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diff --git a/1846-h/1846-h.htm b/1846-h/1846-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..101c195 --- /dev/null +++ b/1846-h/1846-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,12590 @@ +<?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 Vision Splendid, by William Macleod Raine + </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;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Vision Spendid, by William MacLeod Raine + +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 Vision Spendid + +Author: William MacLeod Raine + +Release Date: November 23, 2008 [EBook #1846] +Last Updated: March 12, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VISION SPENDID *** + + + + +Produced by Mary Starr, and David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE VISION SPLENDID + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By William MacLeod Raine + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER 1 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER 2 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER 3 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER 4 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER 5 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER 6 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER 7 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER 8 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER 9 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER 10 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER 11 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER 12 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER 13 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER 14 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER 15 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER 16 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER 17 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER 18 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER 19 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER 20 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER 21 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER 22 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER 23 </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER 1 + </h2> + <p> + Of all the remote streams of influence that pour both before and after + birth into the channel of our being, what an insignificant few—and + these only the more obvious—are traceable at all. We swim in a sea + of environment and heredity, are tossed hither and thither by we know not + what cross currents of Fate, are tugged at by a thousand eddies of which + we never dream. The sum of it all makes Life, of which we know so little + and guess so much, into which we dive so surely in those buoyant days + before time and tide have shaken confidence in our power to snatch success + and happiness from its mysterious depths.—From the Note Book of a + Dreamer. + </p> + <p> + A REBEL IN THE MAKING + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + The air was mellow with the warmth of the young spring sun. Locusts + whirred in rhapsody. Bluebirds throbbed their love songs joyously. The + drone of insects, the shimmer of hear, were in the atmosphere. One could + almost see green things grow. To confine youth within four walls on such a + day was an outrage against human nature. + </p> + <p> + A lean, wiry boy, hatchet-faced, stared with dreamy eyes out of the window + of his prison. By raising himself in his seat while the teacher was not + looking he could catch a silvery gleam of the river through the great + firs. His thoughts were far afield. They were not concerned with the + capitals of the States he was supposed to be learning, but had fared forth + to the reborn earth, to the stir and movement of creeping things. The call + of nature awakening from its long winter sleep drummed in his heart. He + could sympathize with the bluebottle buzzing against the sunny windowpane + in its efforts to reach the free world outside. + </p> + <p> + Recess! With the sound of the gong his heart leaped, but he kept his place + in the line with perfect decorum. It would never do to be called back now + for a momentary indiscretion. From the school yard he slipped the back way + and dived into a bank of great ferns. In the heart of this he lay until + the bell had called his classmates back to work. Cautiously he crept from + his hiding place and ran down to the river. + </p> + <p> + Flinging himself on Big Rock, with his chin over the edge, he looked into + the deep holes under the bank where the trout lay close to the strings of + shiny moss, their noses to the current, motionless save for the fanning + tails. + </p> + <p> + Idly he enjoyed himself for a happy hour, letting thoughts happen as they + would. Not till the school bell rang for dismissal did he drag himself + back with a sigh to the workaday world that called. He had a lawn to mow + and a back yard to clean up for Mr. Rawson. + </p> + <p> + With his cap stuck on the back of his head and his hands in the pockets of + his patched trousers, the boy went whistling townward on his barefoot way. + At Adams Street he met the schoolchildren bound for home. A dozen boys + from his own room closed in on him with shouts of joyous malice. + </p> + <p> + “Played hookey! Played hookey! Jeff Farnum played hookey!” they shrilled + at him. + </p> + <p> + Ned Merrill assumed leadership of the young Apaches. “You're goin' to + catch it. Old Webber was down askin' for you. Wasn't he, Tom? Wasn't he, + Dick?” + </p> + <p> + Tom and Dick lied cheerfully to increase Jeff's dread. They added graphic + details to help the story. + </p> + <p> + The victim looked around with stoicism. He remembered the philosophy of + the optimist that a licking does not last long. + </p> + <p> + “Don't care if he was down,” the boy bluffed. + </p> + <p> + “Huh! Mr. Don't Care! Mr. Don't Care!” shrieked Merrill gleefully. + </p> + <p> + They made a circle around Jeff and mocked him. Once or twice a bolder + tormentor snatched at his cap or pushed a neighbor against him. Then, with + the inconstancy of youth, they suddenly deserted him for more diverting + game. + </p> + <p> + A forlorn little Italian girl was trying to slip past on the other side of + the street. Someone caught sight of her and with a whoop the Apaches were + upon her pell-mell. She began to run, but they hemmed her in. One tugged + at her braided hair. Another flipped mud at her dress from the end of a + stick. Merrill snatched her slate and made off with it. + </p> + <p> + Jeff cut swiftly across the street. Merrill was coming directly toward + him, his head turned to the girl. Triumphant whoops broke from his throat. + He bumped into Jeff, stumbled, and went down in the mud. + </p> + <p> + Young Merrill was up in an instant, clamorous for battle. His hands and + clothes were plastered with filth. + </p> + <p> + “I'm goin' to lick the stuffin' out of you,” he bellowed. + </p> + <p> + Jeff said nothing. He was very white. His fingers worked nervously. + </p> + <p> + “Yah! Yah! He's scared,” the mob jeered. + </p> + <p> + Jeff was. In that circle of hostile faces he found no sympathy. He had to + stand up to the bully of the class, a boy who could have given him fifteen + pounds. Looking around for help, he saw that none was at hand. The thin + legs of the rescued Italian girl were flashing down the street. On the + steps of the big house of P. C. Frome a six-year-old little one was + standing with her nurse. Nobody else was in sight except his cousin, + James, and the Apaches. + </p> + <p> + “You're goin' to get the maulin' of your life,” Ned Merrill promised as he + slipped out of his coat. “Webber'll lick you if he finds out you been + fightin',” James Farnum prophesied cheerfully to his cousin. He intended + to do his duty in the way of protest and then watch the fight. + </p> + <p> + Ned worked his wiry little foe to the fence and pummeled him. Jeff ducked + and backed out of danger. Keeping to the defensive, he was being badly + punished. Once he slipped in the mud and went down, but he was up again + before his slower antagonist could close with him. Blood streamed from his + nose. His lip was gashed. Under the buffeting he was getting his head + began to sing. + </p> + <p> + “Punch him good, Ned,” one of the champion's friends advised. + </p> + <p> + “You bet he is,” another chortled. + </p> + <p> + Their jeers had an unexpected effect. Jeff's fears were blotted out by his + desperate need. Some spark of the fighting edge, inherited from his + father, was fanned to a flame in the heart of the bruised little warrior. + Like a tiger cat he leaped for Ned's throat, twisted his slim legs round + the sturdy ones of his enemy, and went down with him in a heap. + </p> + <p> + Jeff landed on the bottom, but like an eel he squirmed to the top before + the other had time to get set. The champion's patrician head was thumped + down into the mud and a knobby little fist played a painful tattoo on his + mouth and cheek. + </p> + <p> + “Take him off! Take him off!” Merrill shrieked after he had tried in vain + to roll away the incubus clamped like a vise to his body. + </p> + <p> + His henchmen ran forward to obey. An unexpected intervention stopped them. + A one-armed little man who had drifted down the street in time to see part + of the fracas pushed forward. + </p> + <p> + “I reckon not just yet. Goliath's had a turn. Now David gets his.” + </p> + <p> + “Lemme up,” sobbed Goliath furiously. + </p> + <p> + “Say you're whopped.” Jeff's fist emphasized the suggestion. + </p> + <p> + “Doggone you!” + </p> + <p> + This kind of one-sided warfare did not suit Jeff. He made as if to get up, + but his backer stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “Hold on, son. You're not through yet. When you do a job do it thorough.” + To the former champion he spoke. “Had plenty yet?” + </p> + <p> + “I—I'll have him skinned,” came from the tearful champion with a + burst of profanity. + </p> + <p> + “That ain't the point. Have you had enough so you'll be good? Or do you + need some more?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm goin' to tell Webber.” + </p> + <p> + “Needs just a leetle more, son,” the one-armed man told Jeff, dragging at + his goatee. + </p> + <p> + But young Farnum had made up his mind. With a little twist of his body he + got to his feet. + </p> + <p> + Merrill rose, tearful and sullen. “I—I'll fix you for this,” he + gulped, and went sobbing toward the schoolhouse. + </p> + <p> + “Better duck,” James whispered to his cousin. + </p> + <p> + Jeff shook his head. + </p> + <p> + The little man looked at the boy sharply. The eyes under his shaggy brows + were like gimlets. + </p> + <p> + “Come up to the school with me. I'll see your teacher, son.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff walked beside him. He knew by the sound of the voice that his rescuer + was a Southerner and his heart warmed to him. He wanted greatly to ask a + question. Presently it plumped out. + </p> + <p> + “Was it in the war, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I reckon I don't catch your meaning.” + </p> + <p> + “That you lost your arm?” The boy added quickly, “My father was a soldier + under General Early.” + </p> + <p> + The steel-gray eyes shot at him again. “I was under Early myself.” + </p> + <p> + “My father was a captain—Captain Farnum,” the young warrior + announced proudly. + </p> + <p> + “Not Phil Farnum!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. Did you know him?” Jeff trembled with eagerness. His dead + soldier-father was the idol of his heart. + </p> + <p> + “Did I?” He swung Jeff round and looked at him. “You're like him, in a + way, and, by Gad! you fight like him. What's your name?” + </p> + <p> + “Jefferson Davis Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “Shake hands, Jefferson Davis Farnum, you dashed little rebel. My name is + Lucius Chunn. I was a lieutenant in your father's company before I was + promoted to one of my own.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff forgot his troubles instantly. “I wish I'd been alive to go with + father to the war,” he cried. + </p> + <p> + Captain Chunn was delighted. “You doggoned little rebel!” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't know we used that word in the South' sir.” + </p> + <p> + Chunn tugged at his goatee and laughed. “We're not in the South, David.” + </p> + <p> + The former Confederate asked questions to piece out his patchwork + information. He knew that Philip Farnum had come out of the war with a + constitution weakened by the hardships of the service. Rumors had drifted + to him that the taste for liquor acquired in camp as an antidote for + sickness had grown upon his comrade and finally overcome him. From Jeff he + learned that after his father's death the widow had sold her mortgaged + place and moved to the Pacific Coast. She had invested the few hundreds + left her in some river-bottom lots at Verden and had later discovered that + an unscrupulous real estate dealer had unloaded upon her worthless + property. The patched and threadbare clothes of the boy told him that from + a worldly point of view the affairs of the Farnums were at ebb tide. + </p> + <p> + “Did... did you know father very well?” Jeff asked tremulously. + </p> + <p> + Chunn looked down at the thin dark face of the boy walking beside him and + was moved to lay a hand on his shoulder. He understood the ache in that + little heart to hear about the father who was a hero to him. Jeff was of + no importance in the alien world about him. The Captain guessed from the + little scene he had witnessed that the lad trod a friendless, stormy path. + He divined, too, that the hungry soul was fed from within by dreams and + memories. + </p> + <p> + So Lucius Chunn talked. He told about the slender, soldierly officer in + gray who had given himself so freely to serve his men, of the time he had + caught pneumonia by lending his blanket to a sick boy, of the day he had + led the charge at Battle Creek and received the wound which pained him so + greatly to the hour of his death. And Jeff drank his words in like a + charmed thing. He visualized it all, the bitter nights in camp, the long + wet marches, the trumpet call to battle. It was this last that his + imagination seized upon most eagerly. He saw the silent massing of troops, + the stealthy advance through the woods; and he heard the blood-curdling + rebel yell as the line swept forward from cover like a tidal wave, with + his father at its head. + </p> + <p> + Captain Chunn was puzzled at the coldness with which Mr. Webber listened + to his explanation of what had taken place. The school principal fell back + doggedly upon one fact. It would not have happened if Jeff had not been + playing truant. Therefore he was to blame for what had occurred. + </p> + <p> + Nothing would be done, of course, without a thorough investigation. + </p> + <p> + The Captain was not satisfied, but he did not quite see what more he could + do. + </p> + <p> + “The boy is a son of an old comrade of mine. We were in the war together. + So of course I have to stand by Jeff,” he pleaded with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “You were in the rebel army?” The words slipped out before the + schoolmaster could stop them. + </p> + <p> + “In the Confederate army,” Chunn corrected quietly. + </p> + <p> + Webber flushed at the rebuke. “That is what I meant to say.” + </p> + <p> + “I leave to-morrow for Alaska. It would be pleasant to know before I go + that Jeff is out of his trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm afraid Jeff always will be in trouble. He is a most insubordinate + boy,” the principal answered coldly. + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure you quite understand him?” + </p> + <p> + “He is not difficult to understand.” Webber, resenting the interference of + the Southerner as an intrusion, disposed of the matter in a sentence. + “I'll look into this matter carefully, Mr. Chunn.” + </p> + <p> + Webber called immediately at the office of Edward B. Merrill, president of + the tramway company and of the First National Bank. It happened that the + vice-president of the bank was a school director; also that the funds of + the district were kept in the First National. The schoolteacher did not + admit that he had come to ingratiate himself with the powers that ruled + his future, but he was naturally pleased to come in direct touch with such + a man as Merrill. + </p> + <p> + The financier was urbane and spent nearly half an hour of his valuable + time with the principal. When the latter rose to go they shook hands. The + two understood each other thoroughly. + </p> + <p> + “You may depend upon me to do my duty, Mr. Merrill, painful though such a + course may be to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very glad to have met you, Mr. Webber. It is a source of + satisfaction to me that our educational system is in the care of men of + your stamp. I leave this matter with confidence entirely in your hands. Do + what you think best.” + </p> + <p> + His confidence was justified. After school opened next morning Jeff was + called up and publicly thrashed for playing truant. As a prelude to the + corporal punishment the principal delivered a lecture. He alluded to the + details of the fight gravely, with selective discrimination, giving young + Farnum to understand that he had reached the end of his rope. If any more + such brutal affairs were reported to him he would be punished severely. + </p> + <p> + The boy took the flogging in silence. He had learned to set his teeth and + take punishment without whimpering. From the hardest whipping Webber had + ever given he went to his seat with a white, set face that stared straight + in front of him. Young as he was, he knew it had not been fair and his + outraged soul cried out at the injustice of it. The principal had seized + upon the truancy as an excuse to let him escape from an investigation of + the cause of the fight. Ned Merrill got off because his father was a rich + man and powerful in the city. He, Jeff, was whipped because he was an + outcast and had dared lift his hand against one of his betters. + </p> + <p> + And there was no redress. It was simply the way of the world. + </p> + <p> + Jeff and his mother were down that afternoon to see their new friend off + in the <i>City of Skook.</i> Captain Chunn found a chance to draw the boy + aside for a question. + </p> + <p> + “Is it all right with Mr. Webber? What did he do?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, he gave me a jawing,” the boy answered. + </p> + <p> + The little man nodded. “I reckoned that was what he would do. Be a good + boy, Jeff. I never knew a man more honorable than your father. Run + straight, son.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” the lad promised, a lump in his throat. + </p> + <p> + It was more than ten years before he saw Captain Chunn again. + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + As an urchin Jeff had taken things as they came without understanding + causes. Thoughts had come to him in flashes, without any orderly sequence, + often illogically. As a gangling boy he still took for granted the hard + knocks of a world he did not attempt to synthesize. + </p> + <p> + Even his mother looked upon him as “queer.” She worried plaintively + because he was so careless about his clothes and because his fondness for + the outdoors sometimes led him to play truant. Constantly she set before + him as a model his cousin, James, who was a good-looking boy, polite, + always well dressed, with a shrewd idea of how to get along easily. + </p> + <p> + “Why can't you be like Cousin James? He isn't always in trouble,” she + would urge in her tired way. + </p> + <p> + It was quite true that the younger cousin was more of a general favorite + than harum-scarum Jeff, but the mother might as well have asked her boy to + be like Socrates. It was not that he could not learn or that he did not + want to study. He simply did not fit into the school groove. Its routine + of work and discipline, its tendency to stifle individuality, to run all + children through the same hopper like grist through a mill, put a clamp + upon his spirits and his imagination. Even thus early he was a rebel. + </p> + <p> + Jeff scrambled up through the grades in haphazard fashion until he reached + the seventh. Here his teacher made a discovery. She was a faded little + woman of fifty, but she had that loving insight to which all children + respond. Under her guidance for one year the boy blossomed. His odd + literary fancy for Don Quixote, for Scott's poems and romances she + encouraged, quietly eliminating the dime novels he had read + indiscriminately with these. She broke through the shell of his shyness to + find out that his diffidence was not sulkiness nor his independence + impudence. + </p> + <p> + The boy was a dreamer. He lived largely in a world of his own, where + Quentin Durward and Philip Farnum and Robert E. Lee were enshrined as + heroes. From it he would emerge all hot for action, for adventure. Into + his games then he would throw a poetic imagination that transfigured them. + Outwardly he lived merely in that boys' world made to his hand. He adopted + its shibboleths, fought when he must, went through the annual routine of + marbles, tops, kites, hop scotch, and baseball. From his fellows he + guarded jealously the knowledge of even the existence of his secret world + of fancy. + </p> + <p> + His progress through the grades and the high school was intermittent. + Often he had to stop for months at a time to earn money for their living. + In turn he was newsboy, bootblack, and messenger boy. He drove a delivery + wagon for a grocer, ushered at a theater, was even a copyholder in the + proofroom of a newspaper. Hard work kept him thin, but he was like a lath + for toughness. + </p> + <p> + Seven weeks after he was graduated from the high school his mother died. + The day of the funeral a real estate dealer called to offer three, hundred + dollars for the lots in the river bottom bought some years earlier by Mrs. + Farnum. + </p> + <p> + Jeff put the man off. It was too late now to do his mother any good. She + had had to struggle to the last for the bread she ate. He wondered why the + good things in life were so unevenly distributed. + </p> + <p> + Twice during the next week Jeff was approached with offers for his lots. + The boy was no fool. + </p> + <p> + He found out that the land was wanted by a new railroad pushing into + Verden. Within three days he had sold direct to the agent of the company + for nine hundred dollars. With what he could earn on the side and in his + summers he thought that sum would take him through college. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I wonder if Morgan, the Pirate, + When plunder had glutted his heart, + Gave part of the junk from the ships he had sunk + To help some Museum of Art; + If he gave up the role of “collector of toll” + And became a Collector of Art? + + I wonder if Genghis, the Butcher, + When he'd trampled down nations like grass, + Retired with his share when he'd lost all his hair + And started a Sunday-school class; + If he turned his past under and used half his plunder + In running a Sunday-school class? + + I wonder if Roger, the Rover, + When millions in looting he'd made, + Built libraries grand on the jolly mainland + To honor success and “free trade”; + If he founded a college of nautical knowledge + Where Pirates could study their trade? + + I wonder, I wonder, I wonder, + If Pirates were ever the same, + Ever trying to lend a respectable trend + To the jaunty old buccaneer game + Or is it because of our Piracy Laws + That philanthropists enter the game? + —Wallace Irwin, in Life. +</pre> + <p> + THE REBEL IS INSTRUCTED IN THE WORSHIP OF THE GOD-OF-THINGS-AS-THEY-ARE + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + Jeff was digging out a passage in the “Apology” when there came a knock at + the door of his room. The visitor was his cousin, James, and he radiated + such an air of prosperity that the plain little bedroom shrank to + shabbiness. + </p> + <p> + James nodded in offhand fashion as he took off his overcoat. “Hello, Jeff! + Thought I'd look you up. Got settled in your diggings, eh?” Before his + host could answer he rattled on: “Just ran in for a moment. Had the devil + of a time to find you. What's the object in getting clear off the earth?” + </p> + <p> + “Cheaper,” Jeff explained. + </p> + <p> + “Should think it would be,” James agreed after he had let his eyes wander + critically around the room. “But you can't afford to save that way. Get a + good suite. And for heaven's sake see a tailor, my boy. In college a man + is judged by the company he keeps.” + </p> + <p> + “What have my room and my clothes to do with that?” Jeff wanted to know, + with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Everything. You've got to put up a good front. The best fellows won't go + around with a longhaired guy who doesn't know how to dress. No offense, + Jeff.” + </p> + <p> + His cousin laughed. “I'll see a barber to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “And you must have a room where the fellows can come to see you.” + </p> + <p> + “What's the matter with this one?” + </p> + <p> + A hint of friendly patronage crept into the manner of the junior. “My dear + chap, college isn't worth doing at all unless you do it right. You're here + to get in with the best fellows and to make connections that will help you + later. That sort of thing, you know.” + </p> + <p> + Into Jeff's face came the light that always transfigured its plainness + when he was in the grip of an idea. “Hold on, J. K. Let's get at this + right. Is that what I'm here for? I didn't know it. There's a hazy notion + in my noodle that I'm here to develop myself.” + </p> + <p> + “That's what I'm telling you. Go in for the things that count. Make a good + frat. Win out at football or debating. I don't give a hang what you go + after, but follow the ball and keep on the jump. I'm strong with the crowd + that runs things and I'll see they take you in and make you a cog of the + machine. But you'll have to measure up to specifications.” + </p> + <p> + “But, hang it, I don't want to be a cog in any machine. I'm here to give + myself a chance to grow—sit out in the sun and hatch an + individuality—give myself lots of free play.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you've come to the wrong shop,” James informed him dryly. “If you + want to succeed at college you've got to do the things the other fellows + do and you've got to do them the same way.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean I've got to travel in a rut?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, well! That's a way of putting it. I mean that you have to accept + customs and traditions. You have to work like the devil doing things that + count. If you make the team you've got to think football, talk it, eat it, + dream it.” + </p> + <p> + “But is it worth while?” + </p> + <p> + James waved his protest aside. “Of course it's worth while. Success always + is. Get this in your head. Four-fifths of the fellows at college don't + count. They're also-rans. To get in with the right bunch you've got to + make a good showing. Look at me. I'm no John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Athletics + bore me. I can't sing. I don't grind. But I'm in everything. Best frat. + Won the oratorical contest. Manager of the football team next season. + President of the Dramatic Club. Why?” + </p> + <p> + He did not wait for Jeff to guess the reason. “Because our set runs things + and I go after the honors.” + </p> + <p> + “But a college ought to be a democracy,” Jeff protested. + </p> + <p> + “Tommyrot! It's an aristocracy, that's what it is, just like the little + old world outside, an aristocracy of the survival of the fittest. You get + there if you're strong. You go to the wall if you're weak. That's the law + of life.” + </p> + <p> + The freshman came to this squint of pragmatism with surprise. He had + thought of Verden University as a splendid democracy of intellectual + brotherhood that was to leaven the world with which it came in touch. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean that a fellow has to have money enough to make a good showing + before he can win any of the prizes?” + </p> + <p> + James K. nodded with the sage wisdom of a man of the world. “The long + green is a big help, but you've got to have the stuff in you. Success + comes to the fellow who goes after it in the right way.” + </p> + <p> + “And suppose a fellow doesn't care to go after it?” + </p> + <p> + “He stays a nobody.” + </p> + <p> + James was in evening dress, immaculate from clean-shaven cheek to patent + leather shoes. He had a well-filled figure and a handsome face with a + square, clean-cut jaw. His cousin admired the young fellow's virile + competency. It was his opinion that James K. Farnum was the last person he + knew likely to remain a nobody. He knew how to conform, to take the color + of his thinking from the dominant note of his environment, but he had, + too, a capacity for leadership. + </p> + <p> + “I'm not going to believe you if I can help it,” Jeff answered with a + smile. + </p> + <p> + The upper classman shrugged. “You'd better take my advice, just the same. + At college you don't get a chance to make two starts. You're sized up from + the crack of the pistol.” + </p> + <p> + “I haven't the money to make a splurge even if I wanted to.” + </p> + <p> + “Borrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Who from?” asked Jeff ungrammatically. + </p> + <p> + “You can rustle it somewhere. I'm borrowing right now.” + </p> + <p> + “It's different with you. I'm used to doing without things. Don't worry + about me. I'll get along.” + </p> + <p> + James came with a touch of embarrassment to the real object of his visit. + “I say, Jeff. I've had a tough time to win out. You won't—you'll not + say anything—let anything slip, you know—something that might + set the fellows guessing.” + </p> + <p> + His cousin was puzzled. “About what?” + </p> + <p> + “About the reason why Mother and I left Shelby and came out to the coast.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you take me for?” + </p> + <p> + “I knew you wouldn't. Thought I'd mention it for fear you might make a + slip.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't chatter about the private affairs of my people.” + </p> + <p> + “Course not. I knew you didn't.” The junior's hand rested caressingly on + the shoulder of the other. “Don't get sore, Jeff. I didn't doubt you. But + that thing haunts me. Some day it will come out and ruin me when I'm near + the top of the ladder.” + </p> + <p> + The freshman shook his head. “Don't worry about it, James. Just tell the + plain truth if it comes out. A thing like that can't hurt you permanently. + Nothing can really injure you that does not come from your own weakness.” + </p> + <p> + “That's all poppycock,” James interrupted fretfully. “Just that sort of + thing has put many a man on the skids. I tell you a young fellow needs to + start unhampered. If the fellows got onto it that my father had been in + the pen because he was a defaulting bank cashier they would drop me like a + hot potato.” + </p> + <p> + “None but the snobs would. Your friends would stick the closer.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh' friends!” The young man's voice had a note of angry derision. + </p> + <p> + Jeff's affectionate grin comforted him. “Don't let it get on your nerves, + J. K. Things never are as bad as we expect at their worst.” + </p> + <p> + The junior set his teeth savagely. “I tell you, sometimes I hate him for + it. That's a fine heritage for a father to give his son, isn't it? Nothing + but trouble and disgrace.” + </p> + <p> + His cousin spoke softly. “He's paid a hundred times for it, old man.” + </p> + <p> + “He ought to pay. Why shouldn't he? I've got to pay. Mother had to as long + as she lived.” His voice was hard and bitter. + </p> + <p> + “Better not judge him. You're his only son, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm the one he's injured most. Why shouldn't I judge him? I've been a + pauper all these years, living off money given us by my mother's people. I + had to leave our home because of what he did. I'd like to know why I + shouldn't judge him.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff was silent. + </p> + <p> + Presently James rose. “But there's no use talking about it. I've got to be + going. We have an eat to-night at Tucker's.” + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + Jeff came to his new life on the full tide of an enthusiasm that did not + begin to ebb till near the close of his first semester. He lived in a new + world, one removed a million miles from the sordid one through which he + had fought his way so many years. All the idealism of his nature went out + in awe and veneration for his college. It stood for something he could not + phrase, something spiritually fine and intellectually strong. When he + thought of the noble motto of the university, “To Serve,” it was always + with a lifted emotion that was half a prayer. His professors went clothed + in majesty. The chancellor was of godlike dimensions. Even the seniors + carried with them an impalpable aura of learning. + </p> + <p> + The illusion was helped by reason of the very contrast between the + jostling competition of the street and the academic air of harmony in + which he now found himself. For the first time was lifted the sense of + struggle that had always been with him. + </p> + <p> + The outstanding notes of his boyhood had been poverty and meagerness. It + was as if he and his neighbors had been flung into a lake where they must + keep swimming to escape drowning. There had been no rest from labor. + Sometimes the tragedy of disaster had swept over a family. But on the + campus of the university he found the sheltered life. The echo of that + battling world came to him only faintly. + </p> + <p> + He began to make tentative friendships, but in spite of the advice of his + cousin they were with the men who did not count. Samuel Miller was an + example. He was a big, stodgy fellow with a slow mind which arrived at its + convictions deliberately. But when he had made sure of them he hung to his + beliefs like a bulldog to a bone. + </p> + <p> + It was this quality that one day brought them together in the classroom. + An instructor tried to drive Miller into admitting he was wrong in an + opinion. The boy refused to budge, and the teacher became nettled. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Miller will know more when he doesn't know so much,” the instructor + snapped out. + </p> + <p> + Jeff's instinct for fair play was roused at once, all the more because of + the ripple of laughter that came from the class. He spoke up quietly. + </p> + <p> + “I can't see yet but that Mr. Miller is right, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “The discussion is closed,” was the tart retort. + </p> + <p> + After class the dissenters walked across to chapel together. + </p> + <p> + “Poke the animal up with a stick and hear him growl,” Jeff laughed airily. + </p> + <p> + “Page always thinks a fellow ought to take his say-so as gospel,” Miller + commented. + </p> + <p> + Most of the students saw in Jeff Farnum only a tallish young man, thin as + a rail, not particularly well dressed, negligent as to collar and tie. But + Miller observed in the tanned face a tender, humorous mouth and eager, + friendly eyes that looked out upon the world with a suggestion of inner + mirth. In course of time he found out that his friend was an unconquerable + idealist. + </p> + <p> + Jeff made discoveries. One of them was a quality of brutal indifference in + some of his classmates to those less fortunate. These classy young + gentlemen could ignore him as easily as a hurrying business man can a + newsboy trying to sell him a paper. If he was forced upon their notice + they were perfectly courteous; otherwise he was not on the map for them. + </p> + <p> + Another point that did not escape his attention was the way in which the + institution catered to Merrill and Frome, because they were large donors + to the university. He had once heard Peter C. Frome say in a speech to the + students that he contributed to the support of Verden University because + it was a “safe and conservative citadel which never had yielded to + demagogic assaults.” At the time he had wondered just what the president + of the Verden Union Water Company had meant. He was slowly puzzling his + way to an answer. + </p> + <p> + Chancellor Bland referred often to the “largehearted Christian gentlemen + who gave of their substance to promote the moral and educational life of + the state.” But Jeff knew that many believed Frome and Merrill to be no + better than robbers on a large scale. He knew the methods by which they + had gained their franchises and that they ruled the politics of the city + by graft and corruption. Yet the chancellor was always ready to speak or + write against municipal ownership. It was common talk on the streets that + Professor Perkins, of the chair of political science, had had his expenses + paid to England by Merrill to study the street railway system of Great + Britain, and that Perkins had duly written several bread-and-butter + articles to show that public ownership was unsuccessful there. + </p> + <p> + The college was a denominational one and the atmosphere wholly orthodox. + Doubt and skepticism were spoken of only with horror. At first it was of + himself that Jeff was critical. The spirit of the place was opposed to all + his convictions, but he felt that perhaps his reaction upon life had been + affected too much by his experiences. + </p> + <p> + He asked questions, and was suppressed with severity or kindly paternal + advice. It came to him one night while he was walking bareheaded under the + stars that there was in the place no intellectual stimulus, though there + was an elaborate presence of it. The classrooms were arid. Everywhere + fences were up beyond which the mind was not expected to travel. A thing + was right, because it had come to be accepted. That was the gospel of his + fellows, of his teachers. Later he learned that it is also the creed of + the world. + </p> + <p> + What Jeff could not understand was a mind which refused to accept the + inevitable conclusions to which its own processes pushed it. Verden + University lacked the courage which comes from intellectual honesty. + Wherefore its economics were devitalized and its theology an anachronism. + </p> + <p> + But Jeff had been given a mind unable to lie to itself. He was in very + essence a non-conformist. To him age alone did not lend sanctity to the + ghosts of dead yesterdays that rule to-day. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 3 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Whoso would be a man must be a non-conformist. He who would + gather immortal palms must not be hindered by the name of + goodness, but must explore if it be goodness. Nothing is at + last sacred but the integrity of your own mind,”—Emerson. +</pre> + <p> + CONVERSING ON RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY, THE REBEL LEARNS THAT IT IS + SOMETIMES WISE TO SOFT PEDAL IDEAS UNLESS THEY ARE ACCEPTED ONES + </p> + <p> + During his freshman year Jeff saw little of his cousin beyond the usual + campus greetings, except for a period of six weeks when the junior + happened to need him. But the career of James K. tickled immensely the + under classman's sense of humor. He was becoming the most dazzling success + ever developed by the college. Even with the faculty he stood high, for if + he lacked scholarship he had the more showy gifts that went farther. He + knew when to defer and when to ride roughshod to his end. It was felt that + his brilliancy had a solidity back of it, a quality of flintiness that + would endure. + </p> + <p> + James was inordinately ambitious and loved the spotlight like an actor. + The flamboyant oratory at which he excelled had won for him the interstate + contest. He was editor-in-chief of the “Verdenian,” manager of the varsity + football team, and president of the college senate. + </p> + <p> + With the beginning of his senior year James entered another phase of his + development. He offered to the college a new, or at least an enlarged, + interpretation of himself. Some of his smiling good-fellowship had been + sloughed to make way for the benignity of a budding statesman. He still + held a tolerant attitude to the antics of his friends, but it was easy to + see that he had put away childish things. To his many young women admirers + he talked confidentially of his aims and aspirations. The future of James + K. Farnum was a topic he never exhausted. + </p> + <p> + It was, too, a subject which greatly interested Jeff and Sam Miller. His + cousin might smile at his poses, and often did, but he never denied James + qualities likely to carry him far. + </p> + <p> + “His one best bet is his belief in himself,” Sam announced one night. + </p> + <p> + “It's a great thing to believe in yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “He's so dead sure he's cast for a big part. The egoism just oozes out of + him. He doesn't know himself that he's a faker.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a long way from that,” Jeff protested warmly. + </p> + <p> + “Take his oratory,” Miller went on irritably. “It's all bunk. He throws a + chest and makes you feel he's a big man, but what he says won't stand + analysis—just a lot of platitudes.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't forget he's young yet. James K. hasn't found himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Sure there's anything to find?” + </p> + <p> + “There's a lot in him. He's the biggest man in the university to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “You practically wrote the oration that won the interstate contest. Think + I don't know that?” Miller snorted. + </p> + <p> + Jeff's mouth took on a humorous twist. “I gave him some suggestions. How + did you know?” + </p> + <p> + “Knew he wasn't hanging around last term for nothing. He's selfish as the + devil.” + </p> + <p> + “You're all wrong about him, Sam. He isn't selfish at all at bottom.” + </p> + <p> + “Shoot the brains out of that oration and what's left would be the part he + supplied. The fellow's got a gift of absorbing new ideas superficially and + dressing them up smartly.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he's got us beat there,” Jeff laughed goodnaturedly. He had not in + his make-up a grain of envy. Even his laughter was generally genial, + though often irreverent to the God-of-things-as-they-are. + </p> + <p> + “When he won the interstate he lapped up flattery like a thirsty pup, but + his bluff was that it was only for the college he cared to win.” + </p> + <p> + “Most of us have mixed motives.” + </p> + <p> + “Not J. K. Reminds me of old Johnson's 'Patriotism is the last refuge of a + scoundrel.'” + </p> + <p> + Jeff straightened. “That won't do, Sam. I believe in J. K. You've got + nothing against him except that you don't like him.” + </p> + <p> + “Forgot you were his cousin, Jeff,” Miller grumbled. “But it's a fact that + he works everybody to shove him along.” + </p> + <p> + “He's only a kid. Give him time. He'll be a big help to any community.” + </p> + <p> + “James K.'s biggest achievement will always be James K.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff chuckled at the apothegm even while he protested. Sam capped it with + another. + </p> + <p> + “He's always sitting to himself for his own portrait.” + </p> + <p> + “He'll get over that when he brushes up against the world.” Jeff added his + own criticism thoughtfully. “The weak spot in him is a sort of flatness of + mind. This makes him afraid of new ideas. He wants to be respectable, and + respectability is the most damning thing on earth.” + </p> + <p> + After Miller had left Jeff buckled down to Ely's “Political Economy.” He + had not been at it long when James surprised him by dropping in. His host + offered the easiest chair and shoved tobacco toward him. + </p> + <p> + “Been pretty busy with the team, I suppose?” Jeff suggested. + </p> + <p> + “It's taken a lot of my time, but I think I've put the athletic + association on a paying basis at last.” + </p> + <p> + “I see by your report in the 'Verdenian' that you made good.” + </p> + <p> + “A fellow ought to do well whatever he undertakes to do.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff grinned across at him from where he lay on the bed with his fingers + laced beneath his head. “That's what the copybooks used to say.” + </p> + <p> + “I want to have a serious talk with you, Jeff.” + </p> + <p> + “Aren't you having it? What can be more important than the successes of + James K. Farnum?” + </p> + <p> + The senior looked at him suspiciously. He was not strongly fortified with + a sense of humor. “Just now I want to talk about the failures of Jefferson + D. Farnum,” he answered gravely. + </p> + <p> + Jeff's eyes twinkled. “Is it worth while? I am unworthy of this boon, O + great Cesar.” + </p> + <p> + “Now that's the sort of thing that stands in your way,” James told him + impatiently. “People never know when you're laughing at them. There is no + reason why you shouldn't succeed. Your abilities are up to the average, + but you fritter them away.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you.” Jeff wore an air of being immensely pleased. + </p> + <p> + “The truth is that you're your own worst enemy. Now that you have taken to + dressing better you are not bad looking. I find a good many of the fellows + like you—or they would if you'd let them.” + </p> + <p> + “Because I'm so well connected,” Jeff laughed. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose it does help, your being my cousin. But the thing depends on + you. Unless you make a decided change you'll never get on.” + </p> + <p> + “What change do you suggest? Item one, please?” + </p> + <p> + James looked straight at him. “You lack bedrock principles, Jeff.” + </p> + <p> + “Do I?” + </p> + <p> + “Take your habits. Two or three times you've been seen coming out of + saloons.” + </p> + <p> + “Expect I went in to get a drink.” + </p> + <p> + “It's not generally known, of course, but if it reached Prexy he'd fire + you so quick your head would swim.” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say.” + </p> + <p> + The senior looked at him significantly. “You're the last man that ought to + go to such places. There's such a thing as an inherited tendency.” + </p> + <p> + The jaw muscles stood out like ropes under the flesh of Jeff's lean face. + “We'll not discuss that.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well. Cut it out. A drinking man is handicapped too heavily to win.” + </p> + <p> + “Much obliged. Second count in the indictment, please.” + </p> + <p> + “You've got strange, unsettling notions. The profs don't like them.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't they?” + </p> + <p> + “You know what I mean. We didn't make this world. We've got to take it as + it is. You can't make it over. There are always going to be rich people + and poor ones. Just because you've fed indigestibly on Ibsen and Shaw you + can't change facts.” + </p> + <p> + “So you advise?” + </p> + <p> + “Soft pedal your ideas if you must have them.” + </p> + <p> + “Hasn't a man got to see things as straight as he can?” + </p> + <p> + “That's no reason for calling in the neighbors to rejoice with him because + he has astigmatism.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff came back with a tag of Emerson, whose phrases James was fond of + quoting in his speeches. “Whoso would be a man must be a non-conformist. + Nothing is at last sacred but the integrity of your own mind.” + </p> + <p> + “You can push that too far. It isn't practical. We've got to make + compromises, especially with established things.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff sat up on the bed. Points of light were dancing in his big eyes. + “That's what the Pharisees said to Jesus when he wouldn't stand for lies + because they were deep rooted and for injustice because it had become + respectable.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, if you're going to compare yourself to Christ—” + </p> + <p> + “Verden University is supposed to stand for Christianity, isn't it? It was + because Jesus whanged away at social and industrial freedom, at + fraternity, at love on earth, that he had to endure the Cross. He got + under the upper class skin when he attacked the traditional lies of vested + interests. Now why doesn't Bland preach the things that Jesus taught?” + </p> + <p> + “He does.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he does,” Jeff scoffed. “He preaches good form, respectability, a + narrow personal righteousness, a salvation canned and petrified three + hundred years ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you want him to preach socialism?” + </p> + <p> + “I want him to preach the square deal in our social life, intellectual + honesty, and a vital spiritual life. Think of what this college might + mean, how it might stand for democracy It ought to pour out into the state + hundreds of specialists on the problems of the country. Instead, it is + only a reflection of the caste system that is growing up in America.” + </p> + <p> + James shrugged his broad shoulders. “I've been through all that. It's a + phase we pass. You'll get over it. You've got to if you are going to + succeed.” + </p> + <p> + A quizzical grin wrinkled Jeff's lean face. “What is success?” + </p> + <p> + “It's setting a high goal and reaching it. It's taking the world by the + throat and shaking from it whatever you want.” James leaned across the + table, his eyes shining. “It's the journey's end for the strong, that's + what it is. I don't care whether a man is gathering gilt or fame, he's got + to pound away with his eye right on it. And he's got to trample down the + things that get in his way.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff's eye fell upon a book on the table. “Ever hear of a chap called + Goldsmith?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course. He wrote 'The School for Scandal.' What's he got to do with + it?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff smiled, without correcting his cousin. “I've been reading about him. + Seems to have been a poor hack writer 'who threw away his life in + handfuls.' He wrote the finest poem, the best novel, the most charming + comedy of his day. He knew how to give, but he didn't know how to take. So + he died alone in a garret. He was a failure.” + </p> + <p> + “Probably his own fault.” + </p> + <p> + “And on the day of his funeral the stairway was crowded with poor people + he had helped. All of them were in tears.” + </p> + <p> + “What good did that do him? He was inefficient. He might have saved his + money and helped them then.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps. I don't know. It might have been too late then. He chose to give + his life as he was living it.” + </p> + <p> + “Another reason for his poverty, wasn't there?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff flushed. “He drank.” + </p> + <p> + “Thought so.” James rose triumphantly and put on his overcoat. “Well, + think over what I've said.” + </p> + <p> + “I will. And tell the chancellor I'm much obliged to him for sending you.” + </p> + <p> + For once the Senior was taken aback. “Eh, what—what?” + </p> + <p> + “You may tell him it won't be your fault that I'll never be a credit to + Verden University.” + </p> + <p> + As he walked across the campus to his fraternity house James did not feel + that his call had been wholly successful. With him he carried a picture of + his cousin's thin satiric face in which big expressive eyes mocked his + arguments. But he let none of this sense of futility get into the report + given next day to the Chancellor. + </p> + <p> + “Jeff's rather light-minded, I'm afraid, sir. He wanted to branch off to + side lines. But I insisted on a serious talk. Before I left him he + promised to think over what I had said.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us hope he may.” + </p> + <p> + “He said it wouldn't be my fault if he wasn't a credit to the University.” + </p> + <p> + “We can all agree with him there, Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir. I'm not very hopeful about him. He has other things to + contend with.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not sure I quite know what you mean.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't explain more fully without violating a confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we'll hope for the best, and remember him in our prayers.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” James agreed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 4 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “I met a hundred men on the road to Delhi, and they were all + my brothers.”—Old Proverb. +</pre> + <p> + THE REBEL FLUNKS IN A COURSE ON HOW TO GET ON IN LIFE + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + It would be easy to overemphasize Jeff's intellectual difficulties at the + expense of the deep delight he found in many phases of his student life. + The daily routine of the library, the tennis courts, and the jolly table + talk brought out the boy in him that had been submerged. + </p> + <p> + There developed in him a vagabond streak that took him into the woods and + the hills for days at a time. About the middle of his Sophomore year he + discovered Whitman. While camping alone at night under the stars he used + to shout out, + </p> + <p> + “Strong and content, I travel the open road,” or + </p> + <p> + “Allons! The road is before us! + </p> + <p> + “It is safe—I have tried it—my own feet have tried it well.” + </p> + <p> + Through Stevenson's essay on Whitman Jeff came to know the Scotch writer, + and from the first paragraph of him was a sealed follower of R. L. S. In + different ways both of these poets ministered to a certain love of + freedom, of beauty, of outdoor spaces that was ineradicably a part of his + nature. The essence of vagabondage is the spirit of romance. One may tour + every corner of the earth and still be a respectable Pharisee. One may + never move a dozen miles from the village of his birth and yet be of the + happy company of romantics. Jeff could find in a sunset, in a stretch of + windswept plain, in the sight of water through leafless trees, something + that filled his heart with emotion. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps the very freedom of these vacation excursions helped to feed his + growing discontent. The yeast of rebellion was forever stirring in him. He + wanted to come to life with open mind. He was possessed of an insatiable + curiosity about it. This took him to the slums of Verden, to the redlight + district, to Socialist meetings, to a striking coal camp near the city + where he narrowly escaped being killed as a scab. He knew that something + was wrong with our social life. Inextricably blended with success and + happiness he saw everywhere pain, defeat, and confusion. Why must such + things be? Why poverty at all? + </p> + <p> + But when he flung his questions at Pearson, who had charge of the work in + sociology, the explanations of the professor seemed to him pitifully weak. + </p> + <p> + In the ethics class he met the same experience. A chance reference to + Drummond's “Natural Law in the Spiritual world” introduced him to that + stimulating book. All one night he sat up and read it—drank it in + with every fiber of his thirsty being. + </p> + <p> + The fire in his stove went out. He slipped into his overcoat. Gray morning + found him still reading. He walked out with dazed eyes into a world that + had been baptized anew during the night to a miraculous rebirth. + </p> + <p> + But when he took his discovery to the lecture room Dawson was not only + cold but hostile. Drummond was not sound. There was about him a specious + charm very likely to attract young minds. Better let such books alone for + the present. In the meantime the class would take up with him the + discussion of predeterminism as outlined in Tuesday's work. + </p> + <p> + There were members of the faculty big enough to have understood the boy + and tolerant enough to have sympathized with his crude revolt, but Jeff + was diffident and never came in touch with them. + </p> + <p> + His connection with the college ended abruptly during the Spring term of + his Sophomore year. + </p> + <p> + A celebrated revivalist was imported to quicken the spiritual life of the + University. Under his exhortations the institution underwent a religious + ferment. An extraordinary excitement was astir on the campus. Class prayer + meetings were held every afternoon, and at midday smaller groups met for + devotional exercises. At these latter those who had made no profession of + religion were petitioned for by name. James Farnum was swept into the + movement and distinguished himself by his zeal. It was understood that he + desired the prayers of friends for that relative who had not yet cast away + the burden of his sins. + </p> + <p> + It became a point of honor with his cousin's circle to win Jeff for the + cause. There was no difficulty in getting him to attend the meetings of + the revivalist. But he sat motionless through the emotional climax that + brought to an end each meeting. To him it seemed that this was not in any + vital sense religion, but he was careful not to suggest his feeling by so + much as a word. + </p> + <p> + One or two of his companions invited him to come to Jesus. He disconcerted + them by showing an unexpected familiarity with the Scriptures as a weapon + of offense against them. + </p> + <p> + James invited him to his rooms and labored with him. Jeff resorted to the + Socratic method. From what sins was he to be saved? And when would he know + he had found salvation? + </p> + <p> + His cousin uneasily explained the formula. “You must believe in Christ and + Him crucified. You must surrender your will to His. Shall we pray + together?” + </p> + <p> + “I'd rather not, J. K. First, I want to get some points clear. Do you mean + that I'm to believe in what Jesus said and to try to live as he + suggested?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff picked up his cousin's Bible and read a passage. “'We know that we + have passed from death unto life, BECAUSE WE LOVE THE BRETHREN. He that + loveth not his brother abideth in death.' That's the test, isn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you have to be converted,” James said dubiously. + </p> + <p> + “Isn't that conversion—loving your brother? And if a man is willing + to live in plenty while his brother is in poverty, if he exploits those + weaker than himself to help him get along, then he can't be really + converted, can he?” + </p> + <p> + “Now see here, Jeff, you've got the wrong idea. Christ didn't come into + the world to reform it, but to save it from its sins. He wasn't merely a + man, but the Divine Son of God.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand the dual nature of Jesus. But when one reads His life + it is easy to believe in His divinity.” After a moment the young man + added: “In one way we're all divine sons of God, aren't we?” + </p> + <p> + James was shocked. “Where do you get such notions? None of our people were + infidels.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I one?” + </p> + <p> + “You ought to take advantage of this chance. It's not right to set your + opinion up against those that know better.” + </p> + <p> + “And that's what I'm doing, isn't it?” Jeff smiled. “Can't help it. I + reckon I can't be saved by my emotions. It's going to be a life job.” + </p> + <p> + James gave him up, but he sent another Senior to make a last attempt. The + young man was Thurston Thomas and he had never exchanged six sentences + with Jeff in his life. The unrepentant sinner sent him to the right about + sharply. + </p> + <p> + “What the devil do you mean by running about officiously and bothering + about other people's souls? Better look out for your own.” + </p> + <p> + Thomas, a scion of one of the best families in Verden, looked as if he had + been slapped in the face. + </p> + <p> + “Why Farnum, I—I spoke for your good.” + </p> + <p> + “No, you didn't,” contradicted Jeff flatly. “You don't care a hang about + me. You've never noticed me before. We're not friends. You've always + disliked me. But you want the credit of bringing me into the fold. It's + damned impertinent of you.” + </p> + <p> + The Senior retired with a white face. He was furious, but he thought it + due himself to turn the other cheek by saying nothing. He reported his + version to a circle of friends, and from them it spread like grass seed in + the wind. Soon it was generally known that Jeff Farnum had grossly + insulted with blasphemy a man who had tried to save his soul. + </p> + <p> + Two days later Miller met Jeff at the door of Frome 15. + </p> + <p> + “You're in bad! Jeff. What the deuce did you do to Sissy Thomas?” + </p> + <p> + “Gave him some good advice.” + </p> + <p> + Miller grinned. “I'll bet you did. The little cad has been poisoning the + wells against you. Look there.” + </p> + <p> + A young woman of their class had passed into the room. Her glance had + fallen upon Farnum and been quickly averted. + </p> + <p> + “That's the first time Bessie Vroom ever cut you,” Sam continued angrily. + “Thomas is responsible. I've heard the story a dozen times already.” + </p> + <p> + “I only told him to mind his own business.” + </p> + <p> + “He can't. He's a born meddler. Now he's queered you with the whole + place.” + </p> + <p> + “Can't help it. I wasn't going to let him get away with his impudence. Why + should I?” + </p> + <p> + Miller shrugged. “Policy, my boy. Better take the advice of Cousin James + and crawl into your shell till the storm has pelted past.” + </p> + <p> + Half an hour later Jeff met his cousin near the chapel and was taken to + task. + </p> + <p> + “What's this I hear about your insulting Thomas?” + </p> + <p> + “You have it wrong. He insulted me,” Jeff corrected with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Tommyrot! Why couldn't you treat him right?” + </p> + <p> + “Didn't like to throw him through the window on account of littering up + the lawn with broken glass.” + </p> + <p> + James K.'s handsome square-cut face did not relax to a smile. “You may + think this a joke, but I don't. I've heard the Chancellor is going to call + you on the carpet.” + </p> + <p> + “If he does he'll learn what I think.” + </p> + <p> + The upper classman's anger boiled over. “You might think of me a little.” + </p> + <p> + “Didn't know you were in this, J. K.” + </p> + <p> + “They know I'm your cousin. It's hurting my reputation.” + </p> + <p> + A faint ironic smile touched Jeff's face. “No, James, I'm helping it. Ever + notice how blondes and brunettes chum together. Value of contrasts, you + see. I'm a moral brunette. You're a shining example of all a man should + be. I simply emphasize your greatness.” + </p> + <p> + “That's not the way it works,” his cousin grumbled. + </p> + <p> + “That's just how it works. Best thing that could happen to you would be + for me to get expelled. Shall I?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff offered his suggestion debonairly. + </p> + <p> + “Of course not.” + </p> + <p> + “It would give you just the touch of halo you need to finish the picture. + Think of it: your noble head bowed in grief because of the unworthy + relative you had labored so hard to save; the sympathy of the faculty, the + respect of the fellows, the shy adoration of the co-eds. Great Brutus + bowed by the sorrow of a strong man's unrepining emotion. By Jove, I ought + to give you the chance. You'd look the part to admiration.” + </p> + <p> + For a moment James saw himself in the role and coveted it. Jeff read his + thought, and his laughter brought his cousin back to earth. He had the + irritated sense of having been caught. + </p> + <p> + “It's not an occasion for talking nonsense,” he said coldly. + </p> + <p> + Jeff sensed his disgrace in the stiff politeness of the professors and in + the embarrassed aloofness of his classmates. Some of the men frankly gave + him a wide berth as if he had been a moral pervert. + </p> + <p> + His temperament was sensitive to slights and he fell into one of his rare + depressions. One afternoon he took the car for the city. He wanted to get + away from himself and from his environment. + </p> + <p> + A chill mist was in the air. Drawn by the bright lights, Jeff entered a + saloon and sat down in an alcove with his arms on the table. Why did they + hammer him so because he told the truth as he saw it? Why must he toady to + the ideas of Bland as everybody else at the University seemed to do? He + was not respectable enough for them. That was the trouble. They were + pushing him back into the gutter whence he had emerged. Wild fragmentary + thoughts chased themselves across the record of his brain. + </p> + <p> + Almost before he knew it he had ordered and drunk a highball. Immediately + his horizon lightened. With the second glass his depression vanished. He + felt equal to anything. + </p> + <p> + It was past nine o'clock when he took the University car. As chance had it + Professor Perkins and he were the only passengers. The teacher of + Economics bowed to the flushed youth and buried himself in a book. It was + not till they both rose to leave at the University station that he noticed + the condition of Farnum. Even then he stood in momentary doubt. + </p> + <p> + With a maudlin laugh Jeff quieted any possible explanation of sickness. + </p> + <p> + “Been havin' little spree down town, Profeshor. Good deal like one ev'body + been havin' out here. Yours shpiritual; mine shpirituous. Joke, see! Play + on wor'd. Shpiritual—shpirituous.” + </p> + <p> + “You're intoxicated, sir,” Perkin's told him sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Betcherlife I am, old cock! Ever get shp—shp—shpiflicated + yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “Go home and go to bed, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Whaffor? 'S early yet. 'S reasonable man I ask whaffor?” + </p> + <p> + The professor turned away, but Jeff caught at his sleeve. + </p> + <p> + “Lesh not go to bed. Lesh talk economicsh.” + </p> + <p> + “Release me at once, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Jush's you shay. Shancellor wants see me. I'll go now.” + </p> + <p> + He did. What occurred at that interview had better be omitted. Jeff was + very cordial and friendly, ready to make up any differences there might be + between them. An ice statue would have been warm compared to the + Chancellor. + </p> + <p> + Next day Jeff was publicly expelled. At the time it did not trouble him in + the least. He had brought a bottle home with him from town, and when the + notice was posted he lay among the bushes in a sodden sleep half a mile + from the campus. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + From a great distance there seemed to come to Jeff vaguely the sound of + young rippling laughter and eager girlish voices. Drawn from heavy sleep, + he was not yet fully awake. This merriment might be the music of fairy + bells, such stuff as dreams are made of. He lay incurious, drowsiness + still heavy on his eyelids. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Virgie, here's another bunch! Oh, girls, fields of them!” + </p> + <p> + There was a little rush to the place, and with it a rustle of skirts that + sounded authentic. Jeff began to believe that his nymphs were not born of + fancy. He opened his eyes languidly to examine a strange world upon which + he had not yet focused his mind. + </p> + <p> + Out of the ferns a dryad was coming toward him, lance straight, slender, + buoyantly youthful in the light tread and in the poise of the golden head. + </p> + <p> + At sight of him she paused, held in her tracks, eyes grown big with + solicitude. + </p> + <p> + “You are ill.” + </p> + <p> + Before he could answer she had dropped the anemones she carried, was on + her knees beside him, and had his head cushioned against her arm. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me! What can I do for you? What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff groaned. His head was aching as if it would blow up, but that was not + the cause of the wave of pain which had swept over him. A realization had + come to him of what was the matter with him. His eyes fell from hers. He + made as if to get up, but her hand restrained him with a gentle firmness. + </p> + <p> + “Don't! You mustn't.” Then aloud, she cried: “Girls—girls—there's + a sick man here. Run and get help. Quick.” + </p> + <p> + “No—no! I—I'm not sick.” + </p> + <p> + A flood of shame and embarrassment drenched him. He could not escape her + tender hands without actual force and his poignant shyness made that + impossible. She was like a fairy tale, a creature of dreams. He dared not + meet her frank pitiful eyes, though he was intensely aware of them. The + odor of violets brings to him even to this day a vision of girlish charm + and daintiness, together with a memory of the abased reverence that filled + him. + </p> + <p> + They came running, her companions, eager with question and suggestion. And + hard upon their heels a teamster from the road broke through the thicket, + summoned by their calls for help. He stooped to pick up something that his + foot had struck. It was a bottle. He looked at it and then at Jeff. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing the matter with him, Miss, but just plain drunk,” the man said + with a grin. “He's been sleeping it off.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff felt the quiver run through her. She rose, trembling, and with one + frightened sidelong look at him walked quickly away. He had seen a wound + in her eyes he would not soon forget. It was as if he had struck her down + while she was holding out hands to help him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 5 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Lies need only age to make them respectable. Given that, + they become traditions and are put upon a pedestal. Then the + gentlest word for him who attacks them is traitor.—From + the Note Book of a Dreamer. +</pre> + <p> + THE REBEL FOLLOWS THE RAMIFICATIONS OF BIG BUSINESS AND FINDS THAT THE + PILLARS OF SOCIETY ARE NOT IN POLITICS FOR THEIR HEALTH + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + “Hmp! Want to be a reporter, do you?” Warren, city editor on the Advocate, + leaned back in his chair and looked Jeff over sharply. + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a hell of a life. Better keep out.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd like to try it.” + </p> + <p> + “Any experience?” + </p> + <p> + “Only correspondence. I've had two years at college.” + </p> + <p> + The city editor snorted. He had the unreasoning contempt for college men + so often found in the old-time newspaper hack. + </p> + <p> + “Then you don't want to be a reporter. You want to be a journalist,” he + jeered. + </p> + <p> + “They kicked me out,” Jeff went on quietly. + </p> + <p> + “Sounds better. Why?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff hesitated. “I got drunk.” + </p> + <p> + “Can't use you,” Warren cut in hastily. + </p> + <p> + “I've quit—sworn off.” + </p> + <p> + The city editor was back on the job, his eyes devouring copy. “Heard that + before. Nothing to it,” he grunted. + </p> + <p> + “Give me a trial. I'll show you.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't want a man that drinks. Office crowded with 'em already.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff held his ground. For five minutes the attention of Warren was focused + on his work. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly he snapped out, “Well?” + </p> + <p> + He met Farnum's ingratiating smile. “You haven't told me yet what to start + doing.” + </p> + <p> + “I told you I didn't want you.” + </p> + <p> + “But you do. I'm on the wagon.” + </p> + <p> + “For how long?” jeered the city editor. + </p> + <p> + “For good.” + </p> + <p> + Warren sized him up again. He saw a cleareyed young fellow without a + superfluous ounce of flesh on him, not rugged but with a look of strength + in the slender figure and the thin face. This young man somehow inspired + confidence. + </p> + <p> + “Sent in that Colby story to us, didn't you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Rotten story. Not half played up. Report to Jenkins at the City Hall.” + </p> + <p> + “Now?” + </p> + <p> + “Now. Think I meant next year?” + </p> + <p> + The city editor was already lost in the reading of more copy. + </p> + <p> + Inside of half an hour Jeff was at work on his first assignment. Some + derelict had committed suicide under the very shadow of the City Hall. + Upon the body was a note scrawled on the bask of a dirty envelope. + </p> + <p> + Sick and out of work. Notify Henry Simmons, 237 River Street, San + Francisco. + </p> + <p> + Jenkins, his hands in his pockets, looked at the body indifferently and + turned the story over to the cub with a nod of his head. + </p> + <p> + “Go to it. Half a stick,” he said. + </p> + <p> + From another reporter Jeff learned how much half a stick is. He wrote the + account. When he had read it Jenkins glanced sharply at him. Though only + the barest facts were told there was a sob in the story. + </p> + <p> + “That ain't just how we handle vag suicides, but we'll let 'er go this + time,” he commented. + </p> + <p> + It did not take Jeff long to learn how to cover a story to the + satisfaction of the city editor. He had only to be conventional, + sensational, and in general accurate as to his facts. He fraternized with + his fellow reporters at the City Hall, shared stories with them, listened + to the cheerful lies they told of their exploits, and lent them money they + generally forgot to return. They were a happy-go-lucky lot, full of + careless generosities and Bohemian tendencies. Often a week's salary went + at a single poker sitting. Most of them drank a good deal. + </p> + <p> + After a few months' experience Jeff discovered that while the gathering of + news tends to sharpen the wits it makes also for the superficial. + Alertness, cleverness, persistence, a nose for news, and a surface + accuracy were the chief qualities demanded of him by the office. He had + only to look around him to see that the profession was full of keen-eyed, + nimble-witted old-young men who had never attempted to synthesize the life + they were supposed to be recording and interpreting. While at work they + were always in a hurry, for to-day's news is dead to-morrow. They wrote on + the run, without time for thought or reflection. Knowing beyond their + years, the fruit of their wisdom was cynicism. Their knowledge withered + for lack of roots. + </p> + <p> + The tendency of the city desk and of copy readers is to reduce all + reporters to a dead level, but in spite of this Jeff managed to get + himself into his work. He brought to many stories a freshness, a point of + view, an optimism that began to be noticed. From the police run Jeff + drifted to other departments. He covered hotels, the court house, the + state house and general assignments. + </p> + <p> + At the end of a couple of years he was promoted to a desk position. This + did not suit him, and he went back to the more active work of the street. + In time he became known as a star man. From dramatics he went to politics, + special stories and feature work. The big assignments were given him. + </p> + <p> + It was his duty to meet famous people and interview them. The chance to + get behind the scenes at the real inside story was given him. Because of + this many reputations were pricked like bubbles so far as he was + concerned. The mask of greatness was like the false faces children wear to + conceal their own. In the one or two really big men he met Jeff discovered + a humility and simplicity that came from self-forgetfulness. They were too + busy with their vision of truth to pose for the public admiration. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + It was while Jeff was doing the City Hall run that there came to him one + night at his rooms a man he had known in the old days when he had lived in + the river bottom district. If he was surprised to see him the reporter did + not show it. + </p> + <p> + “Hello, Burke! Come in. Glad to see you.” + </p> + <p> + Farnum took the hat of his guest and relieved his awkwardness by guiding + him to a chair and helping him get his pipe alight. + </p> + <p> + “How's everything? Little Mike must be growing into a big boy these days. + Let's see. It's three years since I've seen him.” + </p> + <p> + A momentary flicker lit the gloomy eyes of the Irishman. “He's a great + boy, Mike is. He often speaks of you, Mr. Farnum. + </p> + <p> + “Glad to know it. And Mrs. Burke?” + </p> + <p> + “Fine.” + </p> + <p> + “That leaves only Patrick Burke. I suppose he hasn't fallen off the water + wagon yet.” + </p> + <p> + The occupation of Burke had been a threadbare joke between them in the old + days. He drove a street sprinkler for the city. + </p> + <p> + “That's what he has. McGuire threw the hooks into me this morning. I've + drove me last day.” + </p> + <p> + “What's the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm too damned honest.... or too big a coward. Take your choice.” + </p> + <p> + “All right. I've taken it,” smiled the reporter. + </p> + <p> + Pat brought his big fist down on the table so forcefully that the books + shook. “I'll not go to the penitentiary for an-ny man.... He wanted me to + let him put two other teams on the rolls in my name. I wouldn't stand for + it. That was six weeks ago. To-day he lets me out.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff began to see dimly the trail of the serpent graft. He lit his pipe + before he spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Don't quite get the idea, Pat. Why wouldn't you?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I'm on the level. I'll have no wan tellin' little Mike his father + is a dirty thief....It's this way. The rolls were to be padded, + understand.” + </p> + <p> + “I see. You were to draw pay for three teams when you've got only one.” + </p> + <p> + “McGuire was to draw it, all but a few dollars a month.” The Irishman + leaned forward, his eyes blazing. “And because I wouldn't stand for it I'm + fired for neglecting my duty. I missed a street yesterday. If he'd been + frientlly to me I might have missed forty.... But he can't throw me down + like that. I've got the goods to show he's a dirty grafter. Right now he's + drawing pay for seven teams that don't exist.” + </p> + <p> + “And he doesn't know you know it?” + </p> + <p> + “You bet he don't. I've guessed it for a month. To-day I went round and + made sure.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff asked questions, learned all that Burke had to tell him. In the days + that followed he ran down the whole story of the graft so secretly that + not even the city editor knew what he was about. Then he had a talk with + the “old man” and wrote his story. + </p> + <p> + It was a red-hot exposure of one of the most flagrant of the City Hall + gang. There was no question of the proof. He had it in black and white. + Moreover, there was always the chance that in the row which must follow + McGuire might peach on Big Tim himself, the boss of all the little bosses. + </p> + <p> + Within twenty-four hours Jeff was summoned to a conference at which were + present the city editor and Warren, now managing editor. + </p> + <p> + “We've killed your story, Farnum,” announced the latter as soon as the + door was closed. + </p> + <p> + “Why? I can prove every word of it.” + </p> + <p> + “That was what we were afraid of.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a peach of a story. With the spring elections coming on we need some + dynamite to blow up Big Tim. I tell you McGuire would tell all he knows to + save his own skin.” + </p> + <p> + “My opinion, too,” agreed Warren dryly. “My boy, it's too big a story. + That's the whole trouble. If we were sure it would stop at McGuire we'd + run it. But it won't. The corporations are backing Big Tim to win this + spring. It won't do to get him tied up in a graft scandal.” + </p> + <p> + “But the <i>Advocate</i> has been out after his scalp for years.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we're not after it any more. Of course, we're against him on the + surface still.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff did some rapid thinking. “Then the program will be for us to nominate + a weak ticket and elect Big Tim's by default. Is that it?” + </p> + <p> + “That's about it. The big fellows have to make sure of a Mayor who will be + all right about the Gas and Electric franchise. So we're going to have + four more years of Big Tim.” + </p> + <p> + “Will Brownell stand for it?” + </p> + <p> + Brownell was the principal owner of the <i>Advocate.</i> + </p> + <p> + “Will he?” Warren let his eyelash rest for a second upon the cheek nearest + Jeff. “He's been seen. My orders come direct from the old man.” + </p> + <p> + The story was suppressed. No more was heard about the McGuire graft + scandal exposure. It had run counter to the projects of big business. + </p> + <p> + Burke had to be satisfied without his revenge. + </p> + <p> + He got a job with a brewery and charged the McGuire matter to profit and + loss. + </p> + <p> + As for Jeff the incident only served to make clearer what he already knew. + More and more he began to understand the forces that dominate our cities, + the alliance between large vested interests and the powers that prey. + These great corporations were seekers of special privileges. To secure + this they financed the machines and permitted vice and corruption. He saw + that ultimately most of the shame for the bad government of American + cities rests upon the Fromes and the Merrills. + </p> + <p> + As for the newspapers, he was learning that between the people and an + independent press stand the big advertisers. These make for conservatism, + for an unfair point of view, for a slant in both news recording and news + interpretation. Yet he saw that the press is in spite of this a power for + good. The evil that it does is local and temporary, the good general and + permanent. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 3 + </h2> + <p> + The spirit of commercialism that dominated America during the nineties and + the first years of the new century never got hold of Jeff. The air and the + light of his land were often the creation of a poet's dream. The delight + of life stabbed him, so, too, did its tragedy. Not anchored to + conventions, his mind was forever asking questions, seeking answers. + </p> + <p> + He would come out from a theater into a night that was a flood of + illumination. Electric signs poured a glare of light over the streets. + Motor cars and electrics whirled up to take away beautifully gowned women + and correctly dressed men. The windows of the department stores were + filled with imported luxuries. And he would sometimes wonder how much of + misery and trouble was being driven back by that gay blare of wealth, how + many men and women and children were giving their lives to maintain a + civilization that existed by trampling over their broken hearts and + bodies. + </p> + <p> + Preventable poverty stared at him from all sides. He saw that our social + fabric is thrown together in the most haphazard fashion, without + scientific organization, with the greatest waste, in such a way that + non-producers win all the prizes while the toilers do without. Yet out of + this system that sows hate and discontent, that is a practical denial of + brotherhood, of God, springs here and there love like a flower in a + dunghill. + </p> + <p> + He felt that art and learning, as well as beauty and truth, ought to walk + hand in hand with our daily lives. But this is impossible so long as + disorder and cruelty and disease are in the world unnecessarily. He heard + good people, busy with effects instead of causes, talk about the way out, + as if there could be any way out which did not offer an equality of + opportunity refused by the whole cruel system of to-day. + </p> + <p> + But Jeff could be in revolt without losing his temper. The men who + profited by present conditions were not monsters. They were as kind of + heart as he was, effects of the system just as much as the little + bootblack on the corner. No possible good could come of a blind hatred of + individuals. + </p> + <p> + His Bohemian instinct sent Jeff ranging far in those days. He made friends + out of the most unlikely material. Some of the most radical of these were + in the habit of gathering informally in his rooms about once a week. + Sometimes the talk was good and pungent. Much of it was merely wild. + </p> + <p> + His college friend, Sam Miller, now assistant city librarian, was one of + this little circle. Another was Oscar Marchant, a fragile little Socialist + poet upon whom consumption had laid its grip. He was not much of a poet, + but there burnt in him a passion for humanity that disease and poverty + could not extinguish. + </p> + <p> + One night James Farnum dropped in to borrow some money from his cousin and + for ten minutes listened to such talk as he had never heard before. His + mind moved among a group of orthodox and accepted ideas. A new one he + always viewed as if it were a dynamite bomb timed to go off shortly. He + was not only suspicious of it; he was afraid of it. + </p> + <p> + James was, it happened, in evening dress. He took gingerly the chair his + cousin offered him between the hectic Marchant and a little Polish Jew. + </p> + <p> + The air was blue with the smoke from cheap tobacco. More than one of those + present carried the marks of poverty. But the note of the assembly was a + cheerful at-homeness. James wondered what the devil his cousin meant by + giving this heterogeneous gathering the freedom of his rooms. + </p> + <p> + Dickinson, the single-taxer, was talking bitterly. He was a big man with a + voice like a foghorn. His idea of emphasis appeared to be pounding the + table with his blacksmith fist. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you society doesn't want to hear about such things,” he was + declaiming. “It wants to go along comfortably without being disturbed. + Ignore everything that's not pleasant, that's liable to harrow the + feelings. The sins of our neighbors make spicy reading. Fill the papers + with 'em. But their distresses and their poverty! That's different. Let's + hear as little about them as possible. Let's keep it a well-regulated + world.” + </p> + <p> + Nearly everybody began to talk at once. James caught phrases here and + there out of the melee. + </p> + <p> + “... Democratic institutions must either decay or become revitalized....To + hell with such courts. They're no better than anarchy....In Verden there + are only two classes: those who don't get as much as they earn and those + who get more.... Tell you we've got to get back to the land, got to make + it free as air. You can't be saved from economic slavery till you have + socialism. ...” + </p> + <p> + Suddenly the hubbub subsided and Marchant had the floor. “All of life's a + compromise, a horrible unholy giving up as unpractical all the best + things. It's a denial of love, of Christ, of God.” + </p> + <p> + A young preacher who was conducting a mission for sailors on the water + front cut in. “Exactly. The church is radically wrong because—” + </p> + <p> + “Because it hasn't been converted to Christianity yet. Mr. Moneybags in + the front pew has got a strangle hold on the parson. Begging your pardon, + Mifflin. We know you're not that kind.” + </p> + <p> + Marchant won the floor again. “Here's the nub of it. A man's a slave so + long as his means of livelihood is dependent on some other man. I don't + care whether it's lands or railroads or mines. Abolish private property + and you abolish poverty.” + </p> + <p> + They were all at it again, like dogs at a bone. Across the Babel James + caught Jeff's gay grin at him. + </p> + <p> + By sheer weight Dickinson's voice boomed out of the medley. + </p> + <p> + “... just as Henry George says: 'Private ownership of land is the nether + mill-stone. Material progress is the upper mill-stone. Between them, with + an increasing pressure, the working classes are being ground.' We're just + beginning to see the effect of private property in land. Within a few + years....” + </p> + <p> + “What we need is to get back to Democracy. Individualism has run wild....” + </p> + <p> + “Trouble is we can't get anywhere under the Constitution. Every time we + make a move—check. It was adopted by aristocrats to hold back the + people and that's what it's done. Law—” + </p> + <p> + Apparently nobody got a chance to finish his argument. The Polish Jew + broke in sharply. “Law! There iss no law.” + </p> + <p> + “Plenty of it, Sobieski, Go out on the streets and preach your philosophic + anarchy if you don't believe it. See what it will do to you. Law's a + device to bolster up the strong and to hammer down the weak.” + </p> + <p> + James had given a polite cynical indulgence to views so lost to reason and + propriety. But he couldn't quite stand any more. He made a sign to Jeff + and they adjourned to the next room. + </p> + <p> + “Your friends always so—so enthusiastic?” he asked with the + slightest lift of his upper lip. + </p> + <p> + “Not always. They're a little excited to-night because Harshaw imprisoned + those fourteen striking miners for contempt of court.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't manufacture bombs here, do you?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff laughed. “We're warranted harmless.” + </p> + <p> + James offered him good advice. “That sort of talk doesn't lead to anything—except + trouble. Men who get on don't question the fundamentals of our social + system. It doesn't do, you know. Take the constitution. Now I've studied + it. A wonderful document. Gladstone said.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I know what Gladstone said. I don't agree with him. The constitution + was devised by men with property as a protection against those who had + none.” + </p> + <p> + “Why shouldn't it have been?” + </p> + <p> + “It should, if vested interests are the first thing to consider. In there”—with + a smiling wave of his hand—“they think people are more important + than things. A most unsettling notion!” + </p> + <p> + “Mean to say you believe all that rant they talk?” + </p> + <p> + “Not quite,” Jeff laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'd cut that bunch of anarchists if I were you,” his cousin + suggested. “Say, Jeff, can you let me have fifty dollars?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff considered. He had been thinking of a new spring overcoat, but his + winter one would do well enough. From the office he could get an advance + of the balance he needed to make up the fifty. + </p> + <p> + “Sure. I'll bring it to your rooms to-morrow night.” + </p> + <p> + “Much obliged. Hate to trouble you,” James said lightly. “Well, I won't + keep you longer from your anarchist friends. Good-night.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 6 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The cure for the evils of Democracy is more Democracy.” + —De Tocqueville. +</pre> + <p> + THE REBEL HUMBLY ASSISTS AT THE UNVEILING OF A HERO'S STATUE + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + On the occasion when his cousin was graduated with the highest honors from + the law school of Verden University Jeff sat inconspicuously near the rear + of the chapel. James, as class orator, rose to his hour. From the moment + that he moved slowly to the front of the platform, handsome and impassive, + his calm gaze sweeping over the audience while he waited for the little + bustle of expectancy to subside, Jeff knew that the name of Farnum was + going to be covered with glory. + </p> + <p> + The orator began in a low clear voice that reached to the last seat in the + gallery. Jeff knew that before he finished its echoes would be ringing + through the hall like a trumpet call to the emotions of those present. + </p> + <p> + It was not destined that Jeff should hear a word of that stirring + peroration. His eye fell by chance upon a young woman seated in a box + beside an elderly man whom he recognized as Peter C. Frome. From that + instant he was lost to all sense perception that did not focus upon her. + For he was looking at the dryad who had come upon him out of the ferns + three years before. She would never know it, but Alice Frome had saved him + from the weakness that might have destroyed him. From that day he had been + a total abstainer. Now as he looked at her the vivid irregular beauty of + the girl flowed through him like music. Her charm for him lay deeper than + the golden gleams of imprisoned sunlight woven in her hair, than the + gallant poise of the little head above the slender figure. Though these + set his heart beating wildly, a sure instinct told him of the fine and + exquisite spirit that found its home in her body. + </p> + <p> + She was leaning forward in her chair, her eyes fixed on James almost as if + she were fascinated by his oratory. Her father watched her, a trifle + amused at her eagerness. In her admiration she was frank as a boy. When + Farnum's last period was rounded out and he made to leave the stage her + gloved hands beat together in excited applause. + </p> + <p> + After the ceremonies were over James came straight to her. Jeff missed no + detail of their meeting. The young lawyer was swimming on a tide of + triumph, but it was easy to see that Alice Frome's approval was the thing + he most desired. His cousin had never seen him so gay, so handsome, so + altogether irresistible. For the first time a little spasm of envy shot + through Jeff, That the girl liked James was plain enough. How could any + girl help liking him? + </p> + <p> + The orator was so much the center of attention that Jeff postponed his + congratulations till evening. He called on his cousin after midnight at + his rooms. James had just returned from a class banquet where he had been + the toastmaster. He was still riding the big wave. + </p> + <p> + “It's been a great day for me, Jeff,” he broke out after his cousin had + congratulated him. “I've earned it, too. For seven years I've worked + toward this day as a climax. Did you see me talking to P. C. Frome and his + daughter? I'm going to be accepted socially in the best houses of the + city. I'll make them all open to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't doubt it.” + </p> + <p> + “And the best of it is that I've made my own success.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you've worked hard,” Jeff admitted with a little gleam of humor in + his eyes. He would not remind his cousin that he had lent him most of the + money to see him through law school. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, worked!” James was striding up and down the room to get rid of some + of his nervous energy. “I've done more than work. I've made + opportunities... grabbed them coming and going. Young as I am Verden + expects big things of me. And I'll deliver the goods, too.” + </p> + <p> + “What's the program?” Jeff asked, much amused. + </p> + <p> + “Don't know yet. I'm going into politics and I mean to get ahead. I'll + make a big splash and keep in the public eye.” + </p> + <p> + His cousin could not help laughing. “You always were a pretty good press + agent for J. K. Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “Why shouldn't I be?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know why you shouldn't. A man who gets ahead puts himself in a + position where he can bring about reforms.” + </p> + <p> + “That's it exactly. I mean to make myself a power.” + </p> + <p> + “Get hold of one good practical reform and back it. Pound away on it until + the people identify you with it. Take direct legislation as your text, + say. There's going to be a strong drift that way in the next ten years. + Machines and bosses are going to be swept to the junk heap.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff could give no adequate justification for the faith that was in him. + It would be no answer to tell James that he knew the plain people of the + state better than the politicians did. However, he mentioned a few facts. + </p> + <p> + “It's all very well for you to be a radical, but I have to conserve my + influence,” James objected. “I've got to be practical. If I were just + going to be a reporter it would be different.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be too practical, James. You've got to have some vision if you're + going to lead the people. Nobody is so blind to the future as practical + politicians and business men.” He stopped, smiling quizzically. “But + you're the orator of the family. I don't want to infringe on your + copyright. Only you have the personality to be a real leader. Get started + right. Remember that America faces forward, and that we're going to move + with seven league boots to better conditions.” + </p> + <p> + James mused out loud. “If a man could be a Lincoln to save the people from + industrial slavery it would be worth while.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff did not laugh at his conceit. “Go to it. I'll promise you the backing + of the <i>World</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “What have you to do with the <i>World</i>?” + </p> + <p> + “Beginning with next Monday I'm to be managing editor.” + </p> + <p> + “You!” + </p> + <p> + “Even so. Captain Chunn has bought the paper.” + </p> + <p> + “Chunn, the man who made millions in a lucky strike in Alaska?” + </p> + <p> + “Same man.” + </p> + <p> + James was still incredulous. “How did Chunn happen to pick you for the + editor?” + </p> + <p> + “He's an old friend of mine. 'Member the day I had the fight with Ned + Merrill. Captain Chunn was the man who stood up for me.” + </p> + <p> + “And you've known him ever since?” + </p> + <p> + “I've always corresponded with him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll be hanged. Talk about luck.” James looked his cousin over with + increased respect. He always took off his hat to success, but he had been + so long accustomed to thinking of Jeff as a failure that he could not + adjust his mind to the situation. “Why, you can't run a paper. Can you?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff smiled. “I told Captain Chunn he was taking a big chance.” + </p> + <p> + “If he's as rich as they say he is he can afford to lose some money.” + </p> + <p> + James took the news of his cousin's good fortune a little peevishly. He + did not grudge Jeff's advancement, but he resented that it had befallen + him to-day of all days. The promotion of the reporter took the edge off + his own achievements. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + As James understood his own genius, it was as a statesman that he was + fitted preeminently to shine. He had the urbanity, the large impassive + manner, and the magnetic eloquence of the old-style congressman. All he + needed was the chance. + </p> + <p> + With the passing months he grew more restless at the delay. There were + moments in the night when he trembled lest some stroke of evil fate might + fall upon him before he had carved his name in the niche of fame. To sit + in an empty law office and wait for clients took more patience than he + could summon. He wanted an opportunity to make speeches in the campaign + that was soon to open. That he finally went to Big Tim himself about it + instead of to his ward committeeman was characteristic of James K. + </p> + <p> + After he sent his card in the young lawyer was kept waiting for + thirty-five minutes in an outer office along with a Jew peddler, a + pugilist ward heeler, an Irish saloonkeeper, and a brick contractor. + Naturally he was exceedingly annoyed. O'Brien ought to know that James K. + Farnum did not rank with this riff-raff. + </p> + <p> + When at last James got into the holy of holies he found Big Tim lolling + back in his swivel chair with a fat cigar in his mouth. The boss did not + take the trouble to rise as he waved his visitor to a chair. + </p> + <p> + Farnum explained that he was interested in the political situation and + that he was prepared to take an active part in the campaign about to open. + The big man listened, watching him out of half shut attentive eyes. He had + never yet seen a kid glove politician that was worth the powder to blow + him up. Moreover, he had special reasons for disliking this one. His + cousin was editor of the <i>World</i>, and that paper was becoming a thorn + in his side. + </p> + <p> + O'Brien took the cigar from his mouth. “Did youse go to the primary last + night?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + James did not even know there had been one. He had in point of fact been + at a Country Club dance. + </p> + <p> + “Can youse tell me what the vote of your precinct was at the last city + election?” + </p> + <p> + The budding statesman could not. + </p> + <p> + “What precinct do youse live in?” + </p> + <p> + Farnum was not quite sure. He explained that he had moved recently. + </p> + <p> + Big Tim grunted scornfully. He was pleased to have a chance to take down + the cheek of any Farnum. + </p> + <p> + “What do youse think you can do?” + </p> + <p> + “I can make speeches. I'm the best orator that ever came out of Verden + University.” + </p> + <p> + “Tommyrot! How do youse stand in your precinct? Can youse get the vote out + to go down the line for us? That's what counts. Oratory be damned!” + </p> + <p> + James was pale with rage. The manner of the boss was nothing less than + insulting. + </p> + <p> + “Then you decline to give me a chance, Mr. O'Brien?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not. In politics a man makes his own chance. He gets along by being + so useful we can't get along without him. See? He learns the game. You + don't know the A B C of it. It's my opinion youse never will.” + </p> + <p> + O'Brien's hard cold eye triumphed over him as a principal does over a + delinquent schoolboy. + </p> + <p> + His vanity stung, the lawyer sprang to his feet. “Very well, Mr. O'Brien. + I'll show you a thing or two about what I can and can't do.” + </p> + <p> + For just an instant a notion flitted across Big Tim's mind that he might + be making a mistake. He was indulging an ugly temper, and he knew it. This + was a luxury he rarely permitted himself. Now he decided to “go the whole + hog,” as he phrased it to himself later. His lips set to an ugly snarl. + </p> + <p> + “It's like the nerve of ye to come to me. Want to begin at the top instid + of at the bottom. Go to Billie Gray if youse want to have some wan learn + youse the game. If you're any good he'll find it out.” + </p> + <p> + James got himself out of the office with all the dignity of which he was + capable. Go to Billie Gray, the notorious ballot box stuffer! Take orders + from the little rascal who had shaved the penitentiary only because of his + pull! James saw himself doing it. He was sore in every outraged nerve of + him. Never before in his life had anybody sat and sneered at him openly + before his eyes. He would show the big boss that he had been a fool to + treat him so. And he would show P. C. Frome and Ned Merrill that he was a + very valuable man. + </p> + <p> + How? Why, by fighting the corporations! Wasn't that the way that all the + big men got their start nowadays as lawyers? As soon as they discovered + his value Frome and his friends would be after his services fast enough. + James was no radical, but he believed Jeff knew what he was talking about + when he predicted an impending political change, one that would carry + power back from the machine bosses to the people. The young lawyer decided + to ride that wave as far as it would take him. He would be a tribune of + the people, and they in turn would make of him their hero. With the + promised backing of the <i>World</i> he would go a long way. He knew that + Jeff would fling him at once into the limelight. And he would make good. + He would be the big speaker for the reform movement. Nobody in the state + could sway a crowd as he could. James had not the least doubt about that. + It was glory and applause he wanted, not the drudgery of dirty ward + politics. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 3 + </h2> + <p> + Under Jeff's management the <i>World</i> had at once taken the leadership + in the fight for political reform in the state. He made it the policy of + the paper to tell the truth as to corruption both in and out of his own + party. Nor would he allow the business office, as influenced by the + advertisers, to dictate the policy of the paper. The result was that at + the end of the first year he went to the owner with a report of a deficit + of one hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars for the twelve months just + ended. + </p> + <p> + Captain Chunn only laughed. “Keep it up, son. I've had lots of fun out of + it. You've given this town one grand good shaking up. The whole state is + getting its fighting clothes on. We've got Merrill and Frome scared stiff + about their supreme court judges. Looks to me as if we were going to lick + them.” + </p> + <p> + The political campaign was already in progress. Hitherto the public + utility corporations of Verden had controlled and practically owned the + machinery of both parties. The <i>World</i> had revolted, rallied the + better sentiment in the party to which it belonged, and forced the + convention to declare for a reform platform and to nominate a clean ticket + composed of men of character. + </p> + <p> + Jeff agreed. “I think we're going to win. The people are with us. The <i>World</i> + is booming.” It's the advertising troubles me. Frome and Merrill have got + at the big stores and they won't come in with any space worth mentioning.” + </p> + <p> + “Damn the big advertisers,” exploded Chunn. “I've got two million cold and + I'm going to see this thing out, son. That's what I told Frome last week + when he had the nerve to have me nominated to the Verden Club. Wanted to + muzzle me. Be a good fellow and quit agitating. That was the idea. I sent + back word I'd stuck by Lee to Appomattox and I reckoned I was too old a + dog to learn the new trick of deserting my flag.” + </p> + <p> + “If you're satisfied I ought to be,” Jeff laughed. “As for the + advertising, the stores will come back soon. The managers all want to take + space, but they are afraid of spoiling their credit at the banks while + conditions are so unsettled.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, well. We'll stick to our guns. You fire'em and I'll supply the + ammunition.” The little man put his hand on Jeff's shoulder with a + chuckle. “We're both rebels—both irreconcilables, son. I reckon + we're going to be well hated before we get through with this fight.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. They're going about making people believe we're cranks and agitators + who are hurting business for our own selfish ends.” + </p> + <p> + “I reckon we can stand it, David.” Chunn had no children of his own and he + always called Jeff son or David. “By the way, how's that good looking + cousin of yours coming out? I see you're giving his speeches lots of + space.” + </p> + <p> + A light leaped to the eyes of the younger man. “He's doing fine. James is + a born orator. Wherever he goes he gets a big ovation.” + </p> + <p> + Chunn grunted. “Humph! That'll please him. He's as selfish as the devil, + always looking out for James Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “He wins the people, Captain.” + </p> + <p> + “You talk every evening yourself, but I don't see reports of any of your + speeches.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't talk like James. There's not a man in the state to equal him, + young as he is.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph!” + </p> + <p> + Captain Chunn grumbled a good deal about the way Jeff was always pushing + his cousin forward and keeping in the background himself. In his opinion + “David” was worth a hundred of the other. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 7 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Spirits of old that bore me, + And set me, meek of mind, + Between great deeds before me, + And deeds as great behind, + + Knowing Humanity my star + As forth of old I ride, + O help me wear with every scar + Honor at eventide.” + </pre> + <p> + THE REBEL DISCOVERS THAT ADHESION IS A PROPERTY OF MUD; ALSO THAT A + SOLDIER MUST SOMETIMES TURN HIS BACK AND BURN THE BRIDGES BEHIND HIM + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + The fight for the control of the state developed unprecedented bitterness. + The big financial interests back of the political machines poured out + money like water to elect a ticket that would be friendly to capital. An + eight-hour-day bill to apply to miners and underground workers had been + passed by the last legislature and a supreme court must be elected to + declare this law unconstitutional. Moreover, a United States senator was + to be chosen, so that the personnel of the assembly was a matter of great + importance. + </p> + <p> + Through the subsidized columns of the <i>Advocate</i> and the <i>Herald</i> + all the venom of outraged public plunder was emptied on the heads of Jeff + Farnum and Captain Chunn. They were rebels, blackmailers, and anarchists. + Jeff's life was held up to public scorn as dissolute and licentious. He + had been expelled from college and consorted only with companions of the + lowest sort. A free thinker and an atheist, he wanted to tear down the + pillars which upheld society. Unless Verden and the state repudiated him + and his gang of trouble breeders the poison of their opinions would infect + the healthy fabric of the community. + </p> + <p> + There was about Jeff a humility, a sort of careless generosity, that could + take with a laugh a hit at himself. But in the days that followed he was + often made to wince when good men drew away from him as from a moral + pervert. Twice he was hissed from the stage when he attempted to talk, or + would have been, if he had not quietly waited until the indignant + protesters were exhausted. It amused him to see that his old college + acquaintance “Sissie” Thomas and Billy Gray, the ballot box stuffer of the + Second Ward, were among the most vehement of those who thus scorned him. + So do the extremes of virtue and vice find common ground when the + blasphemer raises his voice against intrenched capital. + </p> + <p> + The personal calumny of the enemy showed how hard hit the big bosses were, + how beneath their feet they felt the ground of public opinion shift. It + had been only a year since Big Tim O'Brien, boss of the city by permission + of the public utility corporations, had read Jeff's first editorial + against ballot box stuffing. In it the editor of the <i>World</i> had + pledged that paper never to give up the fight for the people until such + crookedness was stamped out. Big Tim had laughed until his paunch shook at + the confidence of this young upstart and in impudent defiance had sent him + a check for fifty dollars for the Honest Election League. + </p> + <p> + Neither Big Tim nor the respectable buccaneers back of him were laughing + now. They were fighting with every ounce in them to sweep back the wave of + civic indignation the <i>World</i> had gathered into a compact aggressive + organization. + </p> + <p> + Young Ned Merrill, who represented the interests of the allied + corporations, had Big Tim on the carpet. The young man had not been out of + Harvard more than three years, but he did not let any nonsense about fair + play stand in his way. In spite of the clean-cut look of him—he was + broadshouldered and tall, with an effect of decision in the square cleft + chin that would some day degenerate into fatness—Ned Merrill played + the game of business without any compunctions. + </p> + <p> + “You're making a bad fight of it, O'Brien. Old style methods won't win for + us. These crank reformers have got the people stirred up. Keep your ward + workers busy, but don't expect them to win.” He leaned forward and brought + his fist down heavily on the desk. “We've got to smash Farnum—discredit + him with the bunch of sheep who are following him.” + </p> + <p> + “What more do youse want? We're callin' him ivery black name under Hiven.” + </p> + <p> + Merrill shook his head decisively. “Not enough. Prove something. Catch him + with the goods.” + </p> + <p> + “If youse'll show me how?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't care how, You've got detectives, haven't you? Find out all about + him, where he comes from, who his people were. Rake his life with a fine + tooth comb from the day he was born. He's a bad egg. We all know that. Dig + up facts to prove it.” + </p> + <p> + Within the hour detectives were set to work. One of them left next day for + Shelby. Another covered the neighborhoods where Jeff had lived in Verden. + Henceforth wherever he went he was shadowed. + </p> + <p> + It was about this time that Samuel Miller lost his place in the city + library on account of his political opinions. For more than a year he and + Jeff had roomed together at a private boarding house kept by a Mrs. + Anderson. Within twenty-four hours of his dismissal Miller was on the + road, sent out by the campaign committee of his party to make speeches + throughout the state. + </p> + <p> + Jeff himself was speaking nearly every night now that the day of election + was drawing near. This, together with the work of editing the paper and + the strain of the battle, told heavily on a vitality never too much above + par. He would come back to his rooms fagged out, often dejected because + some friend had deserted to the enemy. + </p> + <p> + One cold rainy evening he met Nellie Anderson in the hall. She had been + saying good-bye to some friends who had been in to call on her. + </p> + <p> + “You're wet, Mr. Farnum,” the young woman said. + </p> + <p> + “A little.” + </p> + <p> + She stood hesitating in the doorway leading to the apartment of herself + and her mother, then yielded shyly to a kindly impulse. + </p> + <p> + “We've been making chocolate. Won't you come in and have some? You look + cold.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff glimpsed beyond her the warm grate fire in the room. He, too, yielded + to an impulse. “Since you're so good as to ask me, Miss Nellie.” + </p> + <p> + She took charge of his hat and overcoat, making him sit down in a big + armchair before the fire. He watched her curiously as she moved lightly + about waiting on him. Nellie was a soft round little person with constant + intimations of a childhood not long outgrown. Jeff judged she must be + nineteen or twenty, but she had moments of being charmingly unsure of + herself. The warm color came and went in her clear cheeks at the least + provocation. + </p> + <p> + “Mother's gone to bed. She always goes early. You don't mind,” she asked + naively. + </p> + <p> + Jeff smiled. She was, he thought, about as worldly wise as a fluffy + kitten. “No, I don't mind at all,” he assured her. + </p> + <p> + Nor did he in the least. His weariness was of the spirit rather than the + body, and he found her grace, her shy sweetness, grateful to the jaded + senses. It counted in her favor that she was not clever or ultra-modern. + The dimpling smiles, the quick sympathy of this innocent, sensuous young + creature, drew him out of his depression. When he left the pleasant warmth + of the room half an hour later it was with a little glow at the heart. He + had found comfort and refreshment. + </p> + <p> + How it came to pass Jeff never quite understood, but it soon was almost a + custom for him to drop into the living room to get a cup of chocolate when + he came home. He found himself looking forward to that half hour alone + with Nellie Anderson. Whoever else criticized him, she did not. The manner + in which she made herself necessary to his material comfort was masterly. + She would be waiting, eager to help him off with his overcoat, hot + chocolate and sandwiches ready for him in the cozy living-room. To him, + who for years had lived a hand-to-mouth boarding house existence, her shy + wholesome laughter made that room sing of home, one which her personality + fitted to a dot. She was always in good humor, always trim and neat, + always alluring to the eye. And she had the pretty little domestic ways + that go to the head of a bachelor when he eats alone with an attractive + girl. + </p> + <p> + Their intimacy was not exactly a secret. Mrs. Anderson, who was rather + deaf and admitted to being a heavy sleeper, knew that Jeff dropped in + occasionally. He suspected she did not know how regularly, but she was one + of that large class of American mothers who let their daughters arrange + their own love affairs and would not have interfered had she known. + </p> + <p> + Once or twice it flashed upon Jeff that this ought not to go on. Since he + had no intention of marrying Nell he must not let their relationship reach + the emotional climax toward which he guessed it was racing. But his + experience in such matters was limited. He did not know how to break off + their friendship without hurting her, and he was eager to minimize the + possibility of danger. His modesty made this last easy. Out of her + kindness she was good to him, but it was not to be expected that so pretty + a girl would fall in love with a man like him. + </p> + <p> + The most potent argument for letting things drift was his own craving for + her. She was becoming necessary to him. Whenever he thought of her it was + with a tender glow. Her soft long-lashed eyes would come between him and + the editorial he was writing. A dozen times a day he could see a picture + of the tilted little coaxing mouth. The gurgle of her laughter called to + him for hours before he left the office. + </p> + <p> + He got into the habit of talking to her about the things that were + troubling him—the tactics of the enemy, the desertion of friends, + the dubious issue of the campaign. Curled up in a big chair, her whole + attention absorbed in what he was saying Nellie made a good listener. If + she did not show a full understanding of the situation, he could always + sense her ready sympathy. Her naive, indignant loyalty was touching. + </p> + <p> + “I read what the <i>Advocate</i> said about you today,” she told him one + night, a tide of color in her cheeks. “It was horrid. As if anybody would + believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm afraid a good many people do,” he said gravely. + </p> + <p> + “Nobody who knows you,” she protested stoutly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, some who know me.” + </p> + <p> + He let his eyes dwell on her. It was easy to see how undisciplined of life + she was, save where its material aspects had come into impact with her on + the economic side. + </p> + <p> + “None of your real friends.” + </p> + <p> + “How many real friends has a man—friends who will stand by him no + matter how unpopular he is?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know. I should think you'd have lots of them.” + </p> + <p> + He shook his head, a hint of a smile in his eyes. “Not many. They keep + their chocolate and sandwiches for folks whose trolley do'esn't fly the + wire.” + </p> + <p> + “What wire?” she asked, her forehead knitted to a question. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, the wire that's over the tracks of respectability and vested + interests and special privilege.” + </p> + <p> + She had been looking at him, but now her gaze went to the fire with that + slow tilt of the chin he liked. Another color wave swept the oval of the + soft cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “You've got more friends than you think,” she said in a low voice. + </p> + <p> + “I've got one little friend I wouldn't like to lose.” + </p> + <p> + She did not speak and his hand moved forward to cover hers. Instantly a + wild and insurgent emotion tingled through him. He felt himself trembling + and could not steady his nerves. + </p> + <p> + Without a word Nellie looked up and their eyes met. Something electric + flashed from one to another. Her shy fear of him was adorable. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, don't, don't!” she murmured. “What will you think of me now?” + </p> + <p> + He had leaned forward and kissed her on the lips. + </p> + <p> + Jeff sprang to his feet, the muscles in his lean cheeks standing out. Some + bell of warning was ringing in him. He was a man, young and desirous, + subject to all the frailties of his sex, holding experiences in his past + that had left him far from a puritan. And she was a woman, of unschooled + impulses, with unsuspected banked passions, an innocent creature in whom + primeval physical life rioted. + </p> + <p> + He moved toward the door, his left fist beating into the palm of his right + hand. He must protect her, against himself—and against her innocent + affection for him. + </p> + <p> + She fluttered past him, barring the way. Her cheeks were flaming with + shame. + </p> + <p> + “You despise me. Why did I let you?” A sob swelled up into her soft round + throat. + </p> + <p> + “You blessed lamb,” he groaned. + </p> + <p> + “You're going to leave me. You—you don't want me for a friend any + longer.” + </p> + <p> + Her lips trembled—the red little lips that always reminded him of a + baby's with its Cupid's bow. She was on the verge of breaking down. Jeff + could not stand that. He held out his hands, intending to take hers and + explain that he was not angry or disappointed at her. But somehow he found + her in his arms instead, supple and warm, vital youth flowing in the soft + cheeks' rich coloring and in the eyes quick and passionate with the tender + abandon of her sex. + </p> + <p> + He set his teeth against the rush of desire that flooded him as her soft + body clung to his. The emotional climax he had vaguely feared had leaped + upon them like an uncaged tiger. He fought to stamp down the fires that + blazed up in him. Time to think—he must have time to think. + </p> + <p> + “You don't despise me then,” she cried softly, a little catch in her + breath. + </p> + <p> + “No,” he protested, and again “No.” + </p> + <p> + “But you think I've done wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “No. I've been to blame. You're a dear girl—and I've abused your + kindness. I must go away—now.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you—you do hate me,” she accused with a quivering lip. + </p> + <p> + “No... no. I'm very fond of you.” + </p> + <p> + “But you're going to leave me. It's because I've done wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't blame yourself, dear. It has been all my fault. I ought to have + known.” + </p> + <p> + Her hands fell from him. The life seemed to die out of her whole figure. + “You do despise me.” + </p> + <p> + Desire of her throbbed through him, but he spoke very quietly. “Listen, + dear. There is nobody I respect more... and none I like so much. I can't + tell you how... fond of you I am. But I must go now. You don't + understand.” + </p> + <p> + She bit her lip to repress the sobs that would come and turned away to + hide her shame. Jeff caught her in his arms, kissed her passionately on + the lips, the eyes, the soft round throat. + </p> + <p> + “You do... like me,” she purred happily. + </p> + <p> + Abruptly he pushed her from him. Where were they drifting? He must get his + anchors down before it was too late. + </p> + <p> + Somehow he broke away, leaving her there hurt and bewildered at his + apparent fickleness, at the stiffness with which he had beaten back the + sweet delight inviting them. + </p> + <p> + Jeff went to his rooms, his mind in a blind chaotic surge. He sat before + the table for hours, fighting grimly to persuade himself he need not put + away this joy that had come to him. Surely friendship was a good thing... + and love. A man ought not to turn his back on them. + </p> + <p> + It was long past midnight when he rose, took his father's sword from the + wall where it hung, and unsheathed it. A vision of an open fireplace in a + log house rose before him, his father in the foreground looking like a + picture of Stonewall Jackson. The kind brave eyes that were the soul of + honor gazed at him. + </p> + <p> + “You damned scoundrel! You damned scoundrel!” Jeff accused himself in a + low voice. + </p> + <p> + He knew his little friend was good and innocent, but he knew too she had + inherited a temperament that made her very innocence a anger to her. Every + instinct of chivalry called upon him to protect her from the weakness she + did not even guess. She had given him her kindness and her friendship, the + dear child! It was up to him to be worthy of them. If he failed her he + would be a creature forever lost to decency. + </p> + <p> + There was a sob in his throat as Jeff pushed the blade back into the worn + scabbard and rehung the sword upon the wall. But the eyes in his lifted + face were very bright. He too would keep his sword unstained and the flag + of honor flying. + </p> + <p> + All through the next day and the next his resolution held. He took pains + not to see her alone, though there was not an hour of the day when he + could get away from the thought of her. The uneasy consciousness was with + him that the issue was after all only postponed, that decisions of this + kind must be made again and again so long as opportunity and desire go + together. And there were moments of reaction when his will was like a rope + of sand, when the longing for her swept over him like a great wave. + </p> + <p> + As Jeff slipped quietly into the hall the door of her room opened. Their + eyes met, and presently hers fell. She was troubled and ashamed at what + she had done, but plainly eager in her innocence to be forgiven. + </p> + <p> + Jeff spoke gently. “Nellie.” + </p> + <p> + Her eyes suddenly filled with tears. “Aren't we ever going to be friends + again?” + </p> + <p> + Through the open door he could see the fire glowing in the grate and the + chocolate set on the little table. He knew she had prepared for his coming + and how greatly she would be hurt if he rejected her advances. + </p> + <p> + “Of course we're friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you'll come in, just for a few minutes.” + </p> + <p> + He hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Please,” she whispered. “Or I'll know you don't like me any more.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff followed her into the room and closed the door behind him. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + Two days before the election Big Tim's detective wired from Shelby, + Tennessee, the outline of a story that got two front page columns in both + the <i>Advocate</i> and the <i>Herald.</i> Jefferson Davis Farnum was the + son of a thief, of a rebel soldier who had spent seven years in the + penitentiary for looting the bank of which he was cashier. In addition to + featuring the news story both papers handled the subject at length in + their editorial columns. They wanted to know whether the people of this + beautiful state were willing to hand over the Commonwealth to be plundered + by the reckless gang of which this son of a criminal was the head. + </p> + <p> + The paper reached Jeff at his rooms in the morning. He had lately taken + the apartments formerly occupied by his cousin, James moving to Mrs. + Anderson's until after the election. The exchange had been made at the + suggestion of the editor, who gave as a reason that he wanted to be close + to his work until the winter was past. It happened that James was just now + very glad to get a cheaper place. He was very short of funds and until + after the election had no time for social functions. All he needed with a + room was to sleep in it. + </p> + <p> + Jeff was still reading the story from Shelby when his cousin came in + hurriedly. James was excited and very white. + </p> + <p> + “My God, Jeff! It's come at last. I knew it would ruin me some day,” the + lawyer cried, after he had carefully closed the door of the bedroom. + </p> + <p> + “It won't ruin you, James. Your name isn't mentioned yet. Perhaps it may + not be. It can't hurt you, even if it is.” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you it will ruin me both socially and politically. Once it gets + out nobody will trust me. I'll be the son of a thief,” James insisted + wildly. + </p> + <p> + “You're the son of a man who made a slip and has paid for it,” answered + Jeff steadily. “Don't let your ideas get warped. This town is full of men + who have done wrong and haven't paid for it.” + </p> + <p> + “That's one of your fool socialist theories.” James spoke sharply and + irritably. “No man's guilty till the law says so. They haven't been in the + penitentiary. He has. That's what damns me if it gets out.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff laid a hand affectionately on his cousin's shoulder. “Don't you + believe it for a moment. There's no moral distinction between the man who + has paid and the man who hasn't paid for his sins toward society. There is + good and there is bad in all of us, closely intertwined, knit together + into the very warp and woof of our lives. We're all good and we're all + bad.” + </p> + <p> + It was with James a purely personal equation. He could not forget its + relation to himself. + </p> + <p> + “My name is to be voted on at the University Club next month. I'll be + blackballed to a dead certainty,” he said miserably. + </p> + <p> + “Probably, if the story gets out. It's tough, I know.” Jeff's eyes gleamed + angrily. “And why should they? You're just as good a man to-day as you + were yesterday. But there's nothing so fettering, so despicable as good + form. It blights. Let a man bow down to the dead hand of custom and he can + never again be true to what he thinks and knows. His judgment gets warped. + Soon Madame Grundy does his thinking for him, along well-grooved lines.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, well! That's just talk. What am I to do?” James broke out nervously. + </p> + <p> + “I know what I would do in your case.” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “Come out with a short statement telling the exact facts. I'd make no + apologies or long explanation. Just the plain story as simply as you can.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll not,” the lawyer broke out. “Easy enough for you to say what I + ought to do. Look at who my friends are—the Fromes and the Merrills + and the Gilmans. Best set in town. I strained a point when I broke loose + from them to take up this progressive fight. They'd cut me dead if a story + like this came out.” + </p> + <p> + “I daresay. Communities are loaded to the guards with respectable cowards. + But if you stand on your own feet like a man they'll think more of you for + it. Most of them will be glad to know you again inside of five years. For + you're going to be successful, and people like the Merrills and the + Gilmans bow down to success.” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer shook his head doggedly. “I'm not going to tell a thing I don't + have to tell. That's settled.” He hesitated a moment before he went on. + “I've got a reason why I want to stand well with the Fromes, Jeff. I'm not + in a position to risk anything.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff waited. He thought he knew that reason. + </p> + <p> + “I'm going to marry Alice Frome if I can.” + </p> + <p> + “You've asked her.” Jeff's voice sounded to himself as if it belonged to + another man. + </p> + <p> + “No. Not yet. Ned Merrill's in the running. Strong, too. He's being backed + by his father and old P. C. Frome. The idea is to consolidate interests by + this marriage. But I've got a fighting chance. She likes me. Since I went + into this political fight against her father she's taken pains to show me + how friendly she feels. But if this story gets out—I'm smashed. + That's all.” + </p> + <p> + “Go to her. Tell her the truth. She'll stand by you,” his cousin urged. + </p> + <p> + “You don't understand these people, Jeff. I do. Even if she wanted to + stand by me she couldn't. They wouldn't let her. Right now I'm carrying + all the handicap I can.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff walked to the window and stood looking out with his hands in his + pockets. The hum of the busy street rose to his ears, but he did not hear + it. Nor did he see the motor cars whizzing past, the drays lumbering + along, the thronged sidewalks of Powers Avenue. A door that had for years + been ajar in his heart had swung to with a crash. The incredible folly of + his dream was laid bare to him. Despised, distrusted and disgraced, there + was no chance that he might be even a friend to her. She moved in another + world, one he could not reach if he would and would not if he could. All + that he believed in she had been brought up to disregard. Much that was + dear to her he must hammer down so long as there was life in him. + </p> + <p> + But James—he had fought his way up to her. Why shouldn't he have his + chance? Better—far better James than Ned Merrill. He had heard the + echoes of a disgraceful story about that young man in his college days, + the story of how he had trampled down a working girl for his pleasure. + James was clean and honorable... and she loved him. Jeff's mind fastened + on that last as a thing assured. Had he not seen her with starry eyes + fixed on her hero, held fast as a limed bird? She too was entitled to her + chance, and there was a way he could give it to her. + </p> + <p> + He turned back to James, who was sitting despondently at the managing + editor's desk, jabbing at the blotting sheet with a pencil. + </p> + <p> + Jeff touched the <i>Advocate</i> he still held in his hand. “Did you read + this story carefully?” + </p> + <p> + “No. I just ran my eye down it. Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Whoever dug it up has made a mistake. He has jumped to the conclusion + that I'm Uncle Robert's son. Why not let it go at that?” + </p> + <p> + His cousin looked up with a flash of eager hope. “You mean—” + </p> + <p> + “I might as well be hanged for a sheep as a lamb. Let it go the way they + have it.” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer's heart leaped, but he could not let this go without a protest. + “No, I—I couldn't do that. It's awfully good of you, Jeff.” + </p> + <p> + The managing editor smiled in his whimsical way. “My reputation has long + been in tatters. A little more can't hurt it.” + </p> + <p> + James conceded a reflective assent with a manner of impartiality. “Of + course your friends wouldn't think any the less of you. They're not so—so—” + </p> + <p> + “respectable as yours,” Jeff finished for him. + </p> + <p> + “I was going to say so hidebound.” + </p> + <p> + “All the same, isn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “But it would be a sacrifice for you. I recognize that. And I'm not sure + that I could accept it. I will have to think that over,” the lawyer + concluded magnanimously. + </p> + <p> + “You'll find it is best. But I think I would tell Miss Frome, even if I + didn't tell anybody else. She has a right to know.” + </p> + <p> + “You may depend upon me to do whatever is best about that.” + </p> + <p> + James was hardly out of the office before Captain Chunn blew in like a + small tornado. He was boiling with rage. + </p> + <p> + “What's this infernal lie about you being the son of a convict, David?” he + demanded, waving a copy of the Herald. + </p> + <p> + “Sit down, Captain. I'll tell you the story because you're entitled to it. + But I shall have to speak in confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Confidence! Dad burn it, what are you talking about? Are you trying to + tell me that Phil Farnum was a thief and a convict?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff's steel-blue eyes looked straight into his. “Nothing so impossible as + that, Captain. I'm going to tell you the story of his brother.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff told it, but he and the owner of the <i>World</i> disagreed radically + about the best way to answer the attack. + </p> + <p> + “Why must you always stand between that kid glove cousin of yours and + trouble? Let him stand the gaff himself. It will do him good,” Chunn + stormed. + </p> + <p> + But Jeff had his way. The <i>World</i> made no denial of the facts + charged. In a statement on the front page that covered less than three + sticks he told the simple story of the defalcation of Robert Farnum. One + thing only he added to the account given in the opposition papers. This + was that during the past two years the shortage of the bank cashier had + been paid in full to the Planters' First National at Shelby. + </p> + <p> + There were many forecasts as to what the effect of the Farnum story would + be on the election returns. It is enough to say that the ticket supported + by the <i>World</i> was chosen by a small majority. James was elected to + the legislature by a plurality of fifteen hundred votes over his + antagonist, a majority unheard of in the Eleventh District. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 8 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Is not this the trouble with our whole man-made world, that + the game is played with loaded dice? Against the poor, the + weak and the unfortunate have the cards been stacked. A + tremendous percentage is in favor of the crook, the + scoundrel, the smug robber of industry by whom the hands are + dealt. + + Wealth, created by the many, is more and more flowing into + the vaults of the few. Legislatures, Congress, the courts, + all the machinery of government, answer to the crack of the + whip wielded by Big Business. The creed of the allied + plunderers is that he should take who has the power and he + should keep who can. + + Until we mutiny against the timidity of our times Democracy + and Prosperity will be dreams. The poor and the parasite we + shall have always with us. + + In that new world which is to be MEN and not THINGS will be + supreme, property a means and not an end. The heart of the + world will be born anew under an economic reconstruction + that will give freedom for individual development. For our + social and industrial life will be founded not on a denial + of God but on an affirmation of Brotherhood.—From the Note + Book of a Dreamer. +</pre> + <p> + THE HERO MEETS AND ADMIRES A MONA LISA SMILE. HE IS TENDERED AN APOLOGY + FOR A PAST DISCOURTESY + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + Came James Farnum down Powers Avenue carrying with buoyant dignity the + manner of greatness that sat so well on him. His smile was warm for a + world that just now was treating him handsomely. There could be no doubt + that for a first term he was making an extraordinary success of his work + in the legislature. He had worked hard on committees and his speeches had + made a tremendous hit. Jeff had played him up strong in the world too, so + that he was becoming well known over the state. That he had risen to + leadership of the progressives in the House during his first term showed + his quality. His ambition vaulted. Now that his feet were on the first + rungs of the ladder it would be his own fault if he did not reach the top. + </p> + <p> + His progress down the busy street was in the nature of an ovation. + Everywhere he met answering smiles that told of the people's pride in + their young champion. Already James had discovered that Americans are + eager for hero worship. He meant to be the hero of his state, the favorite + son it would delight to honor. This was what he loved: the cheers for the + victor, not the clash of the battle. + </p> + <p> + “Good morning, Farnum. What are the prospects?” It was Clinton Rogers, of + the big shipbuilding firm Harvey & Rogers, that stopped him now. + </p> + <p> + “Still anybody's fight, Mr. Rogers.” The young lawyer's voice fell a note + to take on a frankly confidential tone, an accent of friendliness that + missed the fatal buttonholing familiarity of the professional politician. + “If we can hold our fellows together we'll win. But the Transcontinental + is bidding high for votes—and there's always a quitter somewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “Does Frome stand any chance?” + </p> + <p> + “It will be Hardy or Frome. The least break in our ranks will be the + signal for a stampede to P. C. The Republicans will support him when they + get the signal. It's all a question of our fellows standing pat.” + </p> + <p> + “From what I can learn it won't be your fault if Hardy isn't elected. I + congratulate you on the best record ever made by a member in his first + term.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, we all do our best,” James answered lightly. “But I'm grateful for + your good opinion. I hope I deserve it.” + </p> + <p> + James could afford to be modest about his achievements so long as Jeff was + shouting his praises through the columns of the <i>World</i> to a hundred + thousand readers of that paper. What the shipbuilder had said pleased him + mightily. For Clinton Rogers was one of the few substantial moneyed men of + Verden who had joined the reform movement. Not a single member of the + Verden Club, with the exception of Rogers, was lined up with those making + the fight for direct legislation. Even those who had no financial interest + in the Transcontinental or the public utility corporations supported that + side from principle. + </p> + <p> + James himself had thought a long time before casting in his lot with the + insurgents led by his cousin. He had made tentative approaches both to + Frome and to Edward B. Merrill. Both of these gentlemen had been friendly + enough, but James had made up his mind they undervalued his worth. The way + to convince them of this was to take the field against them. + </p> + <p> + He smiled now as he swung along the avenue. Both Frome and Merrill—yes, + and Big Tim too, for that matter!—knew by this time whether they had + made a mistake in sizing him up as a raw college boy with his eye teeth + not cut. + </p> + <p> + A passing electric containing two young women brought his gloved hand to + his hat. The long slant eyes of the lady on the farther side swept him + indolently. In answer to her murmured suggestion the girl who was driving + brought the machine round in a half circle which ended at the edge of the + curb in front of Farnum. + </p> + <p> + The lawyer's hat came off again with easy grace. The slim young driver + leaned back against the cushions and merely smiled a greeting, tacitly + yielding command of the situation to her cousin, an opulent young widow + adorned demurely with that artistic touch of mourning that suggests a + grief not inconsolable. + </p> + <p> + “Good morning, Miss Frome—Mrs. Van Tyle,” James distributed + impartially before turning to the latter lady. “Isn't this a day to be + alive in? Who says it always rains in Verden?” + </p> + <p> + “I do—or nearly always. At least it finds no difficulty in giving a + good imitation,” returned the young woman addressed. + </p> + <p> + “A libel—I vow a libel,” Farnum retorted gaily. “I was just going to + hope you might be tempted to forget New York and Vienna and Paris to pay + us a long visit. We're all hoping it. I'm merely the spokesman.” He waved + a hand to indicate the busy street black with humanity. + </p> + <p> + A hint of pleasant adventure quickened the eyes of the young widow who + surveyed lazily his well-groomed good looks. She judged him a twentieth + century American emerging from straightened circumstances and eager to + trample even the memory of it under foot. + </p> + <p> + “Did the Chamber of Commerce appoint you a committee to hope that I would + impose on my relatives longer? Or was it resoluted at a mass meeting?” she + asked with her Mona Lisa smile. + </p> + <p> + He laughed. “Well, no! I'm a self-appointed committee voicing a personal + desire that has universal application. But if it would have more weight + with you I'll have the Chamber take it up and get myself an accredited + representative.” + </p> + <p> + “So kind of you. But do you think the committee could do itself justice on + the street curb?” + </p> + <p> + She had among other sensuous charms a voice attuned to convey slightest + shades of meaning. James caught her half-shuttered smoldering glance and + divined her a woman subtle and complex, capable of playing the world-old + game of the sexes with unusual dexterity. The hint of challenging mystery + in the tawny depths of the mocking eyes fired his imagination. She was to + him a new find in women, one altogether different from those he had known. + He had a curiosity to meet at close range this cosmopolitan heiress of + such cultivation as Joe Powers' millions could purchase. + </p> + <p> + What Verden said of her he knew: that she was too free, too scornful, too + independent of conventions. All the tabby cats whispered it to each other + with lifted eyebrows that suggested volumes, the while they courted her + eager and unashamed. But he had a feeling that perhaps Verden was not + competent to judge. The standards of this town and of New York were + probably vastly different. James welcomed the chance to enlarge his social + experience. Promptly he accepted the lead offered. + </p> + <p> + “I'm sure it can't. To present the evidence cogently will take at least + two hours. May I make the argument this evening, if it please the court, + during a call?” + </p> + <p> + “But I understood you were too busy saving the state—from my father + and my uncle by the way—to have time for a mere woman,” she parried. + </p> + <p> + The good humor of her irony flattered him because it implied that she + offered him a chance to cultivate her—he was not at all sure how + much or how little that might mean—regardless of his political + affiliations. Not many women were logical enough to accept so impersonally + his opposition to the candidacy of an uncle and the plans of a father. “I + AM busy,” he admitted, “but I need a few hours' relaxation. It will help + me to work more effectively to-morrow—against your father and your + uncle,” he came back with a smile that included them both. + </p> + <p> + Alice Frome took up the challenge gaily. “We're going to beat you. Father + will be elected.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I'll be the first to congratulate him,” he promised. Turning to Mrs. + Van Tyle, “Shall we say this evening?” he added. + </p> + <p> + “You're not afraid to venture yourself into the hands of the enemy,” + drawled that young woman, her indolent eyes daring him. + </p> + <p> + Again he studiously included them both in his answer. “I'm afraid all + right, but I'm not going to let you know it. Did I hear you set a time?” + </p> + <p> + “If you are really willing to take the risk we shall be glad to see you + this afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + James observed that Alice Frome did not second her cousin's invitation. He + temporized. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, this afternoon! I have an engagement, but I am tempted to forget it + in remembering a subsequent one.” + </p> + <p> + His smiling gaze passed to Alice and gave her another chance. Still she + did not speak. + </p> + <p> + “The way to treat a temptation is to yield to it,” the older cousin + sparkled. + </p> + <p> + “In order to be done with it, I suppose. Very well. I yield to mine. This + afternoon I will have the pleasure of calling at The Brakes.” + </p> + <p> + Alice nodded a curt good-bye, but her cousin offered him a beautifully + gloved hand to shake. A delightful tingle of triumph warmed him. The + daughter of Big Joe Powers, the grim gray pirate who worked the levers of + the great Transcontinental Railroad system, had taken pains to be nice to + him. The only fly in the ointment of his self-satisfaction had been Alice + Frome's reticence. + </p> + <p> + Why had she not shown any desire to have him call? He could guess at one + reason. The campaign for the legislature and the subsequent battle for the + senatorship had been bitter. Charges of corruption had been flung + broadcast. A dozen detectives had been hired to get evidence on one side + or the other. If he were seen going to The Brakes just now fifty rumors + might be flying inside of the hour. + </p> + <p> + His guess was a good one. Alice drove the car forward several blocks + without speaking, Valencia Van Tyle watching with good-humored contempt + the little frown that rested on her cousin's candid face. + </p> + <p> + “I perceive that my uncompromising cousin is moved to protest,” she + suggested placidly. + </p> + <p> + “You ought not to have asked him, Val. It isn't fair to him or to father,” + answered Alice promptly. “People will talk. They will say father is trying + to influence him unfairly. I wish you hadn't asked him till this fight is + over.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Nora, does it matter in the least what people say?” yawned + Valencia behind her hand. + </p> + <p> + “Not to you because you consider yourself above criticism. But it matters + to me that two honest men should be brought into unjust obloquy without + cause.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Hothead, they are big enough to look out for themselves.” + </p> + <p> + “Nobody is big enough to kill slander.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, child. You make a mountain out of a mole hill. People WILL + gossip. It really isn't of the least importance what they gabble about.” + </p> + <p> + “Especially when you want to amuse yourself by making a fool of Mr. + Farnum,” retorted the downright Alice with a touch of asperity. + </p> + <p> + Valencia already half regretted having asked him. The chances were that he + would prove a bore. But she did not choose to say so. “If I'm treading on + your preserves, dear,” she ventured sweetly. + </p> + <p> + “That's ridiculous,” flushed Alice. “I only suggested that you wait till + after the election before chaining him to your chariot wheels.” + </p> + <p> + “You're certainly an <i>enfant terrible</i>, my dear,” murmured the widow, + with the little rippling laugh of cynicism her cousin found so annoying. + “But that young man does need a lesson. He's eaten up with conceit of + himself. Somebody ought to take him in hand.” + </p> + <p> + “So you're going to sacrifice yourself to duty,” scoffed Alice as she + brought the electric to a stop under the porte-cochere of the Frome + residence. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Van Tyle folded her hands demurely. “It's sweet of you to see it that + way, Alice.” + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + James turned in at the Century Building. In the elevator he met his + cousin. Both of them were bound for the office of the candidate being + supported by the progressives for the Senate. + </p> + <p> + “Anything new?” Jeff asked. + </p> + <p> + “A rumor that Killen has fallen by the wayside. Big Tim was with him for + an hour last night at the Pacific.” + </p> + <p> + “I've not been sure of Killen for quite a while. He's a weak sister.” + </p> + <p> + “He'd better not go wrong if he expects to keep on living in this state,” + James imparted, a hard light in his eyes. + </p> + <p> + At the third floor they left the elevator and turned to the right under an + arch bearing the sign Hardy, Elliott & Carson. Without knocking they + passed into Hardy's private office. + </p> + <p> + Of the three men they found there it was plain that one was being pushed + doggedly to bay. He was small and insignificant, with weak blinking eyes. + Standing with his back to the wall, he moistened his lips with the tip of + his tongue. + </p> + <p> + “Who says it?” he whined shrilly. “Who says I sold out?” + </p> + <p> + An apoplectic, bull-necked ruffian stood directly in front of him and + sawed the air violently with a fat forefinger. + </p> + <p> + “I ain't sayin' it, Killen—I'm askin' if you have. What I say is + that you'd better make your will before you vote for Frome. Make 'em pay + fat, for by thunder! you'll be political junk, Mr. Sam Killen.” + </p> + <p> + Killen, sweating agony, turned appealingly to Jeff. “I haven't said I was + going to vote for Frome. Mr. Rawson's got no right to bulldoze me and I'm + not going to stand it.” + </p> + <p> + “The hell you ain't,” roared Rawson, shaking his fist at the unhappy + legislator. “I guess you'll stand the gaff till you explain.” + </p> + <p> + “Just a moment, Bob,” interrupted Jeff. “Let's get at the facts. Don't + convict the prisoner till the evidence is in.” + </p> + <p> + Rawson hobbled his wrath for the moment. “That's all right, Jeff. You ask + Hardy. I'm giving you straight goods.” + </p> + <p> + The keen-eyed, smooth-shaven man in a gray business suit who had been + listening silently to the gathering storm contributed information briefly + and impartially. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Killen spent an hour last night with Big Tim at the Pacific Hotel.” + </p> + <p> + “Sneaked in by the side entrance and took the elevator to the seventh + floor. The deal was arranged in Room 743,” added Rawson. + </p> + <p> + “You spied on me,” burst from Killen's lips. + </p> + <p> + “Sure thing. And we caught you with the goods,” sneered the red-faced + politician. + </p> + <p> + “I'll not stand it. I'll not support a man that won't trust me.” + </p> + <p> + “You won't, eh?” Rawson was across the floor in two jumps, worrying his + victim as a terrier does a rat. “Forget it. You were elected to support R. + K. Hardy, sewed up with a pledge tight and fast. We're not in the primer + class, Killen. Don't get a notion you're going to do as you damn please. + You'll—vote—for—R.—K.—Hardy. Get that?” + </p> + <p> + “I refuse to be moved by threats, and I decline to discuss the matter + further,” retorted Killen with a pitiable attempt at dignity. + </p> + <p> + Rawson laughed with insulting menace. “That's a good one. I've sold out, + but it's none of your business what I got. That what you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “You surely must recognize our right to an explanation, Killen,” Jeff said + gently. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I don't,” flushed the little man with sullen bravado. “I ain't + got a thing against you, but Rawson goes too far.” + </p> + <p> + “I think he does,” Jeff agreed. “Killen is all right. Gentlemen, suppose + you let him and me talk it over alone. We can reach an agreement that is + satisfactory.” + </p> + <p> + Hardy's face cleared. This was not the first waverer Jeff had brought back + into line, not the first by several. There was something compelling in his + friendly smile and affectionate manner. + </p> + <p> + “I'm sure Mr. Killen intends only what is right. I'm content to leave the + matter entirely with you and him,” Hardy said. + </p> + <p> + Jeff turned to Rawson. “And you, old warhorse?” + </p> + <p> + “Have it your own way, but don't forget there's a nigger in the woodpile.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff and Killen walked to the office of the latter, which was on the next + floor of the Century Building, the legislator stiffening his will to + resist the assaults he felt would be made upon it. But as soon as the door + was shut Jeff surprised him by laying a hand on his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me all about it, Sam.” + </p> + <p> + Killen gasped. He got an impossible vision of young Farnum as his brother + in trouble. “About what? I didn't say—” + </p> + <p> + “I've known for a week something was wrong. I couldn't very well ask you, + but since I've blundered in you'd better let me help you if I can.” + </p> + <p> + Killen was touched. His lip trembled. “It don't do any good to talk about + things. I guess a fellow has to carry his own griefs. Nobody else is + hunting for a chance to invest in them.” + </p> + <p> + “What's a friend for?” Jeff wanted to know gently. + </p> + <p> + The little man gulped. “I guess I've got no friends. Anyhow they don't + count when a fellow's in hard luck. It's every man for himself.” + </p> + <p> + The younger man's smile was warm as summer sunshine. “Wrong guess, Sam. + We're in this little old world to help each other when we can.” + </p> + <p> + The wretched man drew the back of a trembling hand across his moist eyes. + He inhaled a long sobbing breath and broke into apology for his weakness. + “Haven't slept for a week except from trional. The back of my head pricks + day and night. Can't think of anything but my troubles.” + </p> + <p> + “Unload them on me,” Jeff said lightly. + </p> + <p> + “It's that mortgage on my mill,” Killen blurted out. “It falls due this + month and I can't meet it. Things haven't been going well with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Can't you get it renewed?” + </p> + <p> + “Through a dummy Big Tim has bought it up. He won't renew, unless—” + Killen broke off, to continue in a moment: “And that ain't all. My little + girl needs an operation awful badly. The doctor says she had ought to go + to Chicago. I just can't raise the price.” + </p> + <p> + “How much is the mortgage?” + </p> + <p> + “Three thousand,” replied the man; and he added with a gust of weak + despair, “My God, man! That mill's all I've got to keep bread in the + mouths of my motherless children.” + </p> + <p> + “I reckon Big Tim has offered to cancel the mortgage notes and give you + about a thousand to go on,” Jeff suggested casually. + </p> + <p> + Killen nodded. “It would put me on my feet again and give the kiddie her + chance.” The answer had slipped out naturally, but now the fear chilled + him that he had been lured into making a confession. “I didn't say I was + going to take it,” he added hastily. + </p> + <p> + “You're quite safe with me, Killen,” Jeff told him. He was wondering + whether he could not get Captain Chunn to take over the mortgage. + </p> + <p> + “I'm not so much struck on Hardy myself,” grumbled the legislator. “He's a + rich man, just as Frome is. Six of one and half a dozen of the other, + looks like to me.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Killen. Frome represents the Transcontinental and the utility + corporations. Hardy stands for the people. And you're pledged to support + Hardy. You mustn't forget that.” + </p> + <p> + “I ain't likely to forget that mortgage either,” Killen came back + drearily. + </p> + <p> + “I think I can arrange about having the mortgage renewed. Will that do?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. We're going to have a good year in the lumber business. Probably in + twelve months I could clear it off.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! And about the little girl—she'll have her chance. I promise + you that.” + </p> + <p> + The mill man wrung his hand, tears in his eyes. “You're a white man, Jeff, + and a dashed good friend. I tell you I'd hate like poison to go back on + Hardy. A fellow can't afford to do a thing like that. But what else could + I do? A fellow's got to stand by the children he brings into the world, + ain't he?” + </p> + <p> + Farnum evaded with a smile this discussion of moral issues. “Well, you can + stand by them and us, too, if I can fix up this mortgage proposition for + you.” + </p> + <p> + “When will you let me know?” asked Killen anxiously. + </p> + <p> + “Will to-morrow morning do? In James' office, say.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll have to know before noon,” Killen reminded him, flushing with + embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + “If I can arrange to get the money—and I think I can—I'll let + you know at eleven. Don't worry, Sam. It will be all right.” + </p> + <p> + The legislator shook hands again. “I ain't going to forget what you're + doing for me. No, sir!” + </p> + <p> + Jeff laughed his thanks easily. “That's all right. I reckon you would have + done as much for me. Sam Killen isn't the man to throw his friends down.” + </p> + <p> + “That's right,” returned the other with a sudden valiant infusion of + courage. “I stand pat. I'm not going to lie down before the + Transcontinental. Not on your life, I ain't.” + </p> + <p> + They were walking toward the outer door as Killen's speech overflowed. + “The Transcontinental doesn't own this state yet. No, sir! Nor Frome and + Merrill either. We'll show 'em—” + </p> + <p> + The valor of the big voice collapsed like a rent balloon. For the office + door had opened to let in Big Tim O'Brien. His shrewd eyes passed with + whimsical disgust over Killen and rested on Farnum. + </p> + <p> + The situation made for amusement, since Jeff knew that Big Tim had heard + over the transom enough to show that Killen's vote had been recaptured for + Hardy. + </p> + <p> + “You've stumbled on a red hot Hardy ratification meeting. Did you come to + get into the bandwagon while there is time, Tim?” Jeff asked with + twinkling eyes. + </p> + <p> + “No sinking ship for mine. I guess I wouldn't ratify yet a while if I were + youse, Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + He stood aside to let the editor of the <i>World</i> pass. Jeff laughed. + “Go to it, Tim.” + </p> + <p> + “I haven't got anything to say to you, Mr. O'Brien,” the mill man + announced with heightened color. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe I've got something to say to youse, Mr. Killen.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff passed out smiling. “Well, I'll not interrupt you. See you to-morrow, + Sam.” + </p> + <p> + Big Tim sat down heavily in a chair and pulled from his vest pocket a fat + black cigar. + </p> + <p> + “Smoke, Killen?” + </p> + <p> + “No, thanks.” The legislator spoke with stiff dignity. + </p> + <p> + Big Tim looked at the other man and his paunch shook with the merriment + that appeared to convulse him. + </p> + <p> + “What's the matter?” snapped the mill man. + </p> + <p> + “I'm laughin' at the things I see, Killen. Man, but you're an easy + mar-rk.” + </p> + <p> + “How?” + </p> + <p> + “Can't you see they're stringin' youse for a sucker?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I can't see it. I've made up my mind. I'm going to stand by Hardy.” + </p> + <p> + “Fine! Now I'll tell youse one thing. We're goin' to elect Frome + to-morrow.” O'Brien rose as one who has no time for unprofitable talk. + “Your friends have sold youse out. I'm going to call on one of thim right + now.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you don't.” Tim's projecting balcony shook with the humor of + it. “But you'll be convinced when they take your mill from youse, me boy. + It's a frame-up—and you're the goat.” + </p> + <p> + With which shot he took his departure, too shrewd to attempt any argument. + He had left behind him a doubt. That was all he could do just now. + </p> + <p> + Before Tim was out of the building Killen was gumshoeing after him. He + meant to find out whether O'Brien had been lying when he said he was going + to call on one of his friends. Fifty yards behind him Killen followed, + along Powers Avenue, down Pacific Street, to the Equitable Building. From + the pilot of one of the elevators he learned that the big boss had got off + at the seventh floor and gone straight into James Farnum's office. + </p> + <p> + His mind was instantly alive with suspicions tumbling over each other in + chaotic incoherency. There was a deal of some kind on foot. Jeff's cousin + was in it. Then Jeff must be playing him for a sucker. His teeth set with + a snap. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Big Tim was having a heart to heart talk with James K. Farnum. + </p> + <p> + The young lawyer had risen in surprise at the entrance of O'Brien. The big + fellow, laughing easily, had helped himself to a chair. + </p> + <p> + “Make yourself at home, Tim,” he said jauntily. + </p> + <p> + “Anything I can do for you, Mr. O'Brien?” James asked with stiff dignity. + </p> + <p> + “Sure. Or I wouldn't be here. Sit down. I'll not bite ye.” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer continued to stand. + </p> + <p> + “I've come to tell you that I'm a dammed fool, Mr. Farnum,” the boss + grinned. + </p> + <p> + James bowed slightly. He did not know what was coming, but he had no + intention of committing himself to anything as yet. + </p> + <p> + “In ever lettin' youse get away from me. I mistook yez for a kid glove.” + </p> + <p> + Big Tim gazed with palpable admiration at the cleancut figure, at the + square cleft chin in the strong handsome face. It was his opinion this + young man would go far, and that every step of the way would be in the + interests of James K. Farnum. Shrewdly he guessed that the way to pierce + that impassive front was through an appeal to vanity and to selfinterest. + </p> + <p> + James waited, alert and expressionless, but O'Brien, having made his + apology, puffed in silence. + </p> + <p> + “I think you suggested some business that brought you,” James reminded + him. + </p> + <p> + “You've got in you the makings of a big man. Nothing on the coast to touch + youse, Mr. Farnum. And I didn't see it. I was sore on your name. That was + what was bitin' me. It's sure on Big Tim this time.” + </p> + <p> + None of the triumph that flooded Farnum reached the surface. + </p> + <p> + “I think I don't quite understand,” he said quietly. + </p> + <p> + “I'm eatin' humble pie because youse slipped wan over on me. You're the + best campaign speaker in the state, bar none, boy as you are.” + </p> + <p> + James could not keep his gratified smile down. “This heart-felt + testimonial comes free, I take it,” he pretended to mock. + </p> + <p> + “Come off with youse,” O'Brien flung back good humoredly. “I'm not here to + hand you booquets, but to talk business. Here's the nub of it, me boy. You + need me, and I need you.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't quite see how I need you, Mr. O'Brien.” + </p> + <p> + “That's because you're young yet and don't know the game. Let me tell you + this.” The boss leaned forward, his hard eyes focused on Farnum. “You'll + never get anywhere so long as youse trail with that reform bunch. It's all + hot air and tomfool theory. Populism and socialism! Take my wor-rd for it, + there's nothin' to 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm neither a populist nor a socialist, Mr. O'Brien.” + </p> + <p> + “Coorse you're not. I can see that with wan eye shut. That's why I hate to + see youse ruin yourself with them that are. I've no need to tell you that + this country's run by business men and not cranks. Me, I'm a business man, + and I run the city. P. C. Frome's a business man; so's Merrill. That's why + they're on top. Old Joe Powers is a business man from first to last. + You'll never get anywhere, me boy, until youse look at things from a + business point of view.” + </p> + <p> + If James was impressed he gave no sign of it. “Which means you want me to + support P. C. for the Senate. Is that it?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't care whether you do or don't. We've got this fight won. But this + is only the beginning. I can see that. Agitators and trouble breeders are + busy iverywhere. Line up right and you've got a big future before you. Joe + Powers himself has noticed your speeches. P. C. told me that last night.” + </p> + <p> + For a moment the lawyer felt an exultant paeon of victory beat in his + blood. His imagination saw the primrose path of the future stretch before + him in a golden glow. The surge of triumph passed and he was himself + again, cool and wary. His eyes met Big Tim's full and straight. “I was + elected to support Hardy. I expect to stay with him.” + </p> + <p> + The political boss waved aside this declaration. “Sure. Of course you've + got to VOTE for him. I've got too much horse sense to try to buy YOU. But + after this election? Your whole future's not tied up with fool reformers, + is it? Say, what's the matter with you havin' a talk with P. C.?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'll talk with him. P. C. and I are good friends.” + </p> + <p> + “When can you see him? Why not to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “No hurry, is there?” James paused an instant before he added: “I'm going + to The Brakes this afternoon on a social call. If Frome happens to be at + home we might talk then. So far as making a direct appointment with him, I + wouldn't care to do that until the senatorial election is decided. You + understand that I pledge myself to nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “That's right,” agreed Big Tim. “It don't do any harm to hear both sides + of a proposition. I guess that cousin o' yours kind of hypnotized you. + He's got more fool schemes for redeemin' this state. Far as I can see it + don't need any redeemin'. It's loaded to the rails with prosperity and + clippin' off its sixty miles an hour. I say, let well enough alone. Where + youse keep your matches, Mr. Farnum? Thanks! Well, talk it over with P. C. + I reckon you can get together. So long, me boy.” + </p> + <p> + Not until he was safe in the street did the big boss of Verden allow his + satisfaction expression. + </p> + <p> + “We've got him! We've got the boob hooked!” he told himself exultantly. + </p> + <p> + A little man standing behind a showcase was watching him tensely. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 9 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Man is for woman made, + And woman made for man + As the spur is for the jade, + As the scabbard for the blade, + As for liquor is the can, + So man's for woman made, + And woman made for man.” + </pre> + <p> + THE HERO STUDIES THE MONA LISA SMILE IN ITS PROPER SETTING. INCIDENTALLY, + HE MEETS AN EMPIRE BUILDER + </p> + <p> + Since James was not courting observation he took as inconspicuous a way as + possible to The Brakes. He was irritably conscious of the incongruity of + his elaborate afternoon dress with the habits of democratic Verden, which + had been too busy “boosting” itself into a great city, or at least one in + the making, to have found time to establish as yet a leisure class. + </p> + <p> + Leaving the car at the entrance to Lakeview Park, he cut across it by + sinuous byways where madronas and alders isolated him from the twilit + green of the open lawn. Though it was still early the soft winter dusk of + the Pacific Northwest was beginning to render objects indistinct. This + perhaps may have been the reason he failed to notice the skulking figure + among the trees that dogged him to his destination. + </p> + <p> + James laughed at himself for the exaggerated precaution he took to cover a + perfectly defensible action. Why shouldn't he visit at the house of P. C. + Frome? Entirely clear as to his right, he yet preferred his call not to + become a matter of public gossip. For he did not need to be told that + there would be ugly rumors if it should get out that Big Tim had called at + his office for a conference and he had subsequently been seen going to The + Brakes. Dunderheads not broad enough to separate social from political + intercourse would be quick to talk unpleasantly about it. + </p> + <p> + Deflecting from the path into a carriage driveway, he came through a woody + hollow to the rear of The Brakes. The grounds were spacious, rolling + toward the road beyond in a falling sweep of well-kept lawn. He skirted + the green till he came to a “raveled walk” that zig-zagged up through the + grass, leaving to the left the rough fern-clad bluff that gave the place + its name. + </p> + <p> + The man who let him in had apparently received his instructions, for he + led Farnum to a rather small room in the rear of the big house. Its single + occupant was reclining luxuriantly among a number of pillows on a lounge. + From her lips a tiny spiral of smoke rose like incense to the ceiling. + James was conscious of a little ripple of surprise as he looked down upon + the copper crown of splendid hair above which rested the thin nimbus of + smoke. He had expected a less intimate reception. + </p> + <p> + But the astonishment had been sponged from his face before Valencia Van + Tyle rose and came forward, cigarette in hand. + </p> + <p> + “You did find time.” + </p> + <p> + “Was it likely I wouldn't?” + </p> + <p> + “How should I know?” her little shrug seemed to say with an indifference + that bordered on insolence. + </p> + <p> + James was piqued. After all then she had not opened to him the door to her + friendship. She was merely amusing herself with him as a provincial <i>pis + aller.</i> + </p> + <p> + Perhaps she saw his disappointment, for she added with a touch of warmth: + “I'm glad you came. Truth is, I'm bored to death of myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I ought to be welcome, for if I don't exorcise the devils of ennui + you can now blame me.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall. Try that big chair, and one of these Egyptians.” + </p> + <p> + He helped himself to a cigarette and lit up as casually as if he had been + in the habit of smoking in the lounging rooms of the ladies he knew. She + watched him sink lazily into the chair and let his glance go wandering + over the room. In his face she read the indolent sense of pleasure he + found in sharing so intimately this sanctum of her more personal life. + </p> + <p> + The room was a bit barbaric in its warmth of color, as barbaric as was the + young woman herself in spite of her super-civilization. The walls, done in + an old rose, were gilded and festooned to meet a ceiling almost Venetian + in its scheme of decoration. Pink predominated in the brocaded tapestries + and in the rugs, and the furniture was a luxurious modern compromise with + the Louis Quinze. There were flowers in profusion—his gaze fell upon + the American Beauties he had sent an hour or two ago—and a disorder + of popular magazines and French novels. Farnum did not need to be told + that the room was as much an exotic as its mistress. + </p> + <p> + “You think?” her amused voice demanded when his eyes came back to her. + “that the room seems made especially for you.” + </p> + <p> + She volunteered information. “My uncle gave me a free hand to arrange and + decorate it.” + </p> + <p> + As he looked at her, smoking daintily in the fling of the fire glow, every + inch the pampered heiress of the ages, his blood quickened to an + appreciation of the sensuous charm of sex she breathed forth so + indifferently. The clinging crepe-de-chine—except in public she did + not pretend even to a conventional mourning for the scamp whose name she + bore lent accent to her soft, rounded curves, and the slow, regular rise + and fall of her breathing beneath the filmy lace promised a perfect + fullness of bust and throat. He was keenly responsive to the physical + allure of sex, and Valencia Van Tyle was endowed with more than her share + of magnetic aura. + </p> + <p> + “You have expressed yourself. It's like you,” he said with finality. + </p> + <p> + Her tawny eyes met his confident appraisal ironically. “Indeed! You know + then what I am like?” + </p> + <p> + “One uses his eyes, and such brains as heaven has granted him,” he + ventured lightly. + </p> + <p> + “And what am I like?” she asked indolently. + </p> + <p> + “I'm hoping to know that better soon—I merely guess now.” + </p> + <p> + “They say all women are egoists—and some men.” She breathed her soft + inscrutable ripple of laughter. “Let me hasten to confess, and crave a + picture of myself.” + </p> + <p> + “But the subject deserves an artist,” he parried. + </p> + <p> + “He's afraid,” she murmured to the fire. “He makes and unmakes senators—this + Warwick; but he's afraid of a girl.” + </p> + <p> + James lit a fresh cigarette in smiling silence. + </p> + <p> + “He has met me once—twice—no, three times,” she meditated + aloud. “But he knows what I'm like. He boasts of his divination and when + one puts him to the test he repudiates.” + </p> + <p> + “All I should have claimed is that I know I don't know what you are like.” + </p> + <p> + “Which is something,” she conceded. + </p> + <p> + “It's a good deal,” he claimed for himself. “It shows a beginning of + understanding. And—given the opportunity—I hope to know more.” + He questioned of her eyes how far he might go. “It's the incomprehensible + that lures. It piques interest and lends magic. Behind those eyelids a + little weary all the subtle hidden meaning of the ages shadows. The gods + forbid that I should claim to hold the answer to the eternal mystery of + woman.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! I ask for a photograph and he gives me a poem,” she mocked, + touching an electric button. + </p> + <p> + “I try merely to interpret the poem.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him under lowered lids with a growing interest. Her + experience had not warranted her in hoping that he would prove worth + while. It would be clear gain if he were to disappoint her agreeably. + </p> + <p> + “I think I have read somewhere that the function of present-day criticism + is to befog the mind and blur the object criticised.” + </p> + <p> + He considered an answer, but gave it up when a maid appeared with a tray, + and after a minute of deft arrangement disappeared to return with the + added paraphernalia that goes to the making and consuming of afternoon + tea. + </p> + <p> + James watched in a pleasant content the easy grace with which the flashing + hands of his hostess manipulated the brew. Presently she flung open a wing + of the elaborate cellaret that stood near and disclosed a gleaming array + of cut-glass decanters. Her fingers hovered over them. + </p> + <p> + “Cognac?” + </p> + <p> + “Think I'll take my tea straight just as you make it.” + </p> + <p> + “Most Western men don't care for afternoon tea. You should hear my father + on the subject.” + </p> + <p> + “I can imagine him.” He smiled. “But if he has tried it with you I should + think he'd be converted.” + </p> + <p> + She laughed at him in the slow tantalizing way that might mean anything or + nothing. “I absolve you of the necessity of saying pretty things. Instead, + you may continue that portrait you were drawing when the maid + interrupted.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a subject I can't do justice.” + </p> + <p> + She laughed disdainfully. “I thought it was time for the flattery. As if I + couldn't extort that from any man. It's the A B C of our education. But + the truth about one's self—the unpalatable, bitter truth—there's + a sting of unexpected pleasure in hearing that judicially.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you get that pleasure often?” + </p> + <p> + “Not often. Men are dreadful cowards, you know. My father is about the + only man who dares tell it to me.” + </p> + <p> + Farnum put down his cup and studied her. She was leaning back with her + fingers laced behind her head. He wondered whether she knew with what + effectiveness the posture set off her ripe charms—the fine modeling + of the full white throat, the perfect curves of the dainty arms bare to + the elbows, the daring set of the tawny, tilted head. A spark glowed in + his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Far be it from me to deny you an accessible pleasure, though I sacrifice + myself to give it. But my sketch must be merely subjective. I draw the + picture as I see it.” + </p> + <p> + She sipped her tea with an air of considering the matter. “You promise at + least a family likeness, with not an ugly wrinkle of character smoothed + away.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't even promise that. For how am I to know what meaning lurks behind + that subtle, shadowy smile? There's irony in it—and scorn—and + sensuous charm—but back of them all is the great enigma.” + </p> + <p> + “He's off,” she derided slangily. + </p> + <p> + “And that enigma is the complex YOU I want to learn. Of course you're a + specialized type, a product of artistic hothouse propagation. You're so + exquisite in your fastidiousness that to be near you is a luxury. + Simplicity and you have not a bowing acquaintance. One looks to see your + most casual act freighted with intentions not obvious.” + </p> + <p> + “The poor man thinks I invited him here to propose to him,” she told the + fire gravely, stretching out her little slippered feet toward it. + </p> + <p> + He laughed. “I'm not so presumptuous. You wouldn't aim at such small game. + You would be quite capable of it if you wanted to, but you don't. But I'm + devoured with curiosity to know why you asked me, though of course I + shan't find out.” + </p> + <p> + Her narrowed eyes swept him with amusement. “If I knew myself! Alice says + it was to make a fool of you. I don't think she is right. But if she is + I'm in to score a failure. You're too coolheaded and—” She stopped, + her eyes sparkling with the daring of her unvoiced suggestion. + </p> + <p> + “Say it,” he nodded. + </p> + <p> + “—and selfish to be anybody's fool. Perhaps I asked you just in the + hope you might prove interesting.” + </p> + <p> + He got up and stood with his arm on the mantel. From his superior height + he looked down on her dainty insolent perfection, answering not too + seriously the challenge of her eyes. No matter what she meant—how + much or how little she was wonderfully attractive. The provocation of the + mocking little face lured mightily. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to prove interested at any rate. Let's hope it may be a + preliminary to being interesting.” + </p> + <p> + “But it never does. Symptoms of too great interest bore one. I enjoy more + the men who are impervious to me. Now there's my father. He comes nearer + understanding me than anybody else, but he's quite adamantine to my + wiles.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall order a suit of chain armor at once.” + </p> + <p> + “An unnecessary expense. Your emotions are quite under control,” she told + him saucily. + </p> + <p> + “I wish I were as sure.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you promised to be interesting,” she complained. + </p> + <p> + “Now you're afraid I'm going to make love to you. Let me relieve your + mind. I'm not.” + </p> + <p> + “I knew you wouldn't be so stupid,” she assured him. + </p> + <p> + “No objection to my admiring your artistic effect at a distance, as a + spectator in a gallery?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall expect that,” she rippled. + </p> + <p> + “Just as one does a picture too expensive to own.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I AM expensive.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a doubt of it. But if you don't mind I'll come occasionally to the + gallery to study the masterpiece.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll mind if you don't.” + </p> + <p> + Voices were heard approaching along the hall. The portieres parted. The + immediate effect on Farnum of the great figure that filled the doorway was + one of masterful authority. A massive head crested a figure of + extraordinary power. Gray as a mediaeval castle, age had not yet touched + his gnarled strength. The keen steady eyes, the close straight lips, the + shaggy eyebrows heavy and overhanging, gave accent to the rugged force of + this grim freebooter who had reversed the law of nature which decrees that + railroads shall follow civilization. Scorning the established rule of + progress, he had spiked his rails through untrodden forests and unexplored + canons to watch the pioneer come after by the road he had blazed. Chief + among the makers of the Northwest, he yearly conceived and executed with + amazing audacity enterprises that would have marked as monumental the life + work of lesser men. + </p> + <p> + Farnum, rising from his seat unconsciously as a tribute of respect, + acknowledged thus tacitly the presence of greatness in the person of Joe + Powers. + </p> + <p> + The straight lips of the empire builder tightened as his eyes gleamed over + the soft luxury of his daughter's boudoir. James would have been hard put + to it to conceive any contrast greater than the one between this modern + berserk and the pampered daughter of his wealth. A Hun or a Vandal gazing + down with barbaric scorn on some decadent paramour of captured Rome was + the most analogous simile Farnum's brain could summon. What freak of + nature, he wondered, had been responsible for so alien an offspring to + this ruthless builder? And what under heaven had the two in common except + the blood that ran in both their veins? + </p> + <p> + Peter C. Frome, who had followed his brother-in-law into the room, + introduced the young man to the railroad king. + </p> + <p> + The great man's grip drove the blood from Farnum's hand. + </p> + <p> + “I've heard about you, young man. What do you mean by getting in my way?” + </p> + <p> + The young man's veins glowed. He had made Joe Powers notice him. Not for + worlds would he have winked an eyelash, though the bones of his hand felt + as if they were being ground to powder. + </p> + <p> + “Do I get in your way, sir?” he asked innocently. + </p> + <p> + “Do you?” boomed the deep bass of the railroader. “You and that mad + brother of yours.” + </p> + <p> + “He's my cousin,” James explained. + </p> + <p> + “Brother or cousin, he's got to get off the track or be run over. And you, + too, with that smooth tongue of yours.” + </p> + <p> + Farnum laughed. “Jeff's pretty solid. He may ditch the train, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” roared Powers. “He'll be flung into the ditch.” He turned abruptly + to Frome. “Peter, take me to a room where I can talk to this young man. I + need him.” + </p> + <p> + “'Come into my little parlor,' said the spider to the fly.” + </p> + <p> + They wheeled as at a common rein to the sound of the young mocking voice. + Alice Frome had come in unnoticed and was standing in the doorway smiling + at them. The effect she produced was demurely daring. The long lines of + her slender sylph-like body, the girlishness of her golden charm, were + vigorously contradicted in their suggestion of shyness by the square + tilted chin and the challenge in the dancing eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Alice,” admonished her father with a deprecatory apology in his voice to + his brother-in-law. + </p> + <p> + Powers knit his shaggy brows in a frown not at all grim. The young woman + smiled back confidently. She could go farther with him than anybody else + in the world could, and she knew it. For he recognized in her vigorous + strength of fiber a kinship of the spirit closer than that between him and + his own daughter. An autocrat to the marrow, it pleased him to recognize + her an exception to his rule. Valencia was also an exception, but in a + different way. + </p> + <p> + “Have you any remarks to make, Miss Frome?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I've made it,” returned the girl unabashed. She turned to James and + shook hands with him. “How do you do, Mr. Farnum? I see you are going to + be tied to Uncle Joe's kite, too.” + </p> + <p> + Was there in her voice just a hint of scorn? James did not know. He + laughed a little uneasily. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I be swallowed up alive, Miss Frome?” + </p> + <p> + “You think you won't, but you will. He always gets what he wants.” + </p> + <p> + For all the warmth and energy of youth in her there was a vivid spiritual + quality that had always made a deep appeal to James. He sensed the + something fine and exquisite she breathed forth and did reverence to it. + </p> + <p> + “And what does he want now?” the young man parried. + </p> + <p> + “He wants YOU.” + </p> + <p> + “Unless you would like him yourself, Alice,” her uncle countered. + </p> + <p> + The color washed into her cheeks. “Not just now, thank you. I was merely + giving him a friendly warning.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm awfully obliged to you. I'll be on my guard,” laughed James. + </p> + <p> + He stepped across to the lounge to make his farewell to Mrs. Van Tyle. + </p> + <p> + “You'll come again,” she said in a low voice. + </p> + <p> + “Whenever the gallery is open—if I am sent a ticket of admission.” + </p> + <p> + “Wouldn't it be better to apply for a ticket and not wait for it to be + sent?” + </p> + <p> + “I think it would—and to apply for one often.” + </p> + <p> + “I am waiting, Mr. Farnum,” interrupted Powers impatiently. + </p> + <p> + To the young man the suggestion sounded like a command. He bowed to Alice + and followed the great man out of the room. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 10 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Many business men of every community are respectable + cowards. The sense of property fills them with a cramping + timidity.—From the Note Book of a Dreamer. +</pre> + <p> + SAFE AND SOUND BUSINESS RALLIES TO THE DEFENSE OF THE COUNTRY. THE REBEL, + FRUSTRATED, PLANS FURTHER VILLAINIES + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + When James reached his office next morning he found Killen waiting for + him. One glance at the weak defiant face told him that the legislator was + again in revolt. The lawyer felt a surge of disgust sweep over him. All + through the session he had cajoled and argued the weak-kneed back into + line. Why didn't Hardy do his own dirty work instead of leaving it to him + to soil his hands with these cheap grafters? + </p> + <p> + No longer ago than yesterday it had been a keen pleasure to feel himself + so important a factor in the struggle, to know that his power and his + personality were of increasing value to his side. + </p> + <p> + But to-day—somehow the salt had gone out of it. The value of the + issue had dwindled, his enthusiasm gone stale. After all, what did it + matter who was elected? Why should not the corporate wealth that was + developing the country see that men were chosen to office who would + safeguard vested interests? It was all very well for Jeff to talk about + democracy and the rights of the people. But Jeff was an impracticable + idealist. He, James, stood for success. Within the past twenty-four hours + there had been something of a shift of standards for him. + </p> + <p> + His visit to The Brakes had done that for him. He craved luxury just as he + did power, and the house on the hill had said the final word of both to + him in the personalities of Joe Powers and his daughter. It had come home + to him that the only way to satisfy his ambition was by making money and a + lot of it. This morning, with the sharpness of his hunger rendering him + irritable, he was in no mood to conciliate disaffectants to the cause of + which he was himself beginning to weary. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” he demanded sharply of Killen. + </p> + <p> + “I've been looking for your cousin, but I can't find him. He was to have + met me here later.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I presume he'll be here when he said he would.” The eyes of the + lawyer were cold and hard as jade. + </p> + <p> + “You can tell him it won't be necessary for me to see him. I've made other + arrangements,” Killen said uneasily. + </p> + <p> + “You mean that you repudiate your agreement with him. Is that it?” + Farnum's voice was like a whiplash. + </p> + <p> + “I've decided to support Frome. Fact is—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, damn the facts! You made an agreement. You're going to sell out. + That's all there is to it.” + </p> + <p> + The young man's face was dark with furious disgust. + </p> + <p> + Killen flared up. “You better be careful how you talk to me, Mr. Farnum. I + might want to know what Big Tim was doing in your office yesterday. I + might want to know what business took you up to The Brakes by a mighty + roundabout way.” + </p> + <p> + James strode forward in a rage. “Get out of here before I throw you out, + you little spying blackguard.” + </p> + <p> + “You bet I'll get out,” screamed the mill man. “Get clear out and have + nothing more to do with your outfit. But I want to tell you that folks + will talk a lot when they know how you and Big Tim fixed up a deal—” + Killen, backing toward the door as he spoke, broke off to hasten his exit + before the lawyer's threatening advance. + </p> + <p> + James slammed the door shut on him and paced up and down in an impotent + fury of passion. “The dirty little blackleg! He'd like to bracket me in + the same class as himself. He'd like to imply that I—By Heaven, if + he opens his lying mouth to a hint of such a thing I'll horsewhip the + little cad.” + </p> + <p> + But running uneasily through his mind was an undercurrent of disgust—with + himself, with Jeff, with the whole situation. Why had he ever let himself + get mixed up with such an outfit? Government by the people! The thing was + idiotic, mere demagogic cant. Power was to the strong. He had always known + it. But yesterday that old giant at The Brakes had hammered it home to + him. He did not like to admit even to himself that his folly had betrayed + Hardy's cause, but at bottom he knew he should not have gone to The Brakes + until after the election and that he ought never to have let Killen out of + the office without an explanation. Yesterday he would have won back the + man somehow by an appeal to his loyalty and his self-interest. + </p> + <p> + He must send word at once to Jeff and let him try to remedy the mischief. + </p> + <p> + His cousin, coming into the office with Rawson just as James took down the + receiver of the telephone, noticed at once the disturbance of the latter. + </p> + <p> + James told his story. It was clear to him that he must anticipate Killen's + disclosure of his visit to The Brakes and so draw the sting from it as far + as possible. But his natural reluctance to shoulder blame made him begin + with Killen's defection. + </p> + <p> + “I told you to let me deal with the little traitor,” Rawson exploded. + </p> + <p> + “He was quite satisfied when I left him yesterday. They must have got at + him again,” Jeff suggested. “I left O'Brien with him. But I was dead sure + of him.” + </p> + <p> + James cleared his throat and began casually. “I expect the little beggar + got suspicious when he saw Big Tim coming to my office.” + </p> + <p> + “To your office?” Rawson cut in sharply. + </p> + <p> + The lawyer flushed, but his eyes met and quelled the incipient doubt in + those of the politician. “Yes, he came to feel the ground. Of course I + told him flatly where I stood. But Killen must have thought something was + doing he wasn't in on. It seems he followed me to The Brakes yesterday + afternoon when I called on Mrs. Van Tyle.” + </p> + <p> + “Followed you to The Brakes. Good Lord!” groaned Rawson. “What in Mexico + were you doing there?” + </p> + <p> + “Thought I mentioned that I was calling on Mrs. Van-Tyle,” returned James + stiffly. + </p> + <p> + “Wasn't that call a little injudicious under the circumstances, James?” + contributed Jeff with his whimsical smile. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I may call wherever I please.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a piece of dashed foolishness, that's what it was. You say Killen + saw you. The thing will fly like dust in the wind. It will be buzzed all + over the House by this time and every man that wants to sell out will find + a reason right there,” stormed Rawson. + </p> + <p> + “Are you implying that I sold out?” demanded James icily. + </p> + <p> + Jeff put a conciliatory hand on his cousin's shoulder. “Of course he + doesn't. He isn't a fool, James. But there's a good deal in what Rawson + says. It was a mistake. The waverers will find in it their excuse for + deserting. Of course Big Tim has been at them all night. We'll go right up + to the House in your machine, Rawson. We haven't a moment to lose.” + </p> + <p> + Rawson nodded. “It's dollars to doughnuts the thing is past mending, but + it's up to us to see. If I can only get at Killen in time I'll choke the + story in his throat. You wait here at the 'phone, Jeff, and I'll call you + up if you're needed at this end of the line. Better have a taxi waiting + below in case you need one. Come along, James.” + </p> + <p> + If he did not get to Killen in time it was not Rawson's fault, for he made + his car flash up and down Verden's hills with no regard to the speed + limit. He swept it along Powers Avenue, dodging in and out among the + traffic of the busy city like a halfback through a broken field after a + kick. With a twist of the wheel he put the machine at the steep hill of + Yarnell Way, climbed the brow of it, and plunged with a flying leap down + the long incline to the State House. + </p> + <p> + James clung to the swaying side of the car as it raced down. It was + raining hard, and the drops stung their faces like bird shot. Two hundred + yards in front appeared a farm wagon, leaped toward them, and disappeared + in the gulf behind. A dog barking at them from the roadside was for an + instant and then was not. In their wake they left cursing teamsters, + frightened horses, women and children scurrying for safety; and in the + driver's seat Rawson sat goggle-eyed and rigid, swallowing the miles that + lay in front of him. + </p> + <p> + The car took the last incline superbly and swung up the asphalt carriage + way to a Yale finish at the marble stairway of the State House. Rawson was + running up the steps almost before the machine had stopped. Farnum caught + him at the elevator and a minute later they entered together the assembly + room of the House. + </p> + <p> + One swift glance told Rawson that Killen was not in his seat, and as his + eyes swept the room he noted also the absence of Pitts, Bentley, and + Miller. Of the doubtful votes only Ashton and Reilly were present. + </p> + <p> + He flung a question, “anything of Bentley, Akers?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Bentley! Why, yes, sir. He was called to the telephone a few minutes + ago and he left at once. Mr. Miller went with him, and Mr. Pitts.” + </p> + <p> + “Were Ashton and Reilly here then?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. They came in a moment before you did.” + </p> + <p> + Rawson drew Farnum to one side and whispered. + </p> + <p> + “Killen must have gone right from your room to Big Tim. They got the + others on the phone. They must have been on that street car we met a mile + back. There's just a chance to head 'em off. I'll chase back in my machine + while you call up Jeff and have him meet the car as it comes in. Tell him + not to let them out of his sight if he has to hold them with a gun. You + keep an eye on Reilly and Ashton. Don't let anyone talk to them or get + them on the phone. Better take them up to the library.” + </p> + <p> + James nodded sulkily. He did not like Rawson's peremptory manner any the + better because he knew his indiscretion had called it down upon him. What + he had been unable to forget for the past hour was that if this break to + Frome had happened yesterday it would have been he that gave the orders + and Rawson who jumped to execute them. Now he had slipped back to second + place. + </p> + <p> + He caught Jeff on the line and repeated Rawson's orders without comment of + his own, after which he went back from the committee room, gathered up + Reilly and Ashton, and took them on a pretext to the library. + </p> + <p> + It must have been nearly an hour later that a messenger boy handed James a + note. It was a hasty scribble from Rawson. + </p> + <p> + Euchred, by thunder! Both Jeff and I missed them. Big Tim butted in with a + car at Grover Street before we could make connections. Am waiting at the + House for them. Don't bring A. & R. in till time to vote. FROME CAN'T + WIN IF YOU MAKE THEM BOTH STICK. + </p> + <p> + James stuck the note in his pocket and flung himself with artificial + animation into the story he was telling. Once or twice the others + suggested a return to the House, but he always had just one more good + story they must hear. Since only routine business was under way there was + no urgency, and when at length they returned to the House chamber the + clock pointed to five minutes to twelve. + </p> + <p> + Rawson and two or three of the staunchest Hardy men relieved Farnum of his + charge in the cloak room and took care of the two doubtfuls. The seats of + Bentley, Miller, Pitts and Killen were still vacant, and there was a tense + watchfulness in the room that showed rumors were flying of a break in the + deadlock. + </p> + <p> + Already the state senators were drifting in for the noon joint sessions, + and along with them came presently the missing assemblymen flanked by + O'Brien and Frome adherents. + </p> + <p> + The President of the Senate called the session to order and announced that + the eleventh general assembly would now proceed to take the sixty-fourth + ballot for the election of a United States Senator. + </p> + <p> + In an oppressive silence the clerk began to call the roll. + </p> + <p> + “Allan.” + </p> + <p> + A raw-boned farmer from one of the coast counties rose and answered + “Hardy.” + </p> + <p> + “Anderson.” + </p> + <p> + In broken English a fat Swede shouted, “Harty.” + </p> + <p> + “Ashton.” + </p> + <p> + “Hardy.” The word fell hesitantly from dry lips. The man would have voted + for the Transcontinental candidate had he dared, but he was not sure + enough that the crucial moment was at hand and the pressure of his + environment was too great. + </p> + <p> + “Bentley.” + </p> + <p> + Three hundred eyes focused expectantly on the gaunt white-faced legislator + who rose nervously at the sound of his name and almost inaudibly gulped + the word “Frome.” + </p> + <p> + A fierce tumult of rage and triumph rose and fell and swelled again. + Bentley became the center of a struggling vortex of roaring humanity and + found himself tossed hither and thither like a chip in a choppy sea. + </p> + <p> + It was many minutes before the clerk could proceed with the roll-call. + When his name was reached James said “Hardy” in a clear distinct voice + that brought from the gallery a round of applause sharply checked by the + presiding officer. Killen gave his vote for Frome tremulously and shrank + from the storm he had evoked. Rawson could be seen standing on his seat, + one foot on the top of his desk, shaking his fist at him in purple + apoplectic rage, the while his voice rose above the tumult, “You damned + Judas! You damned little traitor!” + </p> + <p> + The presiding officer beat in vain with his gavel for quiet. Not until + they had worn themselves to momentary exhaustion could the roll-call be + continued. + </p> + <p> + Miller and Pitts voted for Frome and stirred renewed shouts of support and + execration. + </p> + <p> + “Takes one more change to elect Frome. All depends on Reilly now,” Rawson + whispered hoarsely to Jeff. “If he sticks we're safe for another + twenty-four hours.” + </p> + <p> + But Reilly, knowing the decisive moment had come, voted for Frome and gave + him the one more needed to elect. Pandemonium was loose at once. The + Transcontinental forces surrounded him and fought off the excited men he + had betrayed who tried to get at him to make him change his vote. The + culminating moment of months of battle had come and mature men gave + themselves to the abandon of the moment like college boys after a football + game. + </p> + <p> + When at last the storm had subsided Ashton, who had seen several thousand + dollars go glimmering because his initial came at the beginning of the + alphabet instead of at the close, in the hope of still getting into the + bandwagon in time moved to make the election unanimous. His suggestion was + rejected with hoots of derision, and Frome made the conventional speech of + acceptance to a House divided against itself. + </p> + <p> + Jeff joined his cousin as he was descending the steps to the lower hall. + “Don't blame yourself, old man. It would have happened anyhow in a day or + two. They were looking for a chance to desert. We couldn't have held them. + Better luck next time.” + </p> + <p> + James found cold comfort in such consolation. He was dissatisfied with the + part he had played in the final drama. Instead of being the hero of the + hour, he was the unfortunate whose blunder had started the avalanche. Yet + he was gratified when Rawson said in effect the same thing as Jeff. + </p> + <p> + “And I'm going to have the pleasure of telling that damned little Killen + what I think of him,” the politician added with savage satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Don't blame him. He's only a victim. What we must do is to change the + system that makes it possible to defeat the will of the people through + money,” Jeff said. + </p> + <p> + “How are you going about it?” Rawson demanded incredulously. + </p> + <p> + “We'll go after the initiative and referendum right now while the people + are stirred up about this treachery. The very men who threw us down will + support us to try and square themselves. The bill will slip through as if + it were oiled,” Jeff prophesied. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, hang your initiative and referendum. I'm a politician, not a + socialist reformer,” grinned Rawson. + </p> + <p> + James said nothing. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + If the years were bringing Jeff a sharper realization of the forces that + control so much of life they were giving him too the mellowness that can + be in revolt without any surrender of faith in men. He could for instance + now look back on his college days and appreciate the kindness and the + patience of the teachers whom he had then condemned. They had been + conformists. No doubt they had compromised to the pressure of their + environment. But somehow he felt much less like judging men than he used + to in the first flush of his intellectual awakening. It was perhaps this + habit of making allowance for weakness, together with his call to the + idealism in them, that made him so effective a worker with men. + </p> + <p> + He was as easy as an old shoe, but people sensed the steel in him + instinctively. In his quiet way he was coming to be a power. For one thing + he was possessed of the political divination that understands how far a + leader may go without losing his following. He knew too how to get + practical results. It was these qualities that enabled him out of the + wreckage of the senatorial defeat to build a foundation of victory for + House Bill 77. + </p> + <p> + To bring into effect Jeff's pet measure of the initiative and referendum + necessitated an amendment to the state constitution, which must be passed + by two successive legislative assemblies and ratified by a vote of the + people in order to become effective. The bill had been slumbering in + committee, but immediately after the senatorial election Jeff insisted on + having it brought squarely to the attention of the House. + </p> + <p> + His feeling for the psychological moment was a true one and he succeeded + by a skillful newspaper campaign in rallying the people to his support. + The sense of outrage felt at this shameless purchase of a seat in the + Senate, accented by a knowledge of its helplessness to avenge the wrong + done it, counted mightily in favor of H. B. No. 77 just now. It promised a + restoration of power to the people, and the clamor for its passage became + insistent. + </p> + <p> + A good deal of quiet lobbying had been done for the bill, and the + legislators who had sold themselves, having received all they could + reasonably expect from the allied corporations, were anxious to make a + show of standing for their constituents. Politicians in general considered + the bill a “freak” one. Some who voted for it explained that they did not + believe in it, but felt the people should have a chance to vote on it + themselves. By a large majority it passed the House. Two days later it + squeezed through the Senate. + </p> + <p> + Rawson, who had been persuaded half against his judgment to support the + bill, lunched with Jeff that day. + </p> + <p> + “Now watch the corporations dig a grave for your little pet at the next + legislature,” he chuckled, helping himself to bread while he waited for + the soup. + </p> + <p> + “They may. Then again they may not,” Farnum answered. “We are ruled by + political machines and corporations only as long as we let them. I've a + notion the people are going to assert themselves at the next election.” + </p> + <p> + “How are you going to make the will of the dear people effective with the + assembly?” asked Rawson, amused. + </p> + <p> + “Make the initiative and referendum the issue of the campaign. Pledge the + legislators to vote for it before nominating them.” + </p> + <p> + “Pledge them?” grinned Rawson cynically. “Weren't they pledged to support + Hardy? And did they?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but they'll stick next time, I think.” + </p> + <p> + “You're an incurable optimist, my boy.” + </p> + <p> + “It isn't optimism this time. It's our big stick.” + </p> + <p> + “Didn't know we had one.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you remember House Bill 19?” + </p> + <p> + “No. What's that got to do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “It slipped through early in the session. Anderson introduced it. Nobody + paid any attention to it because he's a back country Swede and his bill + was very wordy. The governor signed it to-day. That bill provides for the + recall of any public official, alderman or legislator if the people are + not satisfied with his conduct.” + </p> + <p> + The big man stared. “I thought it only applied to district road + supervisors. Were you back of that bill, Jeff?” + </p> + <p> + “I had it drawn up and helped steer it through the committee, though I was + careful not to appear interested.” + </p> + <p> + “You sly old fox! And nobody guessed it had general application. None of + us read the blamed thing through. You're going to use it as a club to make + the legislators stand pat on their pledges.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “But don't you see how revolutionary your big stick is?” Rawson's smile + was expansive. “Why, hang it, man, you're destroying the fundamental value + of representative government. It's a deliberate attack on graft.” + </p> + <p> + “Looks like it, doesn't it?” + </p> + <p> + It was while Rawson was waiting for his mince pie piled with ice cream + that he ventured a delicate question. + </p> + <p> + “Say, Jeff! What about James? Is he getting ready to flop over to the + enemy?” + </p> + <p> + “No. Why do you ask that?” + </p> + <p> + “I notice he explained when he voted for House Bill 77 that he reserved + the right to oppose it later. Said he hadn't made up his mind, but felt + the people should be given a chance to express themselves on it.” + </p> + <p> + Upon Farnum's face rested a momentary gravity. “I can't make James out + lately. He's lost his enthusiasm. Half the time he's irritable and moody. + I think perhaps he's been blaming himself too much for Hardy's defeat.” + </p> + <p> + Rawson laughed with cynical incredulity. “That's it, is it?” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 11 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Faustina hath the fairest face, + And Phillida the better grace; + Both have mine eye enriched: + This sings full sweetly with her voice; + Her fingers make so sweet a noise; + Both have mine ear bewitched. + Ah me! sith Fates have so provided, + My heart, alas! must be divided.” + </pre> + <p> + THE HERO, ASSISTED BY THE MONA LISA SMILE, DEPLORES THE DEBILITATING + EFFECTS OF MODERN CIVILIZATION + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + With the adjournment of the legislature politics became a less absorbing + topic of interest. James at least was frankly glad of this, for his + position had begun to be embarrassing. He could not always stand with a + foot in either camp. As yet he had made no break with the progressives. + Joe Powers had given him a hint that he might be more useful where he was. + But as much as possible he was avoiding the little luncheons at which Jeff + and his political friends were wont to foregather. He gave as an excuse + the rush of business that was swamping him. His excuse at least had the + justification of truth. His speeches had brought him a good many clients + and Frome was quietly throwing cases his way. + </p> + <p> + It was at one of these informal little noonday gatherings that Rawson gave + his opinion of the legal ability of James. + </p> + <p> + “He isn't any great lawyer, but he never gives it away. He knows how to + wear an air of profound learning with a large and impressive silence. Roll + up the whole Supreme Court into one and it can't look any wiser than James + K. Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + Miller laughed. “Reminds me of what I heard last week. Jeff was walking + down Powers Avenue with James and an old fellow stopped me to point them + out. There go the best citizen and the worst citizen in this town, he + said. I told him that was rather hard on James. You ought to have heard + him. For him James is the hero of the piece and Jeff the villain.” + </p> + <p> + “Half the people in this town have got that damn fool notion,” Captain + Chunn interrupted violently. + </p> + <p> + “More than half, I should say.” + </p> + <p> + “Every day or two I hear about how dissipated Jeff used to be and how if + it were not for his good and noble cousin he would have gone to the deuce + long ago,” Rawson contributed. + </p> + <p> + Chunn pounded on the table with his fist. “Jeff's own fault. Talk about + durn fools! That boy's got them all beat clear off the map. And I'm dashed + if I don't like him better for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Move we change the subject,” suggested Rawson. “Here comes Verden's worst + citizen.” + </p> + <p> + With a casual nod of greeting round the table Jeff sat down. + </p> + <p> + “Any of you hear James' speech before the Chamber of Commerce yesterday? + It was bully. One of his best,” he said as he reached for the menu card. + </p> + <p> + Captain Chunn groaned. The rest laughed. Jeff looked round in surprise. + “What's the joke?” + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + It was a great relief to James, in these days when the complacency of his + self-satisfaction was a little ruffled, to call often on Valencia Van Tyle + and let himself drift pleasantly with her along primrose paths where moral + obligations never obtruded. Under the near-Venetian ceiling of her den, + with its pink Cupids and plump dimpled cherubs smiling down, he was never + troubled about his relation to Hardy's defeat. Here he got at life from + another slant and could always find justification to himself for his + course. + </p> + <p> + She had a silent divination of his moods and knew how to minister + indolently to them. The subtle incense of luxury that she diffused + banished responsibility. In her soft sensuous blood the lusty beat of duty + had small play. + </p> + <p> + But even while he yielded to the allure of Valencia Van Tyle, admitting a + finish of beauty to which mere youth could not aspire, all that was + idealistic in him went out to the younger cousin whose admiration and shy + swift friendship he was losing. His vanity refused to accept this at + first. She was a little piqued at him because of the growing intimacy with + Valencia. That was all. Why, it had been only a month or two ago that her + gaze had been warm for him, that her playful irony had mocked sweetly his + ambition for service to the community. Their spirits had touched in + comradeship. Almost he had caught in her eyes the look they would hold for + only one man on earth. The best in him had responded to the call. But now + he did not often meet her at The Brakes. When he did a cool little nod and + an indifferent word sufficed for him. How much this hurt only James + himself knew. + </p> + <p> + One of the visible signs of his increasing prosperity was a motor car, in + which he might frequently be seen driving with the daughter of Joe Powers, + to the gratification of its owner and the envy of Verden. The cool + indifference with which Mrs. Van Tyle ignored the city's social elite had + aroused bitter criticism. Since she did not care a rap for this her + escapades were frankly indiscreet. James could not really afford a + machine, but he justified it on the ground that it was an investment. A + man who appears to be prosperous becomes prosperous. A good front is a + part of the bluff of twentieth century success. He did not follow his + argument so far as to admit that the purchase of the car was an item in + the expenses of a campaign by which he meant to make capital out of a + woman's favor to him, even though his imagination toyed with the + possibilities it might offer to build a sure foundation of fortune. + </p> + <p> + “You should go to New York,” she told him once after he had sketched, with + the touch of eloquence so native to him, a plan for a line of steamers + between Verden and the Orient. + </p> + <p> + “To be submerged in the huddle of humanity. No, thank you.” + </p> + <p> + “But the opportunities are so much greater there for a man of ability.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, ability!” he derided. “New York is loaded to the water line with + ability in garrets living on crusts. To win out there a man must have a + pull, or he must have the instinct for making money breed, for taking what + other men earn.” + </p> + <p> + She studied him, a good-looking, alert American, sheet-armored in the + twentieth century polish of selfishness, with an inordinate appetite for + success. Certainly he looked every inch a winner. + </p> + <p> + “I believe you could do it. You're not too scrupulous to look out for + yourself.” Her daring impudence mocked him lightly. + </p> + <p> + “I'm not so sure about that.” James liked to look his conscience in the + face occasionally. “I respect the rights of my fellows. In the money + centers you can't do that and win. And you've got to win. It doesn't + matter how. Make good—make good! Get money—any way you can. + People will soon forget how you got it, if you have it.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! I didn't know you were so given to moral reflections.” To Alice, + who had just come into the room to settle where they should spend their + Sunday, Valencia explained with mock demureness the subject of their talk. + “Mr. Farnum and I are deploring the immoral money madness of New York and + the debilitating effects of modern civilization. Will you deplore with us, + my dear?” + </p> + <p> + The younger woman's glance included the cigarette James had thrown away + and the one her cousin was still smoking. “Why go as far as New York?” she + asked quietly. + </p> + <p> + Farnum flushed. She was right, he silently agreed. He had no business + futtering away his time in a pink boudoir. Nor could he explain that he + hoped his time was not being wasted. + </p> + <p> + “I must be going,” he said as casually as he could. + </p> + <p> + “Don't let me drive you away, Mr. Farnum. I dropped in only for a moment.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. I have an appointment with my cousin.” + </p> + <p> + “With Mr. Jefferson Farnum?” Alice asked in awakened interest. “I've just + been reading a magazine article about him. Is he really a remarkable man?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think you would call him remarkable. He gets things done, in + spite of being an idealist.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, in spite of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Aren't reformers usually unpractical?” + </p> + <p> + “Are they? I don't know. I have never met one.” She looked straight at + Farnum with the directness characteristic of her. “Is the article in + Stetson's Magazine true?” + </p> + <p> + “Substantially, I think.” + </p> + <p> + Alice hesitated. She would have liked to pursue the subject, but she could + not very well do that with his cousin. For years she had been hearing of + this man as a crank agitator who had set himself in opposition to her + father and his friends for selfish reasons. Her father had dropped vague + hints about his unsavory life. The Stetson write-up had given a very + different story. If it told the truth, many things she had been brought up + to accept without question would bear study. + </p> + <p> + James suavely explained. “The facts are true, but not the inferences from + the facts. Jeff takes rather a one-sided view of a very complex situation. + But he's perfectly honest in it, so far as that goes.” + </p> + <p> + “You voted for his bill, didn't you?” Alice asked. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I voted for it. But I said on the floor I didn't believe in it. My + feeling was that the people ought to have a chance to express an opinion + in regard to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you believe in it?” + </p> + <p> + Valencia lifted her perfect eyebrows. “Really, my dear, I didn't know you + were so interested in politics.” + </p> + <p> + Alice waited for the young man's answer. + </p> + <p> + “It would take me some time to give my reasons in full. But I can give you + the text of them in a sentence. Our government is a representative one by + deliberate choice of its founders. This bill would tend to make it a pure + democracy, which would be far too cumbersome for so large a country.” + </p> + <p> + “So you'll vote against it next time to save the country,” Alice suggested + lightly. “Thank you for explaining it.” She turned to her cousin with an + air of dismissing the subject. “Well, Val. What about the yacht trip to + Kloochet Island for Sunday? Shall we go? I have to 'phone the captain to + let him know at once.” + </p> + <p> + “If you'll promise not to have it rain all the time,” the young widow + shrugged with a little move. “Perhaps Mr. Farnum could join us? I'm sure + uncle would be pleased.” + </p> + <p> + Alice seconded her cousin's invitation tepidly, without any enthusiasm. + James, with a face which did not reflect his disappointment, took his cue + promptly. “Awfully sorry, but I'll be out of the city. Otherwise I should + be delighted.” + </p> + <p> + Valencia showed a row of dainty teeth in a low ripple of amusement. Alice + flashed her cousin one look of resentment and with a sentence of + conventional regret left the room to telephone the sailing master. + </p> + <p> + Farnum, seeking permission to leave, waited for his hostess to rise from + the divan where she nestled. + </p> + <p> + But Valencia, her fingers laced in characteristic fashion back of her + neck, leaned back and mocked his defeat with indolent amused eyes. + </p> + <p> + “My engagement,” he suggested as a reminder. + </p> + <p> + “Poor boy! Are you hard hit?” + </p> + <p> + “Your flights of fancy leave me behind. I can't follow,” he evaded with an + angry flush. + </p> + <p> + “No, but you wish you could follow,” she laughed, glancing at the door + through which her cousin had departed. Then, with a demure impudent little + cast of her head, she let him have it straight from the shoulder. “How + long have you been in love with Alice? And how will you like to see Ned + Merrill win?” + </p> + <p> + “Am I in love with Miss Frome?” + </p> + <p> + “Aren't you?” + </p> + <p> + “If you say so. It happens to be news to me.” + </p> + <p> + “As if I believed that, as if you believed it yourself,” she scoffed. + </p> + <p> + Her pretty pouting lips, the long supple unbroken lines of the soft + sinuous body, were an invitation to forget all charms but hers. He + understood that she was throwing out her wiles, consciously or + unconsciously, to strike out from him a denial that would convince her. + His mounting vanity drove away his anger. He forgot everything but her + sheathed loveliness, the enticement of this lovely creature whose + smoldering eyes invited. Crossing the room, he stood behind her divan and + looked down at her with his hands on the back of it. + </p> + <p> + “Can a man care much for two women at the same time?” he asked in a low + voice. + </p> + <p> + She laughed with slow mockery. + </p> + <p> + Her faint perfume was wafted to his brain. He knew a besieging of the + blood. Slowly he leaned forward, holding her eyes till the mockery faded + from them. Then, very deliberately, he kissed her. + </p> + <p> + “How dare you!” she voiced softly in a kind of wonder not free from + resentment. For with all her sensuous appeal the daughter of Joe Powers + was not a woman with whom men took liberties. + </p> + <p> + “By the gods, why shouldn't I dare? We played a game and both of us have + lost. You were to beckon and coolly flit, while I followed safely at a + distance. Do you think me a marble statue? Do you think me too wooden for + the strings of my heart to pulsate? By heaven, my royal Hebe, you have + blown the fire in me to life. You must pay forfeit.” + </p> + <p> + “Pay forfeit?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. I'm your servant no longer, but your lover and your master—and + I intend to marry you.” + </p> + <p> + “How ridiculous,” she derided. “Have you forgotten Alice?” + </p> + <p> + “I have forgotten everything but you—and that I'm going to marry + you.” + </p> + <p> + She laughed a little tremulously. “You had better forget that too. I'm + like Alice. My answer is, 'No, thank you, kind sir.'” + </p> + <p> + “And my answer, royal Hebe, is this.” His hot lips met hers again in + abandonment to the racing passion in him. + </p> + <p> + “You—barbarian,” she gasped, pushing him away. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps. But the man who is going to marry you.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with a flash of almost shy curiosity that had the charm + of an untasted sensation. “Would you beat me?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know.” He still breathed unevenly. “I'd teach you how to live.” + </p> + <p> + “And love?” She was beginning to recover her lightness of tone, though the + warm color still dabbed her cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” His eyes were diamond bright. “Why not? You have never known + the great moments, the buoyant zest of living in the land that belongs + only to the Heirs o Life.” + </p> + <p> + “And can you guide me there?” The irony in her voice was not untouched + with wistfulness. + </p> + <p> + “Try me.” + </p> + <p> + She laughed softly, stepped to the table, and chose a cigarette. “My + friend, you promise impossibilities. I was not born to that incomparable + company. To be frank, neither were you. Alice, grant you, belongs there. + And that mad cousin of yours. But not we two earth creepers. We're neither + of us star dwellers. In the meantime”—she lit her Egyptian and + stopped to make sure of her light every moment escaping more definitely + from the glamor of his passion—“you mentioned an engagement that was + imperative. Don't let me keep you from it.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 12 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + From The New Catechism + + Question: What is the whole duty of man? + + Answer: To succeed. + + Q. What is success? + + A. Success is being a Captain of Industry. + + Q. How may one become a Captain of Industry? + + A. By stacking in his barns the hay made by others while the + sun shines. + + Q. But is this not theft? + + A. Not if done legally and respectably on a large scale. It + is high finance. +</pre> + <p> + THE REBEL AND THE UNDESIRABLE CITIZEN TALK TREASON. THE HERO HAS PRIVATE + CONVERSE WITH A GREAT PIONEER OF CIVILIZATION + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + Jeff never for a day desisted from his fight to win back for the people + the self rule that had been wrested from them for selfish purposes by + corporate greed. “Government by the people” was the watchword he kept at + the head of his editorial column. Better a bad government that is + representative than a good one emanating from the privileged few, he + maintained with conviction. + </p> + <p> + To his office came one day Oscar Marchant, the little, half-educated + Socialist poet, coughing from the exertion of the stairs he had just + climbed. He had come begging, the consumptive presently explained. + </p> + <p> + “Remember Sobieski, the Polish Jew?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff smiled. “Of course. Philosophical anarchy used to be his remedy.” + </p> + <p> + “Starvation is the one he's trying now,” returned Marchant grimly. “He's + had typhoid and lost his job. The rent's due and they'll be turned out + tomorrow. He's got a wife and two kids.” + </p> + <p> + Farnum asked questions briefly and pulled out his check book. “Tell + Sobieski not to worry,” he said as he handed over a check. “I'll send a + reporter out there and we'll make an appeal through the <i>World</i>. Of + course his own name won't be used. No one will know who it really is. + We'll look out for him till he's on his feet again.” + </p> + <p> + Marchant gave him the best he had. “You're a pretty good Socialist, even + though you don't know it.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I?” + </p> + <p> + “But you're blind as a bat. The things you fight for in the <i>World</i> + don't get to the bottom of what ails us.” + </p> + <p> + “We've got to forge the tools of freedom before we can use them, haven't + we?” + </p> + <p> + “You're all for patching up the rotten system we've got. It will never + do.” + </p> + <p> + “Great changes are most easily brought about under the old forms. Men's + minds in the mass move slowly. They can see only a little truth at a + time.” + </p> + <p> + “Because they are blinded by ignorance and selfishness. Get at bottom + facts, Farnum. What's the one great crime?” + </p> + <p> + Without a moment's hesitation Jeff answered. “Poverty. All other crimes + are paltry beside that.” + </p> + <p> + Marchant cocked himself up on the window seat with his legs doubled under + him tailor fashion. “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it stamps out hope and love and aspiration, all that is fine and + true in life.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. Men ought to love their work. But how can they love that which + is always associated in their minds with a denial of justice? Is it likely + that men will work better under a system whereby they are condemned in + advance to failure than under one standing rationally for a just and fair + division of the fruits of labor? I tell you, Farnum, under present + conditions the Juggernaut of progress is forever wasting humanity.” + </p> + <p> + “I've always thought it a pity that the mainsprings of work should be fear + and greed instead of hope and love,” Jeff agreed. + </p> + <p> + “Why is it that poverty coexists with wealth increasing so rapidly? Why is + it that productive power has been so enormously developed without + lightening the burdens of labor?” + </p> + <p> + Marchant's eyes were starlike in their earnestness. He had a passion for + humanity that neither want nor disease could quench, and with it a certain + gift of expression street oratory had brought out. Even in private + conversation he had got into the way of declaiming. But Jeff knew he was + no empty talker. All that he had he literally gave to the poor. + </p> + <p> + “Because the whole spirit of business life is wrong,” Farnum responded. + </p> + <p> + “Of course it's wrong. It's a survival of the law of the jungle, of tooth + and fang. Its motto is dog eat dog. We all work under the rule of get and + grab. What's the result of this higgledypiggledy system? One man starves + and another has indigestion. That's the trouble with Verden to-day. Some + of us haven't enough and others have too much. They take from us what we + earn. That's the whole cause of poverty. The Malthusian theory is all + wrong. It's not nature, but man that is to blame.” + </p> + <p> + Farnum knew the little Socialist was right so far. Here in Verden, under + the forms of freedom, was the very essence of slavery. All the product of + labor was taken from it except enough to sustain a mere animal existence. + Something was wrong in a world where a man begs in vain for work to + support his family. Given proper conditions, men would not rise by + trampling each other down, but by lending a hand to the unfortunate. The + effect of efficiency would be to make things easier for the weak. The + reward of service would be more service. + </p> + <p> + “The principle of the old order is dead,” Marchant went on, wagging his + thin forefinger at Jeff. “The whole social fabric is made up of lies, + compromises, injustice. The only reason it has hung together so long is + that people have been trained to think along certain lines like show + animals. But they're waking up. Look at Germany. Look at England. What the + plutocrats call the menace of Socialism is everywhere. Now that every + worker knows he is being robbed of what he earns, how long do you think he + will carry the capitalistic system on his back? From the beginning of the + world we have tried it. With what result? An injustice that is staggering, + a waste that is appalling, an inhumanity that is deadening.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff let a hand fall lightly on his shoulder. “Of course it's all wrong. + We know that. But can you show me how to make it right, except out of the + hearts of men growing slowly wiser and better?” + </p> + <p> + “Why slowly?” demanded Marchant. “Why not to-day while we're still alive + to see the smiles of men and women and children made glad? You always want + to begin at the wrong end. I tell you that you can't change men's hearts + until you change the conditions under which they live.” + </p> + <p> + “And I tell you that you can't change the conditions until you change + men's hearts,” Jeff answered with his wistful smile. + </p> + <p> + “Rubbish! The only way to change the hearts of most plutocrats is to hit + them over the head with a two-by-four. Smug respectability is in the + saddle, and it knows it's right. We'll get nowhere until we smash this + iniquitous system to smithereens.” + </p> + <p> + “So you want to substitute one system for another. You think you can + eliminate by legal enactment all this fatty degeneration of greed and + selfishness that has incased our souls. I'm afraid it will be a slower + process. We must free ourselves from within. I believe we are moving + toward some sort of a socialistic state. No man with eyes in his head can + help seeing that. But we'll move a step at a time, and only so fast as the + love and altruism inside us can be organized into external law.” + </p> + <p> + “No. You'll wake up some morning and find that this whole capitalistic + organization has crumbled in the night, fallen to pieces from dry rot.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff might not agree with him, but he knew that Marchant, dreamer and + incoherent poet, his heart aflame with zeal for humanity, was far nearer + the truth of life than the smug complacent Pharisees that fattened from + the toil of the helpless many who could do nothing but suffer in dumb + silence. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + As the months passed Jeff grew in stature with the people of the state. In + spite of his energy he was always fair. The plain truth he felt to be a + better argument than the tricks of a demagogue. + </p> + <p> + A rational common sense was to be found in all his advice. Add to this + that he had no personal profit to seek, no political axe to grind, and was + always transparent as a child. More and more Verden recognized him as the + one most conspicuous figure in the state dedicated to uncompromising war + against the foes of the Republic. + </p> + <p> + Those who knew him best liked his humility, his good humor, the gentleness + that made him tolerant of the men he must fight. His poise lifted him + above petty animosities, and the daily sand-stings of life did not disturb + his serenity. + </p> + <p> + Everywhere his propaganda gained ground. People's Power Leagues were + formed with a central steering committee at Verden. Politicians with their + ears close to the ground heard rumbles of the coming storm. They began to + notice that reputable business men, prominent lawyers not affiliated with + corporations, and even a few educators who had shaken away the timidity of + their class were lining up to support Jeff's freak legislation. It began + to look as if one of those periodical uprisings of the people was about to + sweep the state. + </p> + <p> + Big Tim found his ward workers met persistently by the same questions from + their ordinarily docile following. “Why shouldn't we tie strings to our + representatives so as to keep them from betraying us?... Why can't we make + laws ourselves in emergency and kill bad laws the legislature makes?... + What's the matter with taking away some of the power from our + representatives who have abused it?” + </p> + <p> + In the city election O'Brien went down to defeat. Only fragments of his + ticket were saved from the general wreckage. Next day Joe Powers wired + James Farnum to join him immediately at Chicago. + </p> + <p> + “I'm going to put you in charge of the political field out there,” the + great man announced, his gray granite eyes fastened on the young lawyer. + “Ned Merrill won't do. Neither will O'Brien. Between them they've made a + mess of things.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know that it is their fault, except indirectly. One of those + populistic waves swept over the city.” + </p> + <p> + “Why didn't they know what was going to happen? Why didn't they let me + know? That's what I pay them for.” + </p> + <p> + “A child could have foreseen it, but O'Brien wouldn't believe his eyes. + He's been giving Verden an administration with too much graft. The people + got tired of it.” + </p> + <p> + “What were Merrill and Frome up to? Why did they permit it?” demanded + Powers impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “They were looking out for their franchises. To get the machine's support + they had to give O'Brien a free hand.” + </p> + <p> + “If necessary you had better eliminate Big Tim. Or at least put him and + his gang in the background. Make the machine respectable so that good + citizens can indorse it.” + </p> + <p> + James nodded agreement. “I've been thinking about that. The thing can be + done. A business men's movement from inside the party to purify it. A + reorganization with new men in charge. That sort of thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. And how about the state?” + </p> + <p> + “Things don't look good to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “This initiative and referendum idea is spreading.” + </p> + <p> + Powers drove his fist into a pile of papers on the desk. “Stop it. I give + you carte blanche. Spend as much as you like. But win. What good is a + lobby to me if those hare-brained farmers can kill every bill we pass + through their grafting legislature?” + </p> + <p> + The possibilities grew on Farnum. “I'll send Professor Perkins of Verden + University to New Zealand to prepare a paper showing the thing is a + failure there. I'll have every town in the state thoroughly canvassed by + lecturers and speakers against the bill. I'll bombard the farmers with + literature.” + </p> + <p> + “What about the newspapers?” + </p> + <p> + “We control most of them. At Verden only the <i>World</i> is against us.” + </p> + <p> + “Buy it.” + </p> + <p> + “Can't be bought. Its editorial columns are not for sale.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything can be bought if you've got the price. Who owns it?” + </p> + <p> + “A Captain Chunn. He made his money in Alaska. My cousin is the editor. He + is the real force back of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Does the paper have any influence?” + </p> + <p> + “A great deal.” + </p> + <p> + “I've heard of your cousin. A crack-brained Socialist, I understand.” + </p> + <p> + “You'll find he's a long way from that,” James denied. + </p> + <p> + “Whatever he is, buy him,” ordered Powers curtly. + </p> + <p> + The young man shook his head. “Can't be done. He doesn't want the things + you have to offer.” + </p> + <p> + “Every man has his price. Find his, and buy him.” + </p> + <p> + James shook his head decisively. “Absolutely impossible. He's an idealist + and an altruist.” + </p> + <p> + Powers snorted impatiently. “Talk English, young man, and I'll understand + you.” + </p> + <p> + Farnum had heard Joe Powers was a man who would stand plain talk from + those who had the courage to give it him. His cool eyes hardened. Why not? + For once the old gray pirate, chief of the robber buccaneers who rode on + their predatory way superior to law, should see himself as Jeff Farnum saw + him. + </p> + <p> + “What I mean is that the things he holds most important can't be bought + with dollars and cents. He believes in justice and fair play. He thinks + the strong ought to bear the burdens of the weak. + </p> + <p> + “He has a passion to uplift humanity. You can't understand him because it + isn't possible for you to conceive of a man whose first thought is always + for what is equitable.” + </p> + <p> + “Just as I thought, a Socialist dreamer and demagogue,” pronounced Powers + scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “Merrill and Frome have been thinking of him just as you do.” James waved + his hand toward the newspaper in front of the railroad king. “With what + result our election shows.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, where does his power lie? How can you break it?” the old man asked. + </p> + <p> + “He is a kind of brother to the lame and the halt all over the state. + Among the poor and the working classes he has friends without number. They + believe in him as a patriot fighting for them against the foes of the + country.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you call me a foe of the country, young man?” Powers wanted to know + grimly. + </p> + <p> + “Not I,” laughed James. “Why should I quarrel with my bread and jam? If + you had ever done me the honor to read any of my speeches you would see + that I refer to you as a Pioneer of Civilization and a Builder for the + Future. But my view doesn't happen to be universal. I was trying to show + you how the man with the dinner pail feels.” + </p> + <p> + “Who fills his dinner pails?” + </p> + <p> + James met his frown with a genial eye. “There's a difference of opinion + about that, sir. According to the economics of Verden University you fill + them. According to the <i>World</i> editorials it's the other way. They + fill yours.” + </p> + <p> + “Hmp! And what's your personal opinion? Am I a robber of labor?” + </p> + <p> + “I think that the price of any success worth while is paid for in the + failure of others. You win because you're strong, sir. That's the law of + the game. It's according to the survival of the fittest that you're where + you are. If you had hesitated some other man would have trampled you down. + It's a case of wolf eat wolf.” + </p> + <p> + The old railroad builder laughed harshly. This was the first time in his + experience that a subordinate had so analyzed him to his face. + </p> + <p> + “So I'm a wolf, am I?” + </p> + <p> + “In one sense of the word you're not that at all, sir. You're a great + builder. You've done more for the Northwest than any man living. You + couldn't have done it if you had been squeamish. I hold the end justifies + the means. What you've got is yours because you've won it. Men who do a + great work for the public are entitled to great rewards.” + </p> + <p> + “Glad to know you've got more sense than that fool cousin of yours. Now go + home and beat him. I don't care how you do it, just so that you get + results. Spend what money you need, but make good, young man—make + good.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll do my best,” James promised. + </p> + <p> + “All I demand is that you win. I'm not interested in the method you use. + But put that cousin of yours out of the demagogue business if you have to + shanghai him.” + </p> + <p> + James laughed. “That might not be a bad way to get rid of him till after + the election. The word would leak out that he had been bought off.” + </p> + <p> + The old buccaneer's eyes gleamed. He was as daring a lawbreaker as ever + built or wrecked a railroad. “Have you the nerve, young man?” + </p> + <p> + “When I'm working for you, sir,” retorted James coolly. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean by that?” + </p> + <p> + “If I've studied your career to any purpose, sir, one thing stands out + pretty clear. You haven't the slightest respect for law merely as law. + When it's on your side you're a stickler for it; when it isn't you say + nothing, but brush it aside as if it did not exist. In either case you get + what you want.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad you've noticed that last point. Now we'll have luncheon.” He + smiled grimly. “I daresay you'll enjoy it no less because I stole it from + the horny hand of labor, by your mad cousin's way of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a bit,” answered James cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 13 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Must it be? Must we then + Render back to God again + This, His broken work, this thing + For His man that once did sing?” + —Josephine Prestor Peabody. + + “And listen! I declare to you that if all is as you say—and + I do not doubt it—you have never ceased to be virtuous in + the sight of God!”—Victor Hugo. +</pre> + <p> + THE REBEL PROVES THAT HE IS LOST TO GOOD FORM AND RESPECTABILITY BY + STEPPING BETWEEN A SINNER AND THE WAGES OF SIN, THUS EVIDENCING TO THE + PILLARS OF SOCIETY HIS COMPLETE DEGENERATION + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + Sam Miller came into Jeff's office one night as he was looking over the + editorials. Farnum nodded abstractedly to him. + </p> + <p> + “Take a chair, Sam. Be through in a minute.” + </p> + <p> + Presently Jeff pushed the galley proof to one side and looked at his + friend. “Well, Sam?” Almost at once he added: “What's the matter?” + </p> + <p> + There were queer white patches on Miller's fat face. He looked like a man + in hell. A lump rose in his throat. Two or three times he swallowed hard. + </p> + <p> + “It's—it's Nellie.” + </p> + <p> + “Nellie Anderson?” + </p> + <p> + He nodded. + </p> + <p> + Jeff felt as if his heart had been drenched in icy water. “What about + her?” + </p> + <p> + “She's—gone.” + </p> + <p> + “Gone where?” + </p> + <p> + “We don't know. She left Friday. There was a note for her mother. It said + to forget her, because she was a disgrace to her name.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean—” Jeff did not finish his question. He knew what the + answer was, and in his soul lay a reflection of the mortal sickness he saw + in his friend's face. + </p> + <p> + Miller nodded, unable to speak. Presently his words came brokenly. “She's + been acting strangely for a long time. Her mother noticed it.... So did I. + Like as if she wasn't happy. We've been worried. I...I...” He buried his + face in his arm on the table. “My God, I love her, Jeff. I have for years. + If I'd only known... if she'd only told me.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff was white as the galley proof that lay before him with the unprinted + side up. “Tell me all about it, Sam.” + </p> + <p> + Miller looked up. “That's all. We don't know where she's gone. She had no + money to speak of.” + </p> + <p> + “And the man?” Jeff almost whispered. + </p> + <p> + “We don't know who he is. Might be any one of the clerks at the Verden Dry + Goods Company. Maybe it's none of them. If I knew I'd cut his heart out.” + </p> + <p> + The clock on the wall ticked ten times before Jeff spoke. “Did she go + alone?” + </p> + <p> + “We don't know. None of the clerks are missing from the store where she + worked. I checked up with the manager yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + Another long silence. “They may have rooms in town here.” + </p> + <p> + “Not likely.” Presently Miller added miserably: “She's—going to be a + mother soon. We found the doctor she went to see.” + </p> + <p> + “You're sure she hasn't been married? Of course you've looked over the + marriage licenses for the past year.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Her name isn't on the list.” + </p> + <p> + “Did she have money?” + </p> + <p> + “About fifteen dollars, we figure.” + </p> + <p> + “That wouldn't take her far—unless the man gave her some. Have you + been to a detective agency?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll put blind ads in all the papers telling her to come home. We'll + rake the city and the state with a fine tooth comb. We're bound to hear of + her.” + </p> + <p> + “She's desperate, Jeff. If she's alone she'll think she has no friends. + We've got to find her in time or—” + </p> + <p> + Jeff guessed the alternative. She might take the easy way out, the one + which offered an escape from all her earthly troubles. Girls of her type + often did. Nellie was made for laughter and for happiness. He had known + her innocent as a sunbeam and as glad. Now that she was in the pit, facing + disgrace and disillusionment and despair, the horror and the dread of + existence to her would be a millstone round her neck. + </p> + <p> + The damnable unfairness of it took. Jeff by the throat. Was it her fault + that she had inherited a temperament where passions lurked unsuspected + like a banked fire? Was she to blame because her mother had brought her up + without warning, because she had believed in the love and the honor of a + villain? Her very faith and trust had betrayed her. Every honest instinct + in him cried out against the world's verdict, that she must pay with salt + tears to the end of her life while the scoundrel who had led her into + trouble walked gaily to fresh conquests. + </p> + <p> + Cogged dice! She had gone forth smiling to play the game of life with + them, never dreaming that the cubes were loaded. He remembered how once + her every motion sang softly to him like music, with what dear abandon she + had given herself to his kisses. Her fondness had been a thing to cherish, + her innocence had called for protection. And her chivalrous lover had + struck the lightness forever from her soul. + </p> + <p> + For long he never thought of her without an icy sinking of the heart. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + Weeks passed. Sam Miller gave his whole time to the search for the missing + girl. Jeff supplied the means; in every way he could he encouraged him and + the broken mother. For a thousand miles south and east the police had her + description and her photograph. But no trace of her could be found. False + clews there were aplenty. A dozen haggard streetwalkers were arrested in + mistake for her. Patiently Sam ran down every story, followed every + possibility to its hopeless end. + </p> + <p> + The weeks ran into months. Mrs. Anderson still hoped drearily. Every night + the light in the hall burned now till daybreak. And every night she wept + herself to sleep for that her one ewe lamb was lost in a ravenous world. + </p> + <p> + Tears were for the night. Wan smiles for the day, when she and Sam, drawn + close by a common grief, met to understand each other with few words. He + was back again at his work as curator of the museum at the State House, a + place Jeff had secured for him after the election. + </p> + <p> + Outside of Nellie's mother the one friend to whom Sam turned now was Jeff. + He came for comfort, to sit long hours in the office while Farnum did his + night work. Sometimes he would read; more often sit brooding with his chin + in his hands. When the midnight rush was past and Jeff was free they would + go together to a restaurant. + </p> + <p> + Afterwards they would separate at the door of the block where Jeff had his + rooms. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 3 + </h2> + <p> + Yet when Jeff found her it was not Sam who was with him, but Marchant. + They had been to see Sobieski about a place Captain Chunn had secured for + him as a night watchman of the shipbuilding plant of which Clinton Rogers + was part owner. The Pole had mounted his hobby and it had been late when + they got away from his cabin under the viaduct. + </p> + <p> + Just before they turned into lower Powers Avenue from the deadline below + Yarnell Way, Marchant clutched at the sleeve of his friend. + </p> + <p> + “See that woman's face?” he asked sharply. + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff was interested at once. For during the past months he had fallen into + a habit of scanning the countenance of any woman who might be the one they + sought. + </p> + <p> + “She knew you. I could see fear jump to her eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll go back,” Jeff decided instantly. + </p> + <p> + “She's in deep water. Death is written on her face.” + </p> + <p> + Already Jeff was swinging back, almost on the run. But she had gone + swallowed up in the darkness of the night. They listened, but could hear + only the steady splashing of the rain. While they stood hesitating the + figure of a woman showed at the other end of the alley and was lost at + once down Pacific Avenue. + </p> + <p> + Jeff ran toward the lights of the other avenue, but before he reached it + she had again disappeared. Marchant joined him a few moments later. The + little socialist leaned against the wall to steady himself against the fit + of coughing that racked him. + </p> + <p> + “Nuisance... this... being a lunger... What's it all... about, Jeff?” + </p> + <p> + “I know her. We'll cover the waterfront. Take from Coffee Street up. Don't + miss a wharf or a boathouse. And if you find the girl don't let her get + away.” + </p> + <p> + The editor crossed to the Pacific & Alaska dock, his glance sweeping + every dark nook and cranny that might conceal a huddled form. Out of a + sodden sky rain pelted in a black night. + </p> + <p> + He was turning away when an empty banana crate behind him crashed down + from a pyramid of them. Jeff whirled, was upon her in an instant before + she could escape. + </p> + <p> + She was shrinking against the wall of the warehouse, her face a tragic + mask in its haggard pallor, a white outline clenched hard against the + driving rain. One hand was at her heart, the other beat against the air to + hold him back. + </p> + <p> + “Nellie!” he cried. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want? Let me alone! Let me alone!” She was panting like a + spent deer, and in her wild eyes he saw the hunted look of a forest + creature at bay. + </p> + <p> + “We've looked everywhere for you. I've come to take you home.” + </p> + <p> + “Home!” Her strange laughter mocked the word. “There's no home for folks + like me in this world.” + </p> + <p> + “Your mother is breaking her heart for you. She thinks of nothing else. + All night she keeps a light burning to let you know.” + </p> + <p> + She broke into a sob. “I've seen it. To-night I saw it—for the last + time.” + </p> + <p> + “It is pitiful how she waits and waits,” he went on quietly. “She takes + out your dresses and airs them. All the playthings you used when you were + a little girl she keeps near her. She—” + </p> + <p> + “Don't! Don't!” she begged. + </p> + <p> + “Your place is set at the table every day, so that when you come in it may + be ready.” + </p> + <p> + At that she leaned against the crates and broke down utterly. Jeff knew + that for the moment the battle was won. He slipped out of his rain coat + and made her put it on, coaxing her gently while the sobs shook her. He + led her by the hand back to Pacific Avenue, talking cheerfully as if it + were a matter of course. + </p> + <p> + Here Marchant met them. + </p> + <p> + “I want a cab, Oscar,” Jeff told him. + </p> + <p> + While he was gone they waited in the entrance to a store that sheltered + them from the rain. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly the girl turned to Jeff. “I—I was going to do it to-night,” + she whispered. + </p> + <p> + He nodded. “That's all past now. Don't think of it. There are good days + ahead—happy days. It will be new life to your mother to see you. + We've all been frightfully anxious.” + </p> + <p> + She shivered, beginning to sob once more. Not for an instant had he + withdrawn the hand to which she clung so desperately. + </p> + <p> + “It's all right, Nellie...All right at last. You're going home to those + that love you.” + </p> + <p> + “Not to-night—not while I'm looking like this. Don't take me home + to-night,” she begged. “I can't stand it yet. Give me to-night, please. + I...” + </p> + <p> + She trembled like an aspen. Jeff could see she was exhausted, in deadly + fear, ready to give way to any wild impulse that might seize her. To + reason with her would do no good and might do much harm. He must humor her + fancy about not going home at once. But he could not take her to a rooming + house and leave her alone while her mind was in this condition. She must + be watched, protected against herself. Otherwise in the morning she might + be gone. + </p> + <p> + “All right. You may have my rooms. Here's the cab.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff helped her in, thanked Marchant with a word, got in himself, and shut + the door. They were driven through streets shining with rain beneath the + light clusters. Nellie crouched in a corner and wept. As they swung down + Powers Avenue they passed motor car after motor car filled with gay + parties returning from the theaters. He glimpsed young women in furs, + wrapped from the cruelty of life by the caste system in which wealth had + incased them. Once a ripple of merry laughter floated to him across the + gulf that separated this girl from them. + </p> + <p> + A year ago her laughter had been light as theirs. Life had been a thing + beautiful, full of color. She had come to it eagerly, like a lover, glad + because it was so good. + </p> + <p> + But it had not been good to her. By the cluster lights he could see how + fearfully it had mauled her, how cruelly its irony had kissed hollows in + her young cheeks. All the bloom of her was gone, all the brave pride and + joy of youth—gone beyond hope of resurrection. Why must such things + be? Why so much to the few, so little to the many? And why should that + little be taken away? He saw as in a vision the infinite procession of her + hopeless sisters who had traveled the same road, saw them first as sweet + and carefree children bubbling with joy, and again, after the <i>World</i> + had misused them for its pleasure, haggard, tawdry, with dragging steps + trailing toward the oblivion that awaited them. Good God, how long must + life be so terribly wasted? How long a bruised and broken thing instead of + the fine, brave adventure for which it was meant? + </p> + <p> + Across his mind flashed Realf's words: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Amen!” I have cried in battle-time, + When my beautiful heroes perished; + The earth of the Lord shall bloom sublime + By the blood of his martyrs nourished. + “Amen!” I have said, when limbs were hewn + And our wounds were blue and ghastly + The flesh of a man may fail and swoon + But God shall conquer lastly. +</pre> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 4 + </h2> + <p> + As Jeff helped her from the cab in front of the block where he lived a + limousine flashed past. It caught his glance for an instant, long enough + for him to recognize his Cousin James, Mrs. Van Tyle and Alice Frome. The + arm which supported Nellie did not loosen from her waist, though he knew + they had seen him and would probably draw conclusions. + </p> + <p> + The young woman was trembling violently. + </p> + <p> + “My rooms are in the second story. Can you walk? Or shall I carry you?” + Farnum asked. + </p> + <p> + “I can walk,” she told him almost in a whisper. + </p> + <p> + He got her upstairs and into the big armchair in front of the gas log. Now + that she had slipped out of his rain coat he saw that she was wet to the + skin. From his bedroom he brought a bathrobe, pajamas, woolen slippers, + anything he could find that was warm and soft. In front of her he dumped + them all. + </p> + <p> + “I'm going down to the drug store to get you something that will warm you, + Nellie. While I'm away change your clothes and get into these things,” he + told her. + </p> + <p> + She looked up at him with tears in her eyes. “You're good.” + </p> + <p> + A lump rose in his heart. He thought of those evenings before the grate + alone with her and of the desperate fight he had had with his passions. + Good! He accused himself bitterly for the harm that he had done her. But + before her his smile was bright and cheerful. + </p> + <p> + “We're all going to be so good to you that you'll not know us. Haven't we + been waiting two months for a chance to spoil you?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you... know?” she whispered, color for an instant in her wan face. + </p> + <p> + “I know things aren't half so bad as they seem to you. Dear girl, we are + your friends. We've not done right by you. Even your mother has been + careless and let you get hurt. But we're going to make it up to you now.” + </p> + <p> + A man on the other side of the street watched Jeff come down and cross to + the drug store. Billie Gray, ballot box stuffer, detective, and general + handy man for Big Tim O'Brien, had been lurking in that entry when Jeff + came home. He had sneaked up the stairs after them and had seen the editor + disappear into his rooms with one whom he took to be a woman of the + street. Already a second plain clothes man was doing sentry duty. The + policeman whose beat it was sat in the drug store and kept an eye open + from that quarter. + </p> + <p> + To the officer Jeff nodded casually. “Bad weather to be out all night in, + Nolan.” + </p> + <p> + “Right you are, Mr. Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + The editor ordered a bottle of whiskey and while it was being put up + passed into the telephone booth and closed the door behind him. He called + up Olive 431. + </p> + <p> + Central rang again and again. + </p> + <p> + “Can't get your party,” she told him at last. + </p> + <p> + “You'll waken him presently. Keep at it, please. It's very important.” + </p> + <p> + At last Sam Miller's voice answered. “Hello! Hello! What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “I've found Nellie.... Just in time. thank God...She's at my rooms.... + Have Mrs. Anderson bring an entire change of clothing for her.... Yes, + she's very much exhausted. I'll tell you all about it later.... Come + quietly. She may be asleep when you get here.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff hung up the receiver, paid for the whiskey, and returned to his + rooms. He did not know that he had left three good and competent witnesses + who were ready to take oath that he had brought to his rooms at midnight a + woman of the half world and that he had later bought liquor and returned + with it to his apartment. + </p> + <p> + Billie Gray thumped his fist into his open palm. “We've got him. We've got + him right. He can't get away from it. By Gad, we've got him at last!” + </p> + <p> + Jeff found Nellie wrapped in his bathrobe in the big chair before the gas + log. Her own wet clothes were out of sight behind a screen. + </p> + <p> + “You locked the door when you went out,” she charged. + </p> + <p> + “Some of my friends might have dropped in to see me,” he explained with + his disarming smile. + </p> + <p> + But he could see in her eyes the unreasoning fear of a child that has been + badly hurt. He had locked the door on the outside. She was going to be + dragged home whether she wanted to go or not. Dread of that hour was heavy + on her soul. Jeff knew the choice must be hers, not his. He spoke quietly. + </p> + <p> + “You're not a prisoner, of course. You may go whenever you like. I would + have no right to keep you. But you will hurt me very much if you go before + morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Where will you stay?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “I'll sleep on the lounge in this room,” he answered in his most matter of + fact voice. + </p> + <p> + While he busied himself preparing a toddy for her she began to tell + brokenly, by snatches, the story of her wanderings. She had gone to + Portland and had found work in a department store at the notion counter. + After three weeks she had lost her place. Days of tramping the streets + looking for a job brought her at last to an overall factory where she + found employment. The foreman had discharged her at the end of the third + day. Once she had been engaged at an agency as a servant by a man, but as + soon as his wife saw her Nellie was told she would not do. Bitter + humiliating experiences had befallen her. Twice she had been turned out of + rooming houses. Jeff read between the lines that as her time drew near + some overmastering impulse had drawn her back to Verden. Already she was + harboring the thought of death, but she could not die in a strange place + so far from home. Only that morning she had reached town. + </p> + <p> + After she had retired to the bedroom Jeff sat down in the chair she had + vacated. He heard her moving about for a short time. Presently came + silence. + </p> + <p> + It must have been an hour and a half later that Sam and Mrs. Anderson + knocked gently on the door. + </p> + <p> + “Cars stopped running. Had to 'phone for a taxi,” Miller whispered. + </p> + <p> + The agitation of the mother was affecting. Her fingers twitched with + nervousness. Her eyes strayed twenty times in five minutes toward the door + behind which her daughter slept. Every little while she would tip-toe to + it and listen breathlessly. In whispers Jeff told them the story, + answering a hundred eager trembling questions. + </p> + <p> + Slowly the clock ticked out the seconds of the endless night. Gray day + began to sift into the room. Mrs. Anderson's excursions to the bedroom + door grew more frequent. Sometimes she opened it an inch or two. On one of + these occasions she went in quickly and shut the door behind her. + </p> + <p> + “Good enough. They don't need us here, Sam. We'll go out and have some + breakfast,” Jeff proposed. + </p> + <p> + On the street they met Billie Gray. He greeted the editor with a knowing + grin. “Good morning, Mr. Farnum. How's everything? Fine and dandy, eh?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff looked at him sharply. “What the mischief is he doing here?” he asked + Miller by way of comment. + </p> + <p> + All through breakfast that sinister little figure shadowed his thoughts. + Gray was like a stormy petrel. He was surely there for no good, barring + the chance of its being an accident. Both of them kept their eyes open on + their way back, but they met nobody except a policeman swinging his club + as he leaned against a lamp post and whistled the Merry Widow waltz. + </p> + <p> + But Farnum was not satisfied. He cautioned both Sam and Mrs. Anderson to + say nothing, above all to give no names or explanation to anybody. A + whisper of the truth would bring reporters down on them in shoals. + </p> + <p> + “You had better stay here quietly to-day,” their host advised. “I'll see + you're not disturbed by the help. Sam will bring your meals in from a + restaurant. I'd say stay here as long as you like, but it can't be done + without arousing curiosity, the one thing we don't want.” + </p> + <p> + “No, better leave late to-night in a taxi,” Sam proposed. + </p> + <p> + “Better still, I'll bring around Captain Chunn's car and Sam can drive you + home. We can't be too careful.” + </p> + <p> + So it was arranged. Mrs. Anderson left it to them and went back into the + bedroom where her wounded lamb lay. + </p> + <p> + About midnight Jeff stopped a car in front of the stairway. The two veiled + women emerged, accompanied by Sam. They were helped into the tonneau and + Miller took the driver's seat. Just as the machine began to move a little + man ran across the street toward them. + </p> + <p> + Jeff's forearm went up suddenly and caught him under the chin. Billie + Gray's head went back and his heels came up. Farnum was on him in an + instant, ostensibly to help him up, but really to see he did not get up + too quickly. As soon as the automobile swung round the corner Jeff lifted + him to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “Sorry. Hope I didn't hurt you,” he smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Smart trick, wasn't it?” snarled the detective. “Never mind, Mr. Farnum. + We've got your goat right.” + </p> + <p> + “Again?” Jeff asked with pleasant impudence. + </p> + <p> + “Got you dead to rights this trip.” Gray fired another shot as he turned + away. “And we'll find out yet who your lady friends are. Don't you forget + it.” + </p> + <p> + But Billie had overlooked a bet. He had been in the back of the drug store + getting a drink when Sam and Mrs. Anderson arrived. The policeman on guard + had not connected the coming of these with Jeff. None of the watchers knew + that Jeff had not been alone with the girl all night. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 5 + </h2> + <p> + Sam called on Jeff two days later. “I want you to come round to-night at + seven-fifteen. We're going to be married,” he explained. + </p> + <p> + The newspaper man's eye met his in a swift surprise. “You and Nellie?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” Miller's jaw set. “Why not? YOU'RE not going to spring that damned + cant about—” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you knew me better,” his friend interrupted. + </p> + <p> + Miller's face worked. “I'll ask your pardon for that, Jeff. You've been + the best friend she has. Well, we've thrashed it all out. She fought her + mother and me two days; didn't think it right to let me give my name to + her, even though she admits she has come to care for me. You can see how + she would be torn two ways. It's the only road out for her and the baby + that is on the way, but she couldn't bring herself to sacrifice me, as she + calls it. I've hammered and hammered at her that it's no sacrifice. She + can't see it; just cries and cries.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course she would be unusually sensitive; Her nerves must be all bare + so that she shrinks as one does when a wound is touched.” + </p> + <p> + “That's it. She keeps speaking of herself as if she were a lost soul. At + last we fairly wore her out. After we are married her mother and she will + take the eight o'clock for Kenton. Nobody there knows them, and she'll + have a chance to forget.” + </p> + <p> + “You're a white man, Sam,” Jeff nodded lightly. But his eyes were shining. + </p> + <p> + “I'm the man that loves her. I couldn't do less, could I?” + </p> + <p> + “Some men would do a good deal less.” + </p> + <p> + “Not if they looked at it the way I do. She's the same Nellie I've always + known. What difference does it make to me that she stumbled in the dark + and hurt herself—except that my heart is so much more tender to her + it aches?” + </p> + <p> + “If you hold to that belief she'll live to see the day when she is a happy + woman again,” the journalist prophesied. + </p> + <p> + “I'm going to teach her to think of it all as only a bad nightmare she's + been through.” His jaw clinched again so that the muscles stood out on his + cheeks. “Do you know she won't say a word—not even to her mother—about + who the villain is that betrayed her? I'd wring his coward neck off for + him,” he finished with a savage oath. + </p> + <p> + “Better the way it is, Sam. Let her keep her secret.. The least said and + thought about it the better.” + </p> + <p> + Miller looked at his watch. “Perhaps you're right. I've got to go to work. + Remember, seven-fifteen sharp. We need you as a witness. Just your + business suit, you understand. No present, of course.” + </p> + <p> + The wedding took place in the room where Jeff had been used to drinking + chocolate with his little friend only a year before. It was the first time + he had been here since that night when the danger signal had flashed so + suddenly before his eyes. The whole thing came back to him poignantly. + </p> + <p> + It was a pitiful little wedding, with the bride and her mother in tears + from the start. The ceremony was performed by their friend Mifflin, the + young clergyman who had a mission for sailors on the waterfront. Nobody + else was present except Marchant, the second witness. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the ceremony was finished Sam put Nellie and her mother into a + cab to take them to their train. The other three walked back down town. + </p> + <p> + As Jeff sat before his desk four hours later, busy with a tax levy story, + Miller came in and took a seat. Jeff waved a hand at him and promptly + forgot he was on earth until he rose and put on his coat an hour later. + </p> + <p> + “Well! Did they get off all right?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + Miller nodded absently. Ten minutes later he let out what he was thinking + about. + </p> + <p> + “I wish to God I knew the man,” he exploded. + </p> + <p> + Jeff looked at him quietly. “I'm glad you don't. Adding murder to it + wouldn't help the situation one little bit, my friend.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 14 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Only the man who is sheet-armored in a triple plate of + selfishness can be sure that weak hands won't clutch at him + and delay his march to success.—From the Note Book of a + Dreamer. +</pre> + <p> + THE HERO, CONFRONTED WITH AN UNPLEASANT POSSIBILITY, PROVES HIS GREATNESS + BY RISING SUPERIOR TO SENTIMENT + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + James came down to the office one morning in his car with a smile of + contentment on his handsome face. It had been decided that he was to be + made speaker of the House after the next election, assuming that he and + his party were returned to power. Jeff and the progressives were to stand + back of him, and he felt sure that after a nominal existence the + standpatters would accept him. He intended by scrupulous fair play to win + golden opinions for himself. From the speakership to the governor's chair + would not be a large step. After that—well, there were many + possibilities. + </p> + <p> + He did not for a moment admit to himself that there was anything of + duplicity in the course he was following. His intention was to line up + with the progressives during the campaign, to win his reelection on that + platform, and to support a rational liberal program during the session. He + would favor an initiative and referendum amendment not so radical as the + one Jeff offered, a bill that would not cripple business or alarm capital. + As he looked at it life was a compromise. The fusion of many minds to a + practical result always demanded this. And results were more important + than any number of theories. + </p> + <p> + As James passed into his office the stenographer stopped him with a + remark. + </p> + <p> + “A man has been in twice to see you this morning, Mr. Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he leave his name?” + </p> + <p> + “No. He said he would call again.” + </p> + <p> + James passed into his private office and closed the door. + </p> + <p> + A quarter of an hour later his stenographer knocked. “He's here again, Mr. + Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “Who?” + </p> + <p> + “The man I told you of.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” James put down the brief he was reading. “Show him in.” + </p> + <p> + A figure presently stood hesitating in the doorway. James saw an oldish + man, gray and stooped with a rather wistful lost-dog expression on his + face. + </p> + <p> + “What can I do for you, sir?” he questioned. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you know me?” the stranger asked with a quaver in his voice. + </p> + <p> + The lawyer did not, but some premonition of disaster clutched at his + heart. He rose swiftly and closed the door behind his caller. + </p> + <p> + A faint smile doubtful of its right touched the weak face of the little + old man. “So you don't know your own father—boy!” + </p> + <p> + A sudden sickness ran through the lawyer and sapped his strength. He + leaned against the desk uncertainly. It had come at last. The whole world + would learn the truth about him. The Merrills, the Fromes, Valencia Van + Tyle—all of them would know it and scorn him. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing here?” James heard himself say hoarsely. + </p> + <p> + “Why, I—I—I came to see my son.” + </p> + <p> + “What for?” + </p> + <p> + Before so harsh and abrupt a reception the weak smile went out like a + blown candle. + </p> + <p> + “I thought you'd be glad to see me—after so many years.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should I be glad to see you? What have you ever done for me but + disgrace me?” + </p> + <p> + Tears showed in the watery eyes. “That's right. It's gospel truth, I + reckon.” + </p> + <p> + “And now, when I've risen above it, so that all men respect me, you come + back to drag me down.” + </p> + <p> + “No—no, I wouldn't do that, son.” + </p> + <p> + “That's what you'll do. Do you think my friends will want to know a man + who is the son of a convict? I've got a future before me. Already I've + been mentioned for governor. What chance would I have when people know my + father is a thief?” + </p> + <p> + “Son,” winced the old man. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, well! I'm not picking my words,” James went on with angry impatience. + “I'm telling you the facts. I've got enemies. Every strong man has. + They'll smash me like an empty eggshell.” + </p> + <p> + “They don't need to know about me. I'll not do any talking.” + </p> + <p> + “That's all very well. Things leak out,” James grumbled a little more + graciously. “Well, you better sit down now you're here. I thought you were + living in Arkansas.” + </p> + <p> + “So I am. I've done right well there. And I thought I'd take a little run + out to see you. I didn't know but what you might need a little help.” He + glanced aimlessly around the well-furnished office. “But I expect you + don't, from the looks of things.” + </p> + <p> + “If you think I've got money you're wrong,” James explained. “I'm just + starting in my profession, and of course I owe a good deal here and there. + I've been hard pressed ever since I left college.” + </p> + <p> + His father brightened up timidly. “I owe you money. We can fix that up. + I've got a little mill down there and I've done well, though it was hard + sledding at first.” + </p> + <p> + James caught at a phrase. “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Owe me money! + </p> + <p> + “I knew it must be you paid off the shortage at the Planters' National. + When I sent the money it was returned. You'd got ahead of me. I was THAT + grateful to you, son.” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer found himself flushing. “Oh, Jeff paid that. He was earning + money at the time and I wasn't. Of course I intended to pay him back some + day.” + </p> + <p> + “Did Jeff do that? Then you and he must be friends. Tell me about him.” + </p> + <p> + “There's not much to tell. He's managing editor of a paper here that has a + lot of influence. Yes. Jeff has been a staunch friend to me always. He + recognizes that I'm a rising man and ought to be kept before the public.” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder if he's like his father.” + </p> + <p> + “Can't tell you that,” his son replied carelessly. “I don't remember Uncle + Phil much. Jeff's a queer fellow, full of Utopian notions about + brotherhood and that sort of thing. But he's practical in a way. He gets + things done in spite of his softheadedness.” + </p> + <p> + There was a knock at the door. “Mr. Jefferson Farnum, sir.” + </p> + <p> + James considered for a second. “Tell him to come in, Miss Brooks.” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer saw that the door was closed before he introduced Jeff to his + father. It gave him a momentary twinge of conscience to see his cousin + take the old man quickly by both hands. It was of course a mere detail, + but James had not yet shaken hands with his father. + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad to see you, Uncle Robert,” Jeff said. + </p> + <p> + His voice shook a little. There was in his manner that hint of affection + which made him so many friends, the warmth that suggested a woman's + sympathy, but not effeminacy. + </p> + <p> + The ready tears brimmed into his uncle's eyes. “You're like your father, + boy. I believe I would have known you by him,” he said impulsively. + </p> + <p> + “You couldn't please me better, sir. And what about James—would you + have known him?” + </p> + <p> + The old man looked humbly at his handsome, distinguished son. “No, I would + never have known him.” + </p> + <p> + “He's becoming one of our leading citizens, James is. You ought to hear + him make a speech. Demosthenes and Daniel Webster hide their heads when + the Honorable James K. Farnum spellbinds,” Jeff joked. + </p> + <p> + “I've read his speeches,” the father said unexpectedly. “For more than a + year I've taken the <i>World</i> so as to hear of him.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you know that James is headed straight for the Hall of Fame. Aren't + you, James?” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense! You've as much influence in the state as I have, or you would + have if you would drop your fight on wealth.” + </p> + <p> + “Bless you, I'm not making a fight on wealth,” Jeff answered with good + humor. “It's illicit wealth we're hammering at. But when you compare me to + James K. I'll have to remind you that I'm not a silver-tongued orator or + Verden's favorite son.” + </p> + <p> + The father's wistful smile grew bolder. Somehow Jeff's arrival had cleared + the atmosphere. A Scriptural phrase flashed into his mind as applicable to + this young man. Thinketh no evil. His nephew did not regard him with + suspicion or curiosity. To him he was not a sinner or an outcast, but a + brother. His manner had just the right touch of easy deference youth ought + to give age. + </p> + <p> + “Of course you're going to make us a long visit, Uncle Robert.” + </p> + <p> + The old man's propitiating gaze went to his son. “Not long, I reckon. I've + got to get back to my business.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense! We'll not let you go so easily. Eh, James?” + </p> + <p> + “No, of course not,” the lawyer mumbled. He was both annoyed and + embarrassed. + </p> + <p> + “I don't want to be selfish about it, but I do think you had better put up + with me, Uncle. James is at the University Club, and only members have + rooms there. We'll let him come and see you if he's good,” Jeff went on + breezily. + </p> + <p> + James breathed freer. “That might be the best way, if it wouldn't put you + out, Jeff.” + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't want to be any trouble,” the old man explained. + </p> + <p> + “And you won't be. I want you. James wants you, too, but he can't very + well arrange it. I can. So that's settled.” + </p> + <p> + In his rooms that evening Jeff very gently made clear to his uncle that + Verden believed him to be his son. + </p> + <p> + “If you don't mind, sir, we'll let it go that way in public. We don't want + to hurt the political chances of James just now. And there are other + things, too. He'll tell you about them himself probably.” + </p> + <p> + “That's all right. Just as you say. I don't want to disturb things.” + </p> + <p> + “I adopted you as a father about a year ago without your permission. It + won't do for you to give me away now,” the nephew laughed. + </p> + <p> + Robert Farnum nodded without speaking. A lump choked his throat. He had + found a son after all, but not the one he had come to meet. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + At the ensuing election the progressives swept the state in spite of all + that the allied corporations could do. James was returned to the + legislature with an increased majority and was elected speaker of the + House according to program. His speech of acceptance was the most eloquent + that had ever been heard in the assembly hall. The most radical of his + party felt that the committees appointed by him were in their personnel a + little too friendly to the vested interests of Verden, but the <i>World</i> + took the high ground that he could render his party no higher service than + absolute fair play, that the bills for the rights of the people ought to + pass on their merits and not by tricky politics. + </p> + <p> + Never before had there been seen at the State House a lobby like the one + that filled it now. The barrel was tapped so that the glint of gold flowed + through the corridors, into committee rooms, and to out of the way corners + where legislators fought for their honor against an attack that never + ceased. Sometimes the corruption was bold. More often it was insidious. To + see how one by one men hitherto honest surrendered to bribery was a sight + pathetic and tragic. + </p> + <p> + The Farnum cousins were the centers around whom the reformers rallied. + James directed their counsels in the House and Jeff pounded away in the <i>World</i> + with vital trenchant editorials and news stories. Every day that paper + carried to the farthest corner of the state bulletins of the battle. + Farmers and miners and laboring men watched its roll of honor to see if + the local representatives were standing firm. As the weeks passed the + fight grew more bitter. Now and again men fell by the wayside disgraced. + But the pressure from their constituents was so strong that Jeff believed + his bill would go through. + </p> + <p> + His friends forced it through the committee and pushed it to a vote. House + Bill 33, as the initiative and referendum amendment was called, passed the + lower legislative body with a small majority. The pool rooms offered five + to four that it would carry in the senate. + </p> + <p> + It was on the night of the twenty-first of December that the amendment + passed the House. On the morning of the twenty-third the <i>Herald</i> + sprang a front page sensation. It charged that the editor of the <i>World</i> + had ruined a girl named Nellie Anderson at a house where he had boarded + and that she had subsequently disappeared. It featured also a story of how + he had been seen to enter his rooms at midnight with a woman of the + street, who remained there until morning reveling with him. Attached to + this were the affidavits of two detectives, a police officer, and the + druggist who had furnished the liquor. + </p> + <p> + The story exploded like a bomb shell in the camp of the progressives. + Rawson tried at once without success to get Jeff on the telephone. He was + not at the office, nor had he reached his rooms at all after leaving the + <i>World</i> building on the previous night. None of his friends had seen + or heard of him. + </p> + <p> + The afternoon papers had a sensation of their own. Jefferson Farnum had + left Verden secretly without leaving an address. Evidently he had been + given a hint of the exposure that was to be made of his life and had + decamped rather than face the charges. + </p> + <p> + Rumor had a hundred tales to tell. The waverers at the State House chose + to believe that Jeff had sold them out and fled with his price. It was + impossible to deny the stories of his immorality, since it happened that + Sam Miller, the only man who knew the whole story, was far up in the + mountains arranging for a shipment of Rocky Mountain sheep to the state + museum. Farnum's friends could only affirm their faith in him or + surrender. Some gave way, some stood firm. The lobbyists and the + opposition went about with confident, “I-told-you-so” smiles writ large on + their faces. Within a few days it became apparent that the reform bill + would be defeated in the senate. Its fate had been so long tied up with + the people's belief in Jeff that with his collapse the general opinion + condemned it to defeat. Its friends hung back, unwilling to risk a vote as + yet. + </p> + <p> + The situation called for a leader and developed one. James Farnum stepped + into the breach and took command. In a ringing speech he called for a new + alignment. He would yield to none in the devotion he had given to House + Bill Number 33. But it needed no prophet to see that now this amendment + was doomed. Better half a loaf than no bread. He was a practical man and + wanted to see practical results. Rather than see the will of the people + frustrated he felt that House Bill I7 should be passed. While not an ideal + bill it was far better than none. The principle of direct legislation at + least would be established. + </p> + <p> + H. B. No. I7 was brought hurriedly out of committee. It had been + introduced as a substitute measure to defeat the real reform. According to + its provision legislation could be initiated by the people, but to make it + valid as a law the legislature had to approve any bill so passed. The + people could advise. They could not compel. + </p> + <p> + The speech of the speaker of the House precipitated a bitter fight. The + more eager friends of H. B. No. 33 accused him of treachery, but many felt + that it was the best possible practical politics under the circumstances. + For weeks the issue hung in doubt, but gradually James gathered adherents + among both progressives and conservatives. It became almost a foregone + conclusion that H. B. No. I7 would pass. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 15 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Old Capting Pink of the Peppermint, + Though kindly at heart and good, + Had a blunt, bluff way of a-gittin' 'is say + That we all of us understood. + + When he brained a man with a pingle spike + Or plastered a seaman flat, + We should 'a' been blowed but we all of us knowed + That he didn't mean nothin' by that. + + I was wonderful fond of old Capting Pink, + And Pink he was fond o' me, + As he frequently said when he battered me head + Or sousled me into the sea.” + —Wallace Irwin. +</pre> + <p> + BULLY GREEN PRESERVES DISCIPLINE AND THE REBEL LEARNS TO SAY “SIR” + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + On the night of the twenty-second of December Jeff left the <i>World</i> + building and moved down Powers Avenue to the all night restaurant he + usually frequented. The man who was both cook and waiter remembered + afterwards that Farnum called for coffee, sausage, and a waffle. + </p> + <p> + Before the editor left the waffle house it was the morning of the + twenty-third. He had never felt less sleepy. Nor did a book and a pipe + before his gas log seem quite what he wanted. The vagabond streak in him + was awake, the same potent wanderlust that as a boy had driven him to the + solitude of the forests and the hills. This morning it sent him questing + down Powers Avenue to that lower town where the derelicts of the city + floated without a rudder. + </p> + <p> + A cold damp mist had crept up from the water front and enwrapped the city + so that its lights showed like blurred moons. Some instinct took him + toward the wharves. He could hear the distant cough of a tug as it fussed + across the bay, and as he drew near the big Transcontinental wharves of + Joe Powers the black hulk of a Japanese liner rose black out of the gray + fog shadow. But the freighters, the coasters, tramps that went hither and + thither over the earth wherever fat cargoes lured them—they were + either swallowed in the mist or shadowed to a ghost-like wraith of + themselves so tenuous that all detail was lost in the haze. + </p> + <p> + Jeff leaned on a pile and let his imagination people the harbor with the + wandering children of the earth who had been drawn from all its seafaring + corners to this Mecca of trade. He knew that here were swarthy little + Japanese with teas and silks, dusky Kanakas with copra, and Alaskan liners + carrying gold and returning miners. There would be brigs from Buenos Ayres + and schooners that had nosed into Robert Louis Stevenson's magic South Sea + islands. Puffy London steamers, Nome and Skagway liners condemned long + since on the Atlantic Coast, queer rigged hybrids from Rio and other South + American ports, were gorging themselves with lumber or wheat or provisions + according to their needs. Here truly lay before him the romance of the + nations. + </p> + <p> + The sound of a stealthy footfall warned him of impending danger. He + whirled, and faced three men who were advancing on him. A vague suspicion + that had oppressed him more than once in the past week leaped to definite + conviction in his brain. He was the victim of a plot to waylay—perhaps + to murder him. One of these men was a huge Swede, another a swarthy + Italian with rings in his ears. He had seen them before, lurking in the + shadows of an alley outside the <i>World</i> building. Last night he had + come out from the office with Jenkins, which no doubt had saved him for + the time. This morning he had played into the hands of these men, had + obligingly wandered down to the waterfront where they could so easily + conceal murder in a tide running out fast. + </p> + <p> + Strangely enough he felt no fear; rather a fierce exultant drumming of the + blood that braced him for the struggle. His eyes swept the wharf for a + weapon and found none. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want?” he demanded sharply. + </p> + <p> + The man in command ignored his question. “Stand by and down him.” + </p> + <p> + The Italian crouched and leaped. Jeff's fist caught him fairly between the + eyes. He went down like a log, rolled over once and lay still. The others + closed instantly with Farnum and the three swayed in a fierce silent + struggle. + </p> + <p> + Both of his attackers were more powerful than Jeff, but he was far more + active. The darkness, too, aided him and hampered them. The Swede he could + have managed, for the fellow was awkward as a bear. But the leader stuck + to him like a burr. They went down together over a cleat in the flooring, + rolling over and over each other as they fought. + </p> + <p> + Somehow Jeff emerged out of the tangle. He dragged himself to his knees + and hammered with his fist at an upturned face beside him. Battered, + bleeding, and winded, he got to his feet and shook off the hands that + reached for him. Dodging past, he lurched along the wharf like a drunken + man. The Italian had gathered himself to his knees. When Jeff came + opposite him he dived like a football tackle and threw his arms around the + moving legs. The newspaper man crashed heavily down to unconsciousness. + </p> + <p> + When Farnum opened his eyes upon a world strangely hazy he found himself + lying in a row boat, his head bolstered by a man's knees. + </p> + <p> + “Drink this, mate,” ordered a voice that seemed very far away. + </p> + <p> + The neck of a bottle was thrust between his lips and tilted so that he + could not escape drinking. + </p> + <p> + “That dope'll hold him for a while, Say, Johnny Dago, put your back into + them oars,” he heard indistinctly. + </p> + <p> + Faintly there came to him the slap of the waves against the side of the + boat. These presently died rhythmically away. + </p> + <p> + It was daylight when he awakened again. His throbbing head slowly + definitized the vile hole in which he lay as the forecastle of a ship. + Gradually the facts sifted back to him. He recalled the fight on the wharf + and the drink in the boat. In this last he suspected knockout drops. That + he had been shanghaied was beyond suspicion. + </p> + <p> + Laboriously he sat up on the side of his bunk and in doing so became aware + of a sailor asleep in the crib opposite. His stertorous breathing stirred + a doubt in Jeff's mind. Perhaps the crimps had taken him too. + </p> + <p> + The ship was rolling a good deal, but by a succession of tacks Jeff + staggered to the scuttle and climbed the hatchway to the deck. A wintry + sun was shining, and for a few moments he stood blinking in the light. + </p> + <p> + She was a three-masted schooner and was plunging forward into the choppy + seas outside the jaws of the harbor. He whiffed the salt tang of the air + and tasted the flying spray. An ebb tide was lifting the vessel forward on + a freshening wind, and trim as a greyhound she slipped through the + cat's-paws. + </p> + <p> + A thickset, powerful figure paced to and fro on the quarter-deck, + occasionally bellowing an order in a tremendous voice like the roar of a + bull. He was getting canvas set for the fresh breeze of the open seas that + was catching him astern, and the sailors were jumping to obey his orders. + The pounding sails and the singing cordage, the rattling blocks and the + whipping ropes, would have told Jeff they were scudding along fast, even + if the heeling of the schooner and its swift forward leaps had not made it + plain. + </p> + <p> + “By God, Jones, she's walking,” he heard the captain boom across to the + mate. + </p> + <p> + Just then a figure cut past him and made straight for the captain. Farnum + recognized in it the sailor whom he had left asleep in the forecastle and + even in that fleeting glance was aware of the man's livid fury. Up the + steps he went like a wild beast. + </p> + <p> + “What kind of a boat is this?” he panted hoarsely. + </p> + <p> + The captain turned toward him. His eyes were shining wickedly, but his + voice was ominously suave and honeyed. “This boat, son, is a threemasted + schooner, name of <i>Nancy Hanks</i>, Master Joshua Green, bound for the + Solomon Islands with a cargo of Oregon fir.” + </p> + <p> + “I've been shanghaied. This is a nest of crimps,” the man screamed. + </p> + <p> + Joshua Green's salient jaw came forward. “Been shanghaied, have you? And + we're a nest of crimps, are we? Son, the less I hear of that line of talk + the better. Put that in your pipe and smoke it.” + </p> + <p> + The man turned loose a flood of profanity and swore he would rot in hell + before he would touch a rope on that ship. + </p> + <p> + Out went Green's great gnarled fist. The seaman shot back from the + quarterdeck and struck a pile of rope below. He was up again and down + again almost quicker than it takes to tell. Three times he hit the planks + before he lay still. + </p> + <p> + The captain stood over him, his eyes blazing. He looked the savage, + barbaric slavedriver he was. + </p> + <p> + “Me, I'm Bully Green, and don't you forget it. Been shanghaied, have you? + Not going to touch a rope? Then, by thunder, you white-livered + beachcomber, a rope will touch you till you're flayed. Get this in your + coconut. You'll walk chalk, you lazy son of a sea cook, or I'll haze you + till you wish you'd never been born.” He punctuated his remarks with + vigorous kicks. “Bully Green runs this tub, strike me dead if he don't. + Now you hump for'ard and clap a hand to them sheets. Walk, you shanghaied + Dutchman!” + </p> + <p> + The sailor crawled away, completely cowed. For one day he had had more + than enough. The captain watched him for a moment, his great jaw thrust + grimly out. Then, as on a pivot, he whirled toward Jeff. + </p> + <p> + “Come here, you! Step lively, Sport!” + </p> + <p> + Farnum wondered whether he was about to undergo an experience similar to + that of the sailor. “Do you want to know what kind of a ship this is?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. I'm perfectly satisfied about that,” smiled his victim. + </p> + <p> + “Got no opinions you want to hand out free, son?” + </p> + <p> + “Think I'll keep them bottled.” + </p> + <p> + “Say 'sir,' Sport!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” answered Farnum, his quiet eyes steady and unafraid. + </p> + <p> + “When I give an order you expect to jump?” + </p> + <p> + “Jump isn't the word.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” thundered Green, and “Sir” the newspaper man corrected himself. + </p> + <p> + “Got no story to spiel about being shanghaied, son?” + </p> + <p> + “Would it do any good, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Not unless you're aching to get what that son of a Dutchman got. See + here, sport! You walk the chalk line, and Bully Green and you'll get along + fine. I'm a lamb, I am, when I'm not riled. But get gay—and you'll + have a hectic time. I'll rough you till you're shark-food. Get that + through your teeth?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Now you trot down to the fo'c'sle and dive into them slops you find + there. You got just three minutes to do the dress-suit act.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff, as he passed below, could hear the great bull voice roaring orders + to the men. “Set y'r topsails! Jam 'er down hard, Johnnie Dago! Stand by, + you lubbers!... Now then, easy does it... easy!” + </p> + <p> + Within the allotted three minutes Farnum had climbed into the foul oilskin + coat and tarry breeches he found below and was ready for orders. + </p> + <p> + “Clap on to that windlass, sport! No loafing here.... Hump y'rself. D'ye + hear me? Hump?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff threw his one hundred and fifty pounds of bone and muscle against the + crank of the windlass. Some men would have fought first as long as they + could stand and see. Others would have begged, argued, or threatened. But + Jeff had schooled himself to master impulses of rage. He knew when to + fight and when to yield. Nor did he give way sullenly or passionately. It + was an outrage—highhanded tyranny—but at the worst it was a + magnificent adventure. As he flung his weight into the crank he smiled. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + Before the trade winds the <i>Nancy Hanks</i> foamed along day after day, + all sails set, making excellent time. But for his anxiety as to the effect + his disappearance would have upon the political situation, Jeff would have + enjoyed immensely the wild rough life aboard the schooner. But he could + not conceal from himself the interpretation of his absence the machine + agents would scatter broadcast. He foresaw a reaction against his bill and + its probable defeat. + </p> + <p> + The issue was on the knees of chance. The fact that could not be + obliterated was that he had been wiped from the slate until after the + legislature would adjourn. For every hour was carrying him farther from + the scene of action. + </p> + <p> + His only hope was that the <i>Nancy Hanks</i> might put in at the Hawaiian + Islands, from which place he might get a chance to write, or, better + still, to cable the reason of his absence. Captain Green himself wiped out + this expectation. He jocosely intimated to Farnum one afternoon that he + had no intention of calling the Islands. + </p> + <p> + “When we get through this six months' cruise you'll be a first-rate + sailorman, son, and you'll get a sailorman's wages,” he added genially. + </p> + <p> + The shanghaied man met his eye squarely. “I think I could arrange to draw + on Verden for a thousand dollars if you would drop me at the Islands.” + </p> + <p> + “Not for twenty thousand. You're going to stay with us till we get to the + Solomon Islands, and don't you forget it.” + </p> + <p> + Bully Green had taken rather a fancy to this amiable young man who had + taken so sensible a view of the little misadventure that had befallen him, + but of course business was business. He had been paid to keep him out of + the way and he intended to fulfil the contract. + </p> + <p> + “Here I'm educatin' you, makin' an able-bodied seaman out of you, son. You + had ought to be grateful,” he grinned. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I am,” Jeff agreed with a twinkle. + </p> + <p> + But Captain Green had reckoned without the weather. The <i>Nancy Hanks</i> + drifted into three days of calm and sultry heat. At the end of the third + day she began to rock gently beneath a murky sky. + </p> + <p> + “Dirty weather,” predicted the mate, the same who had assisted at the + shanghaing. “When you see a satin sea turn indigo and that peculiar shade + in the sky you want to look out for squalls,” he explained to Jeff. + </p> + <p> + It came on them in a rush. The sun went out of a black sky like a blown + candle and the sea began to whip itself to a froth. The wind quickened, + boomed to a roar, and sent the schooner heeling to a squall across the + leaden waters. The open sea closed in on them. Before they could get in + sail and make secure the sheets ripped with a scream, braces parted and + the topmasts snapped off. The <i>Nancy</i> went pitching forward into the + yawning deeps with drunken plunges from which it seemed she would never + emerge. Great combing seas toppled down and pounded the decks, while the + sailors clung to stays or whatever would give them a hold. + </p> + <p> + The squall lasted scarce an hour, but it left the schooner dismantled. Her + sheets were in ribbons, her topmasts and bowsprit gone. There was nothing + for it but a crippled beat toward the Islands. + </p> + <p> + Four days later she made an offing in the harbor at Honolulu just as a + liner was nosing her way out. + </p> + <p> + Bully Green ranged up beside Farnum and cast a speculative eye on him. + </p> + <p> + “Sport, I had ought to iron you and keep you in the fo'c'sle until we + leave here. It's the only square thing to do.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff's gaze was on the advancing steamer. She was scarce two hundred yards + away now and he could plainly read the name painted on her side. She was + the <i>Bellingham</i> of Verden. + </p> + <p> + “I don't see the necessity, sir,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “I reckon you do, son. Samuel Green stands by his word to a finish. Now + I've promised to keep you safe, and you can bet your last dollar I'm + a-going to do it.” + </p> + <p> + His prisoner turned from the rail against which he was leaning to the + captain. Pinpoints of light were gleaming in the big eyes. + </p> + <p> + “How much safer do you want me than this?” + </p> + <p> + Green expectorated at a chip in the water and shifted his quid. “You've + got brains, son. No telling what you might try to do. But see here. You're + no drunken beachcomber. I know a gentleman when I see one. Gimme your word + you'll not try to skip out or send a message back to the States and I'll + go easy on you. I'm so dashed kindhearted, I am, that—” + </p> + <p> + Jeff leaped to the rail, stood poised an instant, and dived into the blue + Pacific. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll be,” Bully Green interrupted himself to roar an order to lower + a boat. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 16 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A young man left his father's house to see the world. + Everywhere he found busy human beings. Cities were rising + toward the skies, seas and plains were being lined with + traffic, school, mill and office hummed with life. He + wondered why men were so busy and what they were trying to + do. + + He went to a railroad director and asked: “Why are you + building railroads?” “For profits,” was the answer. But a + laborer beckoned him aside and whispered: “No—we are making + the <i>World</i> one neighborhood. East is now next door to West, + and all peoples dwell in one continuing city.” + + The young man went to the boss of a labor union. “Why,” he + asked, “do you spend your days breeding discontent and + leading strikes?” “Why?” repeated the leader fiercely, “that + the workers receive more pay for shorter hours.” “No,” + whispered a laborer, “we are teaching the <i>World</i> the sacred + value of human beings. We are learning how to be brotherly— + how to stand up for each other.—James Oppenheim. +</pre> + <p> + UNDER STRANGE CIRCUMSTANCES THE REBEL MAKES HIS BOW TO POLITE SOCIETY. + TAKING AN APPLE AS A TEXT, HE PREACHES ON THE RISE OF ADAM + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <h3> + “Man overboard!” + </h3> + <p> + Somebody on the liner sang it out. Instantly there was a rush of + passengers to the side. From the schooner a boat was being lowered and + manned. + </p> + <p> + “I see him. He's swimming this way. I believe he's trying to escape,” one + slender young woman cried. + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, Alice! He fell overboard and he's probably so frightened he + doesn't know which way he is swimming.” This suggestion was from the + beautiful blonde with bronze hair who stood beside her under a tan parasol + held by a fresh-faced globetrotter. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you believe it, Val. Look how he's cutting through the water. He's + trying to reach us. Oh, I hope they won't get him. Somebody get a rope to + throw out.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove, you're right, Miss Alice,” cried the Englishman. “It's a race, + and it's going to be a near thing.” He disappeared and was presently back + with a rope. + </p> + <p> + “Come on! Come on!” screamed the passengers to the swimmer. + </p> + <p> + “He's ripping strong with that overhead stroke. Ye gods, it's close!” + exclaimed the Britisher. + </p> + <p> + It was. The swimmer reached the side of the ship not four yards in front + of the pursuing boat. He caught at the trailing rope and began to clamber + up hand over hand, while the Englishman, a man standing near, and Alice + Frome dragged him up. + </p> + <p> + The mate of the Nancy Hanks, standing up in the boat, caught at his foot + and pulled. The man's hold loosened on the rope. He slid down a foot, + steadied himself. Suddenly the left leg shot out and caught the grinning + mate in the mouth. He went over backward into the bottom of the boat. + Before he could extricate himself from the tangle his fall had + precipitated, the dripping figure of the swimmer stood safely on the deck + of the <i>Bellingham.</i> + </p> + <p> + In his wet foul slops the man was a sight to draw stares. The cabin + passengers moved back to give him a wide circle, as men do with a wet + retriever. + </p> + <p> + “What does this mean, my man?” demanded the captain of the <i>Bellingham,</i> + pushing forward. He was a big red-faced figure with a heavy roll of fat + over his collar. + </p> + <p> + “I have been shanghaied, sir. From Verden. I'm the editor of the <i>World</i> + of that city.” + </p> + <p> + “That's a lie,” proclaimed the mate of the <i>Nancy Hanks</i>, who by this + time had reached the deck. “He's a nutty deckswabber we picked up at + 'Frisco.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, it's Mr. Farnum,” cried a fresh young voice from the circle. + </p> + <p> + The rescued man turned. His eyes joined those of a slim golden girl and he + was struck dumb. + </p> + <p> + “You know this man, Miss Frome?” the captain asked. + </p> + <p> + “I know him by sight.” She stepped to the front. “There can't be any doubt + about it. He's Mr. Farnum of Verden, the editor of the <i>World.</i>” + </p> + <p> + “You're quite sure?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite sure, Captain Barclay. My cousin knows him, too.” + </p> + <p> + The captain turned to Mrs. Van Tyle. She nodded languidly. + </p> + <p> + Barclay swung back to the mate of the <i>Nancy Hanks</i>. “I know your + kind, my man, and I can tell you that I think the penitentiary would be + the proper place for you and your captain, with my compliments to him.” + </p> + <p> + “Better come and pay 'em yourself, sir,” sneered the mate. + </p> + <p> + “Get off my deck, you dirty crimp,” roared the captain. “Slide now, or + I'll have you thrown off.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jones made a hurried departure. Once in the boat, he shook his fist at + Barclay and cursed him fluently. + </p> + <p> + The captain turned away promptly. “Mr. Farwell, if you'll step this way + the steward will outfit you with some clothes. If they don't fit they'll + do better than those togs you're wearing.” + </p> + <p> + The English youth came forward with a suggestion. “Really, I think I can + do better than that for Mr. Far—” He hesitated for the name. + </p> + <p> + “Farnum,” supplied the owner of it. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! You're about my size, Mr. Farnum. If you don't mind, you know, you're + quite welcome to anything I have.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you very much.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well. Mr. Farwell—Farnum, I mean—shake hands with + Lieutenant Beauchamp,” and with the sense of duty done the worthy captain + dismissed the new arrival from his mind. + </p> + <p> + Jeff bowed to Miss Frome and followed his broad-shouldered guide to a + cabin. He was conscious of an odd elation that had not entirely to do with + a brave adventure happily ended. The impelling cause of it was rather the + hope of a braver adventure happily begun. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + “By Jove, I envy you, Mr. Farnum. Didn't know people bucked into + adventures like that these tame days. Think of actually being shanghaied. + It's like a novel. My word, the ladies will make a lion of you!” + </p> + <p> + The Englishman was dragging a steamer trunk from under his bed. It needed + no second glance at his frank boyish face to divine him a friend worth + having. Fresh-colored and blue-eyed, he looked very much the country + gentleman Jeff had read about but never seen. It was perhaps by the gift + of race that he carried himself with distinction, though the flat straight + back and the good shoulders of the cricketer contributed somewhat, too. + Jeff sized him up as a resolute, clean-cut fellow, happily endowed with + many gifts of fortune to make him the likable chap he was. + </p> + <p> + Beauchamp threw out some clothes from a steamer trunk and left the rescued + man alone to dress. Ten minutes later he returned. + </p> + <p> + “Expect you'd like an interview with the barber. I'll take you round. By + the way, you'll let me be your banker till you reach Verden?” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you. Since I must.” + </p> + <p> + From the barber shop the Englishman took him to the dining saloon. + “Awfully sorry you can't sit at our table, Mr. Farnum. It's full up. + You're to be at the purser's.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff let a smile escape into his eyes. “Suits me. I've been at the bos'n's + for several weeks.” + </p> + <p> + “Beastly outrage. We'll want to hear all about it. Miss Frome's + tremendously excited. Odd you and she hadn't met before. Didn't know + Verden was such a big town.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not a society man,” explained Jeff. “And it happens I've been + fighting her father politically for years. Miss Frome and Mrs. Van Tyle + are about the last people I would be likely to meet.” + </p> + <p> + From his seat Jeff could see the cousins at the other end of the room. + They were seated near the head of the captain's table, and that officer + was paying particular attention to them, perhaps because the <i>Bellingham</i> + happened to be one of a line of boats owned by Joe Powers, perhaps because + both of them were very attractive young women. They were types entirely + outside Farnum's very limited experience. The indolence, the sheathed + perfection, the soft sensuous allure of the young widow seemed to Jeff a + product largely of her father's wealth. But the charm of her cousin, with + its sweet and mocking smile, its note of youthful austerity, was born of + the fine and gallant spirit in her. + </p> + <p> + Beauchamp sat beside Miss Frome and the editor observed that they were + having a delightful time. He wondered what they could be talking about. + What did a man say to bring such a glow and sparkle of life into a girl's + face? It came to him with a wistful regret for his stolen youth that never + yet had he sat beside a young woman at dinner and entertained her in the + gay adequate manner of Lieutenant Beauchamp. James could do it, had done + it a hundred times. But he had been sold too long to an urgent world of + battle ever to know such delights. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 3 + </h2> + <p> + After dinner Jeff lost no time in waiting upon Miss Frome to thank her for + her assistance. It was already dark. When he found her it was not in one + of the saloons, but on deck. She was leaning against the deck railing in + animated talk with Beauchamp, the while Mrs. Van Tyle listened lazily from + a deck chair. + </p> + <p> + “I like the way that red head of his came bobbing through the water,” + Beauchamp was saying. “Looks to me as if he would take a lot of beating. + He's no quitter. Since I haven't the pleasure of knowing Mr. Powers or + Senator Frome, I think I'll back Farnum to win.” + </p> + <p> + “It's very plain you don't know Joe Powers. He always wins,” contributed + his daughter blandly. + </p> + <p> + “But Mr. Farnum is a remarkable man just the same,” Alice added. Then, + with a little cry to cover her flushed embarrassment: “Here he is. We do + hope you're a little deaf, Mr. Farnum. We've been talking about you.” + </p> + <p> + “You may say anything you like about me, Miss Frome, except that I'm not + grateful for the lift aboard you gave me this afternoon,” Jeff answered. + </p> + <p> + He found himself presently giving the story of his adventure. He did not + look at Alice, but he told the tale to her alone and was aware of the + eagerness with which she listened. + </p> + <p> + “But why should they want to kidnap you? I don't see any reason for it,” + Alice protested. + </p> + <p> + A shadowy smile lay in the eyes of Mrs. Van Tyle. “Mr. Farnum is in + politics, my dear.” + </p> + <p> + A fat pork packer from Chicago joined the group. “I've been thinking about + the sharks, Mr. Farnum. You played in great luck to escape them.” + </p> + <p> + “Sharks!” Jeff heard the young woman beside him give a gasp. In the + moonlight her face showed white. + </p> + <p> + “These waters are fairly infested with them,” the Chicagoan explained. “We + saw two this morning in the harbor. It was when the stewards threw out the + scraps. They turned over on their—” + </p> + <p> + “Don't!” cried Alice Frome sharply. + </p> + <p> + The petrified horror on the vivid mobile face remained long as a sweet + memory to Jeff. It had been for him that she had known the swift heart + clutch of terror. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 4 + </h2> + <p> + Farnum, pacing the deck as he munched at an apple, heard himself hailed + from the bridge above. He looked up, to see Alice Frome, caught gloriously + in the wind like a winged Victory. Her hair was parted in the middle with + a touch of Greek simplicity and fell in wavy ripples over her temples + beneath the jaunty cap. She put her arms on the railing and leaned + forward, her chin tilted to an oddly taking boyish piquancy. + </p> + <p> + “I say, give a fellow a bite.” + </p> + <p> + By no catalogue of summarized details could this young woman have laid + claim to beauty, but in the flashing play of her expression, the exquisite + golden coloring, one could not evade the charm of a certain warm witchery, + of the passionate beat of innocent life. The wonder of her lay in the + sparkle of her inner self. Every gleam of the deep true eyes, every + impulsive motion of the slight supple body, expressed some phase of her + infinite variety. Her flying moods swept her from demure to daring, from + warm to cool. And for all her sweet derision her friends knew a heart full + of pure, brave enthusiasms that would endure. + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe in indiscriminate charity,” Jeff explained, and he took + another bite. + </p> + <p> + “Have you no sympathy for the deserving poor?” she pleaded. “Besides, + since you're a socialist, it isn't your apple any more than it is mine. + Bring my half up to me, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Your half is the half I've already eaten. And if you knew as much as you + pretend to about socialism you'd know it isn't yours until you've earned + it.” + </p> + <p> + Her eyes danced. He noticed that beneath each of them was a sprinkle of + tiny powdered freckles. “But haven't I earned it? Didn't I blister my + hands pulling you aboard?” + </p> + <p> + He promptly shifted ground. “We're living under the capitalistic system. + You earn it and I eat it,” he argued. “The rest of this apple is my reward + for having appropriated what didn't belong to me.” + </p> + <p> + “But that's not fair. It's no better than stealing.” + </p> + <p> + “Sh—h! It's high finance. Don't use that other word,” he whispered. + “And what's fair hasn't a thing to do with it. It's my apple because I've + got it.” + </p> + <p> + “But—” + </p> + <p> + He waved her protest aside blandly. “Now try to be content with the lot a + wise Providence has awarded you. I eat the apple. You see me eat it. + That's the usual division of profits. Don't be an agitator, or an + anarchist.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't I get even the core?” she begged. + </p> + <p> + “I'd like to give it to you, but it wouldn't be best. You see I don't want + to make you discontented with your position in life.” He flung what was + left of the apple into the sea and came up the steps to join her. + </p> + <p> + Laughter was in the eyes of both, but it died out of hers first. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Farnum, is it really as bad as that?” Before he could find an answer + she spoke again. “I've wanted for a long time to talk with some one who + didn't look at things as we do. I mean as my father does and my uncle does + and most of my friends. Tell me what you think of it—you and your + friends.” + </p> + <p> + “That's a large order, Miss Frome. I hardly know where to begin.” + </p> + <p> + “Wait! Here comes Lieutenant Beauchamp to take me away. I promised to play + ring toss with him, but I don't want to go now.” She led a swift retreat + to a spot on the upper deck shielded from the wind and warmed by the two + huge smokestacks. Dropping breathless into a chair, she invited him with a + gesture to take another. Little imps of mischief flashed out at him from + her eyes. In the adventure of the escape she had made him partner. A rush + of warm blood danced through his veins. + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir, we're safe. Begin the propaganda. Isn't that the word you use? + Tell me all about everything. You're the first real live socialist I ever + caught, and I mean to make the most of you.” + </p> + <p> + “But I'm unfortunately not exactly a socialist.” + </p> + <p> + “An anarchist will do just as well.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor an anarchist. Sorry.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, well, you're something that's dreadful. You haven't the proper bump + of respect for father and for Uncle Joe. Now why haven't you?” + </p> + <p> + And before he knew it this young woman had drawn from him glimpses of what + life meant to him. He talked to her of the pressure of the struggle for + existence, of the poverty that lies like a blight over whole sections of + cities, spreading disease and cruelty and disorder, crushing the souls of + its victims, poisoning their hearts and bodies. He showed her a world at + odds and ends, in which it was accepted as the natural thing that some + should starve while others were waited upon by servants. + </p> + <p> + He made her see how the tendency of environment is to reduce all things to + a question of selfinterest, and how the great triumphant fact of life is + that love and kindness persist. Her interest was insatiable. She poured + questions upon him, made him tell her stories of the things he had seen in + that strange underworld that was farther from her than Asia. So she + learned of Oscar Marchant, coughing all day over the shoes he half-soled + and going out at night to give his waning life to the service of those who + needed him. He told her—without giving names—the story of Sam + Miller and his wife, of shop girls forced by grinding poverty to that + easier way which leads to death, of little children driven by want into + factories which crushed the youth out of them. + </p> + <p> + Her eyes with the star flash in them never left his face. She was + absorbed, filled with a strange emotion that made her lashes moist. She + saw not only the tragedy and waste of life, but a glorious glimpse of the + way out. This man and his friends set the common good above their private + gain. For them a new heart was being born into the world. They were no + longer consumed with blind greed, with love of their petty selves. They + were no longer full of cowardice and distrust and enmity. Life was a thing + beautiful to them. It was flushed with the color of hope, of fine + enthusiasms. They might suffer. They might be defeated. But nothing could + extinguish the joy in their souls. They walked like gods, immortals, these + brothers to the spent and the maimed. For they had found spiritual values + in it that made any material profit of small importance. Alice got a + vision of the great truth that is back of all true reforms, all + improvement, all progress. + </p> + <p> + “Love,” she said almost in a whisper, “is forgetting self.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff lost his stride and pulled up. He thought he could not have heard + aright. “I beg your pardon?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing. I was just thinking out loud. Go on please.” + </p> + <p> + But she had broken the thread of his talk. He attempted to take it up + again, but he was still trying for a lead when Alice saw Mrs. Van Tyle and + Beauchamp coming toward them. + </p> + <p> + She rose. Her eyes were the brightest Jeff had ever seen. They were filled + with an ardent tenderness. It was as if she were wrapped in a spiritual + exaltation. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you. Thank you. I can't tell you what you've done for me.” + </p> + <p> + She turned and walked quickly away. To be dragged back to the commonplace + at once was more than she could bear. First she must get alone with + herself, must take stock of this new emotion that ran like wine through + her blood. A pulse throbbed in her throat, for she was in a passionate + glow of altruism. + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad of life—glad of it—glad of it!” she murmured through + the veil she had lowered to screen her face from observation. + </p> + <p> + It had come to her as a revelation straight from Heaven that there can be + no salvation without service. And the motive back of service must be love. + Love! That was what Jesus had come to teach the world, and all these years + it had warped and mystified his message. + </p> + <p> + She felt that life could never again be gray or colorless. For there was + work waiting that she could do, service that she could give. And surely + there could be no greater happiness than to find her work and do it + gladly. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 17 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + All sorts of absurd assumptions pass current as fixed and + non-debatable standards. We might be free, and we tie + ourselves to the slavery of rutted convention. Afraid of + ideas, we come to no definite philosophy of life that is the + result of clear and pellucid thinking. + + We must get rid of our bonds, but only in order to take on + new ones. For our convictions will shackle us. The + difference is that then we shall be servants of Truth and + not of dead Tradition.—From the Note Book of a Dreamer. +</pre> + <p> + THE CHAPERONE EXPLAINS THAT THE REBEL IS IMPOSSIBLE AND THE CHAPERONED + BEGS LEAVE TO DIFFER + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <h3> + “And why mustn't I?” Alice demanded vigorously. + </h3> + <p> + Her cousin regarded her with indolent amusement. “My dear, you are + positively the most energetic person I know. It is refreshing to see with + what interest you enter into a discussion.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Frome, very erect and ready for argument, watched her steadily from + the piano stool of their joint sitting room. “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't say you mustn't, my dear. I know better than to deal in + imperatives with Miss Alice. What I did was mildly to suggest that you are + going rather far. It's all very well to be civil, but—” Mrs. Van + Tyle shrugged her shoulders and let it go at that. She was leaning back in + an easychair and across its arm her wrist hung. Between the fingers, + polished like old ivory to the tapering pink nails, was a lighted + cigarette. + </p> + <p> + “Why shouldn't I be—pleasant to him? I like him.” Her color + deepened, but the eyes of the girl did not give way. There was in them a + little flare of defiance. + </p> + <p> + “Be pleasant to him if you like, and if it amuses you. But—” Again + Valencia stopped, but after a puff or two at her cigarette she added + presently: “Don't get too interested in him.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not likely to,” Alice returned with a touch of scorn. “Can't I like a + man and admire him without wanting to marry him? I think that's a hateful + way to look at it.” + </p> + <p> + “It's your interpretation, not mine,” Mrs. Van Tyle answered with perfect + good humor. “Of course you couldn't want to marry him under any + circumstances. His station in life—his anarchistic ideas—his + reputation as a confirmed libertine—all of them make the thought of + such a thing impossible.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Frome's mind seized on only one of the charges. “I don't believe it. + I don't believe a word of it. Anybody can throw mud—and some of it + is bound to stick. He's a good man. You can see that in his face.” + </p> + <p> + “You can perhaps. I can't.” Valencia studied her beneath a droop of + eyelids behind which she was very alert. “Those things aren't said about a + man unless they are true. Moreover, it happens we don't have to depend on + hearsay.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you remember that night we saw the Russian dancers?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “On the way home our car passed him. He was helping a woman out of a cab + in front of the building where he rooms. She was intoxicated, and—his + arm was round her waist.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe it. It was somebody else,” the young woman flamed. + </p> + <p> + “His cousin recognized him. So did I.” + </p> + <p> + “There must be some explanation. I'll ask him.” + </p> + <p> + “Ask him!” Valencia's level eyebrows lifted “Really, I don't think that + will do. Better quietly eliminate him.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean treat him as if he were guilty when, I am sure he is not.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Van Tyle's little laugh rippled out. “You're quite dramatic about it, + my dear. The man's of no importance. He's a <i>poseur</i>, a demagogue, + and one with a vicious streak in him. I understand, of course, that you're + interested only because he different from the other men you know. That + merely a part of his pose.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm sure it isn't.” + </p> + <p> + “You're romantic, my dear. I'll admit his arrival on this ship was + dramatic. No doubt you're imagining him a knight going back to save + gallantly a day that is lost. He's only a politician, and so far as I can + understand they are almost all a bad lot.” + </p> + <p> + “Including Father and Uncle Joe and Ned Merrill?” Alice asked acidly. + </p> + <p> + “They are not politicians, but business men. They are in politics merely + to protect their interests. But I didn't intend to start a discussion + about Mr. Farnum. I ask you to remember that as your chaperone I'm here to + represent your father. Would he wish you to be friendly with this man?” + </p> + <p> + Alice was silent. What her father would think was not a matter of doubt. + </p> + <p> + “The man's impossible,” Mrs. Van Tyle went on pleasantly. “And it's just + as well to be careful. Not that I'm very prudish myself. But if you're + going to marry Ned Merrill—” + </p> + <p> + She had struck the wrong note. Like a flash Alice answered. + </p> + <p> + “I'm not. That's definitely decided.” + </p> + <p> + “Really! I thought it was rather arranged,” Valencia smiled blandly. + </p> + <p> + It was all very well for Alice to protest, but in the end she would be a + good girl and do as she was told. Not that her cousin objected to her + having a little fling before the fatal day. But why couldn't the girl do + her flirting with Beauchamp instead of with this wild socialist? + </p> + <p> + Valencia reflected that at any rate she had done her duty. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + Jeff was tramping the deck, his hands in his coat pockets, waiting for the + trumpeter to fling out the two bars of music that would summon him to + breakfast. He walked vigorously? drawing in deep breaths of the salt sea + air. His thoughts were of Alice Frome. He was a lover, and in his + imagination she embodied all things beautiful. Her charm flowed through + him, pierced him with delight. When he heard music his mind flew to her. + It voiced the rhythm of her motions and the sound of her warm laughter. + The sunshine but reflected the golden gleams of light in her wavy hair. + </p> + <p> + As he swung round the smoking saloon Jeff came face to face with Alice. He + turned and caught step with her. The coat she wore came to her ankles, but + it could not conceal her light, strong tread nor the long lines of the + figure that gave her the grace of a captured wood nymph. + </p> + <p> + “Only five hundred miles from Verden. By night we ought to be in wireless + communication,” he suggested. + </p> + <p> + Her glance flashed at him. “You'll be glad to get home.” + </p> + <p> + “I will and I won't. There's work for me to do there. But it's the first + real vacation I ever had in my life that lasted over a week. You can't + think how I've enjoyed it.” + </p> + <p> + “So have I. More than anything I can remember.” They stopped to look at a + steamer which lay low on the distant horizon line. After they had fallen + into step again she continued at the point where they had been + interrupted: “And after we reach home? Are you going to come and see me? + Are you going to let me meet your friends, those dear people who are + giving themselves to make life less hideous and harsh for the weak? Shall + I meet Mr. Mifflin... and Mr. Miller and your little Socialist poet? Or + are you going to desert me?” + </p> + <p> + He smiled a little at her way of putting it, but he was troubled none the + less. “Are you sure that your way is our way? One can give service on the + Hill just as much as down in the bottoms. There's no moral grandeur in + rags or in dirt. Isn't your place with your friends?” + </p> + <p> + “Haven't I a right to take hold of life for myself at first hand? Haven't + I a right to know the truth? What have I done that I should be walled off + from all these people who earn the bread I eat?” + </p> + <p> + “But your friends... your father...” + </p> + <p> + Her ironic smile derided him. “So after all you haven't the courage of + your convictions. Because I'm Peter C. Frome's daughter I'm not to have + the right to live.” + </p> + <p> + “No, it's your right to take hold of life with both hands. But surely you + must live it among your own people.” + </p> + <p> + “I've got to learn how to live it first, haven't I? Most of my friends are + not even aware there a problem of poverty. They thrust the thought of it + from them. Our wealthy class has no social consciousness. Take my father. + He thinks the submerged are lost because they are thriftless and that all + would be right if they wouldn't drink. To him they are just a waste + product of civilization. + </p> + <p> + “But can you study the life of the people without growing discontented + with the life you must lead?” + </p> + <p> + “There is a divine discontent, you know. I've got to see things for + myself. Why should all my opinions, my faith, be given to me ready-made. + Why must I live by a formula I have never examined? If it isn't true I + want to know it. And if it is true I want to know it.” She had been + looking straight before them toward the rising sun but now her gaze swept + round on him. “Don't blame yourself for giving me new thoughts. I suppose + all new ideas are likely to make trouble. But I've been working in this + direction for years. Ever since I've been a little girl my heresies have + puzzled my father. Meeting you has shown me a short cut. That's all.” + </p> + <p> + Something she had said recalled to him a fugitive memory. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know, I think I saw you once when you were a little bit of a + thing?” + </p> + <p> + “Where?” + </p> + <p> + “On the doorstep of your old place. I was rather busy at the time fighting + Edward Merrill.” + </p> + <p> + She stopped, looking at him in surprise. “Were you that boy?” + </p> + <p> + “I was that boy.” + </p> + <p> + “You fought him to help a little ragged girl. She was a foreigner.” + </p> + <p> + “I've forgotten why I fought him. The reason I remember the occasion is + that I met then for the first time two of my friends.” + </p> + <p> + She claimed a place immediately. “Who was the other one?” + </p> + <p> + “Captain Chunn.” + </p> + <p> + Presently she bubbled into a little laugh. “How did the fight come out? My + nurse dragged me into the house.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't remember. I know the school principal licked me next day. I had + been playing hookey.” + </p> + <p> + They made another turn of the deck before she spoke again. + </p> + <p> + “So we're old acquaintances, and I didn't know it. That was nearly + eighteen years ago. Isn't it strange that after so long we should meet + again only last week?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff felt the blood creep into his face. “We met once before, Miss Frome.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, on the street. I meant to speak.” + </p> + <p> + “So did I.” + </p> + <p> + “When?” + </p> + <p> + With his eyes meeting hers steadily Jeff told her of the time she had + found him in the bushes and mistaken him for a sick man. He could see that + he had struck her dumb. She looked at him and looked away again. + </p> + <p> + “Why do you tell me this?” she asked at last in a low voice. + </p> + <p> + “It's only fair you should know the truth about me.” + </p> + <p> + They tramped the circuit once more. Neither of them spoke. The trumpeter's + bugle call to breakfast rang out. + </p> + <p> + At the bow she stopped and looked down at the waters they were furrowing. + It was a long time before she raised her head and met his eyes. The color + had whipped into her cheeks, but she put her question steadily. + </p> + <p> + “Are you telling me... that I must lose my friend?” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't that for you to say?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know.” She faltered for words, but not the least in her + intention. “Are you—what I have always heard you are?” + </p> + <p> + “Can you be a little more definite?” he asked gently. + </p> + <p> + “Well—dissipated! You're not that?” + </p> + <p> + “No. I've trodden down the appetite. I'm a total abstainer.” + </p> + <p> + “And you're not... those worse things that the papers say?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “I knew it.” Triumph rang in her voice. She breathed a generous trust. To + know him for a true man it was necessary only to look into his fearless + eyes set deep in the thin tanned face. It was impossible for anything + unclean to survive with his humorous humility and his pervading sympathy + and his love of truth. “I didn't care what they said. I knew it all the + time.” + </p> + <p> + Her sweet faith was a thing to see with emotion. He felt tears scorch the + back of his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “The thing you know is bad enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that! That is nothing... now. It doesn't matter.” + </p> + <p> + Lieutenant Beauchamp emerged from a saloon and bore down upon them. + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Van Tyle has sent me to bring you to breakfast, Miss Frome. Mornin', + Mr. Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “And I'm ready for it, We've been round the deck ever so many times. + Haven't we, Mr. Farnum?” + </p> + <p> + She nodded lightly to Jeff and walked away with the Englishman. The + sunshine of her warm vitality was like quicksilver in Farnum's veins. What + a gallant spirit, at once delicate and daring, dwelt in that vivid slender + form! A snatch of Chesterton came to his mind: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Her face was like an open word + When brave men speak and choose, + The very colors of her coat + Were better than good news. + + “It is the hour of man: new purposes, + Broad shouldered, press against the world's slow gate; + And voices from the vast eternities + Publish the soul's austere apostolate. + + Man bursts the chains that his own hands have made; + Hurls down the blind, fierce gods that in blind years + He fashioned, and a power upon them laid + To bruise his heart and shake his soul with fears.” + —Edwin Markham. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 18 + </h2> + <p> + THE PILLARS OF SOCIETY ARE GIVEN AN ILLUSTRATION OF A ROORBACK + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + Rawson sat in the rotunda of the Pacific Hotel in desultory conversation + with Captain Chunn, Hardy and Rogers. He brought his clenched hand down on + the padded leather arm of the big chair. + </p> + <p> + “They'll jam it through to-morrow. That's what they'll do. James K. + Farnum's been playing mighty pretty politics and he has got the votes to + deliver the goods.” + </p> + <p> + Hardy nodded as he knocked the ash from his cigar. “Now that it's all over + we can see James K.'s trail easily enough. He meant to defeat the + initiative and referendum amendment, and he meant to do it without losing + his popularity. He's done it too. Jeff's disappearance made it certain our + bill wouldn't go through. James jumps in with a hurrah and passes one that + isn't worth the powder to blow it up. But he's going to claim it as a + great victory for the people—and if I know that young man he'll get + away with his bluff. Yet it's certain as taxes that he's been working for + Joe Powers all the time.” + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't put it past him to have engineered some deal to get rid of his + cousin,” Chunn suggested. + </p> + <p> + Rawson shook his head. “No. Not respectable enough for James. And he's not + fool enough to run his head into a trap. But I'd bet my head Big Tim gave + him a tip it was to be pulled off. J. K. had to know. Otherwise he + wouldn't have been in a position to play the game for them. But he didn't + know any details—just a suggestion. Enough to wise him without + making him responsible.” + </p> + <p> + “And the play he's been making in the papers. Offering a reward for + information about Jeff, insisting publicly that he has absolute confidence + in his cousin's integrity while he shakes his head in private. If you want + my opinion, that young man is a whited sepulchre. I never did believe in + him.” + </p> + <p> + Rogers turned to Captain Chunn with an incredulous smile. “But you still + believe in Jeff. Frankly, it looks to me like a double sell out.” + </p> + <p> + The old Confederate's eyes gleamed. “Sir, I've known that boy since he was + a little tad. He's never told me a lie. He's square as they make them.” + </p> + <p> + “I used to believe in his cousin James, too,” Rogers commented. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, James! He's another proposition.” Rawson's voice was sour with + disgust. “He just naturally looked to see where his bread was buttered. + He's as selfish as the devil for all that suave, cordial way of his. Right + from the first his idea has been to make a big personal hit. And he + figured out he could do it easier with Joe Powers back of him than against + him. James K. is the smoothest fraud on the Pacific Coast. But Jeff—why, + every hair of his head is straight. He's one out of a million, believe + me.” + </p> + <p> + “You've said it,” Chunn agreed. + </p> + <p> + Rogers smiled across at them. “He's left a lot of good friends behind him + anyhow. But it's strange he could drop off the earth without a soul + knowing about it.” + </p> + <p> + “The men who murdered him know about it,” Rawson answered significantly. + </p> + <p> + Captain Chunn shook his head. “No, that boy will turn up yet.” + </p> + <p> + “But not in time to save us. We're licked. There's not one chance in a + million for us. That's the discouraging feature of it, to be sold out + after we had won our fight.” + </p> + <p> + Rawson agreed with Hardy. “Yes, we're licked. Even if Jeff were to show + up, with all these stories against him, we wouldn't be able to stem the + tide now.” + </p> + <p> + “Mister Raw-w-son—Mister Raw-w-son.” The singsong voice of a bellhop + echoed through the rotunda. + </p> + <p> + Captain Chunn's walking stick flagged the lad and brought him sliding + across the polished floor. + </p> + <p> + “Telegram for Mr. Rawson.” + </p> + <p> + The big politician ripped it open and ran his eyes rapidly over the yellow + slip. From his lips burst a sudden oath of surprise. + </p> + <p> + “By Jupiter, the miracle's happened. Jeff is alive and on his way here. + He's sent me a wireless from out at sea somewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” Captain Chunn let out a whoop of joy. + </p> + <p> + “Listen here.” Rawson read aloud his message. “'Shanghaied on schooner <i>Nancy + Hanks</i>. Escaped at Honolulu. Back in Verden to-night. Keep up the + fight.'” + </p> + <p> + “Didn't I say Jeff was alive? Didn't I say he would come back and beat + those robbers yet?” the owner of the <i>World</i> demanded. + </p> + <p> + “Don't get excited. It may be a fake.” This from Hardy, who was almost as + much moved himself. + </p> + <p> + “Fake nothing! We'll go down to the telegraph office and make sure it's 0. + K. Won't this make a bully story for the <i>World</i> 'Shanghaied' in big + letters across the top, and underneath a red hot roast of the old city + hall gang's methods of trying to defeat the will of the people.” Rawson + laughed aloud as his imagination pictured the story. + </p> + <p> + The old soldier's eyes gleamed. “I'll run twice as many copies as usual. + We'll plaster the state with them, calling for mass meetings everywhere to + insist on the legislature passing our bill.” + </p> + <p> + “Go easy, gentlemen,” advised Rogers. “If it's true we hold a trump card, + but we want to play it mighty carefully so as to make it carry as much + dynamite as possible.” + </p> + <p> + The company could give no information more definite than that the message + had come from the <i>Bellingham,</i> which was still a couple of hundred + miles out at sea. + </p> + <p> + In view of the value of the news from a strategic slant his friends + succeeded in keeping the lid on Captain Chunn's enthusiasm until the party + was safe aboard a fast yacht steaming out of the harbor to meet the <i>Bellingham.</i> + The old Confederate's first impulse had been to run an extra immediately, + but he was argued out of it. + </p> + <p> + “We don't want to go off half cocked. We've got a beautiful comeback if we + play it right. That is, if Jeff's got any proof. But we better wait and + let Jeff run the newspaper end of it, Captain.” + </p> + <p> + This was Hardy's view, and it was indorsed by the others. + </p> + <p> + “Another thing. This story has got to come just like an explosion on James + K. Farnum's supporters. We've got to sweep them right back to our bill. + Now if we break the force of it by giving them warning that swarm of + lobbyists will get busy and stay busy all night,” Rawson added. + </p> + <p> + Jim Dunn, the star reporter of the <i>World,</i> was hurriedly summoned by + telephone. Chunn explained to the city editor that Dunn and the staff + photographer were needed to cover a big story, but of what the story was + no mention was made to the office. As soon as Dunn and Quillen reached the + wharf the <i>Fly by Night</i> shot out of the dock. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + In the wintry afternoon sunlight Beauchamp and Alice were playing a match + of shuffleboard against Jeff and the daughter of a Honolulu missionary. + The game had reached an exciting and critical stage when they noticed that + the ship was no longer quivering from the throb of the engines. + </p> + <p> + “A steam yacht, probably from Verden,” the ship purser remarked to the + first mate as they passed. + </p> + <p> + The players gave up their game to watch the boat that was being lowered + from the deck of a yacht close at hand. Into it stepped five men in + addition to the crew. Presently Jeff, leaning against the rail, borrowed + the glasses of a man near. After Alice had looked she handed them to + Farnum. + </p> + <p> + He gave a little exclamation of surprise. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon?” the girl beside him murmured. + </p> + <p> + “They are my friends, Miss Frome. Come to meet me, I expect. The little + man in gray with one arm is Captain Chunn.” + </p> + <p> + She was all excitement at once. “Then they must have received your + message?” + </p> + <p> + “Probably.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff was the first man to meet Captain Chunn as he walked up the steps. + The gray little man gave a whoop of joy. + </p> + <p> + “David!” + </p> + <p> + Their hands gripped. + </p> + <p> + Rawson fell on Farnum from behind and pounded him jubilantly. Instantly + the editor was the center of a group of eager, urgent wellwishers. + </p> + <p> + Alice explained to Captain Barclay what it was all about and stood back + smiling while questions and answers flew back and forth. + </p> + <p> + “What about our bill?” Jeff inquired as soon as the first hubbub had + quieted. + </p> + <p> + “Dead as a door nail. Your cousin has substituted H. B. I7. They will pass + it to-morrow or the next day.” + </p> + <p> + A swift sickness ran through Farnum. “James gone back on us?” + </p> + <p> + “That's what. He's double-crossed us.” Rawson snapped the words out + bitterly. + </p> + <p> + “Why—why—surely not James.” Jeff's mind groped for some + possible + </p> + <p> + explanation. + </p> + <p> + “Says our bill was lost anyhow and it was a question of getting through + Garman's bill or none.” + </p> + <p> + “But Garman's bill was framed by Ned Merrill. It doesn't give us + anything.” + </p> + <p> + Rawson nodded grimly. “That's the idea. We're to get nothing, but it's to + be wrapped up like a Christmas present so as to fool us.” + </p> + <p> + “And isn't there any chance at all for our bill?” + </p> + <p> + “Just this one chance.” Rawson leaned forward and spoke in a low voice, + driving his hand down on the deck railing. “That you've got a charge of + dynamite up your sleeve to throw into their camp. If you can't stampede + them we're down and out.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff and his allies presently moved away together to hold a conference of + ways and means. The boat crew pulled back to the yacht. The engines began + to throb once more. The <i>Bellingham</i> gathered momentum and was soon + plunging forward at full speed. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 3 + </h2> + <p> + With a queer little surge of pride in him Alice watched Jeff and his + friends move away. They depended on him. Unless he could save it their + fight was lost. To her he was a prophet of the better civilization that + would some day rise on the ruins of an Individualism grown topheavy. But + he was neither a dreamer nor a weakling. His idealism was sane and + practical, and he would fight to the last ditch when he must. + </p> + <p> + And this was another strange thing about him, that though his democracy + was a faith, vital and ardent, it was tempered with the liberal spirit. He + could make allowances; held no grudges, would laugh away insults at which + another man would have raged. Out of her very limited experience Alice + decided that he was a great man. That he was so warm and human with it all + was one of his seizing charms. No boy could have been more interested in + winning the shuffleboard game than he. + </p> + <p> + The fat pork packer from Chicago came wheezing toward her. He took the + steamer chair beside Alice and jerked his head toward the spot where Jeff + had disappeared. + </p> + <p> + “Now if you want my notion, Miss Frome, that's the kind of a man that + breeds anarchy. I've seen his paper. He fills it full of stuff that makes + the workingman discontented with his lot. A trouble maker, that's what he + is. Stops the wheels of industry. Gets in the road of the boosters to + croak hard times.” + </p> + <p> + Alice observed the thick rolls of purple fat that bulged over his collar. + </p> + <p> + “Progress now,” he went on. “I'm for progress. Develop the country. That + gives work to the laborers and keeps them contented. But men like Farnum + are always hampering development by annoying capital. Now that's foolish + because capital employs labor.” + </p> + <p> + The young woman suggested another possibility. “Or else labor employs + capital.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” The fat little man sat bolt upright in surprise. “I guess you + never heard your Uncle Joe Powers talk any such foolishness.” He snorted + indignantly. “Hmp! The best friend labor has got is capital. If I had the + say so I'd crush every labor union—for the good of the working + people themselves.” + </p> + <p> + Alice decided that the mental indigestion of the rich sat heavily upon + him. She felt her temper rising and took advantage of the approach of + Beauchamp to leave quickly. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Lieutenant! Have you seen Valencia?” + </p> + <p> + The Englishman showed surprise. It happened that Alice had at that moment + a view of Mrs. Van Tyle stretched on a deck chair some thirty feet away. + </p> + <p> + Miss Frome hurried him along. Presently, with a low laugh, she explained. + “I wanted to get away from him. Carelessly, I dropped a new idea there. + It's likely to go off. You know how dangerous they are.” + </p> + <p> + “To people who haven't many. Had it anything to do with making money?” + </p> + <p> + “Not directly.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you needn't be alarmed on our stout friend's account. He's immune to + all ideas not connected with that subject.” + </p> + <p> + The double blast of a trumpet invited them to dinner down stairs. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 4 + </h2> + <p> + Dunn was sitting in the smoking room writing his story of the kidnapping + when a ruddy young Englishman stopped opposite him. + </p> + <p> + “You're Mr. Dunn, are you not? Reporter for the <i>World?</i>” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” The newspaper man looked him over with a swift, trained attention. + </p> + <p> + “A young lady would like to see you for a few minutes. She is interested + in this shanghaing of Mr. Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + Dunn's black gimlet eyes searched Beauchamp's face. + </p> + <p> + “All right. Glad to see her.” Dunn's story was being transferred to his + pocket as he rose. + </p> + <p> + He followed his guide to the ladies' writing room. A slender young woman + was standing in front of the bookcase. She turned as they entered. + Beauchamp introduced the reporter to her, but Dunn failed to catch the + name of this rather remarkable looking young lady. + </p> + <p> + “You are to write the story of Mr. Farnum's adventure?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + The reporter's eyes narrowed very slightly. “What story?” + </p> + <p> + “The account of the shanghaing. Oh, I know all about it. Have you all the + facts?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll be glad to hear what you know, Miss—” + </p> + <p> + She answered his hesitation by mentioning her name. + </p> + <p> + Dunn grew more wary. “Miss Alice Frome, daughter of Senator Frome?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything you have to say I'll be pleased to hear, Miss Frome.” + </p> + <p> + To his surprise she broke through the hedge of reserve he had withdrawn + behind. + </p> + <p> + “You distrust me. You think because I'm Senator Frome's daughter that I + must be against Mr. Farnum. Is that it?” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't say that,” he sparred. + </p> + <p> + “I'm not against him. It's because I'm anxious to see him win that I want + to be sure he has given you the whole story.” + </p> + <p> + “Why shouldn't he give me the whole story?” + </p> + <p> + “Because he isn't the kind to boast. Did he tell you about the sharks?” + </p> + <p> + “Or how Miss Frome helped pull him aboard just in time to save him from + the crimps?” + </p> + <p> + The reporter's eyes gleamed. “What's that?” he snapped quickly. + </p> + <p> + “And all about the race from the schooner to the <i>Bellingham,</i> It was + the most exciting thing I ever saw.” + </p> + <p> + “Great guns! What's the matter with Jeff Farnum? He didn't say a word + about that—missed the cream of the story.” + </p> + <p> + Alice smiled. “I thought perhaps he might have.” + </p> + <p> + “He said he saw a chance to swim across to the <i>Bellingham.</i> That + made a pretty good story. But sharks—and the shanghaiers chasing him—and + a young lady helping to haul him aboard to safety—and that young + lady Miss Alice Frome! Say, this is the biggest story that ever broke in + Verden. If I fall down on it I'm a dead one sure enough.” + </p> + <p> + “You think it will help Mr. Farnum's fight for his bill?” + </p> + <p> + “Help it. Say, I'd give fifty dollars to see James K. Farnum's face when + he reads the <i>World</i> tomorrow morning. The town will go right up in + the air. Hundreds of telegrams are going to pour in to members of the + assembly from their constituents. We'll make a Yale finish of this yet.” + </p> + <p> + “It's lucky Miss Frome recognized Mr. Farnum. Otherwise I suppose he would + have been sent back to the <i>Nancy Hanks</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Miss Frome recognized him? Jeff said one of the passengers did. He + couldn't remember who.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't suppose my name is necessary to the story. Just say a young woman + on board,” Alice suggested. + </p> + <p> + Dunn's black eyes questioned her. “Are you for us, Miss Frome?” + </p> + <p> + She smiled. “I'm for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Against Senator Frome and Mr. Powers?” + </p> + <p> + “I think the bill ought to be passed. I'm not against anybody.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll tell you this. It will help the story a lot to have you in it. + Some people might say we framed the whole thing up. But with Senator + Frome's daughter starring in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, Mr. Farnum's the star.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you're the leading lady. Don't you see how it helps? Clinches the + whole thing as genuine. It's as good as putting the Senator himself on the + stand as a witness for us. We've just got to have you.” + </p> + <p> + “It will really help, you think?” + </p> + <p> + “No question.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well.” + </p> + <p> + “And photographs. You'll stand for one, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Now really I don't see.” + </p> + <p> + “They can't get back of a photograph. It carries conviction. Of course + we've got pictures of you at the office, Miss Frome. But I want to play + fair with you. Besides, I want them to show the ship setting.” + </p> + <p> + She laughed. “Don't worry. Your enterprising photographer caught me twice + before I knew it. And he got one of my cousin, Mrs. Van Tyle. She doesn't + know it, though.” + </p> + <p> + “Good boy, Quillen. Now, if you'll begin at the beginning, Miss Frome, + I'll listen to your story.” + </p> + <p> + When she had finished his eyes were gleaming. “It's the biggest scoop I + ever got in on. Sounds too good to be true.” + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 5 + </h2> + <p> + At Gillam's Point Jeff and his friends, with Dunn and Quillen, left the <i>Bellingham</i> + on the launch which brought the pilot. They caught the fast express a half + hour later and reached Verden shortly after midnight. His hat drawn down + over his eyes and muffled to the ears in an ulster so that he might not be + recognized, Farnum took a cab with Captain Chunn, Dunn and Quillen for the + office of the World. He slipped into the building and his private room + unnoticed by any member of the staff. + </p> + <p> + Dunn presently brought to him Jenkins, the make-up man. + </p> + <p> + “Rip your front page to pieces. We've got the story of a life time,” + Captain Chunn exploded. + </p> + <p> + Jenkins opened his eyes and grinned at Jeff. “That's what Jim tells me. + Have you got the proof to hang the thing on Big Tim?” + </p> + <p> + “I've got a letter he wrote to Captain Green of the <i>Nancy Hanks</i>. + It's on city hall stationery of the last administration.” + </p> + <p> + “Funny he used that paper.” + </p> + <p> + “Someone usually makes a slip in putting a deal of this kind through.” + </p> + <p> + “And the letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Just a line, signed with O'Brien's initials. 'The terms agreed on are + satisfactory.' I found the letter in Green's cabin. As I thought I might + make use of it I helped myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Bully! We'll run a fac-simile of it on the front page.” + </p> + <p> + “Dunn's story covers the whole affair. I don't like some features of it, + but our friends say it ought to be run as it stands. I've written three + columns of editorial stuff dealing with the situation. And here's a story + calling for a mass meeting in front of the State House to-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “You'll speak to the people?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll say a few words. Hardy and Rawson will be the speakers.” + </p> + <p> + “Pity we've lost your cousin. He'd stir them up.” + </p> + <p> + The muscles stood out on Jeff's lean jaw. James was a subject he could not + yet discuss. “We're nailing the No Compromise flag to our masthead, + Jenkins. We've got to prevent them from forcing through Garman's bill + to-morrow. After that every day will be in our favor. Unless I'm mistaken + the state will waken up as it never has before. The people will see how + nearly they've been euchred out of what they want.” + </p> + <p> + Jenkins came bluntly to another point. “This story would carry a lot more + weight if those charges made against your character by the other papers + had been answered.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we'll answer them.” + </p> + <p> + The night editor looked at him dubiously. “They've got four affidavits to + back their story.” + </p> + <p> + “Only four?” A gay smile was dancing in Jeff's eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Both the <i>Herald</i> and the <i>Advocate</i> have been playing it + strong. Every day they rehash the story and challenge a denial.” + </p> + <p> + “It will all be free advertising for us if we can make them eat crow.” + </p> + <p> + “If we can!” Jenkins did not see how any effective answer was possible and + he knew that in the present state of public opinion an unsupported bluff + would be fatal. + </p> + <p> + “How would this do for a starter?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff handed him two typewritten sheets. The night editor read them + through. He looked straight at Jeff. + </p> + <p> + “Can you back this up?” + </p> + <p> + “I can.” + </p> + <p> + “But—what about those affidavits?” + </p> + <p> + Farnum grinned. “We'll take care of them when we come to them.” + </p> + <p> + “It's your funeral,” Jenkins admitted. + </p> + <p> + The whole front page of the <i>World</i> next morning was filled with the + Farnum story. As part of it there were interviews with Alice Frome, with + Captain Barclay, and with other passengers. The deadly note from O'Brien + to Green of the <i>Nancy Hanks</i> occupied the place usually held by the + cartoon. Beneath it, exactly in the center of the page, was a leaded box + with the caption “A Challenge.” It ran as follows: + </p> + <p> + The editor of the <i>World</i> does not think his reputation important + enough to protect it at the expense of a woman. Yet he denies absolutely + the import of the charges made by the <i>Herald</i> and the <i>Advocate.</i> + That the matter may be forever set at rest the <i>World</i> challenges the + papers named to a searching investigation. It proposes: + </p> + <p> + (1) That the names of five representative citizens of Verden be submitted + to Governor Hawley by each of the three papers, and that from this number + be select a committee of five to sift thoroughly the allegations; + </p> + <p> + (2) That the meetings of the committee be held in secret, no members of + the press being admitted, and that those composing it pledge themselves + never to divulge the names of any witnesses who may appear to give + evidence; + </p> + <p> + (3) That the <i>Herald,</i> the <i>Advocate,</i> and the <i>World</i> + severally agree to print on the front page for a week the findings of the + committee as soon as received and exactly as received, without any + editorial or other comment whatsoever. + </p> + <p> + By the decision of this committee Jefferson Farnum pledges himself to + abide. If found guilty, he will at once resign from the editorial charge + of the <i>World</i> and will leave Verden forever. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 19 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The practical man is the man who knows what can't be done. + When he begins to let hope take the place of information in + this regard, he becomes a conservative. When prejudice takes + the place of hope, the mere conservative graduates into a + tory, or a justice of the supreme court. It's all a matter + of the chemistry of substitution.—Dr. G.L. Knapp. +</pre> + <p> + THE SAFE MAN FURNISHES DIVERSION + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + For once the machine had overplayed its hand. Caught unexpectedly by + Jeff's return, no effective counter attack was possible. Dunn's story in + the <i>World</i> swept the city and the state like wildfire. It was a + crouched dramatic narrative and its effect was telling. From it only one + inference could be drawn. The big corporations, driven to the wall, had + attempted a desperate coup to save the day. It was all very well for Big + Tim to file a libel suit. The mind of the public was made up. + </p> + <p> + The mass meeting at the State House drew an enormous crowd, one so great + that overflow meetings had to be held. Every corridor in the building was + full of excited jostling people. They poured into the gallery of the + Senate room and packed the rear of the floor itself. Against such a + demonstration the upper house did not dare pass the Garman bill + immediately. It was held over for a few days to give the public emotion a + chance to die. Instead, the resentment against machine and corporate + domination grew more bitter. Stinging resolutions from the back counties + were wired to members who had backslidden. Committees of prominent + citizens from up state and across the mountains arrived at Verden for + heart-to-heart talks with the assemblymen from their districts. + </p> + <p> + At a hurried meeting of the managers of the public utilities companies it + was decided that the challenge of the <i>World</i> must be accepted. For + many who had believed in the total depravity of Jefferson Farnum were + beginning to doubt. Unless the man's character could be impeached + successfully the day was lost. And with four witnesses against him how + could the trouble maker escape? + </p> + <p> + The committee of investigation consisted of Senator Frome; Clinton Rogers, + the shipbuilder; Thomas Elliott, a law partner of Hardy; James Moran, a + wholesale wheat shipper, and the leading clergyman of Verden. It sat + behind locked doors, adjourning from one office to another to obtain + secrecy. + </p> + <p> + For the defense appeared as witnesses Marchant, Miller, Mrs. Anderson and + Nellie. To doubt the truth of the young wife's story was impossible. The + agony of shyness and shame that flushed her, the simple broken words of + her little tragedy, bore the stamp of minted gold. It was plain to see + that she was a victim of betrayal, being slowly won back to love of life + by her husband and her child. + </p> + <p> + The committee in its report told the facts briefly without giving names. + Even P. C. Frome could find no excuse for not signing it. + </p> + <p> + The effect was instantaneous. On this one throw the machine had staked + everything. That it had lost was now plain. In a day Jeff was the hero of + Verden, of the state at large. His long fight for reform, the dramatic + features of the shanghaing and his return, the collapse of the charges + against his character, all contributed to lift him to dizzy popularity. He + was the very much embarrassed man of the hour. + </p> + <p> + All the power of the Transcontinental, of the old city hall gang, of the + money that had been spent to corrupt the legislature, was unable to roll + back the tide of public determination. White-faced assemblymen sneaked + into offices at midnight to return the bribe money for which they dared + not deliver the goods. Two days after the report of the investigating + committee Jeff's bill passed the Senate. Within three hours it was signed + by Governor Hawley. That it would be ratified by a vote of the people and + so become a part of the state constitution was a foregone conclusion. + </p> + <p> + Jeff and his friends had forged the first of the tools they needed to + rescue the government of the state from the control of the allied + plunderers. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + In the days following her return to Verden Alice Frome devoured the + newspapers as she never had before. They were full of the dramatic + struggle between Jeff Farnum and the forces which hitherto had controlled + the city and state. To her the battle was personal. It centered on the + attacks made upon the character of her friend and his pledge to refute + them. + </p> + <p> + When she read in the <i>Advocate</i> the report of the committee Alice + wept. It was like her friend, she thought, to risk his reputation for some + poor lost wanderer of the streets. Another man might have done it for the + girl he loved or for the woman he had married. But with Jeff it would be + for one of the least of these. There flashed into her mind an old Indian + proverb she had read. “I met a hundred men on the road to Delhi, and they + were all my brothers.” Yes! None were too deep sunk in the mire to be + brothers and sisters to Jeff Farnum. + </p> + <p> + Ever since her return Alice had known herself in disgrace with her father + and that small set in which she moved. Her part in the big <i>World</i> + story had been “most regrettable.” It was felt that in letting her name be + mentioned beside that of one who was a thoroughly disreputable vagabond + she had compromised her exclusiveness and betrayed the cause of her class. + Her friends recalled that Alice had always been a queer girl. + </p> + <p> + Her father and Ned Merrill agreed over a little luncheon at the Verden + Club that girls were likely to lose themselves in sentimental foolishness + and that the best way to stop such nonsense was for one to get married to + a safe man. Pending this desirable issue she ought to be diverted by + pleasant amusements. + </p> + <p> + The safe man offered to supply these. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 3 + </h2> + <p> + The farthest thing from Merrill's thoughts had been to discuss with her + the confounded notions she had somehow absorbed. The thing to do, of + course, was to ignore them and assume everything was all right. After all, + of what importance were the opinions of a girl about practical things? + </p> + <p> + How the thing cropped up he did not afterward remember, but at the + thirteenth green he found himself mentioning that all reformers were out + of touch with facts. They were not practical. + </p> + <p> + The smug finality of his verdict nettled her. This may or may not have + been the reason she sliced her ball, quite unnecessarily. But it was + probably due to her exasperation at the wasted stroke that she let him + have it. + </p> + <p> + “I'm tired of that word. It means to be suicidally selfish. There's not + another word in the language so abused.” + </p> + <p> + “Didn't catch the word that annoys you,” the young man smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Practical! You used it yourself. It means to tear down and not build up, + to be so near-sighted you can't see beyond your reach. Your practical man + is the least hopeful member of the community. He stands only for material + progress. His own, of course!” + </p> + <p> + “You sound like a Farnum editorial, Alice.” + </p> + <p> + “Do I?” she flashed. “Then I'll give you the rest of it. He—your + practical man—is rutted to class traditions. This would not be good + form or respectable. That would disturb the existing order. So let's all + do nothing and agree that all's well with the world.” + </p> + <p> + Merrill greeted this outburst with a complacent smile. “It's a pretty good + world. I haven't any fault to find with it—not this afternoon + anyhow.” + </p> + <p> + But Alice, serious with young care and weighted with the problems of a + universe, would have none of his compliments. + </p> + <p> + “Can't you see that there's a—a—” She groped and found a + fugitive phrase Jeff had once used—“a want of adjustment that is + appalling?” + </p> + <p> + “It doesn't appall me. I believe in the survival of the fittest.” + </p> + <p> + Her eyes looked at him with scornful penetration. They went through the + well-dressed, broad-shouldered exterior of him, to see a suave, gracious + Pharisee of the modern world. He believed in the God-of-things-as-they-are + because he was the man on horseback. He was a formalist because it paid + him to be one. That was why he and his class looked on any questioning of + conditions as almost atheistic. They were born to the good things of life. + Why should they doubt the ethics of a system that had dealt so kindly with + them? + </p> + <p> + She gave him up. What was the use of talking about such things to him? He + had the sense of property ingrained in him. The last thing he would be + likely to do was to let any altruistic ideas into his head. He would play + safe. Wasn't he a practical man? + </p> + <p> + She devoted herself to the game. To see her play was a pleasure to the + eye. The long lines and graceful curves of her supple young body never + appeared to better advantage than at golf. Her motions showed the sylvan + freedom of the woods. Ned Merrill appreciated the long, light tread of + her, the harmony of movement as of a perfect young animal, together with + the fine spiritual quality that escaped her personality so unconsciously. + </p> + <p> + At the fifteenth hole he continued her education. “This country is founded + upon individualism. It stands for the best chance of development possible + to all its citizens. When you hamper enterprise you stop that + development.” + </p> + <p> + She took him up dryly. “I see. So you and father and Uncle Joe have + developed your individualism at the expense of a million other people's. + You have gobbled up franchises, forests, ore lands, coal mines, and every + other opportunity worth having. As a result you're making them your slaves + and crushing out all individuality.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. We're really custodians for the people. We administer these + things for their benefit because we are more fit to do it.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know you are?” + </p> + <p> + “The very fact that we have succeeded in getting what we have is evidence + of it.” + </p> + <p> + “All I can see is that our getting it and keeping it—you and I and + Uncle Joe and a thousand like us—is responsible for all the poverty + in the world. We're helping to make it every time we eat a dinner we + didn't work to get.” + </p> + <p> + Alice made a beautiful approach that landed her ball within four feet of + the hole. Presently Merrill joined her. + </p> + <p> + “That was a dandy shot,” he told her, and watched Alice hole out. “I don't + agree with you. For instance, I work as hard as other men.” + </p> + <p> + “But you're not working for the common good.” + </p> + <p> + His impatience reached words. “That sort of talk is nonsense, Alice. I + don't know what has come over you of late.” + </p> + <p> + She smiled provokingly and changed the subject. Why argue with him? The + slant with which they got at things was different. Like her father, he had + the mental rigidity that is death to open-mindedness. + </p> + <p> + Briskly she returned to small talk. “You're only three up.” + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 4 + </h2> + <p> + On their way back to the club house the safe man recurred to one phase of + their talk. + </p> + <p> + “You ought not to need any telling as to why I work, Alice.” + </p> + <p> + She shot one swift annoyed glance at him. When Ned Merrill tried the + sentimental she liked him least. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, all men like to work, I suppose. Uncle Joe says it's half the fun of + life.” + </p> + <p> + “Most men work for some woman. I'm working for you,” he told her solemnly. + </p> + <p> + A little giggle of laughter floated across to him. + </p> + <p> + “What are you laughing about?” he demanded. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, the things I notice. Just now it's you, Ned.” + </p> + <p> + “If you'll explain the joke.” + </p> + <p> + “You wouldn't understand it. Dear me, what are you so stiff about?” + </p> + <p> + Merrill brought things to an issue. “Look here, Alice! What's the use of + playing fast and loose? I'd like to know where we're at.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I would. You know all about the arrangement just as well as I do. I + haven't pushed you. I've stood back and let you have your good times. + Don't you think it's about time for us to talk business?” + </p> + <p> + “Just as soon as you like, Ned.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, let's announce it.” + </p> + <p> + “That we're not engaged to be married and never will be! Is that what you + want to announce?” + </p> + <p> + He flushed angrily. “What's the use of talking that way? You know it has + been arranged for years.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not going through with it. I told Father so. The thing is + outrageous,” she flamed. + </p> + <p> + “I don't see why. Our people want it. We are fond of each other. I never + cared for any girl but you.” + </p> + <p> + “Let's stick to the business reasons, Ned.” + </p> + <p> + “Hang it, you're so acid about it! I do care for you.” + </p> + <p> + Her dry anger spurted out. “That's unfortunate, since I don't care for + you.” + </p> + <p> + “I know you do. Just now you're vexed at me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am,” she admitted, nodding her head swiftly. “But it doesn't make + any difference whether I am or not. I've made up my mind. I'm not going + through with it.” + </p> + <p> + “You promised.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't, not in so many words. And I was pushed into it. None of you + gave me a fair chance. But I'll not go on with it.” + </p> + <p> + “But, why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I'm an American girl, and here we don't have to marry to + amalgamate business interests. I won't do it. I'd rather be—” She + gave a little shrug of her shoulders. The passion died out of her voice. + “Oh, well! No need getting melodramatic about it. Just the same, I won't + do it. My mind's made up.” + </p> + <p> + “A pretty figure I'll cut, after all these years,” he complained sulkily. + “Everyone will know you jilted me.” + </p> + <p> + Alice turned to him, mischief sparkling in her eyes. “I wouldn't stand it + if I were you. Show your spunk.” + </p> + <p> + He stared. “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you jilt ME?” + </p> + <p> + “Jilt you?” + </p> + <p> + Her head went up and down in a dozen little nods of affirmation. “Yes. + Marry Pauline Gillam. You know you'd like to, but you haven't had the + courage to give me up. Now that you've got to give me up anyhow—” + </p> + <p> + “I'm very much obliged, Miss Frome. But I don't think it will be necessary + for you to select another wife for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you been married once. I didn't know it.” + </p> + <p> + “You know what I mean?” He was stiff as a poker. + </p> + <p> + “I believe I do.” She was in a perfectly good humor again now. “But you + better take my advice, Ned. Think what a joke it will be on me. Everybody + will say you could have had me.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll not discuss the subject if you please.” + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless Alice knew that she had dropped a seed on good ground. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 20 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Now poor Tom Dunstan's cold, + Our shop is duller; + Scarce a tale is told, + And our talk has lost the old + Red-republican color! + + ............. + + 'She's coming, she's coming!' said he; + 'Courage, boys I wait and see! + 'FREEDOM'S AHEAD!' + —Robert Buchanan. +</pre> + <p> + THE HERO IS LURED TO AN ADVENTURE INTO THE UNCONVENTIONAL AND HEARS MUCH + THAT IS PAINFUL TO A WELL-REGULATED MIND + </p> + <p> + Near the close of a fine spring afternoon James Farnum and Alice Frome + were walking at the lower end of Powers Avenue. In the conventional garb + he affected since he had become a man of substance the lawyer might have + served as a model of fashion to any aspiring youth. His silk hat, his + light trousers, the double-breasted coat which enfolded his manly form, + were all of the latest design. The weather, for a change, was behaving + itself so as not to soil the chaste glory of Solomon thus displayed. There + had been rain and would be more, but just now they passed through a + dripping world shot full of sunlight. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I'm no end flattered at being allowed to go with you. But I'm + dying of curiosity to know where we are going.” + </p> + <p> + The young woman gave James her beguiling smile. “We're going to call on a + sick man. I'm taking you along as chaperon. You needn't be flattered at + all. You're merely a convenience, like a hat pin or an umbrella.” + </p> + <p> + “But I'm not sure this is proper. Now as your chaperone—” + </p> + <p> + “You're not that kind of a chaperon, Mr. Farnum. You haven't any + privileges. Nothing but duties. Unless it's a privilege to be chosen. That + gives you a chance to say something pretty.” + </p> + <p> + They crossed Yarnell Way. James, looking around upon the wrecks of + humanity they began to meet, was very sure that he did not enjoy this + excursion. An adventure with Miss Frome outside of the conventions was the + very thing he did not want. What in the world did the girl mean anyhow? + Her vagaries were beginning to disturb her relatives. So much he had + gathered from Valencia. + </p> + <p> + Before he had got as far as a protest Alice turned in to the entrance of a + building and climbed a flight of stairs. She pushed a button. A woman of + rather slatternly appearance came to the door. + </p> + <p> + “Good afternoon, Mrs. Maloney. I've come to see how Mr. Marchant is.” + </p> + <p> + The landlady brushed into place some flying strands of hair. “Well, now, + Miss Frome, he's better to-day. The nurse is with him. If you'll jist + knock at the door 'twill be all right.” + </p> + <p> + While they were in the passage James interposed an objection. “My dear + Miss Frome, I really don't think—” + </p> + <p> + She interrupted brightly. “I'm glad you don't. You're not expected to, you + know. I'm commanding this expedition. Yours not to answer why. Yours but + to do and die.” And she knocked on the door of the room at which they had + stopped. + </p> + <p> + It was opened by a nurse in uniform. James observed that she, too, like + Mrs. Maloney, brightened at sight of the visitor. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Marchant will be pleased to see you, Miss Frome.” + </p> + <p> + He was. His gladness illuminated the white face through the skin of which + the cheek bones appeared about to emerge. A thin blue-veined hand shot + forward to meet hers. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, comrade, but I'm glad to meet you.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you know Mr. Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + The man propped up in bed nodded a little grin at the lawyer. “We've met. + It was years ago in Jeff's rooms.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh—er—yes. Yes, I remember.” + </p> + <p> + Presently Jeff and Sam Miller dropped in to see the invalid. From chance + remarks the lawyer gathered that the little cobbler had brought himself so + low by giving his overcoat one bitter night to a poor girl he had found + shivering in the streets. + </p> + <p> + The frankness with which they discussed before Alice Frome things never + referred to in good society shocked James. + </p> + <p> + It appeared that the story of this little factory girl who had been led + astray was still urgent in Marchant's mind. At the time of their arrival + he had just finished scribbling some verses hot from his heart. Jeff read + them aloud, in spite of the poet's modest insistence that they were only a + first draft. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “This is a story that two may tell, + I am the one, the other's in hell; + A story of passionate amorous fire, + With the glamor of love to attune the lyre. + + She traveled the road at breakneck speed, + I opened the gates and saddled the steed; + “Ride free!” I cried as we dashed along. + Her sweet voice echoed a mocking song.” + </pre> + <p> + “'Fraid it doesn't always scan. They seldom do,” apologized the author of + the verses. + </p> + <p> + Jeff rapped for order. “The sense of the meeting is that the blushing poet + will please not interrupt.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Nights of the wildest revel and mirth, + Days of sorrow, remorse, and dearth, + A heaven of love and a hell of regret— + But there's always the woman to pay my debt. + + 'Sin,' says the preacher, 'shall be washed free, + The blood of the Lamb was shed for thee.' + Smugly I pass the sacred wine, + The woman in hell pays toll for mine. + + 'I am a pillar of Church and State, + She but the broken sport of Fate; + This is a story that two may tell, + I am the one, the other's in hell.'” + </pre> + <p> + There was a moment's silence after Jeff had finished. + </p> + <p> + “What are you going to call your verses?” the nurse asked. + </p> + <p> + “I'll call them, 'She Pays.' That's the idea of it.” + </p> + <p> + James was distinctly uneasy. There was positively something indecent about + this. He had an aversion to thinking about unpleasant things. Every + well-regulated mind ought to have. He would like to make a protest, but he + could not very well do that here. He promised himself to let Alice Frome + know as soon as they were alone what he thought about her escapades into + this world below the dead line. + </p> + <p> + He moved uncomfortably in his chair, and in doing so his gaze fell full + into the eyes of Sam Miller. The fat librarian was staring at him out of a + very white face. Before James could break the spell an unvoiced question + had been asked and answered. + </p> + <p> + Marchant was already riding the hobby that was religion to him. “Four + dollars a week. That's what she was getting. And her employer is worth two + millions. Think of it. All her youth to be sold for four dollars a week. + Just enough to keep body and soul together. And when she went to the head + of her department to ask for a raise he leered at her and said a good + looking girl like her could always find someone to take care of her. Eight + months she stuck it out, getting more ragged every day. Then enter the + man, offering her some comfort and pleasure and love. Do you blame her?” + </p> + <p> + “You must give me her address,” Alice said softly. + </p> + <p> + Oscar nodded. “Good enough, comrade. Jeff has looked out for her, but she + needs a woman friend.” With a sweep of the hand he went back to the + impersonal. “Her trouble was economic, just as ours is. Look at it. We've + got a perfect self-regulating system that adjusts itself automatically to + bring hard times when we're most prosperous. Give us big crops and boom + times, and we head straight for a depression. Why?” He interrupted himself + with a fit of coughing, but presently began again, talking also with his + swift supple hands. “Because then the foreign market will be glutted. + Surplus goods won't sell abroad. The manufacturer, unable to dispose of + his produce, will cut down his force or close his plant. Labor, out of + work, cannot buy. So every branch of industry suffers because we're too + well off. It's a vicious absurd circle born of the system under which we + live. Under socialism the remedy would be merely to work less for a time + until the surplus was used. It would affect nobody injuriously. The whole + thing's as simple as A B C.” + </p> + <p> + It had been plain to the first casual glance of James that the little + Socialist was far gone. The amazing thing was the eagerness with which his + spirit dominated the body in such ill case. He was alive to the + fingertips, though he was already in the Valley of the Shadow. To the + lawyer there was something eerie about it all. Marchant was done with the + business of living. Why didn't he lie down and accept the verdict? + </p> + <p> + But to Alice it was God-like, a thing to stand uncovered before. His + remedies might be all wrong. Probably they were. None the less his vital + courage for life took her by the throat. + </p> + <p> + Jeff nodded at the invalid cheerfully. “We're going to change all that, + Oscar. Into this little old world a new soul is being born. Or perhaps the + old soul is being born again.” + </p> + <p> + The Socialist caught at this swiftly. “Yes, we're going to change this + terrible waste of human lives. I see a new world, where men will live like + brothers and not like wolves rending each other. There poverty will be + blotted out... and disease and all mean and cruel things that hamper and + destroy life. Law and justice will walk hand in hand through a land of + peace and plenty. Our cities, the expression of our social life, will be + clean and sunny and beautiful because the lives of the common people are + so. There strong men and deep-breasted women will work for the joy of + working, since all is for the common good. Their children will be free and + happy and well fed... yes, and equal to each other. From that highly + socialized state, because it is tied together by love, will come that + restrained freedom which is the most perfect individualism.” + </p> + <p> + The nurse forced him gently back upon the pillows. “There! You've talked + enough to-day.” + </p> + <p> + He lay coughing, a hectic flush above the high cheek bones. Presently, at + a look from the nurse, his guests departed. + </p> + <p> + Outside the building Miller left the rest abruptly. Flanked by the two + cousins, Alice crossed Yarnell Way back to that world to which she had + always belonged. + </p> + <p> + James laid down the law to her concerning the folly of such excursions + into the unconventional. Alice listened. She discovered that his viewpoint + was exactly like that of Ned Merrill. Any deviation from the conventional + was a mistake. Any attempt to escape from existing conditions was a form + of treason. Trade, property, business, respectability, good form; these + were the shibboleth they worshipped. It was just because she did not want + to believe this of James Farnum that she had taken him with her to call on + Marchant. It was in a sense a test, and he was answering it by showing + himself complacently callous and hidebound. + </p> + <p> + Surely he had not always been like this, a smug and well-clad Pharisee, + afraid to look at the truth. In those early days, when they had been + friends, with the possibility of being a good deal more, there had been an + impetuous touch of ardor she could no longer find. Her cool glance ran + down his figure. The man was taking on flesh, the plump well-fed look of + one who has escaped moral conduct by giving up the fight. Fat cushioned + the square jaw and detracted from its strength. For the first time she + observed a hardening of the eye. The visible deterioration of an inner + collapse was being writ on him. + </p> + <p> + Alice sighed. After all she might have spared herself the trouble. He had + chosen his path and he must follow it. + </p> + <p> + At the corner of Powers Avenue and Van Ault Street James left them. It was + natural that the talk should revert to Marchant. + </p> + <p> + “Oscar finds your visits a very great pleasure,” Jeff told her. + </p> + <p> + “The dear madman!” Her eyes were shining softly. “Isn't he brave and + optimistic?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + Both of them were thinking how soon the arm of that unseen God of love and + law he worshipped would enfold him. + </p> + <p> + Alice smiled tenderly, and for the moment the street in front of her + danced in a mist. “And his perfect state! Shall we ever realize it?” + </p> + <p> + “We must hope so. Perhaps not in the form he sees it, but in the way we + work it out through a species of evolution. Think of the progress we have + made in the last five years. How many dark corners in the long disused + houses of our minds have been flooded with light!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Why have we made more progress in the past few years?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff's eyes held a gleam of humor. “This is a big country with enormous + resources. There used to be room for all the most active plunderers to + grab something. But lately the grabbing hasn't been so good. We have + discovered that the most powerful robbers are doing their snatching from + us. So we've suffered a moral awakening.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't believe that,” she said quickly. + </p> + <p> + “There's a good deal in the bread and butter interpretation of history. + The push of life, its pressure, drives us to think. Out of thought grow + new hopes and a broader vision.” + </p> + <p> + “And then?” + </p> + <p> + “Pretty soon the thought will flood the world that we make our own + poverty, that God and nature have nothing to do with it. After that we'll + proceed to eliminate it.” + </p> + <p> + “By means of Mr. Marchant's perfect state?” + </p> + <p> + “Not by any revolution of an hour probably. Society cannot change its + nature in a day. We'll pass gradually from our present state to a better + one, the new growing out of the old by generations of progress. But I + think we will pass into a form of socialism. It will be necessary to + repress the predatory instinct in us that has grown strong under the + present system. I don't much care whether you call it democracy or + socialism. We must recognize how interdependent we are and work together + for the common good.” + </p> + <p> + They had come to the car line that would take her home. Up the hill a + trolley car was coming. + </p> + <p> + “May I not see you home?” Jeff dared to ask. + </p> + <p> + “You may.” + </p> + <p> + They left the car at Lakeview Park and crossed it to The Brakes. Every + step of that walk led Jeff deeper into an excursion of endearment. It was + amazingly true that he trod beside her an acknowledged friend, a secret + lover. The turn of her head, the shadowy smile bubbling into laughter, the + gracious undulations of the body, indeed the whole dear delight of her + presence, belonged for that hour to him alone. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 21 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Many a man has kept his self-respect through a long lifetime + of decalog breaking, only to go to smash like a crushed + eggshell when he commits the crime of being found out. + —From the Note Book of a Dreamer. +</pre> + <p> + THE HERO IS PAINED TO FIND THAT EVEN IN A WELL-REGULATED WORLD THE GODS + ARE JUST, AND OF OUR PLEASANT VICES MAKE INSTRUMENTS TO PLAGUE US + </p> + <p> + Going back across the park Jeff trod the hilltops. He was not thinking + about society, except that small unit of it represented by a slender, + golden girl who had just bidden him good-bye. And because his heart sang + within him his footsteps turned toward the office of his cousin. There had + been between them of late an estrangement. Since the lawyer had been + appointed general attorney for the Transcontinental and had formed a + partnership with Scott, thus bringing to the firm the business of the + public utility corporations, James had not found much time for Jeff. He + was a member of the most important law firm on the Pacific Coast, judged + by the business it was doing, and he had definitely cut loose politically + from his former associates. His cousin blamed himself for the change in + their personal relations, and he meant to bring things back to the old + basis if he could. + </p> + <p> + It was past office hours, but a light in the window of the junior member's + private office gave promise that James might be in. Leaving the elevator + at the fourth floor, he walked down the corridor toward the suite occupied + by the firm. + </p> + <p> + Before he reached the door Jeff stopped. Something unusual was happening + within. There came to him the sounds of shuffling feet, of furniture being + smashed, of an angry oath. Almost at once there was a thud, as if + something heavy had fallen. The listener judged that a live body was + thrashing around actively. The impact of blows, a heavy grunt, a second + stifled curse, decided Farnum. Pushing through the outer office, he + entered the one usually occupied by James. + </p> + <p> + Two men were on the floor, one astride of the other. The man on top was + driving home heavy jarring blows against his opponent's face and head. + Jeff ran forward and dragged him away. + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens, Sam! What's the matter?” his friend demanded in surprise. + </p> + <p> + Miller waited panting, his fists still doubled, the lust of battle in his + eyes. + </p> + <p> + “The damned cad! The damned cad!” was all he could get out. + </p> + <p> + From the floor James Farnum was rising. His forehead, his cheek, and his + lips were bleeding from cuts. One of his eyes was closing rapidly. There + was a dogged look of fear in the battered face. + </p> + <p> + “I tripped over a chair, he explained, glaring at his foe. + </p> + <p> + “Damn you then, stand up and fight!” + </p> + <p> + Disgust and annoyance were pictured on the damaged countenance of the + lawyer. “I don't fight with riff raff from the streets.” + </p> + <p> + With a lurch Miller was free from Jeff and at him again. James lashed + straight out and cut open his lip without stopping him. Jeff wrenched the + furious man back again. A moment later he made a discovery. The fear of + his cousin was not physical. + </p> + <p> + “Here! Stop it, man! What's the row about?” Jeff hung on with a strangle + hold while he fired his questions. + </p> + <p> + Sam turned a distorted face toward him. “Nellie.” + </p> + <p> + The truth crashed home like a bolt of lightning. James was the man who had + betrayed Nellie Anderson. The thing was incredible, but Jeff knew + instantly it was so. + </p> + <p> + Except where the blood streamed down it the face of the lawyer was + colorless. His lips twitched. + </p> + <p> + “Is this true, James?” + </p> + <p> + The sullen eyes of the detected man fell. “It will ruin me. It will ruin + my career. And all because in a moment of fearful temptation I yielded, + God help me.” + </p> + <p> + “God help you!” The angry scorn in Miller's voice burned like vitriol. + “God help you! you selfish villain and coward! You pursued her! You + hounded her. You made your own temptation—and hers. And afterward + you left her to bear a lifetime of shame—to kill herself if she + couldn't stand it. When I think of you, smug liar and hell hound, I know + that killing isn't good enough for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Steady, old man,” counseled Jeff. + </p> + <p> + Miller began to tremble violently. Tears gathered in his eyes and coursed + down his fat cheeks. “And I can't stamp him out. I can't expose him + without hurting her worse. I've got to stand it without touching him.” + </p> + <p> + Faintly Jeff smiled. James did not look quite untouched. He was a much + battered statue of virtue, his large dignity for once torn to shreds. + </p> + <p> + Miller flung himself down heavily in a chair and buried his face in his + hands. James began to talk, and as he talked his fluency came back to him. + </p> + <p> + “It's the only stain on my life record... the only one. My life has been + an open book but for that. I was only a boy—and I made a slip. Ought + that to spoil my whole life, a splendid career of usefulness for the city + and the state? Ought I to be branded for that one error?” + </p> + <p> + Miller looked up whitely. “Shut up, you liar! If it had been a slip you + would have stood by her, you would have married the girl you had ruined. + But you left her—to death or worse. She was loyal to you. She kept + your secret, you damned villain. I wrung it out of her to-day when I went + home only by pretending that I knew.... And you let Jeff bear the blame of + it without saying a word. I know now why her name wasn't unearthed by the + reporters. You killed the story because you were afraid the truth would + leak out. You haven't a straight hair in your head. You sold out Jeff's + bill. You're for yourself first and last, no matter who pays the price.” + </p> + <p> + “That's your interpretation of my career. But what does Verden think of + me? No man stands higher among the best people of the community.” + </p> + <p> + “To hell with you and your best people. I say you're nothing but a whited + sepulchre,” snarled Miller. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly he reached for his hat and left the office. He was stifling. + </p> + <p> + He knew that if he stayed he could not keep his hands from his enemy's + throat. + </p> + <p> + James wrung his hands. “My God, Jeff, it's awful! To think that a little + fault should come out now to ruin me. After I've gone so far and am on the + way to bigger things. It's ghastly luck. Can't you do something? Can't you + keep the fellow quiet? I'll pay anything in reason.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff looked at him steadily. “I wouldn't say that to him if I were you.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I don't know what I'm saying.” He mopped the blood from his face with + a handkerchief. “I'm half crazy. Did he mark me up badly?” James examined + himself anxiously in the glass. “He's just chopped my face to pieces. I'll + have to get out of the city to-night and stay away till the marks are + gone. But the main point is to keep him from talking. Can you do it?” + </p> + <p> + For once Jeff's toleration failed him. “He's right. You are a selfish + beggar. Don't you ever think of anyone except yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not thinking of myself at all, but of—of someone else. You're + wronging me, Jeff. This is not the time to go back on me, now that I'm in + trouble. You've got to help me out. You've got to keep Miller quiet. If he + talks I'm done for.” + </p> + <p> + His cousin looked at him with contemptuous eyes. “Can't you see—haven't + you fineness enough to see that Sam Miller would cut an arm off before he + would expose his wife to more talk? Your precious secret's safe.” + </p> + <p> + “It's all very well for you to talk that way,” James complained. “I don't + suppose you ever were put into temptation by a woman. You're not a lady's + man. I'm the kind they take a shine to for some reason. Now this Anderson + woman—” + </p> + <p> + Sharply Jeff cut in. “That's enough. When you speak of her it won't be in + that tone of voice. You'll speak respectfully of her. She's the wife of my + friend; and before she met you was innocent as a child.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you know of her? I tell you, Jeff, there's a type of woman that's + always smiling round the corner at you. I don't say I did right to yield + to her. Of course I didn't. But, hang it, I'm not a block of wood. I've + got red blood in my veins. The whip of youth drove me on. You've probably + never noticed it, but she was a devilish pretty girl.” + </p> + <p> + He was swimming into his phrases so fluently that Jeff knew he would soon + persuade himself that he had been the victim of her wiles. So, no doubt, + in one sense, he had. She had laid her innocent bait to win his + friendship, with never a thought of what was to come of it. + </p> + <p> + “It happened of course while you were rooming there,” the editor shot at + him. + </p> + <p> + James nodded sullenly. + </p> + <p> + His cousin knew now that more than once he had put away doubts of James. + When Sam Miller told him of her disappearance he had thought of the lawyer + and had dismissed his suspicions as unworthy. He had always believed James + to be a more moral man than himself, and he had turned his own back on the + temptation lest it might prove too great for him. It would have been + better for Nellie if he had stayed and fought it out to a finish. + </p> + <p> + James began further explanations. “Look at it the way it is. She put + herself in my way.” + </p> + <p> + Two steps carried Jeff to him. Without touching James he stood close to + him, arms rigid and eyes blazing. “Don't say that again, you liar. You + ruined her life. You let her suffer. She might have died for all of you. + She nursed your child and never whispered the name of its father. Sam + Miller is charging himself with the keep of your daughter. Do you think + she hasn't paid a hundred times for her mistake? Now, by God, keep your + mouth shut! Be decent enough not to fling mud at her, you of all men.” + </p> + <p> + James shrugged his shoulders and turned away in petulant disgust. “I see. + You've heard her side of it and you've made up your mind. All right. I've + nothing more to say.” + </p> + <p> + “I've never heard her side of it. Her own mother doesn't know the truth. + Sam didn't know not till to-day. But I know her—and now I know you.” + </p> + <p> + “That's no way to talk, Jeff. I admit I did wrong. Can a man say more than + that? Do you want me to crawl on my hands and knees?” + </p> + <p> + “It's easy for you to forgive yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe you think I haven't suffered too. I've lain awake nights worrying + over this.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. For fear you might be found out.” + </p> + <p> + “I intended to look out for the girl, but she disappeared without letting + me know where she was going. What could I do?” The lawyer was studying his + face very carefully in the glass. “My face is a sight. It will be weeks + before that eye is fit to be seen.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff turned away and left him. He walked to his rooms and found his uncle + waiting for him. Robert Farnum had sold out his interests in Arkansas and + returned to Verden with the intention of buying a small mill in the + vicinity. Meanwhile he had the apartment next to the one used by his + nephew. + </p> + <p> + “Seen anything of James lately?” he inquired as they started down the + street to dinner. + </p> + <p> + “Yes. I saw him to-day. He's leaving town for a week or so.” + </p> + <p> + “On business, I suppose. He didn't mention it when I saw him Wednesday.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a matter that came up suddenly, I understand.” + </p> + <p> + The father agreed proudly. There were moments when he had doubts of James, + but he always stifled them by remembering what a splendid success he was. + “Probably something nobody else could attend to but him.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly.” + </p> + <p> + “It's amazing how that boy gets along. His firm has the cream of the + corporation business of Verden. I never saw anything like it.” + </p> + <p> + The younger man assented, rather wearily. Somehow to-night he did not feel + like sounding the praises of James. + </p> + <p> + His uncle's kindly gaze rested on him. “Tired, boy?” + </p> + <p> + “I think I am a little. I'll be all right after we've had something to + eat.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 22 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + But when your arms are full of girl and fluff + You hide your nerve behind a yard of grin; + You'd spit into a bulldog's face, or bluff + A flock of dragons with a safety pin. + Life's a slow skate, but love's the dopey glim + That puts a brewery horse in racing trim. + —Wallace Irwin. +</pre> + <p> + CANARIES SING FOR THE HERO + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 1 + </h2> + <p> + James Farnum had been back in Verden twenty-four hours. A few little scars + still decorated his handsome visage, but he explained them away with the + story of a motor car accident. Just now he was walking to the bank, and he + had spoken his piece five times in a distance of three blocks. From + experience he was getting letter perfect as to the details. Even the + idiotic joke about the clutch seemed now a necessary part of the recital. + </p> + <p> + It was just as he was crossing Powers that a motor car whirled around the + corner and down upon a man descending from a street car. The chauffeur + honked wildly and rammed the brakes home. Simultaneously James leaped, + flinging his weight upon the man standing dazed in the path of the + automobile. The two went down together, and for a moment Farnum knew only + a crash of the senses. + </p> + <p> + He was helped to his feet. Voices, distant and detached, asked whether he + was hurt. Blood trickled into his eyes from a cut in the head. It came to + him oddly enough that his story about the motor car accident would now be + true. + </p> + <p> + A slender figure in gray slipped swiftly past him and knelt beside the + still shape lying on the asphalt. + </p> + <p> + “Bring water, Roberts!” + </p> + <p> + James knew that clear, sweet voice. It could belong only to Alice Frome. + </p> + <p> + “Are you much hurt, Mr. Farnum?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I think not—a cut over my eye and a few bruises.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm so glad. But this poor old man—I'm afraid he's badly hurt.” + </p> + <p> + “Was he run over?” + </p> + <p> + “No. You saved him from that. You don't know him, do you?” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer looked at the unconscious man and could not repress a start. It + was his father. For just an eyebeat he hesitated before he said, “I've + seen him before somewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “We must take him to the hospital. Isn't there a doctor here? Someone run + for a doctor.” The young woman's glance swept the crowd in appeal. + </p> + <p> + “I'll take care of him. Better get away before the crowd is too large, + Miss Frome.” + </p> + <p> + “No. It was our machine did it. Oh, here's a doctor.” + </p> + <p> + A pair of lean, muscular shoulders pushed through the press after the + doctor. “Much hurt, James?” inquired their owner. + </p> + <p> + “No. For heaven's sake, get Miss Frome away, Jeff,” implored his cousin. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Frome!” Jeff stepped forward with an exclamation. + </p> + <p> + The young woman looked up. She was kneeling in the street and supporting + the head of the wounded man. Her face was almost as bloodless as his. + </p> + <p> + “We almost ran him down. Your cousin jumped to save him. He isn't dead, + doctor, is he?” + </p> + <p> + Jeff turned swiftly to his cousin and spoke in a low voice. “It's your + father.” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer pushed forward with a manner of authority. + </p> + <p> + “This won't do, doctor. The crowd's growing and we're delaying the + traffic. Let us lift him into the machine and take him to the hospital.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, Mr. Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “Doctor, will you go with him to the hospital? And Jeff... you, too, if + you please.” + </p> + <p> + A minute later the car pushed its way slowly through the crush of people + and disappeared. James was left standing on the curb with Alice. + </p> + <p> + He spoke brusquely. “Someone call a cab, please....I'll send you home, + Miss Frome.” + </p> + <p> + “No, to the hospital,” she corrected. “I couldn't go home now without + knowing how he is.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well. Anything to get away from here.” + </p> + <p> + “And you can have your cut attended to there.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that's nothing. A basin of cold water is all I need. Here's the cab, + thank heaven.” + </p> + <p> + The girl's gaze followed the automobile up the hill as she waited for the + taxicab to stop. “I do hope he isn't hurt badly,” she murmured piteously. + </p> + <p> + “Probably he isn't. Just stunned, the doctor seemed to think. Anyhow it + was an unavoidable accident.” + </p> + <p> + The eyes of the young woman kindled. “I'll never forget the way you jumped + to save him. It was splendid.” + </p> + <p> + James flushed with pleasure. “Nonsense. I merely pushed him aside.” + </p> + <p> + “You merely risked your life for his. A bagatelle—don't mention it,” + the girl mocked. + </p> + <p> + Farnum nodded, the old warmth for her in his eyes. “All right, I'll take + all the praise you want to give me. It's been a good while since you have + thought I deserved any.” + </p> + <p> + Alice looked out of the window in a silence that appeared to accuse him. + </p> + <p> + “Yet once”—She felt in his fine voice the vibration of feeling—“once + we were friends. We met on the common ground of—of the spirit,” he + risked. + </p> + <p> + Her eyes came round to meet his. “Is it my fault that we are not still + friends?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know. Something has come between us. What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “If you don't know I can't tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I know.” He folded his handkerchief again to find a spot + unstained. “You wanted me to fit into some ideal of me you had formed. Am + I to blame because I can't do it? Isn't the fault with your austerity? + I've got to follow my own convictions—not Jeff's, not even yours. + Life's a fight, and it's every man for himself. He has to work out his own + salvation in his own way. Nobody can do it for him. The final test is his + success or failure. I'm going to succeed.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you?” The compassion of her look he could not understand. “But how + shall we define success?” + </p> + <p> + “It's getting power and wielding it.” + </p> + <p> + “But doesn't it depend on how one wields it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. It must be made to produce big results. Now my idea of a successful + man is your uncle, Joe Powers.” + </p> + <p> + “And my idea of one is your cousin, Jefferson Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + The young man sat up. “You're not seriously telling me that you think Jeff + is successful as compared with Joe Powers?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. In my opinion he is the most successful man I ever met.” + </p> + <p> + James was annoyed. “I expect you have a monopoly in that opinion, Miss + Frome—unless Jeff shares it.” + </p> + <p> + “He doesn't.” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer laughed irritably. “No, I shouldn't think he would.” He added a + moment later: “I don't suppose Jeff is worth a hundred dollars.” + </p> + <p> + “Probably not.” + </p> + <p> + “And Joe Powers is worth a hundred millions.” + </p> + <p> + “That settles it. I must have been wrong.” Alice looked at him with a + flash of demure daring. “Valencia said something to me the other day I + didn't quite understand. Ought I to congratulate you?” + </p> + <p> + “What did she say?” he asked eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'll not tell you what she said. My question was in first.” + </p> + <p> + “You may as well, though it's still a secret. Nobody knows it but you and + me.” + </p> + <p> + “And Valencia.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't know she knew it yet.” + </p> + <p> + Alice stared. “Not know that she is going to marry you? Then it isn't + really arranged?” + </p> + <p> + “It is and it isn't.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “I know it and she suspects it.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this a riddle?” + </p> + <p> + “Riddle is a good word when we speak of your cousin,” he admitted + judicially. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I asked a question I ought not to have.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. I'm trying to answer you as well as I can. Last time I + mentioned the subject she laughed at me.” + </p> + <p> + “So you've asked her?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I told her.” + </p> + <p> + “And she said?” + </p> + <p> + “Regretted that other plans would not permit her to fall in with mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I don't quite see how you are so sure.” + </p> + <p> + “That's just what she says, but I've a notion she is planning the + trousseau.” + </p> + <p> + Alice flashed a sidelong look at him. Was he playing with her? Or did he + mean it? + </p> + <p> + “You'll let me know when I may safely congratulate you,” she retorted + ironically. + </p> + <p> + “Now is the best time. I may not see you this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it's to be this evening, is it?” + </p> + <p> + “To the best of my belief and hope.” + </p> + <p> + His complacency struck a spark from her. “You needn't be so cock sure. I + daresay she won't have you.” + </p> + <p> + His smile took her into his confidence. “That's what I'm afraid of myself, + but I daren't let her see it.” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds better.” + </p> + <p> + “I think she wants to eat her cake and have it, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Meaning, please?” + </p> + <p> + “That she likes me, but would rather hold me off a while.” + </p> + <p> + Alice nodded. “Yes, that would be like Val.” + </p> + <p> + “Meanwhile I don't know whether I'm to be a happy man or not.” + </p> + <p> + Her fine eyes looked in their direct fashion right into his. “I must say + you appear greatly worried.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he smiled. + </p> + <p> + “You must be tremendously in love with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Ye-es, thank you.” + </p> + <p> + “Why are you going to marry her then—if she'll let you?” + </p> + <p> + “Now I'm having Joe Powers' railroads and his steamboats and his mines + thrown at me, am I not?” he asked lightly. + </p> + <p> + “No, I don't think that meanly of you. I know you're a victim of ambition, + but I don't suppose it would take you that far.” + </p> + <p> + He gave her an ironical bow. “Thanks for this testimonial of respect. + You're right. It wouldn't. I'm going to marry Joe Power's daughter, <i>Deo + volente</i> because she is the most interesting woman I know and the most + beautiful one.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! That's the reason.” + </p> + <p> + “These, plus a sentimental one which I can't uncover to the cynical eyes + of my young cousin that is to be, are my motives; though, mind you, I'm + not fool enough to be impervious to the railroads and the ocean liners and + the mines you didn't mention. I hope my reasons satisfy you,” he added + coolly. + </p> + <p> + “If they satisfy Val they do me, but very likely you'll find they won't.” + </p> + <p> + “The doubt adds a fillip to the situation.” + </p> + <p> + Her eyes had gone from time to time out of the window. Now she gave a sigh + of relief. “Here we are at the hospital. Oh, I do hope that poor man is + all right!” + </p> + <p> + “I'm sure he is. He was recovering consciousness when they left. James + helped her out of the cab and they went together up the steps. In the hall + they met Jeff. He had just come down stairs. + </p> + <p> + “Everything's all right. His head must have struck the asphalt, but there + seems to be no danger.” + </p> + <p> + Alice noticed that the newspaper man spoke to his cousin and not to her. + </p> + + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Part 2 + </h2> + <p> + Though Valencia Van Tyle had not made up her mind to get married, James + hit the mark when he guessed that she was interesting herself in the + accessories that would go with such an event. The position she took in the + matter was characteristic. She had gone the length of taking expert + counsel with her New York modiste concerning gowns for the occasion, + without having at all decided that she would exchange her present + independence for another venture into stormy matrimonial seas. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I shatn't have to make up my mind at all,” she found amusement in + chuckling to herself. “What a saving of trouble it would be if he would + abduct me in his car. I could always blame him then if it did not turn out + well.” + </p> + <p> + Something of this she expressed to James the evening of the day of the + accident, watching him through half-shuttered eyes to see how he would + take her first concession that she was considering him. + </p> + <p> + He took without external disturbance her gay, embarrassed suggestion, the + manner of which might mean either shyness or the highest expression of her + art. + </p> + <p> + “I'd kidnap you fast enough except that I don't want to rob you of the fun + of getting ready. How long will it take you? Would my birthday be too + soon? It's on the fourth of June.” + </p> + <p> + “Too soon for what?” she asked innocently. + </p> + <p> + “For my birthday present—Valencia Powers.” + </p> + <p> + She liked it that he used her maiden surname instead of her married one. + It seemed to imply that he loved her in the swift, ardent way of youth. + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure you want it?” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer appreciated her soft, warm allurement, the appeal of sex with + which she was so prodigally endowed. His breath came a little faster. + </p> + <p> + “He won't be happy till he gets it.” + </p> + <p> + Her faint laughter rippled out. “That's just the point, my friend. Will he + be happy then? And, which is more important to her, will she?” + </p> + <p> + “That's what I'm here to see. I'm going to make you happy.” + </p> + <p> + She laced her fingers behind her tawny head, not quite unaware perhaps + that the attitude set off the perfect modeling of her soft, supple body. + </p> + <p> + “I don't doubt your good intentions, but it takes more than that to make + marriage happy when the contracting parties are not Heaven-sent.” + </p> + <p> + “But we are—we are.” + </p> + <p> + Valencia shook her head. “Oh, no! There will be no rapturous song of birds + for us, none of that fine wantonness that doesn't stop to count the cost. + If we marry no doubt we'll have good reasons, but not the very best one—that + we can't help it.” + </p> + <p> + He would not consent to that. “You're not speaking for me. The birds sing, + Valencia.” + </p> + <p> + “Canaries in a cage,” she mocked. + </p> + <p> + “You've forgotten two things.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes?” + </p> + <p> + “That you are the most beautiful woman on earth, and that I'm a man, with + red blood in my veins.” + </p> + <p> + Under lowered lids she studied him. This very confident, alert American, + modern from head to heel, attracted her more than any other man. There was + a dynamic quality in him that stirred her blood. He was efficient, selfish + enough to win, and yet considerate in the small things that go to make up + the sum of existence. Why not then? She must marry some time and she was + as nearly in love as she would ever be. + </p> + <p> + “What ARE your reasons for wanting me?” + </p> + <p> + “We smoke the same Egyptians,” he mocked. + </p> + <p> + “That's a good reason, so far as it goes.” + </p> + <p> + “And you're such a charming puzzle that I would like to domesticate it and + study the eternal mystery at my leisure.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it's as a diversion that you want me.” + </p> + <p> + “A thing of beauty and a joy forever, the poet puts it. But diversion if + you like. What greater test of charming versatility for a woman than that + she remain a diversion to her husband, unstaled by custom and undulled by + familiarity?” + </p> + <p> + After all her father would be pleased to have her marry an American + business man. The Powers' millions could easily buy for her a fine old + dukedom if she wanted one. At present there was more than one available + title-holder on her horizon. But Valencia did not care to take up the + responsibilities that go with such a position. She was too indolent to + adapt her life to the standards of others—and perhaps too proud. + Moreover, it happened that she had had enough of the club man type in the + late lamented Van Tyle. This man was a worker. He would not annoy her or + interfere with her careless pleasures. Again she asked herself, Why not? + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you really do like me.” Her face was tilted in gay little + appeal. + </p> + <p> + “I'm not going to tell you how much. It wouldn't be good for discipline in + the house.” + </p> + <p> + Her soft little laugh bubbled over. “We seem to have quite settled it. And + I hadn't the slightest notion of agreeing to anything so ridiculous when I + ventured that indiscreet remark about an abduction.” She looked up at him + with smiling insolence. “You're only an adventurer, you know. I daresay + you haven't even paid for the car in which you were going to kidnap me.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” he admitted cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what Dad will think of it.” + </p> + <p> + “He'll thank Heaven you didn't present him with a French or Italian count + to support.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe he will. His objection to Gus was that he looked like a + foreigner and never had done a day's work in his life. Poor Gus! He didn't + measure up to Dad's idea of a man. Now I suppose you could earn a living + for us.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not expecting you to take in sewing.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you going to do the independent if Dad cuts up rough?” she asked + saucily. + </p> + <p> + “Independent is the word.” He smiled with a sudden appreciation of the + situation. “And I take it he means to cut up rough. I wired him to-day I + was going to ask you to marry me.” + </p> + <p> + “You didn't.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “But wasn't that a little premature? Perhaps it wouldn't have been + necessary. Or did you take me for granted?” + </p> + <p> + “There was always the car for a kidnapping in case of necessity,” he + joked. + </p> + <p> + “Why did you do it?” + </p> + <p> + “I wanted to be above board about it even if I am an adventurer.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he say? How could you put it in a telegram?” + </p> + <p> + “Red consoles marooned sweet post delayed.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! What gibberish is that?” + </p> + <p> + “It's from our private code. It means, 'Going to marry your daughter if + she is willing. With your consent, I hope.'” + </p> + <p> + “And he answered? I'll take the English version, please.” + </p> + <p> + “'Consent refused. No fortune hunters need apply.' That is not a direct + quotation, but it conveys his meaning accurately enough.” + </p> + <p> + “So I'm to be cut off with a shilling.” Her eyes bubbled with delight. + </p> + <p> + “I reckon so. Of course I had to come back at him.” + </p> + <p> + “How, may I ask?” She was vastly amused at this novel correspondence. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I merely said in substance that I was glad to hear it because you + couldn't think now I wanted to marry you for your money. I added that if + things came my way we would send him cards later. One doesn't like to + slang one's wife's father, so I drew it mild.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe a word of it. You wouldn't dare.” + </p> + <p> + That she admired and at the same time distrusted was so apparent that he + drew a yellow envelope from his pocket and handed it to her. + </p> + <p> + “This is his latest contribution to the literature of frankness. You see + his feelings overflowed so promptly he had to turn loose in good American + talk right off the bat. Couldn't wait for the code.” + </p> + <p> + She read aloud. “Your resignation as General Counsel Transcontinental will + be accepted immediately. Turn over papers to Walker and go to the devil.” + It was signed “Powers.” + </p> + <p> + “That's all, is it? No further exchange of compliments,” she wanted to + know. + </p> + <p> + “That's all, except that he is reading my resignation by this time. I sent + it two hours ago. In it I tried to convey to him my sense of regret at + being obliged to sever business relations owing to the fact that I was + about to contract family ties with him. I hoped that he would command me + in any way he saw fit and was sorry we couldn't come to an agreement in + the present instance.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe you're a bit sorry. Don't you realize what an expensive + luxury you're getting in me and how serious a thing it is to cast off + heaven knows how many millions?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I realize it!” + </p> + <p> + “But you expect him to come round when he has had time to think it over?” + </p> + <p> + “It's hard for me to conceive of anybody not wanting me for a son-in-law,” + he admitted cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + Valencia nodded. “He'll like you all the better for standing up to him. + He's fond of Alice because she's impudent to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't mean to be impudent, but I couldn't lie down and let him prove + me what he called me.” + </p> + <p> + “If you're that kind of a man I'm almost glad you're going to make me + marry you,” she confided. + </p> + <p> + He leaned over her chair, his eyes shining. “I'll make you more than + almost glad, Valencia. You're going to learn what it is to—oh, damn + it!” + </p> + <p> + He was impersonally admiring her Whistler when the maid brushed aside the + portieres. She had come to bring Mrs. Van Tyle a telegram. + </p> + <p> + “No answer, Pratt.” + </p> + <p> + After the maid had retired her mistress called James to her side. Over her + shoulder he read it. + </p> + <p> + “Glad he is an American and not living on his father. Didn't think you had + so much sense. Tell that young man I want to see him in New York + immediately.” + </p> + <p> + The message was signed with the name of her father. + </p> + <p> + “What do you suppose he wants with you in New York?” + </p> + <p> + James was radiant. He kissed the perfect lips turned toward him before he + answered. “Oh, to make me president of the Transcontinental maybe. How + should I know? It's an olive branch. Isn't that enough?” + </p> + <p> + “When shall you go?” + </p> + <p> + He looked at his watch. “The limited leaves at nine-thirty. That gives me + nearly an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “You're not going to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm going to-night. I must, dear. Those are the orders and I've got to + obey them.” + </p> + <p> + “But suppose I give you different orders. Surely I have some rights, + to-night of all nights. Why, we haven't been engaged ten minutes. Business + doesn't always come first.” + </p> + <p> + James hesitated. “It's the last thing I want to do, but when Joe Powers + says 'Come!' I know enough to jump.” + </p> + <p> + “But when I say stay?” she pleaded. + </p> + <p> + “Then I stop the prettiest mouth in the world with kisses and run away + before I hear the order.” Gaily he suited the action to the word. + </p> + <p> + But, for once swift, she reached the door before him. + </p> + <p> + “Wait. Don't go, dear.” + </p> + <p> + The last word came faintly, unexpectedly. The enticement of the appeal + went to his head. He had shaken her out of the indifference that was her + pride. One arm slipped round her waist. His other hand tilted back her + head until he could look into the eyes in which a new fire had been + kindled. + </p> + <p> + “What about that almost glad? If I stay will you forget all qualifying + words and be just glad?” + </p> + <p> + She nodded quickly, laughing ever so softly. “Yes, I'll help you listen to + the birds sing. Do you know I can almost hear them?” + </p> + <p> + James drew a deep breath and caught her swiftly to him. “New York will + have to wait till to-morrow. The birds will sing to-night and we will not + count the cost.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my lord,” she answered demurely. + </p> + <p> + For to-night she wanted to forget that their birds were only caged + canaries. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 23 + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “And what are the names of the Fortunate Isles, + Lo! duty and love and a large content; + And these are the Isles of the watery miles + That God let down from the firmament. + + Lo! duty and love and a true man's trust, + Your forehead to God and your feet in the dust: + Lo! duty and love and a sweet babe's smiles, + And these, O friends, are the Fortunate Isles.” + </pre> + <p> + AND LARKS FOR THE REBEL + </p> + <p> + Beneath a sky faintly pink with the warning of the coming sunrise Jeff + walked an old logging trail that would take him back to camp from his + morning dip. Ferns and blackberry bushes, heavy with dew, reached across + the road and grappled with each other. At every step, as he pushed through + the tangle, a shower of drops went flying. + </p> + <p> + His was the incomparable buoyant humor of a lover treading a newborn + world. A smile was in his eyes, tender, luminous, cheerful. He thought of + the woman whom he had not seen for many months, and he was buoyed up by + the fine spiritual edge which does not know defeat. Win or lose, it was + clear gain to have loved her. + </p> + <p> + With him he carried a vision of her, young, ardent, all fire and flame. + One spoke of things beautiful and her face lit from within. Her words, + motions, came from the depths, half revealed and half concealed dear + hidden secrets. He recalled the grace of the delicate throat curve, little + tricks of expression, the sweetness of her energy. + </p> + <p> + The forest broke, opening into a clearing. He stood to drink in its + beauty, for the sun, peeping over a saddle in the hills, had painted the + place a valley of gold and russet. And while he waited there came out of + the woods beyond, into that splendid setting, the vision that was in his + mind. + </p> + <p> + He was not surprised that his eyes were playing him tricks. This was after + all the proper frame for the picture of his golden sweetheart. + Lance-straight and slender, his wood nymph waded knee deep through the + ferns. Straight toward him she came, and his temples began to throb. A + sylph of the woods should be diaphanous. The one he saw was a creature of + color and warmth and definiteness. Life, sweet and mocking, flowed through + her radiantly. His heart sang within him, for the woman he loved out of a + world of beautiful women was coming to him, light-footed as Daphne, the + rhythm of the morning in her step. + </p> + <p> + She spoke, commonplace words enough. “Last night I heard you were here.” + </p> + <p> + “And I didn't know you were within a thousand miles.” + </p> + <p> + “We came back to Verden Thursday and are up over Sunday,” she explained. + </p> + <p> + He was lost in the witchery of the spell she cast over him. Not the + drooping maidenhair ferns through which she trailed were more delicate or + graceful than she. But some instinct in him played surface commonplaces + against the insurgent emotion of his heart. + </p> + <p> + “You like Washington?” + </p> + <p> + “I like home better.” + </p> + <p> + “But you were popular at the capital. I read a great deal in the papers + about your triumphs.” + </p> + <p> + The dye in her cheeks ran a little stronger. There had been much gossip + about a certain Italian nobleman who had wooed her openly and madly. “They + told a lot of nonsense.” + </p> + <p> + “And some that wasn't nonsense.” + </p> + <p> + “Not much.” She changed the subject lightly. “You read all about the + wedding, of course.” + </p> + <p> + He quoted. “Miss Alice Frome as maid of honor preceded the bride, + appearing in a handsome gown of very delicate old rose satin with an + overdress of—” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. You may go to the head of the class, sir. Valencia was + beautiful and your cousin never looked more handsome.” + </p> + <p> + “Which is saying a good deal.” + </p> + <p> + “And we're all hoping they will live happy ever after.” + </p> + <p> + “You know he is being talked of for United States Senator already.” + </p> + <p> + “You will oppose him?” she asked quickly. + </p> + <p> + “I shall have to.” + </p> + <p> + “Still an irreconcilable.” Her smile could be vivid, and just now it was. + </p> + <p> + “Still a demagogue and a trouble maker,” he admitted. + </p> + <p> + “You've won the recall and the direct primary since I left.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. We've been busy.” + </p> + <p> + “And our friends—how are they?” + </p> + <p> + “You should see Jefferson Davis Farnum Miller. He's two months old and as + fat as a dumpling.” + </p> + <p> + “I've seen him. He's a credit to his godfather.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't he? That's one happy family.” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder who's to blame for that,” she said, the star flash in her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Nellie told you?” + </p> + <p> + “She told me.” + </p> + <p> + “They exaggerate. Nobody could have done less than I.” + </p> + <p> + “Or more.” She did not dwell upon the subject. “Tell me about Mr. + Marchant.” + </p> + <p> + He went over for her the story of the little poet's gentle death. She + listened till he made an end. + </p> + <p> + “Then it was not hard for him?” + </p> + <p> + “No. He had one of his good, eager days, then guietly fell asleep.” + </p> + <p> + “And passed to where, beyond these voices, there is rest and peace,” she + quoted, ever so softly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps he knows now all about his Perfect State.” Her wistful smile was + very tender. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps.” + </p> + <p> + They walked together slowly across the valley. + </p> + <p> + “It is nearly six months since I have seen you.” + </p> + <p> + “Five months and twenty-seven days.” The words had slipped out almost + without her volition. She hurried on, ashamed, the color flying in her + cheeks, “I remember because it was the day we ran down your cousin and + that old gentleman. It has always been a great comfort to me to know that + he was not seriously injured.” + </p> + <p> + “No. It was only the shock of his fall.” + </p> + <p> + “What was his name? I don't think I heard it.” + </p> + <p> + There was just an instant's silence before he pronounced, “Farnum—Mr. + Robert Farnum.” + </p> + <p> + “A relative of yours?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + Across her brain there flashed a fugitive memory of three words Jeff had + spoken to his cousin the day of the accident. “It's your father.” + </p> + <p> + But how could that be? She had always understood that both the parents of + James were dead. The lawyer had denied knowing the man whose life he had + saved. And yet she had been sure of the words and of a furtive, frightened + look on the face of James. According to the story of the <i>Herald</i> the + father of Jefferson, a former convict, was named Robert. But once, when + she had made some allusion to it Captain Chunn had exploded into vigorous + denial. It was a puzzle the meaning of which she could not guess. + </p> + <p> + “He has several times mentioned his wish to thank you for your kindness,” + Jeff mentioned. + </p> + <p> + “I'll be glad to meet him.” Swiftly she flashed a question at him. “Is he + James Farnum's father?” + </p> + <p> + “Haven't you read the papers? He is said to be mine.” + </p> + <p> + “But he isn't. He isn't. I see it now. James was ashamed to acknowledge a + father who had been in prison. Your enemies made a mistake and you let it + go.” + </p> + <p> + “It's all long since past. I wouldn't say anything about it to anybody.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you wouldn't,” she scoffed. Her eyes were very bright. She + wanted to laugh and to weep at her discovery. + </p> + <p> + “You see it didn't matter with my friends. And my reputation was beyond + hope anyhow. It was different with James.” + </p> + <p> + She nodded. “Yes. It wouldn't have improved his chances with Valencia,” + her cousin admitted. + </p> + <p> + Jeff permitted himself a smile. “My impression was that he did not have + Mrs. Van Tyle in mind at the time.” + </p> + <p> + They had waded through the wet ferns to the edge of the woods. As her eyes + swept the russet valley through which they had passed Alice drew a deep + breath of pleasure. How good it was to be alive in such a world of beauty! + A meadow lark throbbed its three notes at her joyfully to emphasize their + kinship. An English pheasant strutted across the path and disappeared into + the ferns. Neither the man nor the woman spoke. All the glad day called + them to the emotional climax toward which they were racing. + </p> + <p> + Womanlike, Alice attempted to evade what she most desired. He was to be + her mate. She knew it now. But the fear of him was in her heart. + </p> + <p> + “Were you so fond of him? Is that why you did it for him?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “I didn't do it for him.” + </p> + <p> + “For whom then?” + </p> + <p> + He did not answer. Nor did his eyes meet hers. They were fixed on the + moving ferns where the pheasant had disappeared. + </p> + <p> + Alice guessed. He had done it for the girl because he thought her in love + with his cousin. A warm glow suffused her. No man made such a sacrifice + for a woman unless he cared for her. + </p> + <p> + The meadow lark flung out another carefree ecstasy. The theme of it was + the triumphant certainty that love is the greatest thing in the world. + Jeff felt that it was now or never. + </p> + <p> + “I love you. It's been hidden in my heart more than eight years, but I + find I must tell you. All the arguments against it I've rehearsed a + thousand times. The world is at your feet. You could never love a man like + me. To your friends I'm a bad lot. They never would consider me a moment.” + </p> + <p> + Gently she interrupted. “Is it my friends you want to marry?” + </p> + <p> + The surprise of it took him by the throat. His astonished eyes questioned + for a denial. In that moment a wonderful secret was born into the world. + She held out both hands with a divine frankness, a sweetness of surrender + beyond words. + </p> + <p> + “But your father—your people!” + </p> + <p> + “'Where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people.”' She + murmured it with a broken little laugh that was a sob. + </p> + <p> + Even then he did not take her in his arms. The habit of reverence for her + was of many years' growth and not to be broken in an instant. + </p> + <p> + “You are sure, dear—quite sure?” + </p> + <p> + “I've been sure ever since the day of our first talk on the <i>Bellingham.</i>” + </p> + <p> + Still he fought the joy that flooded him. “I must tell you the truth so + that you won't idealize me... and the situation. I am enlisted in this + fight for life. Where it will lead me I don't know. But I must follow the + road I see. You will lose your friends. They will think me a crank, an + enemy to society; and they will think you demented. But even for you I + can't turn back.” + </p> + <p> + A tender glow was in her deep eyes. “If I did not know that do you think I + would marry you?” + </p> + <p> + “But you've always had the best things. You've never known what it is to + be poor.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I've never had the best things, never till I knew you, dear. I've + starved for them and did not know how to escape the prison I was in. Then + you came... and you showed me. The world is at my feet now. Not the world + you meant, of idleness and luxury and ennui... but that better one of the + spirit where you and I shall walk together as comrades of all who work and + laugh and weep.” + </p> + <p> + “If I could be sure!” + </p> + <p> + “Of me, Jeff?” + </p> + <p> + “That I can make you happy. After all it's a chance.” + </p> + <p> + “We all live on a chance. I'll take mine beside the man I love. There is + one way under heaven by which men may be saved. I'm going to walk that way + with you, dear.” + </p> + <p> + Jeff threw away the reins of a worldly wise prudence. + </p> + <p> + “For ever and ever, Alice,” he cried softly, shaken to his soul. + </p> + <p> + As their lips met the lark throbbed a betrothal song. + </p> + <p> + ............... + </p> + <p> + They went slowly through the wet ferns, hand in hand. It was amazingly + true that he had won her, but Jeff could scarce believe the miracle. More + than once he recurred to it. + </p> + <p> + “You saw what no other young woman of your set in Verden did, the human in + me through my vagabondage. But why? There's nothing in my appearance to + attract.” + </p> + <p> + “Valiant in velvet, light in ragged luck,” she laughed. “And I won't have + you questioning my taste, sir. I've always thought you very good-looking, + if you must have it.” + </p> + <p> + “If you're as far gone as that!” His low laughter rang out to meet hers, + for no reason except the best of reasons—that they walked alone with + love through a world wonderful. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's The Vision Spendid, by William MacLeod Raine + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VISION SPENDID *** + +***** This file should be named 1846-h.htm or 1846-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/1/8/4/1846/ + +Produced by Mary Starr, and 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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