jail, With curses, blows and pain! Tried and condemned and linprlsot-edl

I worked like a galley »lavef White my child in a Christian land, Htarved Into a pauper's grave! When they opened the prison doors,

And set me once more free, I wandered al»out the world Not caring where 1 might be!

Wherever I 11 re or sleeV, Nobody care* or knows! Nor, as I hobble along, \V,h'Tv the old vngafjond goes! •There's none to Ijc kind to me now,

No r»-*t for my *»ry feet, And I beg my bread an I can— A vagabond In the street!

Abused nnd hated, reviled, I'm sure, as I thought to-dny. I er»-|t Into life while »od

Wn* looking the other way! OuMn the shelterless street, To wnnderuntil I die! wonder It life's a crime.

And death a desolate lie?

JUSTIN HARLEY.

A ROMANCE OF OLI) VIRGINIA.

IIY JOHN I'-STKN COOKK,

Author of "lr. Vandyke," "Hurry of Eagle's Nest," "The Virginia Comedians," Ae.

CHAPTER XIII.

Judgo Bland dkl what might have 1con expected—ho Invited Justin Harloy to conio and dine at Blandfield, with bis friend, and moot his old acquaintances of tho neighborhood.

Harley would have refused, hut it was impossible. Ho replied that it would give him groat pleasuae, nnd,on tho day appointed, ho nnd St. I,cger proceed» iu tho Huntsdon ehariot to Blandfield. A down gentlemen of tho neighborhood met them cordially expressed thoir pleasure at seeing Harloy at homo ugnin after so long an absence welcomed Mr. St. lieger Virginia nnd, uving performed this social duty, proceeded to the moro important work of tho dtfo'—dinlng. In Virginia this is eeremonv of somo importance—not eating, simply, lntt tho interchange, in addition, of the amenities of friendly intercourse. Wlion, at twilight, tho* guests rose, cheerful and philanthropic, from tho excellent e'nrot and tho bountiful repast which had preceded it, the kindly nud rational festivities or tho day cuiutinated.

St. liOgor had taken Miss Evelyn Bland in to dimier, nnd had made himself agreeable. They were now chatting over the award, ami talking—with much oniet laughter mingled with the talk—of England nnd Virginia.

Your friend. Mr. Harloy, has just re turned, I belloyo?" said Evulyu. Yes."

After a very long absence Many years ami now I suppose he will settle down and marry," said St, l.egu\ "though ho does not seem to enjoy tho society of your sex much, Miss Bland.

What a monster!" Is he not Hut at least he never indulges in harsh or even critical commenta. For him wouteu seem, dimply, not to exist."

Worse nnd worse, sir. \Tc ''an endure anything sooner than indilToronee."

Harley. I think, has had some disnppointment, and he Is the sort of man, with *11 his affectation of phlegm, to Uke such thing* a* grand sertau, Mi»s llland."

By which you mean. I presume, that love-dlsapp»lntrnont Is not, in your estimation, so werlons a matter?"

Why should It be?" I reply by another French phrase, Mr. St. f-eg^r—ceta depend," laughed the voung lady.

True but what is so irrational as to break one's heart atxntt a woman Now Harley is thoroughly good fellow. No man was ever braver or truer, or moro generous and whole-souled. Well, don't you think. Miss llland, that there is itomething quite unreasonable in a man of that description allowing his life to Ik» wrecked for a pair of blue or black ey««?"

Yen," Mid Evelyn, "and, if I were a man. I should not permit any woman to aadden me,"

Who know* said St. Ieger. laughing. "Men always grow absurd when thoir feelings are involved."

Is it your experience, Mr. St. Leger?*' Mine* Not In the least. I have •never cared for any woman in my life, and. if I were not conversing with a lady, should add that I don't think I ever Khali."

Evelyn laughed her low, musical laugh, and said— I shall repeat your own words, sir— HrAntonwrw.*'"

St. t^eger's laughter echoed her own. lie turned his head slightly, fixed his handsome eyes upon his companion, and said:

I ask nothing bettor then to have ntn« ©arthly angel mobe carel" MLm Evelyn Bland cart h«r eyes down, pulled a late U*-roec apart, leaf bjr I«wr, raised th« long lasbos, oast lUtUnc glance at St. Ltfjer, and murmured!

I Amt It would be lost time tor any oae to att«mpt so bopeioas an oodor--.s::,! s, I

Evelyn, my dear," said the voice of Judge Bland from the portico, "you must come and sing some of my songs.

And obedient to, though mourning over, the paternal request, Evelyn went in, sat down at the harpsichord, and her fine, fresh voice rose in serene sweetness above the political discussions on the portico.

Harley and St. Leger stood near her, also two or three yuung gentlemen of the neighborhood who wore among the young lady's "killed and wounded" in numerous engagements. Harley found himself enthralled. In spite of himself, by the magical voice, ana listened with avidity—for he was a passionate lover of music. A slight color came to his cheek, and turning, at the end of her song, tho girl's eyes tnet his own, in an electric glance which said more than any words.

Evelyn rose from the harpsichord, distributed a smile to the hapless victims of her charms—namely, the gentlemen characterized as tho "killed and wound' ed"—and went back toward the porttoo, Harlev never knew how it hapoened. but a 'moment afterward the small hand was resting upon his arm, they were on the lawn, and she was saying:

Io you know I liave just been talking about you with your friend, Mr. St, Lcger

The words were uttered with the gay est nonchalance, and Kvelyn looked up intolier companion's face with a some what satirical smile.

Talklngof mef" said Harley. "What can Miss Bland find to interest her in such a humdruuj subject?"

Humdrum! You-t Mr. Harley?" And Miss Evelyn uttered a light laugh.

You nlust certainly have forgotten all about rustic society, sir, and its weaknesses. Your return is an oppoitunity for gossip." 'That is not very flattering—is it But I suppose I ought to regard it as a proof of your interest." "Of mine? Well I fear I am some thing of a gossip."

Her tone changed quickly, and she said: But surely I should take an intorest in Mr. Harlev, since I owe my life to him. It frightens mo to think of that terrible day!"

I would forfcet it. Happily we are both alive, and enjoying this fine eve ning."

Evelyn looked up at him. I)o you enjoy it Assuredly."

And lifo, too? That may sound like a verv singular question, but you knowVhat Mr. St. Loger says? savs that something has saddened you But I sun very intrusive."

Harlev shook his head. Your voice is too friendly and hon ost to appear intrusive." "Thank you, Mr. Harlev. I assure you appreciate tho compfimont, and you encourage mo to say still more."

More?'

"To ask you pl*in question." Ask it," said Harley, calmly. Why do you dislike our sex Harley did not reply for a moment then he said:

What reason can you have for at tributing that feeling to me?" "Common report. Is tho report so very untrue? You are said to despise us. Do you?"

Tho question was a home one, and it was impossible for Harley to evade it. He hesitated, his face became extremely sad, and he looked at his companion for a moment intently. 1 lo then said, in an earnest., almost solemn tone:

Miss Bland, if you knew mo better vou would know that I despise no one 1 dare not. This conversation has taken a singular direction, and I find myself speaking of my own character and affairs. I wilJ speak still more plainly that there may bo no misunderstanding Mv life has not boon a very happy one. and I will not conceal the fact that nn at tachntont formed when I was a young man Is ono of tho causes of my gloom This attachment was vorv strong, andit wna misplaced. For the person who —deceived mo I bavo, however, no bitterness or contompt, or any feeling but pity. I could not have. She has been dead for many years."

Evelvn's head sank. The simplo and earnest tones of Harlev's voice went to her heart.

I am very, very sorry I spoke of this. I did not mean—you must pardon my foolish and inconsiderate sjee»-h, sir."

There Is nothing to patdon, Miss Bland," Ilarley said. "I was aware of the reports in reference to myself and my sentiments, and would avoid them if "I could. I am growing old, and as we go on in life, we crave human regard and svmnathv. I am disenchanted, iH?rhaps—It is my* misfortune. Tho night is dump. I/Ctusgoln."

Evelyn permitted herself to be eon ducted''to the house without a word. She had commenced tho conversation in a love of raillery, and with her mast coquettish smiles—she finished by coloring, looking serious, nnd having'nothing to say. And there was no opportunity of rallying after her defeat. Ilarley reminded St. I*eger of their proposed foxhunt on tho next morning, and they soon afterward took their leave and rode homeward.

Your friend Miss Bland Is really a beauty!" said St. Lem»r. Yes— I suppose sne would bo regard ed as beautiful."

You suppose! Come, my aged hermit, have you ©yes in your head? There's no room for supposition In so plain a matter. She's a beauty—a fairy! For that matter, everybody Is handsome in Virginia, I own, to the little girls in the huts of the hunters and trap* pera! Think of little Fanny! And now you give me a type of tho other racial class. In Miss Evelyn Bland—this wonder

Yoa are enthusiastic." "Iam in love!" Then vou will make me a good visit."

I certainlv shall, if you'll only be a good boy, and go back to Williamsburg with tne, to look in on bis Excellency, if he has returned, and procure a few article* of costume."

I will do-so with the greatest pleasure, my dear Si. I-®g*r. Let us defer the fox-hunt, and to-morrow.0 "So be it. Iam away from the tiresome scenes of London have no guardduty to perform as a member of that odious company of Blues. I am abird-of-pasaage, free to go or atav—am in excellent quarters, with deer-hunting, arood dinners, bright eyes, an old (Viena, and my favorite occupation of doing nothing to charm me: why, then, should I rebel against fate, throw from me the jor of lira, nnd polltelv decline this moat obliging Invitation 1 will not, I shall remain here one month, at least! Let us eat and drink, without looking forward to dying to-morrow Iet us enjoy ourselves, my son!"

Harley actually am '.-hi as be looked at tli* young man. You area wlndfkll, with yonr laughter, Bt. Leger, to a glum old fellow like mvself. At your order*, my d«ar rtiand, we will set out for W llUamaburg to-morrow." lood!" "In tb*» coach or on lKmebsck Which do you prefer r* "lior»cl*ck & Ut&tsucd Urnes'."

(ounging

TERRE HAUTE SATURDAY EVENING JMLAJ.1*

Mv own preference and so all is arranged. I can offer you a fine ridinghorse, and the weather is superb."

An hour after sunrise, on the next morning, they were galloping toward Williamsburg, determined to lose no time, and return to Huntadon on the same night.

CHAPTER XIV.

X' A QtJBKB ADVKRTCRE. *1 The two friends entered Williamsburg at full gallop, and stopped at the Raleigh Tavern, where they delivered their horses to a groom, and proceeded on foot to the Governor's palace, an extensive edifice, in a small park, ornamented with Scottish lindens, with two guardhouses flanking the entrance to the

[rounds. Some men in uniform were in front of one of these barracks, and St. Leger inquired if the Governor had returned. The man touchod his hat, and replied, in an English accent, that ho had not. Thereupon the friends returned to the Raleigh, where St. Leger had taken up his lodgings on his arrival in Virginiaj and having ordered dinner In his private apartment, the young Englishman proceeded to pack his travelling valise. servant from Huntsdon was to take charge of it. These details having been attended to, the friends sat down to dine.

The host waited upon them, or rather superintended the meal, in honor of bis distinguished guests. He also joined respectfully, and with deferential cordiality, in the conversation. "We have not had the pleasure of seeing j'ou again, Mr. Harley, sine© j'our arrival," said mine host."

Harley replied that lie had been upon his estate. A very fine one! I have passed your house, sir—knew your father: he was a very good friend to me. And Colonel Hartright, (another good friend have you seen him of late, sir?"

Not very recently." I think lie dropped sometliingon his last visit."

Dropped something A key, sir." And mine host drew from his pocket tho small key which bad fallen from Colonel Hartright's waistcoat pockety as ho retired to rest after his conversation with Harley. The latter took it, and lookod at it.

This was dropped, you saj', by Colonel Hartright?" Yes, sir I am quite sure of it. This room was, as you will remember, the one which be slept in, and it had not been occupied for a long time before. Tho key was found and brought to me, on the morning after ho slept in it, and must bo his property."

Well, return it, my friend." I should liko to do so but the Colonel never visits tho capital."

I will ta'ce charge of it, if j-ou desire." I would be truly glad, sir," said mine host, with a bow, delivering the key to Harley as ho spoke.

I will send it to Colonel Hartright to-tnortow." It was slipped negligently into the speaker's pocket the dinner proceeded and ended, and the friends mounted thoir horses amid the stnilos of mine host and tho hostler's golden smiles.

Forward cried St. Leger. Ho put spurs to his thoroughbred. Harley followed, and they left Williamsburg as they had entered it, at a gallop.

The sun was sinking as they crossed tho broad expanse of James river on tho large, unwieldy ferry-boat, and sank from sight whilst they were still some miles from Huntsdon.

Night will overtake us," said Ilarley, "but I think I can lead you by a more direct road, which will shorten our ride a mile or two. This is the turn-in."

Holed the way into a narrow road, debouching upon tho main highway the road mounted a hill, plunged into a tract of forest, wound up another hill, descended, and conducted them to the banks of a stream, whero a country hridgo had evidently stood, but was washed away.

Harley stopped, looking rather blank. Tho stream was swollen, with heavilywooded banks, and seemed impassable. St. Ixger burst out laughing.

Soo what comes of following a Jack-o'-lanthorn liko you, Ilarley 1 You nro a perfect Will-o'-the-wisp, ignis fatuus, and misloatler of tho young! I 3-ield myself to jour elderly guidance, and we are stopped by this torrent!"

Bad enough," said Harley. "I thought the bridge was standing. But we shall And a crossing."

He went along tho bank of the stream looking, as well as the darkness would permit, for some road or path, and at ast discovered what seemed to bo track used by cattle.

Here Is our crossing," he said^

51

Ho pushed his horse into tho stream, which only corno to the saddle St. Leger followed, and they emerged on the opposite bank, and followed a path .somewhat similar to tho one they had first discovered. It led them deeper and deeper into the woods, wound on interminably, and at length, the adventurous and unfortunate traveleis awoke to the consciousness that they were completely lost.

Here's a breeze of good fortune a pair of babes In the wood cried St. Leger, in defiance of grammar.

An nbotninable blunder in me lo leave the high-road." sajd Harlev. "Abominable!" echoed his friend.

You employ too mild a phrase! It was criminal—a breach of hospitality a wanton betrayal of youth and inexperience, confiding in supposed age and wisdom 1 I ain hungry. You are my host. Where is your boasted Virginia hospitality

At Huntsdon. where we shall be, I hope, In an hour," Harley said, smiling. "I see a light yonder, and shall find from some one the road we ought to follow."

A light! Most joyful of beacons P' And the gay St. Leger pushed on beside Harley. They emerged from the woods, crossed a broad field, and soon found themselves near the friendly light.

The light which had guided them issued from ono of those buildings of hewn logs used in Virginia for smoking tobacco, which is hung upon poles, stretching across, at the distance of several (bet from the ground, above the ftrea. This tobacco-house had evidently been disused, and a glance showed the travelers that a company of strollingjlayers (then not frequently met with the colonies) had taken possession of it for the purpose of giving a rustic reprtsentati«n. Biasing candles were stuck np around the interior a course curtain had been suspended across one end by means of pegs inserted between the log*, and a motley crowd of the plainest class stood gaxing, with wondering eye*, upon the performers. A dancing dog and a goat taught to walk upon his hind-less, mingled, in a free and easy way, with the performanow and each new feat of dog and goat, or jest of actor or actress, was bailed with bursts of ghter.

Well," said St. Leger, "things are trowing romantic sod interesting! (trolling plavers!—tramps! Hen-roost thieras mingling petty Larceny with the British drama for a living! I am not hurgrj, my dear Haclfy isj lateral

is excited my curiosity is aroused I propose to attend the performance!" St. Leger dismounted, threw his bri die over the bough of a tree, and went to the door, fallowed by Harley. They entered unperoeived—the door-keeper having become the ehief performer, in •lew, probably, of the feet that no other spectators were likely to arrive.

St. Leger bad entered, and Harley was on the threshold, with the ftill light of the blazing candles thrown upon him, when the woman who personated the main female character of the piece turned round, fixed her eyes, upon him, stopped, turned white under rouge, her eyes flashed in tho pale face, and she stood perfectly motionless, gazing at him.

Harley was nearly as pale. An expression of the utmost wonder had coine to his face, and he looked fixedly at the woman. Sho seemed unable to sustain the leok her breath grew short, and turning round, she said something to tho manager, who rather sullenly ordered the curtain to be dropped. It fell quiet!v, and the sullen liiaividual appeared in front of it.

Ladies and gentlemen," he said, "I am sorry to state that the queen of tho drama is taken suddenly unwell the performance cannot continue. Ladies and gentlemen, I have the honor to bid you farewell!"

Having made this superb announcement, the manager disappeared amid hostilo murmurs, during which Harley and St. Leger mounted their horses. A rustic individual, of whom they made inquiries, directed them on their way, and they were soon in a road with which Harley was acquainted, leading to Huntsdon", which they reached about nine o'clock.

As they entered, St. Legor looked fixedly at Harley. What is the matter?'' he said. f|

The matter?" You aro as pale as ashes, Harley. Well," said Ilarley, speaking in a tone of great agitation, "I ought to be. I have seen a gnost!"

A ghost!" I am merely jesting but 110,1 am not jesting in the least. I repeat, friend, that I have seen to-night, yonder in that miserable assemblage of tramps, a human being who I thought died many years ago. The explanation of all this would be strange perhaps I may toll you everything some day, but not tonight. I am moved, moro so than I show, plainly as you must see my agitation. Yes, you shall know everything —atl about me and my past life. I hate this mystery! But nut to-night! lam at present quite unnerved!"

CHAPTER XV. THE

KKY

AGAIN.

Harley came down the next morning perfectly calm and composed. Ho was the first to alludo to tho incident of the night before.

An od'« adventure," ho said, quietly. I mean tho encounter with ourstroll-ing-player friends. You seo that it is not necessary to go as far as Bohemia or Hungary to meet with picturesque tram «s and social Arabs.

Not in the least," returned St. Leger. "Your friend the actress was a sin-gular-looking person—thin, pale, rouged —but handsomo onco, 1 should say."

Yes." You know her, and thought her dead, it seo:11s?"

Yes."

Tho tone of Ilarley's voice was perfectly calm as he uttered this one word, anrtSt. Loger looked attentively at him. The look was lost labor. Harlev's face was a blank, and he added, in an indifferent tone:

Every man has a romantic chapter in his life—something out of the ordinary routine. This person is tho heroine of tho chiper in mine. When I am more at leisure than at present, 1113' dear St. Leger, I shall perhaps indict upon yon an explanation of all this. I am somewhat busy to-day. You say you propose to visit our good friends at iilandfTeld. I am g»ing with Saunders, my manager, nnd I'accoon to examine the swamp, with a view to my draining scheme. I am afraid tho work will be more difficult than I supposed. A competost person, whom I counted upon, in tho neighborhood, and sent for, is hopelessly ill. I shall write to-day, to pro-! cwro| if possible, an accomplished engineer, whom I knew in Lincolnshire."

St. Leger quietly acquiesced in tho change of topic. lie was too well-bred to pursuo the subject of the strollers and the woman, but ho throught all the more for his silence, and was still busy with the problem as ho rode toward Blandfield, after leaving Harley, who

Kocoeded

apjfjai

with Saundors toward the

ack water. The young man spent a delightful day at Blandfield, listening to Evelyn's songs, and what was equally dangerous, to her low and musical voice. This young lady was by no means what wo iiowcall a flirt, but sho had a native propensity to make herself fascinating, and use her large eyes as an artillerist uses his cannon—for the destruction of the enemy, the said enemy being man. St. Leger, therefore, found the hours slip away very delightful), thought his companion more and more charming, and It wns something like a shock, and not an agreeable one, when Miss Clementina sailed in, agitnting her fan, and looking arently for a book. elj'n then acted after the fashion of young "ladies. She smiled sweetly, rose, bad forgotten something, glided from the room, Miss Clementina subsiding casually into a seat, and opening conversation. This conversation changed from the weather to the news, and from the news to Justin Harley, who must have been very lonely in his great house,, Miss Clementina supposed, before the arrival of Mr. St. Leger. "Necessarily," was tho young man's response "and I have been giving him some good advice—to marry. Why has he never married

Are yoti quite sure that be has not been married?" said Miss Clementina, -with her sweetest smile.

Married! Harley! It is not poasi ble!" Well, I do not assert anything upon the subject, Mr. St, Leger but there was some rumor to that effect once, was there not But you cannot know."

Married !w Now do not give me as your authority for any such report, I beg. I really know nothing about it. Poor fellow! I hope he was not." "Then you regard marriage as an undesirable state of being, my dear madam

For women, at least, Mr. St. Leger. It is wrtainly the greatest blunder they commit. Ikm't you think so

And having embarked in the discussion of her favorite subject, Miss Clementina grew animated, waved her fan with persuasive eloquence, and declaimed. She was still engaged in this pl(*»* ing occupation, when Judge lUaod came in and relieved the sufferer. The conversation took another direction the visit finally came to an end, and St. Leger rode back to Huntsdon, pondering upon the mysterious blnt« of Miss Clementina in reference to Ilarley.

Married!" he said to him*s!£ "Was Harley ever married? can saareelv believe it sod yet that Incident witn the handsome actress Ja laoomprfheiwi-

ble. Can she be Mrs. Harley? What an idea! And yet—humph 1" St. l^ger knit his brows and ponder0(1*

The worst of it is, I can't ask Justin. How is it possible to go to a gentleman, at whose house yeu are visiting, and say, »My dear friond, will you be good to inform me, for the gratification of ray enriosity, whether you did or did not contract a marriage, at one period of your life, with a fair lady, now become a strolling player, for theamnsement ef ploughmen in barns aud tobacco houses?"

That would be a betiae,and decidedly low-bred that is impossible! At present I am in a maze, and don't know what to think. Harley says he will tell me overything some day. Until then

What are you muttering there, my dear St. Leger said the voice of Harley. That personage bad ridden close to him, on tnesoft, sandy road, unheard and unpercoived.

I aai soliloquizing," St. Leger returned, with a light laugh, "on the weakness of great men. I am told you have been to your Potine marsh

Yos, and explored it thoroughly from end to end. The land is rich beyond words, and can be rendered ara-

"Lucky fellow! As a younger son, and consequently penniless, I look upon you with respectful envy. But your friend the poacher—the man of the swamp?"

I nave ceased to believe in him." You saw hitn, however, did vou not, on that night bunt?"

I thought I saw something but nothing is moro deceptive than a moving shadow. A large fish swimming 011 the surfaco, and Tnaking a ripple, may have produced the illusion. It is certain, at least, that no one lives in the marshes. I went through tho whole tract pretty thoroughly, with Puccoon and Saunders."

Well, the mind of the excellent Puc00011 must be relieved. You saw his pretty daughter "Yes—^a little boauty."

1

"Isshe not?" They were at the house." What a castellated edifice!" said St. Legor, as they went in. "A door as big as a cathedral: a lock as huge as a flagstone and look at that key! That was not made to be carried in one's waisteoat pocket!"

Tho words key and waistcoat pocket seemed to suggest something to Ilarley. He stopped, put his hand into the poeket of his waistcoat, and took out tho key which the landlord oftlio Raleigh tavern had entrusted to him for delivery to Colonel Hartright.

I had quito lost sight of this," he said, "and must not forget in tho morning to send it, as I promised, to Colonel Hartright."

On the next day ho enclosed tho key In a note of a low lines, explaining how it had come into his possession, aud sent it to Colonel Hartrignt. That gentleman returned his thanks in a communication of similar length, which seemed to have been subjected to tho process of freezing.

Then Ilarley forgot all about th« matter, to which I10 attached no importance.

But tho key was to unlock a curious dark closet in his life.

CHAPTER XVI. AT THK KNDOF A MONTH.

A month after these sconcs, Henry St. Leger was still at Huntsdon. The last days of autumn had come the splendor of tho forests had faded to a russet brown, nnd tho chill winds preluded winter.

This inouth had brought about somo unexpected events. St. I^egcr had gone now nnd then to Blandfield then more frequently then nearly overy day and ono day he camo away with a decidedly melancholy and crestfallen expression of countenance, which plainly indicated a catastrophe.

In fact, Miss Kvelyn Bland had 011 that morning declined the young gentleman's proposal that sho should become Mrs. St.. Jx«ger, going through the ceremony ofdiscardal with some blushes, and real regret as disappointing one whose regard sho had come to value, as she enjoyed his society, but leaving 110 doubt of her intention not to think at that time or ever of his proposal.

So St. Leger had come back in afar from chocrful state of mind, attemptin to laugh, but not succeeding very well The first thing bo did was to go to Harloy and say:

Well, my dear old follow, I am routed, driven, cut to pieces! The fair ono has said no and I don't think in all my life I ever heard that small word spoken in a way so unmistakable!"

Ilarley's fa^e glowed, and something like a flash came from his calm eyes. You have addressed Miss Bland?"

Well, said St. Leger, forcing a laugh, "I at least told her I loved her, and asked her to marry mo." "And

She said no Hang'it, Ilarley, If I were to take up the wholo day discount ing and describing, I couldn't convey the result of my attack moro clearly. Charged with every color flying troops of all arms brought into the action drums beating, fife playing,—the result Ignominious discomfiture!"

I am sorry for it," said Harley, in a low voice. Well, love is war!" said St. Ieger, regaining somo of bis ordinary good spirits "and war is proverbially an uncertain afTair, mono mi—a good soldier is preferred for either event."

Yeu take it cheerfully, my dear St Leger. Yon are a man of nerve!" "Why not! All I* lost but suspense Is worse than the worst fate. I need all my courage, it is true. Battles aro renewed tne defeat of to-day changes to the success of to-morrow In war nut I regret to say that I am unable to indulge atfvsuch dreams on tho present occasion. I am definitely crushed can't really have any reserves! The fair one not only said no, but when mildly inti-

moted that ahe might change her mind ientlv me that ahe never could—begged me not

-I could conveniently wait,—assured

to deceive myself and she said that in way so positive that there is nothing to do but to give the affair up forever !r'

Harley made no reply, but an hour afterward mounted bis horse, rode out, •s if to look at his estate, and having got out of sight of the house, set out for Blandfield.

Evelyn was in the drawing-room, alone, when be entered, and turned away her head, in order to conceal what seemed to be a quiet bluah. Harley seemed not to, or did hot, notice it, ana plunged at onoe into the subieet wbich he had osme to discuss—bis friend's rejection.

An hour afterward be was riding back toward Huntsdon, at a walk, reflecting. Evelyn had been perfect!? explicit—as Harley had been perfectly unceremonious. She valued Mr. St. Leger as a friend, and very highly, she said, but it was Impossible that ahe could think of him for a moment in any^i.?r light. Would Mr. Ilarley spare hr further allnsion to what ws» a very painful satyect She must say again, that any change in her feelings was im-

wonld spare her the pain of repeating this determination to him. Harley bowed, looked intently at the speaker, who wasblushing and faltering a little, and went away.

Where have you been Come—a bet!" said St. Leger, trying to laugh, as Harley re-entered the a rawing-room at Hnntsdon. "Noneis necessary, my dear friend, and I do not wish to oonoeal anything."

You have been yonder?" ... Yes." And there is no hope?" Harley did not reply.

It is better to tell me. If you remain silent, I shall know there is none." Harley did remain silent.

Very well, ray dear fellow," tho young man atid,*with somo emotion. "All Is definitely over, I see, as I have told you, and I have my autumn romance to carry away in niy memory to England."

To England?" I must go in a week at farthest. My leave i9 exhausted, and his Excellency the Governor has returned, vou know. Virginia has proved unlucky to me. What a comedy life is! Well, as it is a comedy, let us try to laugh!"

It was rathe a melancholy performance, and Harley quickly changed tho subject, urging his friend, without success, *0 defer his departure.

Impossible, tnon ami. Duty calls! In a week—one single week. Ono moro fox-hunt to-morrow! It will bring back lay good spirits!"

And it aid. St. Leger came back rosy, laughing, and thirsty for claret. Trouble sat lightly on thta ioyous temperament, which revolted from gloom, and would see the sunshlno behind the clouds. Harley was asking himself ruefully what he should do when tho gay face of his friend disappeared from Huntsdon, leaving him to pass tho humdrum days without society or aught to quiot him, when an incident occurred which changed the whole current of his lifo.

CHAPTER XVII. ... WHAT TUK KKY Ol'KNKD. Sir be good enough to como to Oakhill as soon as it suits your convonionce as I bavo discovered it document in tho handwriting of my late brother, addressed to yourself, which I should prefer to deliver into your hands rather than tq entrust it to a messenger, inasmuch as it is marked 'important.' -•'Your obedient servant,

Jos HIT AH AHT1UUHT."

Ilarley received this note ono nfter110011 after a visit to Blandfield, and. Informing St. Leger that ho was called away upon business, but would return by nightfall, sot out for Oakhill.

A paper addressed to himself by his undo Georgo excited his curiosity in a lively manner. This pajwr promised to explain—there at least the possibility that it might—tho meaning ot tho very singular words which had cscapud from the lips ot Mr. Hartright when I10 was dying, nnd would 110 uoubt throw light upon tho equally puzzling expression.1! ot his letter to llarioy ut Vienna. In tho paper now discovered, tho "something" which Harley would givo"all ho possessed" to know might bo revealed and in a maze of thought, which ended, always whero it begnn( Harloy galloped on, nnd reached Oakhill.

Colonel Hartright met him In tho drawing-room, standing, as usual, his gold cane in his hand, in front ot tho fireplace. "Good day, sir!" liosaid, bowing stiffly. "1 am gratified by your prompt rosponso in person to my note." "It was but common courtesy, sir nnd another motive was added—curiosity."

Colonel Hartright bowed. I will explain in a few words how« tho paper alluded to in my noto was discovered."

Harley listened with ardent curiosity. It was found in a closet in my Into brother's apartment," continued tho elder, "which tho key you wero good enough to return lo 1110 was found to ojion. This key, as you aro aware, was taken from tho hand of my lute brother, after his death, received by mo unnont sciously, when Dr. Wills presented it to tue, placed in my pocket, dropped nt tho Raleigh tavern, in Williamsburg. Tho subject was alluded to, you will remember, Rir, on tho day of tho opening of my brother's will, ami tho impression, was left u|Kn my mind at that time that the key might open somo receptacle of private papers which my brother regarded as of peculiar importance."

Tho conclusion was 11 natural ono, sir," said Harloy, "and such papers bavo. been discovered." "Ono paper, nnd no more. I will procoed, If agrooablo to you, with tho brief narrativo which I designed."

Harley inclined his bend and was silent. Colonel Joshua Harley was evidently in his habitual testy stato of mind, and never under any circumstances relished any interruption of the innjestic flow of his discourse.

When you wero good enough to return," bo continued, stiffly, "I prococd-'"8 ed to discover, if possible, to what it belonged—whether to some desk, chest of drawers, trunk, or closot. It was' found to fit no lock in tho house, until I recalled what had csca]cd my intention for many years—a common closet or set of shelves in the wainscoting iMmlde the fireplace in my brother's sleeping room, such as every house has, 1 lieliove, for. securing silver or other valuables. l'hla. was opened by the koy, and there I found this paper addressed to yourself."

Colonel Joshua Hartrigftt wont to his: writing-table, opened a drawer, and took out tho paper. It made but a small package, ana might almost have been regarded as an ordinary letter.

I now deliver the "paper Into your hands, sir, In accordance with the direction of my late brother, which you will find endorsed upon It."

Harley rose quickly, and took the paper,with an expression of strong interest, liiseyo fell upon tho direction. At tho top was tbo word "Important "Fbr my nrphew, JuMin Harley.

Beneath Read

(hi* alone."' Harley was sbout to tear open the pa- I per. His hand stopped.

I am to read this alone," he said. "Such, I believe, is the endorsement." said Colonel Hartrisht.

Harley supprcssetl his curiosity, put the paper in nis pocket, and rose, saying, I sm naturally desirous of discovering the injunctions of my uncle, sir— this paper, no doubt, contains such— and beg to take my leave."

Do so, if it is agreeable to you, sir," returned the elder, with a curt bow. "I had proposed to so far intrudo as to -x inquire In reference to your future plans which naturally interest me, in some measure, as I am your uncle bnt since 'i you desire to terminate this interview abruptly, I beg you will use your pleasure."

Harley resumed bis seat. It will give me pleasure to speak of my plans If you think they will Interest you. sir," he said "I can read my gl uncle George's communication later." "If it be not an intrusion, then, sir,

Gg

rmit

potttbl?, and she trust*! measure."

me to ask If you propose return- $ to Europe?" & "Iam quite uncertain. My intentions have undergone a change, in some