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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, Out of a Labyrinth, by Lawrence L. Lynch
+
+
+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: Out of a Labyrinth
+
+
+Author: Lawrence L. Lynch
+
+
+
+Release Date: February 15, 2012  [eBook #38888]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OUT OF A LABYRINTH***
+
+
+E-text prepared by Veronika Redfern, Suzanne Shell, and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images
+generously made available by Internet Archive/American Libraries
+(http://www.archive.org/details/americana)
+
+
+
+Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this
+      file which includes the original illustrations.
+      See 38888-h.htm or 38888-h.zip:
+      (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/38888/38888-h/38888-h.htm)
+      or
+      (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/38888/38888-h.zip)
+
+
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive/American Libraries. See
+      http://www.archive.org/details/outoflabyrin00lynciala
+
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: "Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of
+defence about the building."--page 423.]
+
+
+OUT OF A LABYRINTH.
+
+by
+
+LAWRENCE L. LYNCH,
+
+(Of the Secret Service.)
+
+Author of "Shadowed by Three," "Madeline Payne,"
+"Dangerous Ground," "The Diamond Coterie,"
+etc., etc.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+Chicago:
+Alex. T. Loyd & Co.
+1885.
+
+
+Copyright, 1885, by
+ALEX. T. LOYD & CO.,
+CHICAGO.
+
+Copyright, 1882, by
+DONNELLEY, LOYD & CO.
+
+
+
+
+TABLE OF CONTENTS
+
+   Chapter I.       A Bad Beginning.
+   Chapter II.      The Enemy Makes a Move.
+   Chapter III.     Scenting a Mystery.
+   Chapter IV.      Chartering a Dummy.
+   Chapter V.       En Route for Trafton.
+   Chapter VI.      Jim Long.
+   Chapter VII.     We Organize.
+   Chapter VIII.    A Resurrection.
+   Chapter IX.      Mob Law.
+   Chapter X.       Two Fair Champions.
+   Chapter XI.      A Cup of Tea.
+   Chapter XII.     A Big Haul.
+   Chapter XIII.    'Squire Brookhouse Makes a Call.
+   Chapter XIV.     Mrs. Ballou's Pistol Practice.
+   Chapter XV.      Preparations of War.
+   Chapter XVI.     Fly Crooks in Trafton.
+   Chapter XVII.    Southward to Clyde.
+   Chapter XVIII.   A Sewing Machine Agent.
+   Chapter XIX.     Haunted by a Face.
+   Chapter XX.      Some Bits Of Personal History.
+   Chapter XXI.     "Evolving a Theory."
+   Chapter XXII.    Two Departures.
+   Chapter XXIII.   A Shot in the Dark.
+   Chapter XXIV.    Jim Long Shows His Hand.
+   Chapter XXV.     In Which I Take Jim on Trust.
+   Chapter XXVI.    The Trail of the Assassin.
+   Chapter XXVII.   An Angry Heiress.
+   Chapter XXVIII.  Jim Gives Bail.
+   Chapter XXIX.    Vigilants.
+   Chapter XXX.     A Chapter of Telegrams.
+   Chapter XXXI.    Carnes Tells His Story.
+   Chapter XXXII.   Amy Holmes Confesses.
+   Chapter XXXIII.  Johnny La Porte is Brought to Book.
+   Chapter XXXIV.   How Bethel was Warned.
+   Chapter XXXV.    We Prepare For a "Party."
+   Chapter XXXVI.   Something the Moon Failed to See.
+   Chapter XXXVII.  Caught in the Act.
+   Chapter XXXVIII. "The Counterfeiter's Daughter."
+   Chapter XXXIX.   "Louise Barnard's Friendship."
+   Chapter XL.      The Story Of Harvey James.
+   Chapter XLI.     A Gathering of the Fragments.
+   Chapter XLII.    In Conclusion.
+
+
+
+
+OUT OF A LABYRINTH.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+A BAD BEGINNING.
+
+
+It was a June day; breezy, yet somewhat too warm. The slow going old
+passenger train on the slow going mail route, that shall be nameless in
+these chronicles, seemed in less of a hurry than usual, and I, stretched
+lazily across two seats, with my left arm in a sling, was beginning to
+yield to the prevailing atmosphere of stupidity, when we rumbled up to a
+village station, and took on board a single passenger.
+
+I was returning from a fruitless mission; and had stepped on board the
+eastward-bound train in anything but an enviable frame of mind; and no
+wonder! I, who prided myself upon my skill in my profession; _I_, who
+was counted by my chief the "best detective on the force, sir,"--had
+started, less than a week before, for a little farming settlement in one
+of the interior States, confident of my ability to unravel soon, and
+easily, a knotty problem.
+
+I had taken every precaution to conceal my identity, and believed myself
+in a fair way to unveil the mystery that had brought grief and
+consternation into the midst of those comfortable, easy-going farmers;
+and I had been _spotted_ at the very outset! I had been first warned, in
+a gentlemanly but anonymous fashion, to leave the neighborhood, and
+then, because I did not avail myself of the very first opportunity to
+decamp, had been shot from behind a hedge!
+
+And this is how it happened:
+
+Groveland, so called, doubtless, because of the total absence of
+anything bearing closer resemblance to a grove than the thrifty orchards
+scattered here and there, is a thriving township, not a town.
+
+Its inhabitants reside in the midst of their own farms, and, save the
+farm buildings, the low, rambling, sometimes picturesque farm houses, or
+newer, more imposing, "improved" and often exquisitely ugly, white
+painted dwellings; the blacksmith shop, operated by a thrifty farmer and
+his hard-fisted sons; the post-office, kept in one corner of the "front
+room" by a sour-visaged old farmer's wife; and the "deestrict"
+school-house, then in a state of quiescence,--town institutions there
+were none in Groveland.
+
+The nearest village, and that an exceedingly small one, was five miles
+west of Groveland's western boundary line; and the nearest railroad town
+lay ten miles east of the eastern boundary.
+
+So the Grovelanders were a community unto themselves, and were seldom
+disturbed by a ripple from the outside world.
+
+It was a well-to-do community. Most of its inhabitants had "squatted"
+there when the land was cheap and uncultivated, and they were poor and
+young.
+
+Time, railroads, and the grand march of civilization had increased the
+value of their acres; and their own industry had reared for them
+pleasant homes, overflowing granaries, barns "good enough to live in,"
+orchards, vineyards, all manner of comforts and blessings. Strong sons
+and fair daughters had grown up around them; every man knew his
+neighbor, and had known him for years. They shared in their neighborhood
+joys and griefs, and made common cause at weddings, funerals,
+threshings, huskings, cider makings, everything.
+
+One would suppose it difficult to have a secret in Groveland, and yet a
+mystery had come among them.
+
+'Squire Ewing, 'squire by courtesy, lived in a fine new white house on a
+fine farm in the very center of the township. His family consisted of
+his wife, two daughters, the eldest, eighteen, the younger, fifteen, and
+two sons, boys of twelve and ten.
+
+The daughters of 'Squire Ewing were counted among the brightest and
+prettiest in Groveland, and they were not lacking in accomplishments, as
+accomplishments go in such communities. Much learning was not considered
+a necessity among the Groveland young ladies, but they had been smitten
+with the piano-playing mania, and every Winter the district school-house
+was given over, for one night in the week, to the singing school.
+
+The Misses Ewing were ranked among the best "musicians" of Groveland,
+and they had also profited for a time by the instructions of the nearest
+seminary, or young ladies' school.
+
+One evening, just as the sun was setting, Ellen, or Nell Ewing, as she
+was familiarly called, mounted her pony and cantered blithely away, to
+pass the night with a girl friend.
+
+It was nothing unusual for the daughters of one farmer to ride or drive
+miles and pass the night or a longer time with the daughters of another,
+and Nellie's destination was only four miles away.
+
+The night passed and half of the ensuing day, but the eldest daughter of
+Farmer Ewing did not return.
+
+However, there was no cause for alarm in this, and 'Squire Ewing ate his
+evening meal in peace, confident that his daughter would return before
+the night had closed in. But a second night came and went, and still she
+did not come.
+
+Then the good farmer became impatient, and early on the morning of the
+second day he dispatched his eldest son to hasten the return of the
+tardy one.
+
+But the boy came back alone, and in breathless agitation. Nellie had
+not been seen by the Ballous since the night she left home. She had
+complained of a headache, and had decided to return home again. She had
+remained at Mrs. Ballou's only an hour; it was not yet dark when she
+rode away.
+
+Well, Nellie Ewing was never seen after that, and not a clue to her
+hiding-place, or her fate, could be discovered.
+
+Detectives were employed; every possible and impossible theory was
+"evolved" and worked upon, but with no other result than failure.
+
+Groveland was in a state of feverish excitement; conjectures the most
+horrible and most absurd were afloat; nothing was talked of save the
+mysterious disappearance of Nellie Ewing.
+
+And so nearly three months passed. At the end of that time another
+thunderbolt fell.
+
+Mamie Rutger, the only daughter of a prosperous German farmer; wild
+little Mamie, who rode the wickedest colts, climbed the tallest trees,
+sang loudest in the singing-school, and laughed oftenest at the
+merry-makings, also vanished. At first they thought it one of her jokes,
+for she was given to practical joking; but she did not come back. No
+trace of her could be found.
+
+At twilight one June evening she was flitting about the door-yard,
+sometimes singing gayly, sometimes bending over a rosebush, sometimes
+snatching down handfuls of early cherries. After that she was seen no
+more.
+
+Then ensued another search, and a panic possessed that once quiet
+community. The country was scoured. Every foot of road, every acre of
+ground, every hedge or clump of trees, every stream, every deserted or
+shut-up building for miles around was faithfully searched.
+
+And then Farmer Rutger and 'Squire Ewing closeted themselves together,
+took counsel of each other, and decided to call in the aid of a city
+detective. They came together to our office and laid their case before
+our chief.
+
+"If any man can clear up this matter, it's Bathurst," said that bluff
+old fellow.
+
+And so I was called into the consultation.
+
+It was a very long and very earnest one. Questions were asked that would
+have done credit to the brightest lawyer. Every phase of the affair, or
+the two affairs, was closely examined from different standpoints. Every
+possibility weighed; copious notes taken.
+
+Before the two men left us, I had in my mind's eye a tolerably fair map
+of Groveland, and in my memory, safely stowed away, the names of many
+Grovelanders, together with various minute, and seemingly irrelevant,
+items concerning the families, and nearest friends and neighbors, of the
+two bereaved fathers.
+
+They fully perceived the necessity for perfect secrecy, and great
+caution. And I felt assured that no word or sign from them would betray
+my identity and actual business when, a few days later, I should appear
+in Groveland.
+
+It was a strange case; one of the sort that had a wonderful fascination
+for me; one of the sort that once entered upon, absorbed me soul and
+body, sleeping or waking, day and night, for I was an enthusiast in my
+profession.
+
+After waiting a few days I set out for the scene of the mystery. I did
+not take the most direct route to reach my destination, but went by a
+circuitous way to a small town west of the place, and so tramped into
+it, coming, not from the city, but from the opposite direction.
+
+My arrival was as unobtrusive as I could make it, and I carried my
+wardrobe in a somewhat dusty bundle, swung across my shoulder by a
+strap.
+
+I had assumed the character of a Swede in search of employment, and my
+accent and general _ensemble_ were perfect in their way.
+
+Perseveringly I trudged from farm to farm, meeting sometimes with
+kindness, and being as often very briefly dismissed, or ordered off for
+a tramp. But no one was in need of a man until I arrived at the widow
+Ballou's.
+
+This good woman, who was a better farmer than some of her male
+neighbors, and who evidently had an eye to the saving of dollars and
+cents, listened quite indifferently to my little story while I told how
+long I had looked for work, and how I had been willing to labor for very
+small wages. But when I arrived at the point where I represented myself
+as now willing to work for my board until I could do better, her eyes
+brightened, she suddenly found my monotone more interesting, decided
+that I "looked honest," and, herself, escorted me to the kitchen and
+dealt me out a bountiful supper, for I had reached the Ballou farmhouse
+at sundown.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+THE ENEMY MAKES A MOVE.
+
+
+Three days passed, and of course during that time I heard much about the
+two girls and their singular disappearance.
+
+At night, after work was done, and supper disposed of, Mrs. Ballou would
+send some one to the post-office. This duty had usually fallen to Miss
+Grace Ballou, or been chosen by her, but since the night when Nellie
+Ewing rode away from the door, never again to be seen, Mrs. Ballou had
+vetoed the evening canters that Grace so much loved, and so the
+post-office was attended to by Master Fred, the spoiled son and heir,
+aged thirteen, or by the "hired man."
+
+On the evening of the third day of my service, I saddled one of the farm
+horses, and rode to the post-office to fetch the widow's mail, and great
+was my surprise when the grim postmistress presented me with a letter
+bearing my assumed name, Chris Ollern, and directed to the care of Mrs.
+Ballou.
+
+Stowing away the widow's papers and letters in a capacious coat pocket,
+and my own letter in a smaller inner one, I rode thoughtfully homeward.
+
+Who had written me? Not the men at the office; they were otherwise
+instructed; besides, the letter was a local one, bearing only the
+Groveland mark. Could it be that Farmer Rutger or 'Squire Ewing had
+forgotten all my instructions, and been insane enough to write me?
+
+I hurriedly put my horse in his stable, unburdened my pocket of the
+widow's mail, and mounted to my room.
+
+Locking my door and lighting a tallow candle--the widow objected to
+kerosene in sleeping rooms,--I opened my letter.
+
+It was brief, very, containing only these words:
+
+     CHRIS OLLERN--As you call yourself, unless you wish to
+     disappear as effectually as did Nellie Ewing and Mamie Rutger,
+     you will abandon your present pursuit. A word to the wise is
+     sufficient.
+
+Here was an astonisher, and here was also a clue. I was betrayed, or
+discovered. But the enemy had showed his hand. I had also made a
+discovery.
+
+There was an enemy then; there had been foul play; and that enemy was
+still in the vicinity, as this letter proved.
+
+It was a wily enemy too; the letter would betray nothing as regarded
+identity. It was _printed_; the letters were smooth and even, but
+perfectly characterless. It was a wily enemy, but not quite a wise one,
+as the sending of such a letter proved.
+
+I did not leave my room again that night, but sat for hours thinking.
+
+The next morning as I came from the barn-yard with a pail of milk, I
+encountered Miss Grace Ballou. She was feeding a brood of chickens, and
+seemed inclined to talk with me.
+
+"Did you ever see such fine chicks, Chris?" she asked; "and they are
+only two weeks old."
+
+I stopped, of course, to admire the chickens and express my admiration
+in broken English.
+
+Suddenly she moved nearer me, and said, in a lower tone:
+
+"Chris, did you bring any letters for any one except mother, last
+night?"
+
+[Illustration: "Chris, did you bring any letters for any one, except
+mother, last night?"--page 18.]
+
+Promptly and unblushingly, yet somewhat surprised, I answered, "No."
+
+Her eyes searched my face for a second, and then she said, falling back
+a step:
+
+"Well, don't say anything about my asking you, Chris. I--I expected a
+letter."
+
+That night I went to the post-office as usual, and the next morning Miss
+Grace repeated her question:
+
+"Did you bring no letters for _any one, positively_?"
+
+"No, there were only papers that night."
+
+The third night after the receipt of my mysterious warning, however,
+there came a letter for Grace, which, a little to my surprise, was
+promptly handed over by her mother. Whether this was the expected
+missive or not it threw the young lady into unmistakable raptures.
+
+Amy was coming! Amy Holmes; she would be at the station to-morrow, and
+Grace must go in the carriage to meet her.
+
+Everybody was pleased except Fred Ballou. Mrs. Ballou heartily expressed
+her satisfaction, and announced that I should drive with Grace to "the
+station;" and Ann, the "help," became quite animated.
+
+But Fred scornfully declined his mother's proposition, that he should
+ride to town with his sister and myself.
+
+"Catch me," he sniffed, "for that stuck-up town girl; she was always
+putting ideas into Grace's head; and--he hated girls anyway. And hoped
+some one would just carry Amy Holmes off as they did Nellie Ewing."
+
+Whereupon Grace turned, first pale, then scarlet, and lastly, flew at
+her brother and boxed his ears soundly.
+
+The next day we went as per programme to the town, ten miles distant,
+where Miss Holmes would be. She had arrived before us, and was waiting.
+
+She was a handsome, showy-looking girl, stylishly dressed, and very
+self-possessed in manner; evidently a girl who knew something of town
+life.
+
+We found her beguiling the time of waiting by conversation with a
+well-dressed, handsome young fellow, who was evidently a prime favorite
+with both young ladies. He accompanied them while they went about making
+certain purchases that Mrs. Ballou had charged her daughter not to
+forget, and then he assisted them into the carriage, while I stowed away
+their bundles, shook their hands at parting, and stood gazing after them
+as the carriage rolled away, the very model of a young Don Juan, I
+thought.
+
+I had hoped to gain something from my ten-mile drive with the two young
+ladies sitting behind me. I had learned that Miss Holmes was a friend of
+the Ewings, and also of Mamie Rutger, and as she had not been in the
+vicinity since these young ladies had vanished, what more natural than
+that she should talk very freely of their mysterious fate, and might not
+these girl friends know something, say something, that in my hands would
+prove a clue?
+
+But I was disappointed; during the long drive the names of Nellie Ewing
+and Mamie Rutger never once passed their lips. Indeed, save for a few
+commonplaces, these two young ladies, who might be supposed to have so
+much to say to each other, never talked at all.
+
+I had driven the steady old work horses in going for Miss Holmes, and so
+when night came, a feeling of humanity prompted me to buckle the saddle
+upon a young horse scarcely more than half broken, and set off upon his
+back for the post-office.
+
+It was a little later than usual, and by the time I had accomplished
+the first half of my journey, stowed away the usual newspapers, and
+remounted my horse, it was fully dark; and I rode slowly through the
+gloom, thinking that Groveland was ambitious indeed to bring the mail
+every day from a railway ten miles distant, and wondering what it would
+be like to be the mail boy, and jog over that same monotonous twenty
+miles of fetching and carrying every day.
+
+I had now reached a high hedge that assured me that my homeward journey
+was half accomplished, when, from an imaginary inland mail boy, I was
+suddenly transformed into an actual, crippled John Gilpin. From out the
+blackness of the hedge came a flash and a sharp report; my horse bounded
+under me, my left arm dropped helpless, and then I was being borne over
+the ground as if mounted upon a whirlwind!
+
+[Illustration: "From out the blackness of the hedge came a flash and a
+sharp report; my horse bounded under me, my left arm dropped
+helpless."--page 23.]
+
+It was useless to command, useless to strive with my single hand to curb
+the frightened beast. It was a miracle that I did not lose my seat, for
+at first I reeled, and feeling the flow of blood, feared a loss of
+consciousness. But that swift rush through the dewy evening air revived
+me, and rallied my scattered senses.
+
+As we dashed on, I realized that my life had been attempted, and that
+the would-be assassin, the abductor or destroyer of the two missing
+girls, had been very near me; that but for the unruly beast I rode I
+might perhaps have returned his little compliment; at least have found
+some trace of him.
+
+My horse kept his mad pace until he had reached his own barn-yard gate,
+and then he stopped so suddenly as to very nearly unseat me.
+
+I quickly decided upon my course of action, and now, dismounting and
+merely leading my horse into the inclosure, I went straight to the
+house. I knew where to find Mrs. Ballou at that hour, and was pretty
+sure of finding her alone.
+
+As I had anticipated, she was seated in her own room, where she
+invariably read her evening papers in solitude. I entered without
+ceremony, and much to her surprise.
+
+But I was not mistaken in her; she uttered no loud exclamation, either
+of anger at my intrusion, or of fright at sight of my bleeding arm. She
+rose swiftly and came straight up to me.
+
+Before she could ask a question, I motioned her to be silent, and closed
+the door carefully. After which, without any of my foreign accent, I
+said:
+
+"Mrs. Ballou, a woman who can manage a great farm and coin money in the
+cattle trade, can surely keep a secret. Will you bind up my arm while I
+tell you mine?"
+
+"What!" she exclaimed, starting slightly; "you are not a--"
+
+"Not a Swede? No, madame," I replied; "I am a detective, and I have been
+shot to-night by the hand that has struck at the happiness of 'Squire
+Ewing and his neighbor."
+
+The splendid woman comprehended the situation instantly.
+
+"Sit there," she said, pointing to her own easy chair. "And don't talk
+any more now. I shall cut away your sleeve."
+
+"Can you?" I asked, deprecatingly.
+
+"Can I?" contemptuously; "I bleed my cattle."
+
+I smiled a little in spite of myself; then--
+
+"Consider me a colt, a heifer, anything," I said, resignedly. "But I
+feel as if I had been bled enough."
+
+"I should think so," she replied, shortly. "Now be still; it's lucky
+that you came to me."
+
+I thought so too, but obedient to her command, I "kept still."
+
+She cut away coat and shirt sleeves; she brought from the kitchen tepid
+water and towels, and from her own especial closet, soft linen rags. She
+bathed, she stanched, she bandaged; it proved to be only a flesh wound,
+but a deep one.
+
+"Now then," she commanded in her crisp way, when all was done, and I had
+been refreshed with a very large glass of wine, "tell me about this."
+
+"First," I said, "your colt stands shivering yet, no doubt, and all
+dressed in saddle and bridle, loose in the stable-yard."
+
+"Wait," she said, and hurried from the room.
+
+In a few moments she came back.
+
+"The colt is in his stable, and no harm done," she announced, sitting
+down opposite me. "How do you feel?"
+
+"A little weak, that is all. Now, I will tell you all about it."
+
+In the fewest words possible, I told my story, and ended by saying:
+
+"Mrs. Ballou, you, as a woman, will not be watched or suspected; may I
+leave with you the task of telling 'Squire Ewing and Mr. Rutger what has
+happened to me?"
+
+"You may," with decision.
+
+"And I must get away from here before others know how much or little I
+am injured. Can your woman's wit help me? I want it given out that my
+arm is broken. Do you comprehend me?"
+
+"Perfectly. Then no one here must see you, and--you should have that
+wound dressed by a good surgeon, I think. There is a train to the city
+to-morrow at seven. I will get up in the morning at three o'clock, make
+us a cup of coffee, harness the horses, and drive you to Sharon."
+
+"_You?_" I exclaimed.
+
+"Yes, I! Why not? It's the only way. And now, would you mind showing me
+that letter?"
+
+I took it from my pocket-book and put it in her hand. She read it
+slowly, and then looked up.
+
+"Why did you not heed this warning?" she asked.
+
+[Illustration: "Why did you not heed this warning?" she asked.--page
+28.]
+
+"Because I wanted to find out what it meant."
+
+"Well, you found out," sententiously. "Now, go to bed, but first let me
+help you remove that coat."
+
+"Mrs. Ballou, you are a woman in a thousand," I exclaimed, as I rose
+to receive her assistance. "And I don't see how I can ever repay you.
+You are your own reliance."
+
+As I spoke, the coat fell from my shoulder and my hand touched the
+weapon in my pistol pocket.
+
+She saw it, too, and pointing to it, said:
+
+"I have never owned a pistol, because I could not buy one without
+letting Fred know it; he is always with me in town. If you think I have
+earned it give me that."
+
+"Gladly," I said, drawing out the small silver-mounted six-shooter; "it
+is loaded, every barrel. Can you use it?"
+
+"Yes; I know how to use firearms."
+
+"Then when you do use it, if ever, think of me." I laughed.
+
+"I will," she said, quite soberly.
+
+And little either of us dreamed how effectively she would use it one
+day.
+
+The next morning, at half-past three, we drove out of the farm yard, _en
+route_ for the railway station.
+
+During our drive, we talked like two men, and when we parted at Sharon
+we were very good friends. I dropped her work-hardened hand reluctantly,
+and watched her drive away, thinking that she was the only really
+sensible woman I had ever known, and feeling half inclined to fall in
+love with her in spite of the fact that she was twenty-five years my
+senior.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+SCENTING A MYSTERY.
+
+
+That is how I chanced to be rolling city-ward on that phlegmatic,
+oft-stopping, slow going, accomodation train, and that is why I was out
+of temper, and out of tune.
+
+My operation had been retarded. Instead of working swiftly on to a
+successful issue, this must be a case of waiting, of wit against wit,
+and I must report to my chief a balk in the very beginning.
+
+Nevertheless, as I said in the outset, fifty miles of monotonous rumble,
+together with the soothing influence of a good cigar, had blunted the
+edge of my self-disgust; my arm was quite easy, only warning me now and
+then that it was a crippled arm; I was beginning to feel phlegmatic and
+comfortable.
+
+I had formed a habit of not thinking about my work when the thinking
+would be useless, and there was little room for effective thought in
+this case. My future movements were a foregone conclusion. So I rested,
+and fell almost asleep, and then it was that the single passenger of
+whom I made mention, came on board.
+
+I had not noticed the name of the station, but as I roused myself and
+looked out, I saw that we were moving along the outskirts of a pretty
+little town, and then I turned my eyes toward the new passenger.
+
+He was coming down the aisle towards me, and was a plain, somewhat
+heavy-featured man, with a small, bright, twinkling eye. Certainly it
+was not a prepossessing countenance, but, just as certainly, it was an
+honest one. He was dressed in some gray stuff, the usual "second best"
+of a thriving farmer or mechanic, and might have been either.
+
+By the time I had arrived at this stage in my observations, there was
+rustle and stir behind me, and a man who had been lounging, silent,
+moveless, and, as I had supposed, asleep, stretched forward a brown
+fist, exclaiming:
+
+"Hallo, old boy! Stop right here. Harding, how are ye?"
+
+Of course the "old boy" stopped. There was the usual hand shaking, and
+mutual exclamations of surprise and pleasure, not unmixed with
+profanity. Evidently they had been sometime friends and neighbors, and
+had not met before for years.
+
+They talked very fast and, it seemed to me, unnecessarily loud; the one
+asking, the other answering, questions concerning a certain village,
+which, because it would not be wise to give its real name we will call
+Trafton.
+
+Evidently Trafton was the station we had just left, and where we took
+on this voluble passenger. They talked of its inhabitants, its
+improvements, its business; of births, and deaths, and marriages. It was
+very uninteresting; I was beginning to feel bored, and was meditating a
+change of seat, when the tone of the conversation changed somewhat, and,
+before I could sufficiently overcome my laziness to move, I found myself
+getting interested.
+
+"No, Trafton ain't a prosperous town. For the few rich ones it's well
+enough, but the poor--well, the only ones that prosper are those who
+live without work."
+
+"Oh! the rich?"
+
+"No! the poor. 'Nuff said."
+
+"Oh! I see; some of the old lot there yet; wood piles suffer?"
+
+"_Wood piles!_"
+
+"And hen roosts."
+
+"_Hen roosts!_" in a still deeper tone of disgust.
+
+"Clothes lines, too, of course."
+
+"_Clothes lines!_" Evidently this was the last straw. "Thunder and
+lightning, man, that's baby talk; there's more deviltry going on about
+Trafton than you could scoop up in forty ordinary towns."
+
+"No! you don't tell me. What's the mischief?"
+
+"Well, it's easy enough to tell _what_ the mischief is, but _where_ it
+is, is the poser; but there's a good many in Trafton that wouldn't
+believe you if you told them there was no such thing as an organized
+gang of marauders near the place."
+
+"An organized gang!"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"But, good Lord, that's pretty strong for Trafton. Do you believe it?"
+
+"Rather," with Yankee dryness.
+
+"Well, I'm blessed! Come, old man, tell us some of the particulars. What
+makes you suspect blacklegs about that little town?"
+
+"I've figured the thing down pretty close, and I've had reason to. The
+thing has been going on for a number of years, and I've been a loser,
+and ever since the beginning it has moved like clock-work. Five years
+ago a horse thief had not been heard of in Trafton for Lord knows how
+long, until one night Judge Barnes lost a valuable span, taken from his
+stable, slick and clean, and never heard of afterwards. Since then, from
+the town and country, say for twenty-five miles around, they have
+averaged over twenty horses every year, and they are always the very
+best; picked every time, no guess work."
+
+The companion listener gave a long, shrill whistle, and I, supposed by
+them to be asleep, became very wide awake and attentive.
+
+"But," said the astonished man, "you found some of them?"
+
+"No, sir; horses that leave Trafton between two days never come back
+again."
+
+"Good Lord!"
+
+There was a moment's silence and then the Traftonite said:
+
+"But that ain't all; we can beat the city itself for burglars."
+
+[Illustration: "But that ain't all; we can beat the city itself for
+burglars."--page 36.]
+
+"Burglars, too!"
+
+"Yes, _burglars_!" This the gentleman emphasized very freely. "And cute
+ones; they never get caught, and they seldom miss a figure."
+
+"How's that?"
+
+"They always know where to strike. If a man goes away to be absent for a
+night or two, they know it. If a man draws money from the bank, or sells
+cattle, they know that. And if some of our farmers, who like to go home
+drunk once in a while, travel the road alone, they are liable to be
+relieved of a part of their load."
+
+"And who do the folks suspect of doing the mischief?"
+
+"They talk among themselves, and very carefully, about _having_
+suspicions and _being_ on the watch; but very few dare breathe a name.
+And after all, there is no clear reason for suspecting anyone."
+
+"But _you_ suspect some one, or I miss my guess."
+
+"Well, and so I do, but I ain't the man to lay myself liable to an
+action for damages, so I say nothing, but _I'm watching_."
+
+Little more was said on the subject that interested me, and presently
+the Traftonite took leave of his friend, and quitted the train at a
+station, not more than twenty miles east of Trafton; the other was going
+to the city, like myself.
+
+When quiet was restored in my vicinity, I settled myself for a fresh
+cogitation, and now I gave no thought to the fate of Mamie Rutger and
+'Squire Ewing's daughter. My mind was absorbed entirely with what I had
+just heard.
+
+The pretty, stupid-looking little town of Trafton had suddenly become to
+me what the great Hippodrome is to small boys. I wanted to see it; I
+wanted to explore it, and to find the mainspring that moved its mystery.
+
+The words that had fallen from the lips of the Trafton man, had revealed
+to my practiced ear a more comprehensive story than he had supposed
+himself relating.
+
+Systematic thieving and burglary for five years! Systematic, and always
+successful. What a masterful rogue must be the founder of this system!
+How secure he must be in his place, and his scheming, and what a foeman
+to encounter. It would be something to thwart, to baffle, and bring to
+justice a villain of such caliber.
+
+After a while my thoughts turned back to Groveland. Certainly the
+mystery there was quite as deep, and the solution of it of more vital
+importance. But--Groveland was the mystery that I had touched and
+handled; Trafton was the mystery unseen.
+
+So my mind returned to the latter subject, and when, hours later, we
+ran into the city, Groveland was still absent, and Trafton present, in
+my thoughts.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+CHARTERING A DUMMY.
+
+
+By the time I reached the city my arm, which needed fresh bandages,
+began to pain me, and I went straight to the office of a surgeon,
+well-known to fame, and to the detective service. He had bound up many a
+broken bone for our office, and we of the fraternity called him "Our
+Samaritan." Some of the boys, and, let me confess it, myself among the
+number, called him "Our old woman," as well, for, while he bandaged and
+healed and prescribed, he waged continued warfare upon our profession,
+or rather the dangers of it.
+
+Of course, the country needed secret service men, and must have them,
+but there was an especial reason why each one of us should not be a
+detective. We were too young, or too old; we were too reckless, or we
+were cut out for some other career. In short, every patient that came
+under the hand of good Dr. Denham, became straightway an object of
+interest to his kindly old heart; and--strange weakness in a man of his
+cloth--he desired to keep us out of danger.
+
+"So ho!" cried "our old woman," when I appeared before him with my
+bandaged arm, "here _you_ are! I knew you'd be along soon. You've kept
+out of my clutches a good while. Arm, eh? Glad of it! I'll cut it off;
+I'll cut it off! That'll spoil _one_ detective."
+
+I laughed. We always laughed at the talkative soul, and he expected it.
+
+"Cut it off, then," I retorted, flinging myself down in a chair and
+beginning to remove my sling. "I don't need a left arm to shoot the
+fellow that gave me this, and I'm bound to do that, you know."
+
+"So! Got shot again? Go on, go on, sir! I'll have the pleasure of
+dissecting you yet. You'll come home dead some day, you scoundrel. Ah!
+here we are. Um! flesh wound, rear of arm, under side; close, pretty
+close, pret-ty close, sir!"
+
+[Illustration: "So! Got shot again? Go on, go on, sir! I'll have the
+pleasure of dissecting you yet."--page 43.]
+
+All this was jerked out in short breaths, while he was undoing and
+taking a first look at my arm. When the actual business of dressing
+commenced, "our old woman" was always silent and very intent upon the
+delicate task.
+
+"Pity it wasn't a little worse," he sniffled, moving across the room and
+opening a case of instruments. "You chaps get off too easy; you don't
+come quite near enough to Death's door. There's Carnes, now; got a knife
+through his shoulder, and fretting and fuming because he can't put
+himself in a position to get another dig."
+
+"Is Carnes in?"
+
+"Yes. And was badly cut."
+
+"Poor fellow! I'm sorry for that, but glad of the chance to see him;
+he's been on a long cruise."
+
+"Well, I'm not so sure about his going on another. Now then."
+
+And the doctor applied himself to business, and I sat, wincing
+sometimes, under his hand, but thinking through it all of Carnes.
+
+He was the _comique_ of the force; a man who was either loved or hated
+by all who knew him. No one could be simply indifferent to Carnes. He
+was a well-educated man, although he habitually spoke with a brogue. But
+I knew Carnes was not an Irishman; although he professed to have "hailed
+from Erin," he could drop the accent at pleasure and assume any other
+with perfect ease,--a feat rather difficult of accomplishment by a
+genuine Irishman.
+
+Nobody knew much about Carnes; he had no confidants, although he had his
+favorites, one of whom I chanced to be.
+
+He was older than myself by ten years, but when the mood seized him,
+could be younger by twenty. He had been absent from the office for
+nearly a year, and I mentally resolved that, after making my report and
+attending to business, I would lose no time in seeing him.
+
+Under the skilled hand of Dr. Denham my arm was soon dressed and made
+comfortable. It would be well in a fortnight, the good doctor assured
+me, and then as soon as I could, I withdrew from his presence and his
+customary fire of raillery and questions, and stopping only to refresh
+myself at a restaurant by the way, hastened on toward our office, where
+I was soon closeted with my Chief.
+
+As usual, he made no comments, asked no questions, when I dawned upon
+him thus unexpectedly. He never made use of unnecessary words. He only
+turned out one or two of the force who were lounging there, waiting his
+pleasure to attend to less important business, saw that the doors were
+closed and the outer office properly attended, and then seating himself
+opposite me at the desk, said quietly:
+
+"Now, Bathurst?"
+
+I was well accustomed to this condensed way of doing things, and it
+suited me. In a concise manner matching his own, I put him in possession
+of the facts relating to the Groveland case, and then I made a
+discovery. After relating how I had received the anonymous letter I
+produced my pocket-book, where I supposed it to be, and found it
+missing! It was useless to search; the letter was not in my pocket-book,
+neither was it on my person.
+
+"Well!" I said, when fully convinced that the letter was certainly not
+in my possession, "here's another complication. I've been robbed and--I
+know who did it!"
+
+My companion made no comment, and I continued:
+
+"The letter was of no vital importance; I will finish my story and then
+you will know what has become of it."
+
+I told the rest; of my ride upon Mrs. Ballou's colt, of the pistol
+shot, my runaway steed, and my subsequent interview with Mrs. Ballou.
+How she had dressed my wound, how the circumstances had compelled me to
+confide in her, and how she had risen to the occasion, and driven me to
+the station at half-past three in the morning, and I finished by saying:
+
+"Now it looks to me as if Mrs. Ballou had stolen my letter, and if so,
+one might take that fact and the one that Nellie Ewing was never seen
+after leaving her house, and count it as strong circumstantial evidence;
+but, that kind of evidence won't convince me that Mrs. Ballou is
+implicated in the crime or the mystery. When I told her of the printed
+letter, I saw her eyes gleam; and when she asked to see the document I
+read anxiety in her face. I am sure she took the letter, and I think she
+has a suspicion of some sort; but if she has the letter she will return
+it."
+
+My chief made no comment on all that I had told him; he picked up a
+paper weight and laid it down again with great precision, then he put
+all my story "on the shelf," as we were wont to express it, by asking
+abruptly:
+
+"What are you going to do next?"
+
+The question did not surprise me. He was not in the habit of offering
+much advice to such operatives as he trusted with delicate cases, for he
+never trusted a man until he felt full confidence in his skill and
+integrity. But when we desired to consult with him, he entered into the
+study of the case with animation and zeal; and then, and then only, did
+he do a full share of the talking.
+
+"Going to send them a 'dummy,' if we can find one with the grit to face
+the chances. They must suppose me entirely out of the business."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I want an extraordinary dummy, too; a blusterer."
+
+"Wait," interrupted my companion, beginning to smile, "I have got just
+the animal. When do you want to see him?"
+
+"As soon as possible; I want him in the field at once."
+
+"Very good. This fellow came here yesterday, and he's the greatest
+combination of fool and egotist I ever saw. Knows he was born for a
+detective and is ready to face a colony of desperadoes; there is no
+limit to his cheek and no end to his tongue. If you want a talkative
+fool he'll do."
+
+"Well," I replied, "that's what I want, but the man must not be quite
+destitute of courage. I don't think that the party or parties will make
+another attack upon a fresh man, and yet they may; and this dummy must
+remain there quite alone until the rascals are convinced that he has no
+confederates. There is a keen brain at the bottom of this Groveland
+mischief. I mean to overreach it and all its confederates, for I believe
+there must be confederates; and, sir, I don't believe those girls have
+been murdered."
+
+"No?"
+
+"No. But I want our dummy to act on the supposition that they _have_
+been. This will ease the vigilance of the guilty parties, and when they
+are off their guard, our time will come. Where is Carnes?"
+
+My companion was in full sympathy with my abrupt change of the subject,
+and he answered, readily:
+
+"At his old rooms. Carnes had a bad cut, but he is getting along
+finely."
+
+"Is he? The doctor gave me the idea that he was still in a doubtful
+condition."
+
+"Stuff," giving a short laugh, "some of his scarey talk; he told me that
+Carnes would be about within two weeks. Carnes did some good work in the
+West."
+
+"He is a splendid fellow; I must see him to-night. But about our dummy:
+when can you produce him?"
+
+"Will to-morrow do? say ten o'clock."
+
+"It must be later by an hour; the doctor takes me in hand at ten."
+
+"Eleven, then. I will have him here, and you'll find him a jewel."
+
+"Very good," I said, rising, and taking up my hat, "any message to send
+to Carnes? I shall see him to-night."
+
+"Look here," turning upon me suddenly, "you are not to go to Carnes for
+any purpose but to _see_ him. You must not talk to him much, nor let him
+talk; the doctor should have told you that. He is weak, and easily
+excited. It's bad enough to have two of my best men crippled and off at
+once; you must not retard his recovery. Carnes is as unruly as a
+ten-year old, now."
+
+I laughed; I could see just how this whimsical comrade of mine would
+chafe under his temporary imprisonment.
+
+"I won't upset the old fellow," I said, and took my leave.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+EN ROUTE FOR TRAFTON.
+
+
+Over the minor events of my story I will not linger, for although they
+cannot be omitted altogether, they are still so overshadowed by
+startling and thrilling after events that they may, with propriety, be
+narrated in brief.
+
+I saw Carnes, and found that the Chief had not exaggerated, and that the
+doctor had.
+
+Carnes was getting well very fast, but was chafing like a caged bear, if
+I may use so ancient an illustration.
+
+We compared notes and sympathized with each other, and then we made some
+plans. Of course we were off duty for the present, and could be our own
+masters. Carnes had been operating in a western city, and I proposed to
+him a change. I told him of the conversation I had overheard that
+morning, and soon had him as much interested in Trafton as was myself.
+Then I said:
+
+"Now, old man, why not run down to that little paradise of freebooters
+and see what we think of it?"
+
+[Illustration: "Now, old man, why not run down to that little paradise
+of freebooters and see what we think of it?"--page 50.]
+
+"Begorra and that'll jist suit me case," cried Carnes, who was just then
+in his Hibernian mood. "And it's go we will widen the wake."
+
+But go "widen the wake" we did not.
+
+We were forced to curb our impatience somewhat, for Carnes needed a
+little more strength, and my arm must be free from Dr. Denham's sling.
+
+We were to go as Summer strollers, and, in order to come more naturally
+into contact with different classes of the Traftonites, I assumed the
+_r�le_ of a well-to-do Gothamite with a taste for rural Summer sports,
+and Carnes made a happy hit in choosing the character of half companion,
+half servant; resolving himself into a _whole_ Irishman for the
+occasion.
+
+It was a fancy of his always to operate in disguise, so for this reason,
+and because of his pallor, and the unusual length of his hair and beard,
+he chose to take his holiday _en naturale_, and most unnatural he looked
+to me, who had never seen him in ill-health.
+
+As for me, I preferred on this occasion to adopt a light disguise.
+
+In spite of the warning of our Chief, but not in defiance of it, I
+talked Carnes into a fidget, and even worked myself into a state of
+enthusiasm. Of course I made no mention of the Groveland case; we never
+discussed our private operations with each other; at least, not until
+they were finished and the _finale_ a foregone conclusion.
+
+After bidding Carnes good-night, I sauntered leisurely homeward, if a
+hotel may be called home, and the ring of a horse's hoofs on the
+pavement brought to my mind my wild ride, Groveland, and Mrs. Ballou.
+
+Why had she stolen that letter of warning? That she had I felt assured.
+Did she give her true reason for wishing my revolver? Would she return
+my letter? And would she, after all, keep the secret of my identity?
+
+I did not flatter myself that I was the wonderful judge of human nature
+some people think themselves, but I did believe myself able to judge
+between honest and dishonest faces, and I had judged Mrs. Ballou as
+honest.
+
+So after a little I was able to answer my own questions. She _would_
+return my letter. She _could_ keep a secret, and--she would make good
+use, if any, of my weapon.
+
+It was not long before my judgment of Mrs. Ballou, in one particular at
+least, was verified.
+
+On the morning after my interview with Carnes, I saw the man who was
+destined to cover himself with glory in the capacity of "Dummy," and
+here a word of explanation may be necessary.
+
+Sometimes, not often, it becomes expedient, if not absolutely necessary,
+for a detective to work under a double guard. It is not always enough
+that others should not know him as a detective; it is required that they
+should be doubly deluded by fancying themselves aware of _who is_, hence
+the dummy.
+
+But in this narrative I shall speak in brief of the dummy's operations.
+Suffice it to say that he was just the man for the place; egotistical,
+ignorant, talkative to a fault, and thoroughly imbued, as all dummies
+should be, with the idea that he was "born for a detective."
+
+Of course he was not aware of the part he was actually to play. He was
+instructed as to the nature of the case, given such points as we thought
+he would make best use of, and told in full just what risk he might run.
+
+But our dummy was no coward. He inspected my wounded arm, expressed
+himself more than ready to take any risk, promised to keep within the
+bounds of safety after nightfall, and panted to be in the field.
+
+Just one day before our departure for Trafton I received a letter from
+Mrs. Ballou. Enclosed with it was my lost note of warning. Its contents
+puzzled me not a little. It ran thus:
+
+     DEAR SIR--I return you the letter I took from your pocket the
+     morning you left us. You did not suspect me of burglary, did
+     you? Of course you guessed the truth when you came to miss it.
+     I thought it might help me to a clue, but was wrong. _I can not
+     use it._
+
+     If anything _new or strange_ occurs, it may be to your interest
+     to inform _me_ first of all.
+
+     The time may come when you can doubly repay the service I
+     rendered you not long since. If so, remember me. I think I
+     shall come to the city soon.
+
+                    Respectfully, etc.,            M. A. BALLOU
+
+     P. S.--_Please destroy._
+
+From some women such a letter might have meant simply nothing. From
+Mrs. Ballou it was fraught with meaning.
+
+How coolly she waived the ceremony of apology! She wanted the
+letter--she took it; a mere matter of course.
+
+And as a matter of course, she returned it.
+
+Thus much of the letter was straight-forward, and suited me well enough;
+but----
+
+"_I thought it might help me to a clue, but was wrong._ I CAN NOT USE
+IT."
+
+Over these words I pondered, and then I connected them with the
+remainder of the letter. Mrs. Ballou was clever, but she was no
+diplomatist. She had put a thread in my hands.
+
+I made some marks in a little memorandum book, that would have been
+called anything but intelligible to the average mortal, but that were
+very plain language to my eye, and to none other. Next I put a certain
+bit of information in the hands of my Chief; then I turned my face
+toward Trafton.
+
+To my readers the connection between the fate of the two missing girls,
+and the mysterious doings at Trafton, may seem slight.
+
+To my mind, as we set out that day for the scene of a new operation,
+there seemed nothing to connect the two; I was simply, as I thought, for
+the time being, laying down one thread to take up another.
+
+A detective has not the gift of second sight, and without this gift how
+was I to know that at Trafton I was to find my clue to the Groveland
+mystery, and that that mystery was in its turn to shed a light upon the
+dark doings of Trafton, and aid justice in her work of requital?
+
+So it is. Out of threads, divers and far-fetched, Fate loves to weave
+her wonderful webs.
+
+And now, for a time, we leave Groveland with the shadow upon it. We
+leave the shadow now; later it comes to us.
+
+For the present we are _en route_ for Trafton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+JIM LONG.
+
+
+"Trafton?" said Jim Long, more familiarly known as Long Jim, scratching
+his head reflectively, "can't remember just how long I _did_ live in
+Trafton; good sight longer'n I'll live in it any more, I calklate;
+green, oh, dretful green, when I come here; in fact mem'ry hadn't
+de-welluped; wasn't peart then like I am now. But I ain't got nothin' to
+say agin' Trafton, _I_ ain't, tho' there _be_ some folks as has. Thar's
+Kurnel Brookhouse, now, _he's_ bin scalped severial times; then
+thar's--hello!"
+
+Jim brought his rhetoric up standing, and lowered one leg hastily off
+the fence, where he had been balancing like a Chinese juggler.
+
+At the same moment a fine chestnut horse dashed around a curve of the
+road, bearing a woman, who rode with a free rein, and sat as if born to
+the saddle. She favored Jim with a friendly nod as she flew past, and
+that worthy responded with a delighted grin and no other sign of
+recognition.
+
+When she had disappeared among the trees, and the horse's hoofs could
+scarcely be heard on the hard dry road, Jim drew up his leg, resumed his
+former balance, and went on as if nothing had happened.
+
+"There was Kurnel Brookhouse and--"
+
+"The mischief fly away wid old Brookhouse," broke in Carnes, giving the
+fence a shake that nearly unseated our juggler. "Who's the purty girl as
+bowed till yee's? That's the question on board now."
+
+"Look here, Mr. Ireland," expostulated Jim, getting slowly off the fence
+backward, and affecting great timidity in so doing, "ye shouldn't shake
+a chap that way when he's practisin' jimnasti--what's its name? It's
+awful unsafe."
+
+[Illustration: "Look here, Mr. Ireland," expostulated Jim, "ye shouldn't
+shake a chap that way."--page 59.]
+
+And he assured himself that his two feet were actually on _terra firma_
+before he relinquished his hold upon the top rail of the fence. Then
+turning toward Carnes he asked, with a most insinuating smile:
+
+"Wasn't you askin' something?"
+
+"That's jist what I was, by the powers," cried Carnes, as if his fate
+hung upon the answer. "Who is the leddy? be dacent, now."
+
+We had been some two weeks in Trafton when this dialogue occurred, and
+Jim Long was one of our first acquaintances. Carnes had picked him up
+somewhere about town; and the two had grown quite friendly and intimate.
+
+Long was a character in the eyes of Carnes, and was gradually
+developing into a genius in mine. Jim was, to all outward appearances,
+the personification of laziness, candor, good nature, and a species of
+blundering waggishness; but as I grew to know him better, I learned to
+respect the irony under his innocent looks and boorish speeches, and I
+soon found that he possessed a faculty, and a fondness, for baffling and
+annoying Carnes, that delighted me; for Carnes was, like most
+indefatigible jokers, rather nonplussed at having the tables turned.
+
+Jim never did anything for a livelihood that could be discovered, but he
+called himself a "Hoss Fysician," and indeed it was said that he could
+always be trusted with a horse, if he could be induced to look at one.
+But he had his likes and dislikes, so he said, and he would obstinately
+refuse to treat a horse toward which he had what he called "onfriendly
+feelin's."
+
+Jim could tell us all there was to tell concerning the town of Trafton.
+It was only necessary to set him going; and no story lost anything of
+spirit through being told by him.
+
+He was an oracle on the subjects of fishing and hunting; indeed, he was
+usually to be found in the companionship of gun or fishing rod.
+
+Fortunately for us, Trafton had rare facilities for sports of the
+aforementioned sort, and we gathered up many small items while, in the
+society of Long Jim, we scrambled through copses, gun in hand, or
+whipped the streams, and listened to the heterogenous mass of
+information that flowed from his ready tongue.
+
+But the spirit of gossip was not always present with Jim. Sometimes he
+was in an argumentative mood, and then would ensue the most astounding
+discussions between himself and Carnes. Sometimes he was full of
+theology, and then his discourse would have enraptured Swing, and
+out-Heroded Ingersoll, for his theology varied with his moods. Sometimes
+he was given to moralizing, and then Carnes was in despair.
+
+Jim lived alone in a little house, or more properly, "cabin," something
+more than a mile from town. He had a small piece of ground which he
+called his "farm," and all his slight amount of industry was expended on
+this.
+
+"Who is the leddy, I tell yee's?" roared Carnes, who, I may as well
+state here, had introduced himself to the Traftonites as Barney Cooley.
+"Bedad, a body would think she was your first shwateheart by the
+dumbness av yee's!"
+
+"And so she air," retorted Jim with much solemnity. "Don't _you_ go ter
+presoomin', Mr. Ireland. That are Miss Manvers, as lives in the house
+that's just a notch bigger'n Kurnel Brookhouse's; and her father was
+Captain Manvers, as went down in the good ship _Amy Audrey_, and left
+his darter that big house, and a bigger fortune dug out 'en a
+treasure-ship on the coast uv--"
+
+"Stop a bit, long legs," interposed Carnes, or Barney, as we had better
+call him, "was it a threasure-ship yee's wur hatchin' when it tuck yee's
+so long to shun out yer little sthory?"
+
+"Well, then, Erin, tell your own stories, that's all. If yer wan't ter
+kick over one uv the institooshuns uv Trafton, why, wade in."
+
+But Carnes only shook his head, and lying at full length upon the ground
+feigning great pain, groaned at intervals:
+
+"Oh! h! h! threasure-ship!"
+
+"But, Long," I interposed, "does this young lady, this Miss Manvers,
+sanction the story of a treasure from the deep, or is it only a flying
+rumor?"
+
+"It's flyin' enough," retorted Jim, soberly. "It's in everybody's
+mouth; that is, everybody as has an appetite for flyin' rumors. And I
+never knew of the lady contradictin' it, nuther. The facks is jest
+these, boss. There's Miss Manvers, and there's the big house, and the
+blooded horses, an' all the other fine things that I couldn't begin to
+interduce by their right names. They're facks, as anybody can see. There
+seems to be plenty o' money backin' the big house an' other big fixins,
+an' _I_ ain't agoin' to be oudacious enough ter say there ain't a big
+treasure-ship backin' up the whole business. Now, I ain't never seen
+'em, an' I ain't never seen anyone as has, not bein' much of a society
+man; but folks _say_ as Miss Manvers has got the most wonderfullest
+things dug out o' that ship; old coins, heaps of 'em; jewels an'
+_aunteeks_, as they call 'em, that don't hardly ever see daylight. One
+thing's certain: old Manvers come here most six years ago; he dressed,
+looked, and talked like a sailor; he bought the big house, fitted it up,
+an' left his daughter in it. Then he went away and got drowned. They say
+he made his fortune at sea, and it's pretty sartin that he brought some
+wonderful things home from the briny. Mebbe you had better go up to the
+Hill, that's Miss Manvers' place, and interduce yourself, and ask for
+the family history, Mr. 'Exile of Erin,'" concluded Jim, with a grin
+intended to be sarcastic, as he seated himself on a half decayed stump,
+and prepared to fill his pipe.
+
+"Bedad, an' so I will, Long Jim," cried Barney, springing up with
+alacrity. "An' thank ye kindly for mintionin' it. When will I find the
+leddy at home, then?"
+
+Partly to avert the tournament which I saw was about to break out afresh
+between the two, and partly through interest in the fair owner of the
+treasure-ship spoils, I interposed once more.
+
+"Miss Manvers must be a fair target for fortune-hunters, Long; are there
+any such in Trafton?"
+
+"Wall, now, that's what _some_ folks says, tho' I ain't goin' ter lay
+myself liable ter an action fer slander. There's _lovers_ enough; it
+ain't easy tellin' jest what they _air_ after. There's young Mr.
+Brookhouse; now, _his_ pa's rich enough; _he_ ain't no call to go fortin
+huntin'. There's a lawyer from G----, too, and a young 'Piscopal parson;
+then there's our new young doctor. I ain't hearn anyone say anythin'
+about him; but _I've_ seen 'em together, and I makebold ter say that
+he's anuther on 'em. Seen the young doctor, ain't ye?" turning to me
+suddenly with the last question.
+
+"Yes," I replied, carelessly; "he dines at the hotel."
+
+"Just so, and keeps his own lodgin' house in that little smit on a
+cottage across the creek on the Brookhouse farm road."
+
+"Oh, does he?"
+
+"Yes. Queer place for a doctor, some think, but bless you, it's as
+central as any, when you come ter look. Trafton ain't got any _heart_,
+like most towns; you can't tell where the middle of it is. It's as
+crookid as--its reputation."
+
+Not desiring to appear over anxious concerning the reputation of
+Trafton, I continued my queries about the doctor.
+
+"He's new to Trafton, I think you said?"
+
+"Yes, bran new; _too_ new. We don't like new things, we don't; have to
+learn 'em afore we like 'em. We don't like the new doctor like we
+orter."
+
+"_We_, Long? Don't you like Dr. Bethel?"
+
+"Well, speakin' as an individual, I like him fust rate. _I_ wuz speakin'
+as a good citizen, ye see; kind o' identifyin' myself with the common
+pulse," with an oratorical flourish.
+
+"Oh, I do see," I responded, laughingly.
+
+"Yis, we see!" broke in Barney, who had bridled his tongue all too long
+for his own comfort. "He's runnin' fur office, is Jim; he's afther
+wantin' to be alderman."
+
+"Ireland," retorted Long, in a tone of lofty admonition, "we're talkin'
+sense, wot nobody expects ye to understand. Hold yer gab, won't yer?"
+
+Thus admonished, Barney relapsed into silence, and Jim, who was now
+fairly launched, resumed:
+
+"Firstly," said he, "the doctor's a leetle too good lookin', don't you
+think so?"
+
+"Why, he is handsome, certainly, but it's in a massive way; he is not
+effeminate enough to be _too_ handsome."
+
+"That's it," replied Long, disparagingly; "he ain't our style. _Our_
+style is curled locks, cunnin' little moustachys, little hands and feet,
+and slim waists. Our style is more ruffles to the square fut of shirt
+front, and more chains and rings than this interlopin' doctor wears."
+
+"Our sthyle! Och, murther, hear him!" groaned Carnes, in a stage aside.
+
+"His manners ain't our style, nuther," went on Long, lugubriously.
+"_We_ always has a bow and a smile fur all, rich an poor alike,
+exceptin' now and then a no count person what there's no need uv wastin'
+politeness on. _He_ goes along head up, independenter nor Fouth o' July.
+He don't make no distincshun between folks an' folks, like a man orter.
+I've seen him bow jist the same bow to old Granny Sanders, as lives down
+at the poor farm, and to Parson Radcliffe, our biggest preachin' gun.
+Now, _that's_ no way fer a man ter do as wants ter live happy in
+Trafton; it ain't _our_ way."
+
+A mighty groan from Barney.
+
+"He's got a practice, though," went on Jim, utterly ignoring the
+apparent misery of his would-be tormentor. "Somehow he manages to cure
+folks as some of our old doctors can't. I reckon a change o' physic's
+good fer folks, same's a change o' diet--"
+
+"Or a clane shirt," broke in Carnes, with an insinuating glance in the
+direction of Jim's rather dingy linen.
+
+"Eggsackly," retorted Long, turning back his cuffs with great care and
+glancing menacingly at his enemy--"er a thrashin'."
+
+"Gentlemen," I interposed, "let us have peace. And tell me, Jim, where
+may we find your model Traftonite, your hero of the curls, moustaches,
+dainty hands, and discriminating politeness? I have not seen him."
+
+"Whar?" retorted Long, in an aggrieved tone, "look here, boss, you don't
+think _I_ ever mean anythin' personal by my remarks? I'd sworn it were
+all that way when you come ter notice. The average Traftonite's the
+sleekest, pertiest chap on earth. We wuz born so."
+
+Some more demonstrations in pantomime from Carnes, and silence fell
+upon us. I knew from the way Long smoked at his pipe and glowered at
+Carnes that nothing more in the way of information need be expected from
+him. He had said enough, or too much, or something he had not intended
+to say; he looked dissatisfied, and soon we separated, Long repairing to
+his farm, and Carnes and I to our hotel, all in search of dinner.
+
+"We won't have much trouble in finding the 'Average Traftonite,' old
+man," I said, as we sauntered back to town.
+
+No answer; Carnes was smoking a huge black pipe and gazing thoughtfully
+on the ground.
+
+"I wonder if any attempt has been made to rob Miss Manvers of those
+treasure-ship jewels," I ventured next.
+
+"Umph!"
+
+"Or of her blooded horses. Carnes, what's your opinion of Long?"
+
+Carnes took his pipe from his mouth and turned upon me two serious eyes.
+When I saw the expression in them I knew he was ready to talk business.
+
+"Honor bright?" he queried, without a trace of his Irish accent.
+
+"Honor bright."
+
+"Well," restoring his pipe and puffing out a black cloud, "he's an odd
+fish!"
+
+"Bad?"
+
+"He's a fraud!"
+
+"As how?"
+
+"Cute, keen, has played the fool so long he sometimes believes himself
+one. Did you notice any little discrepancies in his speech?
+
+"Well, rather."
+
+"Nobody else ever would, I'll be bound; not the 'Average Traftonite,' at
+least. That man has not always been at odds with the English grammar,
+mark me. What do you think, Bathurst?"
+
+"I think," responded I, soberly, "that we shall find in him an ally or
+an enemy."
+
+We had been sauntering "across lots," over some of the Brookhouse acres,
+and we now struck into a path leading down to the highway, that brought
+us out just opposite the cottage occupied by Dr. Bethel.
+
+As we approached, the doctor was leaning over the gate in conversation
+with a gentleman seated in a light road wagon, whose face was turned
+away from us.
+
+As we came near he turned his head, favoring us with a careless glance,
+and, as I saw his face, I recognized him as the handsome young gallant
+who had attended the friend of Miss Grace Ballou, on the occasion of
+that friend's visit to the Ballou farm, and who had bidden the ladies
+such an impressive good-bye as I drove them away from the village
+station.
+
+Contrary to my first intention I approached the gate, and as I drew
+near, the young man gathered up his reins and nodding to the doctor
+drove away.
+
+Dr. Bethel and myself had exchanged civilities at our hotel, and I
+addressed him in a careless way as I paused at the gate.
+
+"That's a fine stepping horse, doctor," nodding after the receding
+turnout; "is it owned in the town?"
+
+"Yes," replied the doctor; "that is young Brookhouse, or rather one of
+them. There are two or three sons; they all drive fine stock."
+
+I was passing in the town for a well-to-do city young man with sporting
+propensities, and as the doctor swung open the gate and strode beside me
+toward the hotel, Carnes trudging on in advance, the talk turned quite
+naturally upon horses, and horse owners.
+
+That night I wrote to Mrs. Ballou, stating that I had nothing of much
+moment to impart, but desired that she would notify me several days in
+advance of her proposed visit to the city, as I wished to meet her. This
+letter I sent to our office to be forwarded to Groveland from thence.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+WE ORGANIZE.
+
+
+We had not been long in Trafton before our reputation as thoroughly good
+fellows was well established, "each man after his kind."
+
+Carnes entered with zest into the part he had undertaken. He was hail
+fellow well met with every old bummer and corner loafer; he made himself
+acquainted with all the gossippers and possessed of all the gossip of
+the town.
+
+After a little he began to grow somewhat unsteady in his habits, and
+under the influence of too much liquor, would occasionally make remarks,
+disparaging or otherwise as the occasion warranted, concerning me, and
+so it came about that I was believed to be a young man of wealth, the
+possessor of an irascible temper, but very generous; the victim of a
+woman's falseness;--but here Carnes always assured people that he did
+not know "the particulars," and that, if it came to my ears that he had
+"mentioned" it, it would cost him his place, etc.
+
+These scraps of private history were always brought forward by, or
+drawn out of, him when he was supposed to be "the worse for liquor." In
+his "sober" moments he was discreetness itself.
+
+So adroitly did he play his part that, without knowing how it came
+about, Trafton had accepted me at Carnes' standard, and I found my way
+made smooth, and myself considered a desirable acquisition to Trafton
+society.
+
+I became acquainted with the lawyers, the ministers, the county
+officials, for Trafton was the county seat. I was soon on a social
+footing with the Brookhouses, father and son. I made my bow before the
+fair owner of the treasure-ship jewels; and began to feel a genuine
+interest in, and liking for, Dr. Bethel, who, according to Jim Long, was
+_not_ Trafton style.
+
+Thus fairly launched upon the Trafton tide, and having assured ourselves
+that no one entertained a suspicion of our masquerade, we began to look
+more diligently about us for fresh information concerning the
+depredations that had made the town attractive to us.
+
+Sitting together one night, after Carnes had spent the evening at an
+especially objectionable saloon, and I had returned from a small social
+gathering whither I had been piloted by one of my new acquaintances, we
+began "taking account of stock," as Carnes quaintly put it.
+
+"The question now arises," said Carnes, dropping his Hibernianisms, and
+taking them up again as his enthusiasm waxed or waned. "The question is
+this: What's in our hand? What do wee's know? What do wee's surmise, and
+what have wee's got till find out?"
+
+"Very comprehensively put, old fellow," I laughed, while I referred to
+a previously mentioned note book. "First, then, what do we know?"
+
+"Well," replied Carnes, tilting back his chair, "we know more than mony
+a poor fellow has known when he set out to work up a knotty case. We
+know we are in the field, bedad. We know that horses have been stolen,
+houses broken open, robberies great and small committed _here_. We know
+they have been well planned and systematic, engineered by a cute head."
+
+Carnes stopped abruptly, and looked over as if he expected me to finish
+the summing up.
+
+"Yes," I replied, "we knew all that in the beginning; now for what we
+have picked up. First, then, just run your eye over this memorandum; I
+made it out to-day, and, like a love letter, it should be destroyed as
+soon as read. Here you have, as near as I could get them, the names of
+the farmers who have lost horses, harness, buggies, etc. Here is the
+average distance of their respective residences from the town, and their
+directions. Do you see the drift?"
+
+Carnes rubbed the bridge of his nose; a favorite habit.
+
+"No, be the powers," he ejaculated; "St. Patrick himself couldn't see
+the sinse o' that."
+
+"Very good. Now, here is a map of this county. On this map, one by one,
+you must locate those farms."
+
+"Bother the location," broke in Carnes, impatiently. "Serve it up in a
+nutshell. What's the point?"
+
+"The point, then, is this," drawing the map toward me. "The places where
+these robberies have been committed, are all in certain directions.
+Look; east, northeast, west, north; scarce one south, southeast, or
+southwest. Hence, I conclude that these stolen horses are run into some
+rendezvous that is not more than a five hours' ride from the scene of
+the theft."
+
+"The dickens ye do!" muttered Carnes, under his breath.
+
+"Again," I resumed, perceiving that Carnes was becoming deeply
+interested, and very alert, "the horses, etc., have been stolen from
+points ten, twelve, twenty miles, from Trafton; the most distant, so far
+as I have found out, is twenty-two miles."
+
+"Ar-m-m-m?" from Carnes.
+
+"Now, then, let us suppose the robbers to be living in this town. They
+leave here at nine, ten, or later when the distance is short. They ride
+fleet horses. At midnight, let us say, the robbery is committed. The
+horses must be off the road, and safe from prying eyes, before morning,
+and must remain _perdu_ until the search is over. What, then? The
+question is, do the robbers turn them over to confederates, in order to
+get safely back to the town under cover of the night; or, is the
+hiding-place so near that no change is necessary?"
+
+I paused for a comment, but Carnes sat mute.
+
+"Now, then," I resumed, "I am supposing this lair of horse-thieves to
+be _somewhere_ south, or nearly south, of the town, and not more than
+thirty miles distant."
+
+"Umph!"
+
+"I suppose it to be south, or nearly south, for obvious reasons. Don't
+you see what they are?"
+
+"Niver mind; prache on."
+
+"No horses have been taken from the south road, or from any of the roads
+that intersect it from this. I infer that it is used as an avenue of
+escape for the marauding bands. Consequently--"
+
+"We must make the acquaintance of that north and south highway," broke
+in Carnes.
+
+"Just so; and we must begin a systematic search from this out."
+
+"System's the word," said Carnes, jerking his chair close to the table,
+upon which he planted his elbows. "Now, then, let's organize."
+
+[Illustration: "System's the word," said Carnes, jerking his chair close
+to the table, upon which he planted his elbows. "Now, then, let's
+organize."--page 76.]
+
+It was nearly daybreak before we knocked the ashes from our pipes,
+preparatory to closing the consultation, and when we separated to
+refresh ourselves with a few hours' sleep, we were so thoroughly
+"organized" that had we not found another opportunity for private
+consultation during our operations in Trafton, we could still have gone
+on with the programme, as we had that night arranged it, without fear of
+blunder or misunderstanding.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"You came down upon me so sudden and solemn with your statistics and
+all that, last night," said Carnes, the following morning, "that I
+entirely forgot to treat you to a beautiful little Trafton vagary I was
+saving for your benefit. They _do_ say that the new doctor is suspected
+of being a _detective_!"
+
+"What!" I said, in sincere amazement; "Carnes, that's one of Jim Long's
+notions."
+
+"Yis, but it isn't," retorted Carnes. "I haven't seen Jim Long this day.
+D'ye mind the chap ye seen me in company with last evening early?"
+
+"The loutish chap with red hair and a scarred cheek?"
+
+"That's him; well, his name is Tom Briggs, and he's a very close-mouthed
+fellow when he's sober; to-day he was drunk, and he told me in
+confidence that _some_ folks looked upon Dr. Bethel as nothing more nor
+less than a detective, on the lookout for a big haul and a big reward."
+
+"What is this Briggs?"
+
+"He's a sort of a roust-about for 'Squire Brookhouse, but the 'squire
+don't appear to work him very hard."
+
+"Carnes," I said, after a moment of silence between us, "hadn't you
+better cultivate Briggs?"
+
+"Like enough I had," he replied, nonchalantly. Then turning slowly
+until he faced me squarely "If I were you, I would give a little
+attention to _Dr. Bethel_."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+A RESURRECTION.
+
+
+Two weeks passed, during which time Carnes and I worked slowly and
+cautiously, but to some purpose.
+
+Having arrived at the conclusion that here was the place to begin our
+search for the robbers, we had still failed in finding in or about
+Trafton a single man upon whom to fix suspicion.
+
+After thoroughly analyzing Trafton society, high and low, I was obliged
+to admit to Carnes, 'spite of the statement made by the worthy farmer on
+board the railway train that "the folks as prospered best were those who
+did the least work," that I found among the poor, the indolent and the
+idle, no man capable of conducting or aiding in a prolonged series of
+high-handed robberies.
+
+The only people in Trafton about whom there seemed the shadow of
+strangeness or mystery, were Dr. Bethel and Jim Long.
+
+Dr. Bethel had lived in Trafton less than a year; he was building up a
+fine practice; was dignified, independent, uncommunicative. He had no
+intimates, and no one knew, or could learn, aught of his past history.
+He was a regularly authorized physician, a graduate from a well-known
+and reliable school. He was unmarried and seemed quite independent of
+his practice as a means of support.
+
+According to Jim Long, he was "not Trafton style," and if Tom Briggs was
+to be believed, he was "suspected" of making one profession a cloak for
+the practice of another.
+
+Jim Long had been nearly five years in Trafton. He had bought his bit of
+land, built thereon his shanty, announced himself as "Hoss Fysician,"
+and had loafed or laughed, smoked or fished, hunted, worked and played,
+as best pleased him; and no one in Trafton had looked upon him as worthy
+of suspicion, until Carnes and I did him that honor.
+
+Up to this time we had never once ventured to walk or drive over that
+suspected south road. This was not an accident or an oversight, but a
+part of our "programme."
+
+We had lived and operated so quietly that Carnes began to complain of
+the monotony of our daily lives, and to long, Micawber-like, for
+something to turn up.
+
+We had both fully recovered in health and vigor; and I was beginning to
+fear that we might be compelled to report at the agency, and turn our
+backs upon Trafton without having touched its mystery, when there broke
+upon us the first ripple that was the harbinger of a swift, onrushing
+tide of events, which, sweeping across the monotony of our days, caught
+us and tossed us to and fro, leaving us no moment of rest until the
+storm had passed, and the waves that rolled over Trafton had swept away
+its scourge.
+
+One August day I received a tiny perfumed note bidding me attend a
+garden party, to be given by Miss Manvers one week from date. As I was
+writing my note of acceptance, Carnes suggested that I, as a gentleman
+of means, should honor this occasion by appearing in the latest and most
+stunning of Summer suits; and I, knowing the effect of fine apparel upon
+the ordinary society-loving villager, decided to profit by his
+suggestions. So, having sealed and despatched my missive, I bent my
+steps toward the telegraph office, intent upon sending an order to my
+tailor by the quickest route.
+
+The operator was a sociable young fellow, the son of one of the village
+clergymen, and I sometimes dropped in upon him for a few moments' chat.
+
+I numbered among my varied accomplishments, all of which had been
+acquired for _use_ in my profession, the ability to read, by sound, the
+telegraph instrument.
+
+This knowledge, however, I kept to myself, on principle, and young
+Harris was not aware that my ear was drinking in his messages, as we sat
+smoking socially in his little operating compartment.
+
+After sending my message, I produced my cigar case and, Harris
+accepting a weed, I sat down beside him for a brief chat.
+
+Presently the instrument called Trafton, and Harris turned to receive
+the following message:
+
+                                                 NEW ORLEANS, Aug. ----
+
+    ARCH BROOKHOUSE--Hurry up the others or we are likely to have
+    a balk.                                                       F. B.
+
+Hastily scratching off these words Harris enclosed, sealed, and
+addressed the message, and tossed it on the table.
+
+The address was directly under my eye; and I said, glancing carelessly
+at it:
+
+"Arch,--is not that a rather juvenile name for such a long, lean,
+solemn-visaged man as 'Squire Brookhouse?"
+
+Harris laughed.
+
+"That is for the son," he replied; "he is named for his father, and to
+distinguish between them, the elder always signs himself _Archibald_,
+the younger _Arch_."
+
+"I see. Is Archibald Junior the eldest son?"
+
+"No; he is the second. Fred is older by four years."
+
+"Fred is the absent one?"
+
+"Fred and Louis are both away now. Fred is in business in New Orleans, I
+think."
+
+"Ah! an enterprising rich man's son."
+
+"Well, yes, enterprising and adventurous. Fred used to be a trifle wild.
+He's engaged in some sort of theatrical enterprise, I take it."
+
+Just then there came the sound of hurrying feet and voices mingling in
+excited converse.
+
+In another moment Mr. Harris, the elder, put his head in at the open
+window.
+
+"Charlie, telegraph to Mr. Beale at Swan Station; tell him to come home
+instantly; his little daughter's grave has been robbed!"
+
+Uttering a startled ejaculation, young Harris turned to his instrument,
+and his father withdrew his head and came around to the office door.
+
+"Good-morning," he said to me, seating himself upon a corner of the
+office desk. "This is a shameful affair, sir; the worst that has
+happened in Trafton, to my mind. Only yesterday I officiated at the
+funeral of the little one; she was only seven years old, and looked like
+a sleeping angel, and now--"
+
+He paused and wiped the perspiration from his forehead.
+
+"Mrs. Beale will be distracted," said Charlie Harris, turning toward us.
+"It was her only girl."
+
+"Beale is a mechanic, you see," said the elder, addressing me. "He is
+working upon some new buildings at Swan Station."
+
+"How was it discovered?" said his son.
+
+"I hardly know; they sent for me to break the news to Mrs. Beale, and I
+thought it best to send for Beale first. The town is working into a
+terrible commotion over it."
+
+Just here a number of excited Traftonites entered the outer room and
+called out Mr. Harris.
+
+A moment later I saw Carnes pass the window; he moved slowly, and did
+not turn his head, but I knew at once that he wished to see me. I arose
+quietly and went out. Passing through the group of men gathered about
+Mr. Harris, I caught these words: "Cursed resurrectionist," and, "I knew
+he was not the man for us."
+
+Hurrying out I met Carnes at the corner of the building.
+
+"Have you heard--" he began; but I interrupted him.
+
+"Of the grave robbery? Yes."
+
+"Well," said Carnes, laying a hand upon my arm, "they are organizing a
+gang down at Porter's store. They are going to raid Dr. Bethel's cottage
+and search for the body."
+
+"They're a set of confounded fools!" I muttered. "Follow me, Carnes."
+
+And I turned my steps in the direction of "Porter's store."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+MOB LAW.
+
+
+Lounging just outside the door at Porter's was Jim Long, hands in
+pockets, eyes fixed on vacancy. He was smoking his favorite pipe, and
+seemed quite oblivious to the stir and excitement going on within. When
+he saw me approach, he lounged a few steps toward me, then getting
+beyond the range of Porter's door and window.
+
+"Give a dough-headed bumpkin a chance to make a fool of himself an'
+he'll never go back on it," began Jim, as I approached. "Have ye come
+ter assist in the body huntin'?"
+
+"I will assist, most assuredly, if assistance is needed," I replied.
+
+"Well, then, walk right along in. I guess _I'll_ go home."
+
+"Don't be too hasty, Jim," I said, in a lower tone. "I want to see you
+in about two minutes."
+
+Jim gave a grunt of dissatisfaction, but seated himself, nevertheless,
+on one of Porter's empty butter tubs, that stood just beside a window.
+
+I passed in and added myself to the large group of men huddled close
+together near the middle of the long store, and talking earnestly and
+angrily, with excitement, fiercely, or foolishly, as the case might be.
+
+The fire-brand had been dropped in among them, by whom they never could
+have told, had they stopped once to consider; but they did not consider.
+Someone had hinted at the possibility of finding the body of little
+Effie Beale in the possession of the new doctor, and that was enough.
+Guilty or innocent, Dr. Bethel must pay the penalty of his reticence,
+his newness, and his independence. Not being numbered among the
+acceptable institutions of Trafton, he need expect no quarter.
+
+It seemed that the child had been under his care, and looking at the
+matter from a cold-blooded, scientific standpoint, it appeared to me not
+impossible that the doctor _had_ disinterred the body, and I soon
+realized that should he be found guilty, or even be unable to prove his
+innocence, it would go hard with Dr. Bethel.
+
+Among those who cautioned the overheated ones, and urged prudence, and
+calm judgment, was Arch Brookhouse; but, somehow, his words only served
+to add fuel to the flame; while, chief among the turbulent ones, who
+urged extreme measures, was Tom Briggs, and I noted that he was also
+supported by three or four fellows of the same caliber, two of whom I
+had never seen before.
+
+Having satisfied myself that there was not much time to lose if I
+wished to see fair play for Dr. Bethel, I turned away from the crowd,
+unnoticed, and went out to where Jim waited.
+
+"Jim," I said, touching him on the shoulder, "they mean to make it hot
+for Bethel, and he will be one man against fifty--we must not allow
+anything like that."
+
+"Now ye're talkin'," said Jim, knocking the ashes from his pipe, and
+rising slowly, "an' I'm with ye. What's yer idee?"
+
+"We must not turn the mob against us, by seeming to co-operate," I
+replied. "Do you move with the crowd, Jim; I'll be on the ground as soon
+as you are."
+
+"All right, boss," said Jim.
+
+I turned back toward the telegraph office, that being midway between
+"Porter's" and my hotel.
+
+The men were still there talking excitedly. I looked in at the window
+and beckoned to young Harris. He came to me, and I whispered:
+
+"The men at Porter's mean mischief to Dr. Bethel; your father may be
+able to calm them; he had better go down there."
+
+"He will," replied Harris, in a whisper, "and so will I."
+
+Carnes was lounging outside the office. I approached him, and said:
+
+"Go along with the crowd, Carnes, and stand in with Briggs."
+
+Carnes winked and nodded, and I went on toward the hotel.
+
+On reaching my room, I took from their case a brace of five-shooters,
+and put the weapons in my pockets. Then I went below and seated myself
+on the hotel piazza.
+
+In order to reach Dr. Bethel's house, the crowd must pass the hotel; so
+I had only to wait.
+
+I did not wait long, however. Soon they came down the street, quieter
+than they had been at Porter's, but resolute to defy law and order, and
+take justice into their own hands. As they hurried past the hotel in
+groups of twos, threes, and sometimes half a dozen, I noted them man by
+man. Jim Long was loping silently on by the side of an honest-faced
+farmer; Carnes and Briggs were in the midst of a swaggering, loud
+talking knot of loafers; the Harrises, father and son, followed in the
+rear of the crowd and on the opposite side of the street.
+
+As the last group passed, I went across the road and joined the younger
+Harris, who was some paces in advance of his father, looking, as I did
+so, up and down the street. Arch Brookhouse came cantering up on a fine
+bay; he held in his hand the yellow envelope, which, doubtless, he had
+just received from Harris.
+
+"Charlie," he called, reining in his horse. "Stop a moment; you must
+send a message for me."
+
+We halted, Harris looking somewhat annoyed.
+
+Brookhouse tore off half of the yellow envelope, and sitting on his
+horse, wrote a few words, resting his scrap of paper on the horn of his
+saddle.
+
+"Sorry to trouble you, Charlie," he said, "but I want this to go at
+once. Were you following the mob?"
+
+"Yes," replied Charlie, "weren't you?"
+
+"No," said Brookhouse, shortly, "I'm going home; I don't believe in mob
+law."
+
+So saying, he handed the paper to Harris, who, taking it with some
+difficulty, having to lean far out because of a ditch between himself
+and Brookhouse, lost his hold upon it, and a light puff of wind sent it
+directly into my face.
+
+I caught it quickly, and before Harris could recover his balance, I had
+scanned its contents. It ran thus:
+
+                                   No. ---- NEW ORLEANS.
+
+     FRED BROOKHOUSE:--Next week L---- will be on hand.
+
+                                                    A. B.
+
+Harris took the scrap of paper and turned back toward the office. And I,
+joining the elder Harris, walked on silently, watching young Brookhouse
+as he galloped swiftly past the crowd; past the house of Dr. Bethel, and
+on up the hill, toward the Brookhouse homestead. I wondered inwardly why
+Frederick Brookhouse, if he were prominently connected with a Southern
+theater, should receive his telegrams at a private address.
+
+Dr. Bethel occupied two pleasant rooms of a small house owned by
+'Squire Brookhouse. He had chosen these, so he afterwards informed me,
+because he wished a quiet place for study, and this he could scarcely
+hope to find either in the village hotel or the average private boarding
+houses. He took his meals at the hotel, and shared the office of Dr.
+Barnard, the eldest of the Trafton physicians, who was quite willing to
+retire from the practice of his profession, and was liberal enough to
+welcome a young and enterprising stranger.
+
+Dr. Bethel was absent; this the mob soon ascertained, and some of them,
+after paying a visit to the stable, reported that his horse was gone.
+
+"Gone to visit some country patient, I dare say," said Mr. Harris, as we
+heard this announcement.
+
+"Gone ter be out of the way till he sees is he found out," yelled Tom
+Briggs. "Let's go through the house, boys."
+
+There was a brief consultation among the leaders of the raid, and then,
+to my surprise and to Mr. Harris's disgust, they burst in the front door
+and poured into the house, Carnes among the rest. Jim Long drew back as
+they crowded in, and took up his position near the gate, and not far
+from the place where we had halted.
+
+Their search was rapid and fruitless; they were beginning to come out
+and scatter about the grounds, when a horse came thundering up to the
+gate, and Dr. Bethel flung himself from the saddle.
+
+He had seen the raiding party while yet some rods away, and he turned a
+perplexed and angry face upon us.
+
+"I should like to know the meaning of this," he said, in quick, ringing
+tones, at the same moment throwing open the little gate so forcibly as
+to make those nearest it start and draw back. "Who has presumed to open
+my door?"
+
+Mr. Harris approached him and said, in a low tone:
+
+"Bethel, restrain yourself. Little Effie Beale has been stolen from her
+grave, and these men have turned out to search for the body."
+
+"Stolen from her grave!" the doctor's hand fell to his side and the
+anger died out of his eyes, and he seemed to comprehend the situation in
+a moment. "And they accuse me--of course."
+
+The last words were touched with a shade of irony. Then he strode in
+among the searchers.
+
+"My friends," he said, in a tone of lofty contempt, "so you have accused
+me of grave robbing. Very well; go on with your search, and when it is
+over, and you find that you have brought a false charge against me, go
+home, with the assurance that every man of you shall be made to answer
+for this uncalled-for outlawry."
+
+The raiders who had gathered together to listen to this speech, fell
+back just a little, in momentary consternation. He had put the matter
+before them in a new light, and each man felt himself for the moment
+responsible for his own acts. But the voice of Tom Briggs rallied them.
+
+"He's bluffin' us!" cried this worthy. "He's tryin' to make us drop the
+hunt. Boys, we're gittin' hot. Let's go for the barn and garden."
+
+And he turned away, followed by the more reckless ones.
+
+Without paying the slightest heed to them or their movements, Dr.
+Bethel turned again to Mr. Harris and asked when the body was
+disinterred.
+
+While a part of the men, who had not followed Briggs, drew closer to our
+group, and the rest whispered together, a little apart, Mr. Harris told
+him all that was known concerning the affair.
+
+As he listened a cynical half smile covered the doctor's face; he lifted
+his head and seemed about to speak, then, closing his lips firmly, he
+again bent his head and listened as at first.
+
+"There's something strange about this resurrection," said he, when Mr.
+Harris had finished. "Mr. Beale's little daughter was my patient. It was
+a simple case of diphtheria. There were no unusual symptoms, nothing in
+the case to rouse the curiosity of any physician. The Trafton doctors
+_know_ this. Drs. Hess and Barnard counselled with me. Either the body
+has been stolen by some one outside of Trafton, or--there is another
+motive."
+
+He spoke these last words slowly, as if still deliberating, and,
+turning, took his horse by the bridle and led him stableward.
+
+In another moment there came a shout from Briggs' party, their loud
+voices mingling in angry denunciations.
+
+With one impulse the irresolute ones, forgetting self, swarmed in the
+direction whence the voices came.
+
+We saw Dr. Bethel, who was just at the rear corner of the house, start,
+stop, then suddenly let fall the bridle and stride after the hurrying
+men, and at once, Mr. Harris, Jim Long and myself followed.
+
+Just outside the stable stood Briggs, surrounded by his crew, talking
+loudly, and holding up to the view of all, a bright new spade, and an
+earth-stained pick ax. As we came nearer we could see that the spade too
+had clots of moist black earth clinging to its surface.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+TWO FAIR CHAMPIONS.
+
+
+"Look, all of ye," shouted Briggs. "So much fer his big words; them's
+the things he did the job with."
+
+[Illustration: "Look, all of ye," shouted Briggs. "So much fer his big
+words; them's the things he did the job with."--page 97.]
+
+The doctor stopped short at sight of these implements; stopped and stood
+motionless so long that his attitude might well have been mistaken for
+that of unmasked guilt. But his face told another story; blank amazement
+was all it expressed for a moment, then a gleam of comprehension; next a
+sneer of intensest scorn, and last, strong but suppressed anger. He
+strode in among the men gathered about Tom Briggs.
+
+"Where did you get those tools, fellow?" he demanded, sternly.
+
+"From the place where ye hid 'em, I reckon," retorted Briggs.
+
+"Answer me, sir," thundered the doctor. "_Where_ were they?"
+
+"Oh, ye needn't try any airs on me; ye know well enough where we got
+'em."
+
+Dr. Bethel's hand shot out swiftly, and straight from the shoulder, and
+Briggs went down like a log.
+
+"Now, sir," turning to the man nearest Briggs, "where were these things
+hidden?"
+
+It chanced that this next man was Carnes, who answered quickly, and with
+well feigned self-concern.
+
+"In the sthable, yer honor, foreninst the windy, behind the shay."
+
+I heard a suppressed laugh behind me, and looking over my shoulder saw
+Charlie Harris.
+
+"Things are getting interesting," he said, coming up beside me. "Will
+there be a scrimmage, think you?"
+
+I made him no answer, my attention being fixed upon Bethel, who was
+entering the stable and dragging Carnes with him. When he had
+ascertained the exact spot where the tools were found, he came out and
+turned upon the raiders.
+
+"Go on with your farce," he said, with a sarcastic curl of the lip. "I
+am curious to see what you will find next."
+
+Then turning upon Briggs, who had scrambled to his feet, and who
+caressed a very red and swollen eye, while he began a tirade of abuse--
+
+"Fellow, hold your tongue, if you don't want a worse hit. If you'll walk
+into my house I'll give you a plaster for that eye--after I have cared
+for your better."
+
+And he turned toward his horse, whistling a musical call. The
+well-trained animal came straight to its master and was led by him into
+its accustomed place.
+
+And now the search became more active. Those who at first had been held
+in check by the doctor's manner were once more spurred to action by the
+sight of those earth-stained tools, and the general verdict was that
+"Bethel was bluffing, sure." When he emerged again from the stable, they
+were scattering about the garden, looking in impossible places of
+concealment, under everything, over everything, into everything.
+
+Briggs, who seemed not at all inclined to accept the doctor's proffered
+surgical aid, still grasping in his hand the pick, and followed by
+Carnes, to whom he had resigned the spade, went prowling about the
+garden.
+
+Bethel, who appeared to have sufficient mental employment of some sort,
+passed our group with a smile and the remark:
+
+"I can't ask you in, gentlemen, until I have set my house in order.
+Those vandals have made it a place of confusion."
+
+He entered the house through a rear door, which had been thrown open by
+the invaders, and a moment later, as I passed by a side window, I
+glanced in and saw him, not engaged in "setting his house in order," but
+sitting in a low, broad-backed chair, his elbows resting on his knees,
+his hands loosely clasped, his head bent forward, his eyes "fixed on
+vacancy," the whole attitude that of profound meditation.
+
+The finding of the tools, the manner of Bethel, both puzzled me. I went
+over to Jim Long, who had seated himself on the well platform, and
+asked:
+
+"How is this going to terminate, Jim?"
+
+"Umph!" responded Jim, somewhat gruffly. "'Twon't be long a comin' to a
+focus."
+
+And he spoke truly. In a few moments we heard a shout from the rear of
+the garden. Tom Briggs and his party had found a spot where the soil had
+been newly turned. In another moment a dozen hands were digging
+fiercely.
+
+Just then, and unnoticed by the exploring ones, a new element of
+excitement came upon the scene.
+
+Mr. Beale, the father of the missing child, accompanied by two or three
+friends, came in from the street. They paused a moment, in seeming
+irresolution, then the father, seeing the work going on in the garden,
+uttered a sharp exclamation, and started hastily toward the spot, where,
+at that moment, half a dozen men were bending over the small excavation
+they had made, and twice as many more were crowding close about them.
+
+"They have found something," said Harris, the elder, and he hastily
+followed Mr. Beale, leaving his son and myself standing together near
+the rear door of the house, and Jim still sitting aloof, the only ones
+now, save Dr. Bethel, who were not grouping closer and closer about the
+diggers, in eager anxiety to see what had been unearthed.
+
+In another moment, there came a tumult of exclamations, imprecations,
+oaths; and above all the rest, a cry of mingled anguish and rage from
+the lips of the bereaved and tortured father.
+
+The crowd about the spot fell back, and the diggers arose, one of them
+holding something up to the view of the rest. Instinctively, young
+Harris and myself started toward them.
+
+But Jim Long still sat stolidly smoking beside the well.
+
+As we moved forward, I heard a sound from the house, and looked back.
+Dr. Bethel had flung wide open the shutters of a rear window, and was
+looking out upon the scene.
+
+Approaching the group, we saw what had caused the father's cry, and the
+growing excitement of the searchers. They had found a tiny pair of
+shoes, and a little white dress; the shoes and dress in which little
+Effie Beale had been buried.
+
+And now the wildest excitement prevailed. Maddened with grief, rage, and
+sickening horror, the father called upon them to find the body, and to
+aid him in wreaking vengeance upon the man who had desecrated his
+darling's grave.
+
+It was as fire to flax. Those who have witnessed the workings of a mob,
+know how swiftly, mysteriously, unreasonably, it kindles under certain
+influences.
+
+How many men, with different, often opposing interests, make the cause
+of one their common cause, and forgetting personality, become a unit for
+vengeance, a single, dreadful, unreasoning force!
+
+The air resounded with threats, imprecations, exclamations, oaths.
+
+Some of the better class of Traftonites had followed after the first
+party, joining them by threes and fours. These made some effort to
+obtain a hearing for themselves and Mr. Harris, but it was futile.
+
+"Hang the rascally doctor!"
+
+"String him up!"
+
+"Run him out of town!"
+
+"Hanging's too good!"
+
+"Let's tar and feather him!"
+
+"Bring him out; bring him out!"
+
+"Give us a hold of him!"
+
+"We ain't found the body yet," cried one of the most earnest searchers.
+"Let's keep looking."
+
+As some of the party turned toward the house I looked back to the open
+window.
+
+Dr. Bethel still stood in full view, but Jim Long had disappeared from
+the pump platform.
+
+The search now became fierce and eager, and while some started to go
+once again through the house and cellar, a number of Briggs' cronies
+began a furious onslaught upon a stack of hay, piled against the stable.
+
+But those who approached the house met with an unlooked-for obstacle to
+their search,--the rear door was closed and barred against them. Failing
+in this quarter they hastened around to the front.
+
+Here the door was open, just as they had left it, swinging on one
+broken hinge; but the doctor's tall form and stalwart shoulders barred
+the way.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said, in low, resolute tones, "you can not enter my
+house, at least at present. You have done sufficient damage to my
+property already."
+
+The men halted for a moment, and then the foremost of them began to
+mount the steps.
+
+"Stand back," said Bethel. "I shall protect my property. I will allow my
+house to be inspected again by a committee, if you like, but I will
+_not_ admit a mob."
+
+"You'd better not try to stop us," said the leader of the party, "we are
+too many for ye." And he mounted the upper step.
+
+"Stand down, sir," again said Bethel. "Did I not say I should protect my
+property?" and he suddenly presented in the face of the astonished
+searcher a brace of silver-mounted pistols.
+
+The foremost men drew hastily back, but they rallied again, and one of
+them yelled out:
+
+"Ye'd better not tackle _us_ single-handed; an' ye won't get anyone to
+back ye _now_!"
+
+"Jest allow me ter argy that pint with ye," said Jim Long, as he
+suddenly appeared in the doorway beside Bethel. "I reckon _I'm_
+somebody."
+
+Jim held in his hand a handsome rifle, the doctor's property, and he ran
+his eye critically along the barrel as he spoke.
+
+"Here's five of us, an' we all say _ye can't come in_. Three of us can
+_repeat_ the remark if it 'pears necessary."
+
+Then turning his eye upon the last speaker of the party, he said,
+affably:
+
+"I ain't much with the little shooters, Simmons; but I can jest make a
+rifle howl. Never saw me shoot, did ye? Now, jest stand still till I
+shoot that grasshopper off ye'r hat brim."
+
+Simmons, who stood in the midst of the group, and was taller than those
+about him by half a head, began a rapid retrograde movement, and, as Jim
+slowly raised his rifle to his shoulder, the group about the door-steps
+melted away, leaving him in possession of the out-posts.
+
+"That," said Jim, with a grin, as he lowered his rifle, "illyusterates
+the sooperiority of mind over matter. Doctor, did ye know the darned
+thing wasn't loaded?"
+
+While Bethel still smiled at this bit of broad comedy, a sharp cry, and
+then a sudden unnatural stillness, told of some new occurrence, and
+followed by Jim we went back to the rear window and looked out.
+
+They were crowding close about something, as yet half hidden in the
+scattered hay; all silent, and, seemingly, awe-stricken. Thus for a
+moment only, then a low murmur ran through the crowd, growing and
+swelling into a yell of rage and fury.
+
+Hidden in the doctor's hay they had found the body of Effie Beale!
+
+It was still encoffined, but the little casket had been forced open,
+and it was evident, from the position of the body, that the buried
+clothing had been hurriedly torn from it.
+
+It would be difficult to describe the scene which followed this last
+discovery. While the father, and his more thoughtful friends, took
+instant possession of the little coffin, the wrath of the raiders grew
+hotter and higher; every voice and every hand was raised against Dr.
+Bethel.
+
+Tom Briggs, with his blackened eye, was fiercely active, and his two or
+three allies clamored loudly for vengeance upon "the cursed
+resurrectionist."
+
+"Let's give him a lesson," yelled a burly fellow, who, having neither
+wife, child, nor relative in Trafton was, according to a peculiar law
+governing the average human nature, the loudest to clamor for summary
+vengeance. "Let's set an example, an' teach grave robbers what to look
+for when they come to Trafton!"
+
+"If we don't settle with him nobody will," chimed in another fellow, who
+doubtless had good reason for doubting the ability of Trafton justice to
+deal with law-breakers.
+
+Those who said little were none the less eager to demonstrate their
+ability to deal with offenders when the opportunity afforded itself.
+Over and again, in various ways, Trafton had been helplessly victimized,
+and now, that at last they had traced an outrage to its source, Trafton
+seized the opportunity to vindicate herself.
+
+A few of the fiercest favored extreme measures, but the majority of the
+mob seemed united in their choice of feathers and tar, as a means of
+vengeance.
+
+Seeing how the matter would terminate, I turned to Harris, the younger,
+who had kept his position near me.
+
+"Ask your father to follow us," I said, "and come with me. They are
+about to attack the doctor."
+
+We went quietly around and entered the house from the front. The doctor
+and Jim were still at the open window, and in full view of the mob.
+
+Bethel turned toward us a countenance locked in impenetrable
+self-possession.
+
+"They mean business," he said, nodding his head toward the garden. "Poor
+fools."
+
+Then he took his pistols from a chair by the window, putting one in each
+pocket of his loose sack coat.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said, addressing us, "pray don't bring upon yourselves
+the enmity of these people by attempting to defend me. I assure you I am
+in no danger, and can deal with them single-handed. Out of regard for
+what they have left of my furniture, I will meet them, outside."
+
+And he put one hand upon the window sill and leaped lightly out,
+followed instantly by young Harris.
+
+"Here's the inconvenience of being in charge of the artillery," growled
+Jim Long, discontentedly. "I'll stay in the fort till the enemy opens
+fire," and he drew the aforementioned rifle closer to him, as he
+squatted upon the window ledge.
+
+The clergyman and myself, without consultation or comment, made our exit
+as we came, by the open front door, and arrived upon the scene just as
+Bethel, with his two hands in his coat pockets, halted midway between
+the house and rear garden to meet the mob that swarmed toward him,
+yelling, hooting, hissing.
+
+If the doctor had hoped to say anything in his own defense, or even to
+make himself heard, he was speedily convinced of the futility of such an
+undertaking. His voice was drowned by their clamor, and as many eager
+hands were outstretched to seize him in their hard, unfriendly grasp,
+the doctor lost faith in moral suasion and drew back a step, while he
+suddenly presented, for their consideration, a brace of five-shooters.
+
+The foremost men recoiled for a moment, and Mr. Harris seized the
+opportunity. Advancing until he stood almost before Dr. Bethel, he began
+a conciliatory speech, after the most approved manner.
+
+But it came to an abrupt ending, the men rallied almost instantly, and,
+drowning the clergyman's voice under a chorus of denunciations and
+oaths, they once more pressed forward.
+
+"Stand down, parson," cried Jim Long, now leaping from the window, rifle
+in hand, and coming to the rescue. "Your medicine ain't the kind they're
+hankerin' after."
+
+[Illustration: "Stand down, parson," cried Jim Long, rifle in hand,
+"Your medicine ain't the kind they're hankerin' after."--page 107.]
+
+"You fall back, Tom Briggs," called Charlie Harris, peremptorily, "we
+want fair play here," and he drew a pistol from his pocket and took his
+stand beside Bethel.
+
+At the same moment I drew my own weapons and fell into line.
+
+"Gentlemen," I said, "let's give Dr. Bethel a hearing."
+
+And now occurred what we had hardly anticipated. While some of the
+foremost of the raiders drew back, others advanced, and we saw that
+these comers to the front were armed like ourselves.
+
+While we stood thus, for a moment, there was a breathless silence and
+then Jim Long's deep voice made itself heard.
+
+"Some of you fellers are giving yourselves away," he said, with a sneer.
+"Now, jest look a here; ye mean bluff, we mean business. An' you chaps
+as has been supplied with shooters by Tom Briggs and Simmons and
+Saunders hed better drop the things an' quit."
+
+A moment's silence, then a babel of voices, a clamor and rush.
+
+There was the loud crack of a pistol, accompanied by a fierce oath,--a
+cry of "stop," uttered in a clear female voice,--then another moment of
+breathless silence.
+
+Two women were standing in our midst, directly between the doctor and
+his assailants, and Carnes still grasped the pistol hand of Tom Briggs,
+while the smoke of the averted charge yet hovered above their heads.
+
+One of the two ladies, who had so suddenly come to the rescue, was
+Miss Adele Manvers. The other a tall, lithe, beautiful blonde, I had
+never before seen.
+
+"Friends, neighbors," said this fair stranger, in clear, sweet, but
+imperious tones, "you have made a terrible mistake. Dr. Bethel was with
+_my father_ from sunset last night until one hour ago. They were
+together every moment, at the bedside of Mr. James Kelsey, on the
+Willoughby road."
+
+Evidently this fair young lady was an authority not to be questioned.
+The crowd fell back in manifest consternation, even Tom Briggs' tongue
+was silent.
+
+Miss Manvers stood for a moment casting glances of open contempt upon
+the crowd. Then, as the doctor's fair champion ceased speaking and,
+seeing that her words had been effective, drew nearer to Mr. Harris,
+flushing and paling as if suddenly abashed by her own daring, the
+brilliant owner of the treasure-ship riches turned to Dr. Bethel.
+
+"Doctor, you are _our_ prisoner," she said, smiling up at him. "Dr.
+Barnard is half frantic since hearing of this affair, and he
+commissioned us to bring you to him at once."
+
+Miss Manvers had not as yet noted my presence among the doctor's
+handful of allies. Wishing to give my eyes and ears full play, I drew
+back, and, using Jim Long as a screen, kept near the group about the
+doctor; but out of view. I had noted the sudden flash of his eyes, and
+the lighting up of his face, when the fair unknown came among us. And
+now I saw him clasp her hand between his two firm palms and look down
+into her face, for just a moment, as I could have sworn he had never
+looked at any other woman.
+
+I saw her eyes meet his for an instant, then she seemed to have
+withdrawn into herself, and the fearless champion was merged in the
+modest but self-possessed woman.
+
+I saw the haughty Adele Manvers moving about among the raiders,
+bestowing a word here and there, and I saw Mr. Harris now making good
+use of the opportunity these two fair women had made. I noted that Tom
+Briggs and his loud-voiced associates were among the first to slink
+away.
+
+Dr. Bethel was reluctant to quit the field, but the advice of Mr.
+Harris, the earnest entreaty of Miss Manvers, and, more than all the
+rest, the one pleading look from the eyes of the lovely unknown,
+prevailed.
+
+"Long," he said, turning to Jim, "here are my keys; will you act as my
+steward until--my place is restored to quiet?"
+
+Jim nodded comprehensively.
+
+"I'll clear the premises," he said, grimly. "Don't ye have any
+uneasiness; I'll camp right down here."
+
+"Bethel," said Charlie Harris, "for the sake of the ladies, you had
+better go at once; those fellows in the rear there are trying to rally
+their forces."
+
+"Since my going will be a relief to my friends, I consent to retreat,"
+said the besieged doctor, smiling down at the two ladies.
+
+They had driven thither in a dashing little pony ph�ton, owned by Miss
+Manvers; and as they moved toward it the heiress said:
+
+"Doctor, you must drive Miss Barnard home; I intend to walk, and enjoy
+the society of Mr. Harris."
+
+Dr. Bethel and the blonde lady entered the little carriage, and, after a
+few words addressed to Harris and Miss Manvers, drove away.
+
+The heiress looked about the grounds for a moment, addressed a few
+gracious words to Harris, the elder, smiled at Jim Long, and then moved
+away, escorted by the delighted younger Harris.
+
+"Wimmen air--wimmen," said Jim Long, sententiously, leaning upon the
+rifle, which he still retained, and looking up the road after the
+receding plumes of Miss Manvers' Gainsborough hat. "You can't never tell
+where they're goin' ter appear next. It makes a feller feel sort a
+ornary, though, ter have a couple o' gals sail in an' do more business
+with a few slick words an' searchin' looks, then _he_ could do with a
+first-class rifle ter back him. Makes him feel as tho' his inflouence
+was weakening."
+
+"Jim," I said, ignoring his whimsical complaint, "who was the fair
+haired lady?"
+
+"Doctor Barnard's only darter, Miss Louise."
+
+"I never saw her before."
+
+"'Spose not; she's been away nigh onto two months, visitin' her
+father's folks. Old Barnard must a had one of his bad turns this
+morning, so's he couldn't git out, or he'd never a sent his gal into
+such a crowd on such an errand. Hullo, what's that Mick o' your'n
+doin'?"
+
+Glancing in the direction indicated by Jim, I saw that Carnes was
+engaged in a fisticuff bout with Tom Briggs, and hastened to interpose;
+not through solicitude for Carnes so much as because I wished to prevent
+a serious rupture between the two.
+
+[Illustration: "Glancing in the direction indicated by Jim, I saw that
+Carnes was engaged in a fisticuff bout with Tom Briggs, and hastened to
+interpose;"--page 114.]
+
+"Barney," I said, severely, "you have been drinking too much, I am sure.
+Stop this ruffianism at once."
+
+"Is it ruffianism yer callin' it, ter defend yerself aginst the
+murtherin' shnake; and ain't it all bekase I hild up his fist fer fear
+the blundherin' divil ud shoot yees by mishtake! Och, then, didn't I
+make the illigant rhyme though?"
+
+"You have made yourself very offensive to me, sir, by the part you have
+taken in this affair," I retorted, with additional sternness; "and so
+long as you remain in my service you will please to remember that I
+desire you to avoid the society of loafers and brawlers."
+
+"Meanin' me, I suppose?" snarled Tom Briggs.
+
+"Meaning you in _this_ instance," I retorted, turning away from the two,
+with all the dignity I could muster for the occasion.
+
+"Bedad, he's got his blood up," muttered Carnes, ruefully, as I
+walked away. "Old Red Top, shake! Seein' as I'm to be afther howldin'
+myself above yees in future, I won't mind yer airs jist now, an' if iver
+I git twenty dollars ahead I'll discharge yon blood an' be me own bye."
+
+Satisfied that this bit of by-play had had the desired effect, and being
+sure that Carnes would not leave the premises so long as there remained
+anything or any one likely to prove interesting, I turned my steps
+townward, musing as I went.
+
+I had made, or so I believed, three discoveries.
+
+Dr. Carl Bethel was the victim of a deep laid plot, of which this affair
+of the morning was but the beginning.
+
+Dr. Carl Bethel was in love with the fair Miss Barnard.
+
+And the brilliant owner of the treasure-ship jewels was in love with Dr.
+Carl Bethel.
+
+Whether Bethel was aware of the plot, or suspected his enemies; whether
+he was really what he seemed, or only playing a part like myself;
+whether to warn him and so risk bringing myself under suspicion, or to
+let matters take their natural course and keep a sharp lookout
+meantime;--were questions which I asked myself again and again, failing
+to find a satisfactory answer.
+
+On one thing I decided, however. Bethel was a self-reliant man. He was
+keen and courageous, quite capable of being more than he seemed. He was
+not a man to be satisfied with half truth. I must give him my fullest
+confidence or not seek his.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+A CUP OF TEA.
+
+
+It was growing dusk before I saw Carnes again that day. I had remained
+in my room since dinner, wishing to avoid as much as possible the gossip
+and natural inquiry that would follow the denouement of the raid against
+Dr. Bethel, lest some suspicious mind should think me too much
+interested, considering the part I had taken in the affair.
+
+Carnes came in softly, and wearing upon his face the peculiar knowing
+grin that we at the office had named his "Fox smile." He held in his
+hand a folded slip of paper, which he dropped upon my knee, and then
+drew back, without uttering a comment, to watch my perusal of the same.
+
+It was very brief, simply a penciled line from Dr. Barnard, asking me to
+tea at seven o'clock. It was almost seven as I read.
+
+"Where did you get this?" I asked, rising with sudden alacrity, and
+beginning a hurried toilet. "Read it Carnes, if you haven't already; I
+should have had it earlier."
+
+Carnes took up the note, perused it, and tossed it on the bed, then,
+seating himself astride a chair, he told his story, watching my
+progressing toilet with seeming interest the while.
+
+"After my tender parting with Briggs, I sherried over and made myself
+agreeable to Jim Long, and as I was uncommon respectful and willin' to
+be harangued, he sort o' took me as handy boy, an' let me stay an help
+him tidy up Bethel's place. He cleared out the multitude, put the yard
+into decent order, and then, while he undertook to rehang the doctor's
+front door, I'm blest if he didn't set _me_ to pilin' up the hay stack.
+Don't wear that beast of a choker, man, it makes you look like a
+laughing hyena."
+
+I discarded the condemned choker, swallowed the doubtful compliment, and
+Carnes continued, lapsing suddenly into broad Irish:
+
+"Prisintly he comes out to the shtack, as I was finishin' the pile,
+tellin' me as he must have some new hinges to the doctor's door, an'
+axin would I shtay an' kape house till he wint up fer the iron works. I
+consinted."
+
+"Yes!" eagerly.
+
+"And I made good use of the opportunity. I wint over that place in a way
+to break the heart of a jenteel crook, an' I'm satisfied."
+
+"Of what, Carnes?"
+
+"That there's no irregularity about the doctor. If there was a track as
+big as a fly's foot wouldn't I have hit it? Yes, sir! There ain't no
+trace of the detective-in-ambush about those premises, Tom Briggs to the
+contrary notwithstanding. He's a regular articled medical college
+graduate; there's plenty of correspondence to prove him Dr. Carl Bethel,
+and nothing to prove him anything else."
+
+"Quite likely," I replied, not yet wholly convinced; "Bethel is not the
+man to commit himself; he'd be very sure not to leave a trace of his
+'true inwardness' about the premises, if he _were_ on a still hunt. How
+about the note, Carnes?"
+
+"Oh, the note! Well, when Jim came back, about fifteen minutes ago, or
+so, he gave me that, saying that he called at Dr. Barnard's to ask for
+instructions from Bethel, and was handed that note to leave for you. Jim
+says that he forgot to stop with the note; but I'm inclined to think
+that he wanted to dispose of me and took this way to avoid hurting my
+feelings."
+
+"Well, I shall be late at Dr. Barnard's, owing to Jim's notions of
+delicacy," I said, turning away from the mirror and hurriedly brushing
+my hat. "However, I can explain the tardiness. By-by, Carnes; we will
+talk this day's business over when I have returned."
+
+Dr. Barnard's pleasant dwelling was scarce five minutes' walk from our
+hotel; and I was soon making my bow in the presence of the doctor, his
+wife and daughter, Miss Manvers, and Dr. Bethel.
+
+As I look back upon that evening I remember Louise Barnard as at once
+the loveliest, the simplest and most charmingly cultivated woman I have
+ever met. Graceful without art, self-possessed without ostentation,
+beautiful as a picture, without seeming to have sought by artifices of
+the toilet to heighten the effect of her statuesque loveliness.
+
+Adele Manvers was also beautiful; no, handsome is the more appropriate
+word for her; but in face, form, coloring, dress, and manner, a more
+decided contrast could not have been deliberately planned.
+
+Miss Barnard was the lovely lady; Miss Manvers, the daintily clad, fair
+woman of fashion.
+
+Miss Barnard was tall, slender, dazzlingly beautiful, with soft fair
+hair and the features of a Greek goddess. Miss Manvers was a trifle
+below the medium height, a piquant brunette, plump, shapely, a trifle
+haughty, and inclined to self-assertion.
+
+Miss Barnard wore soft flowing draperies, and her hair as nature
+intended it to be worn. Miss Manvers wore another woman's hair in
+defiance of nature, and her dress was fashion's last conceit,--a
+"symphony" in silks and ruffles and bewildering draperies.
+
+Miss Barnard was dignified and somewhat reticent. Miss Manvers was
+talkative and vivacious.
+
+They had learned from Jim Long all that he could tell them concerning
+the part I had taken in the affair of the morning. The elder physician
+desired to express his approbation, the younger his gratitude. They had
+sent for me that I might hear what they had to say on the subject of the
+grave robbery, and to ask my opinion and advice as to future movements.
+
+All this was communicated to me by the voluble old doctor, who was
+sitting in an invalid's chair, being as yet but half recovered from his
+neuralgic attack of the morning. We had met on several occasions, but I
+had no previous knowledge of his family.
+
+"There will be no further trouble about this matter," said Dr. Barnard,
+as we sat in the cool, cosy parlor after our late tea. "Our people have
+known me too long to doubt my word, and my simple statement of my
+absolute knowledge concerning all of Bethel's movements will put out the
+last spark of suspicion, so far as _he_ is concerned--but," bringing the
+palm of his large hand down upon the arm of his chair with slow
+emphasis, "it won't settle the question next in order. _Who are the
+guilty ones?_"
+
+"That I shall make it my business to find out," said Dr. Bethel,
+seriously, "I confess that at first I was unreasonably angry, at the
+thought of the suspicion cast upon me. On second thought it was but
+natural. I am as yet a stranger among you, and Trafton evidently
+believes it wise to 'consider every man a rogue until he is proved
+honest.'"
+
+"From what I have heard since coming here," I ventured, "I should say
+Trafton has some reason for adopting this motto."
+
+"So she has; so she has," broke in the old doctor. "And some one had a
+reason for attempting to throw suspicion upon Bethel."
+
+"Evidently," said Bethel. "I am puzzled to guess what that reason can
+be, and I dispose of the theory that would naturally come up first,
+namely, that it is a plot to destroy the public confidence in me, set on
+foot by rival doctors, by saying, at the outset, that I don't believe
+there is a medical man in or about Trafton capable of such a deed. I
+have all confidence in my professional brethren."
+
+"Why," interposed Miss Manvers, "the sentiment does you honor, Dr.
+Bethel, but--I should think the other doctors your most natural enemies.
+Who else could,"--she broke off abruptly with an appealing glance at
+Louise Barnard.
+
+"I think Dr. Bethel is right," said Miss Barnard, in her low, clear
+contralto. "I cannot think either of our doctors capable of a deed so
+shameful." Then turning to address me, she added, "You, as a stranger
+among us, may see the matter in a more reasonable light. How does it
+look to you?"
+
+"Taking the doctor's innocence as a foregone conclusion," I replied, "it
+looks as though he had an enemy in Trafton," here I turned my eyes full
+upon the face of Bethel, "who wished to drive him out of the community
+by making him unpopular in it."
+
+Bethel's face wore the same expression of mystified candor, his eyes
+met mine full and frankly, as he replied:
+
+"Taking _that_ as a foregone conclusion, we arrive at the point of
+starting, Who are the guilty ones? Who are my enemies? I have been
+uniformly successful in my practice; I have had no differences,
+disagreement, or disputes with any man in Trafton. Up to to-day I could
+have sworn I had not an enemy in the town."
+
+"And so could I," said Dr. Barnard. "It's a case for a wiser head than
+mine."
+
+"It's a case for the detectives," said Dr. Bethel, firmly. "If this
+unknown foe thinks to drive me from Trafton, he must try other measures.
+I intend to remain, and to solve this mystery."
+
+A moment's silence followed this decided announcement.
+
+The old doctor nodded his approval, his daughter looked hers.
+
+Miss Manvers sat with eyes fixed upon a spot in the carpet, biting
+nervously at her full red under lip, and tapping the floor with the toe
+of her dainty boot.
+
+I had no desire to take a prominent part in the discussion which
+followed, and became as much as I could a mere observer, but, as after
+events proved, I made very good use of my eyes that night.
+
+Having exhausted the subject of the grave robbery without arriving at
+any new conclusions, the social old doctor proposed a game of whist,
+cards being his chief source of evening pastime. The game was made up,
+Miss Manvers taking a seat opposite Dr. Barnard, and Dr. Bethel playing
+with Mrs. Barnard.
+
+After watching their game for a time, Miss Barnard and myself retired to
+the piano. She sang several songs in a tender contralto, to a soft,
+well-rendered accompaniment, and as I essayed my thanks and ventured to
+praise her singing, she lifted her clear eyes to mine, saying, in an
+undertone:
+
+"Don't think me odd, or too curious--but--will you answer a
+question--frankly?"
+
+I promised, recklessly; and she ran her pretty fingers over the keys,
+drowning our voices, for other ears, under the soft ripple of the notes,
+while she questioned and I replied.
+
+"As a stranger, and an unprejudiced person," she began, "how does this
+shameful charge against Dr. Bethel appear to you? Judging him as men
+judge men, do you think he _could_ be guilty of such a deed?"
+
+"Judging him by my limited knowledge of human nature," I replied, "I
+should say that Dr. Bethel is incapable of baseness in any form. In this
+case, he is certainly innocent."
+
+She looked thoughtfully down at the white, gliding fingers, and said:
+
+"We have seen so much of Dr. Bethel since he came to Trafton, that he
+seems quite like an old friend, and because of his being associated with
+father, it makes his trouble almost a personal matter. I do hope it will
+end without further complications."
+
+She looked up in my face as if hoping that my judgment accorded with her
+wish, but I made no reply, finding silence easier and pleasanter than
+equivocation when dealing with a nature so frank and fearlessly
+truthful.
+
+The game of whist being at an end, Miss Manvers arose almost immediately
+and declared it time to go. She had sent her ph�ton home, her house
+being less than a quarter of a mile from Dr. Barnard's, and according to
+the custom of informal Trafton, I promptly offered myself as escort, and
+was promptly and smilingly accepted.
+
+"What a day this has been," said Miss Manvers, as the doctor's iron gate
+closed behind us. "Such a terrible charge to bring against Dr. Bethel.
+Do you really think," and, spite her evident intention to make the
+question sound common-place, I could detect the genuine anxiety in it,
+"Do you really think that it will--injure his practice to the extent
+of--driving him from Trafton?"
+
+"You heard what he said, Miss Manvers."
+
+"Oh, yes--but if I am rightly informed, Dr. Bethel is, in a measure at
+least, dependent on his practice. Is not this so?"
+
+"You are better advised than I, Miss Manvers; I know so little of Dr.
+Bethel."
+
+"And yet you were his warmest champion to-day."
+
+"I assure you I felt quite cool," I laughed. "I should have done as much
+for the merest stranger, under the same circumstances."
+
+"Then you are not prejudiced in his favor?"
+
+"I am not prejudiced at all. I like Bethel."
+
+"And so do I," replied the heiress, heartily, "and I like the spirit he
+shows in this matter. Is not this--a--exhuming of a subject, a frequent
+occurrence?"
+
+"Undoubtedly."
+
+"I mean--is it not often done by medical men?"
+
+"By them, or persons employed by them. I suppose so."
+
+She drew a little nearer, lifting an earnest face to meet my gaze.
+
+"Candidly, now," she said, "as if I were not Miss Manvers, but a man to
+be trusted. Do you think it impossible that Dr. Bethel has done this
+thing? Viewed from a scientific and practical standpoint, does such a
+deed appear to you to be the horrible thing _some_ seem to think it?"
+
+[Illustration: "Candidly, now," she said, "as if I were not Miss
+Manvers, but a man to be trusted. Do you think it impossible that Dr.
+Bethel has done this thing?"--page 129.]
+
+What spirit prompted my answer? I never knew just what impelled me, but
+I looked down into the pretty, upturned face, looked straight into the
+dark, liquid eyes, and answered:
+
+"Candidly, Miss Manvers--as you are certainly as much to be trusted as
+if you were a man--when I went to Bethel's defense, I went supposing
+that, for the benefit of science and the possible good of his
+fellow-beings, he _had_ exhumed the body."
+
+She drew a short, quick breath.
+
+"And you have changed your opinion?" she half asserted, half inquired.
+
+I laid the fingers of my gloved left hand lightly upon hers, as it
+rested on my arm, and bent lower toward the glowing brunette face as I
+answered:
+
+"I have not said so."
+
+She dropped her eyes and mused for a moment, then--
+
+"Do you think he will _actually_ call in a detective--to--to make his
+innocence seem more probable?"
+
+"I hope he will not," I replied, sincerely this time, but with a hidden
+meaning.
+
+"I don't think that Mr. Beale will desire further investigation. The
+matter will die out, undoubtedly. Mr. Barnard is a man of powerful
+influence in the community, and 'Squire Brookhouse will use _his_
+influence in behalf of Dr. Bethel, I am sure." Then, looking up again,
+quickly: "Do you not admire Miss Barnard?"
+
+"Miss Barnard is 'a thing of beauty,'" I rejoined, sententiously; then,
+with a downward glance that pointed my sentence, "I admire all lovely
+women."
+
+She laughed lightly, but said no more of Miss Barnard, or Dr. Bethel,
+and we parted with some careless badinage, supplemented by her cordial
+hope that I would prolong my stay in Trafton, and that she should see me
+often at The Hill.
+
+Going slowly homeward, through the August darkness, I mentally voted the
+treasure-ship heiress a clever, agreeable, and charming young lady, and
+spent some time in trying to decide whether her delightful cordiality
+was a token that I had pleased, or only amused her. Such is the vanity
+of man!
+
+I found Carnes wide awake, smoking and waiting.
+
+"Have ye done wid yer gallivantin'?" queried he, the instant I made my
+appearance. "Now, thin, be shquare; which is the purtyest gurl?"
+
+"How do you know there were two, sir?"
+
+"Inshtinct," he retorted, shamelessly. "I knew by the peculiar feelin'
+av the cords av me arums. I say, what a thunderin' lot o' snarly bushes
+old Barnyard kapes about his windys!"
+
+"What! you were up there?" I cried, in astonishment.
+
+"Worrunt I," he retorted, complacently. "_An' I wasn't the only one!_"
+
+"Carnes!"
+
+"Och, take off yer mittens an' sit down," he said, grinning offensively
+at my mighty efforts to draw off a pair of tight and moist kid gloves.
+"Warn't I up there, an' I could ave told ye all about the purty gals
+mysilf, an' what sort av blarney ye gave till em both, if it had not
+been fer the murtherin' baste of a shnake as got inter the scrubbery
+ahead av me."
+
+I threw aside the damp gloves, and seated myself directly in front of
+him.
+
+"Now, talk business," I said, impatiently. "It's getting late, and
+there's a good deal to be said."
+
+Carnes reached out for the pipe which he had laid aside at my entrance,
+lighted it with due deliberation, and then said, with no trace of his
+former absurdity:
+
+"I don't know what sent me strolling and smoking up toward Dr. Barnard's
+place, but I did go. My pipe went out, and I stopped to light it,
+stepping off the sidewalk just where the late lilacs hang over the fence
+at the foot of the garden. While I stood there, entirely hidden by the
+darkness and the shade, a man came walking stealthily down the middle of
+the road. His very gait betrayed the sneak, and I followed him,
+forgetting my pipe and keeping to the soft grass. He seemed to know just
+where to go for, although he moved cautiously, there was no hesitation.
+Well, he passed the gate, climbed the fence, sneaked up to the front of
+the house, skulking between the trees and rose bushes directly
+underneath the parlor window. I took the bearings as well as I could
+from a distance, and I made up my mind that the fellow, if he heard
+anything, could hardly catch the thread of the discourse, and I reckon I
+was right in my conclusions for, after a good deal of prospecting
+around, he sneaked away as he came, and I followed him back to Porter's
+store."
+
+[Illustration: "Well he passed the gate, climbed the fence, sneaked up
+to the front of the house, skulking between the trees and rose bushes
+directly underneath the parlor window."--page 132.]
+
+"And you knew him?" I questioned, hastily.
+
+"I used to know him," said Carnes, with a comical wink, "but recently
+I've cut his acquaintance."
+
+For a moment we stared at each other silently, then I asked, abruptly:
+
+"Old man, do you think it worth our while to go into this resurrection
+business?"
+
+"What for?"
+
+"To satisfy ourselves as regards Bethel's part in it."
+
+"You needn't go into it on my account," replied Carnes, crossing his
+legs and clasping his two hands behind his head; "I'm satisfied."
+
+"As how?"
+
+"He never did it."
+
+"Ah! how do you reason the case?"
+
+"First, he isn't a fool; second, if he had taken the body he would have
+made use of it that night; it was fast decomposing, and before to-night
+would be past pleasant handling. Then he, being called away, if he had
+instructed others to disinter the body, would never have instructed them
+to hide it on his own premises, much less to disrobe it for no purpose
+whatever. Then, last and most conclusive, there's the pick and spade."
+
+"And what of them?"
+
+"This of them," unclasping his hands, setting his two feet squarely on
+the floor, and bringing his palms down upon his knees. "You know old
+Harding, the hardware dealer?"
+
+I nodded. Old Harding was the elder brother of the Trafton farmer who
+had excited my eagerness to see Trafton by discussing its peculiarities
+on the railway train.
+
+"Well," leaning toward me and dropping out his words in stiff staccato.
+"After the crowd had left Jim Long and myself in possession of the
+doctor's premises, old Harding came back. I saw that he wanted to talk
+with Jim, and I went out into the yard. Presently the two went into the
+barn, and I skulked around till I got directly behind the window where
+those tools were found. And here's what I heard, stripped of old
+Harding's profanity, and Jim's cranky comments. Last year Harding's
+store was visited by burglars, and those identical tools were taken out
+of it along with many other things. You observed that they were quite
+new. Harding said he could swear to the tools. Now, if others had
+exhumed the body _for_ the doctor, they would not have left their tools
+in his stable and in so conspicuous a place. If the doctor exhumed it,
+how did he obtain those tools? _They were stolen before he came to
+Trafton._"
+
+"Then here is another thing," I began, as Carnes paused. "A man of
+Bethel's sense would not take such a step without a sufficient reason.
+Now, Dr. Barnard, who certainly is authority in the matter, says
+positively that there were no peculiar symptoms about the child's
+sickness; that it was a _very_ ordinary case; therefore, Dr. Bethel, who
+can buy all his skeletons without incurring disagreeable labor and risk,
+could have had no motive for taking the body."
+
+"Then you think----"
+
+"I think this," I interrupted, being now warm with my subject. "Dr.
+Bethel, who is certainly _not_ a detective, is suspected of being one,
+or feared as one. And this is the way his enemies open the war upon him.
+I think if we can find out who robbed that little girl's grave and
+secreted the body so as to throw suspicion upon Bethel, we shall be in a
+fair way to find out what we came here to learn, viz., what, and where,
+and who, are the daring, long existing successful robbers that infest
+Trafton. This is their first failure, and why?"
+
+"It's easy to guess _why_," said Carnes, gravely. "The old head was out
+of this business; for some reason it has been entrusted to underlings,
+and bunglers."
+
+"But won't old Harding give these rascals warning by claiming his stolen
+property?" I asked, dubiously.
+
+"Not he," replied Carnes. "Harding's too cute and too stingy for that.
+He reasons that the thieves, having begun to display their booty, may
+grow more reckless. He is one of the few who think that the body was not
+placed in the hay by the doctor's hirelings; he intends to keep silent
+for the present and look sharp for any more of his stolen merchandize."
+
+"Then, Carnes, we have no bars to our present progress. To-morrow we get
+down to actual business."
+
+Again we sat late into the night discussing and re-arranging our
+plans, only separating when we had mapped out a course which we, in our
+egotistical blindness, felt assured was the true route toward success;
+and seeking our slumbers as blissfully unconscious of what really was to
+transpire as the veriest dullard in all Trafton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+A BIG HAUL.
+
+
+When I awoke next morning, I was surprised to find my erratic
+body-servant not in attendance.
+
+Carnes, for convenience, and because of lack of modern hotel
+accommodations, occupied a cot in my room, which was the largest in the
+house, and sufficiently airy to serve for two. Usually, he was anything
+but a model serving man in the matter of rising and attending to duty,
+for, invariably, I was out of bed an hour before him, and had made my
+toilet to the music of his nasal organ, long before he broke his morning
+nap.
+
+This morning, however, Carnes was not snoring peacefully on his cot
+underneath the open north window, and I arose and made a hasty toilet,
+feeling sure that something unusual had called him from his bed this
+early.
+
+Wondering much, I descended to the office, where an animated buzz warned
+me that something new and startling was under discussion.
+
+Usually at that hour this sanctum was untenanted, save for the youth
+who served as a combination of porter and clerk, and perhaps a stray
+boarder or two, but this morning a motley crowd filled the room. Not a
+noisy, blustering crowd, but a gathering of startled, perplexed, angry
+looking men, each seeming hopeful of hearing something, rather than
+desirous of saying much.
+
+Jim Long, the idle, every-where-present Jim, stood near the outer door,
+looking as stolid and imperturbable as usual, and smoking, as a matter
+of course.
+
+I made my way to him at once.
+
+"What is it, Long," I asked, in a low tone; "something new, or--"
+
+"Nothin' _new_, by any means," interrupted Jim, sublimely indifferent to
+the misfortune of his neighbors. "Nothin' new at all, Cap'n; the Trafton
+Bandits have been at it again, that's all."
+
+[Illustration: "Nothin' new at all, Cap'n; the Trafton Bandits have been
+at it again that's all."--page 140.]
+
+"Trafton Bandits! you mean--"
+
+"Thieves! Robbers! Ku Klux! They've made another big haul."
+
+"Last night?"
+
+"Last night, Cap'n."
+
+"Of what sort?"
+
+Jim chuckled wickedly.
+
+"The right sort to git money out of. Hopper's two-forty's, that was in
+trainin' for the races. Meacham's matched sorrels. 'Squire Brookhouse's
+bay Morgans."
+
+"What! six blooded horses at one haul!"
+
+"Eggszactly."
+
+Jim's coolness was aggravating; I turned away from him, and mingled
+with the group about the clerk's desk.
+
+"Meacham'll suicide; he refused a fancy price for them sorrels not two
+weeks ago."
+
+"Wonder what old Brookhouse will do about it?"
+
+"There'll be some tall rewards offered."
+
+"Much good that'll do. We don't get back stolen horses so easy in this
+county."
+
+"It'll break Hopper up; he had bet his pile on the two-forty's, and bid
+fair to win."
+
+"One of 'em was goin' to trot against Arch Brookhouse's mare, Polly, an'
+they had big bets up. Shouldn't wonder if Arch was glad to be let out so
+easy. Polly never could outgo that gray four-year-old."
+
+"Think not?"
+
+"Brookhouse has telegraphed to his lawyers already, to send on a couple
+of detectives."
+
+"Bully for Brookhouse."
+
+"Don't yell till yer out of the woods. Detectives ain't so much more'n
+common folks. I don't go much on 'em myself. What we want is vigilants."
+
+"Pooh! neither detectives nor vigilants can't cure Trafton."
+
+These and like remarks greeted my ears in quick succession, and
+furnished me mental occupation. I lingered for half an hour among the
+eager, excited gossippers, and then betook myself to the dining-room and
+partook of my morning meal in solitude. With my food for the body, I had
+also food for thought.
+
+Here, indeed, was work for the detective. I longed for the instant
+presence of Carnes, that we might discuss the situation, and I felt no
+little annoyance at the thought of the two detectives who might come in
+upon us at the bidding of 'Squire Brookhouse.
+
+Carnes was in the office when I again entered it, and giving him a sign
+to follow me, I went up to my room. It was situated in a wing of the
+building most remote from the office, and the hum of many voices did not
+penetrate so far.
+
+The stillness seemed more marked by contrast with the din I had just
+left, as I sat waiting.
+
+Presently Carnes came in, alert, quick of movement, and having merged
+the talkative Irishman in the active, cautious detective.
+
+"This looks like business;" he began, dragging a chair forward, and
+seating himself close to me. "I chanced to wake up a little after
+sunrise, and heard some men talking outside, near my window. They were
+going through the lane, and I only caught the words: "Yes, sir; stolen
+last night; six of them." Somehow the tone, quite as much as the words,
+convinced me that something was wrong. I got up and hurried out,
+thinking it hardly worth while to disturb you until I had learned more
+of the fellow's meaning. Well, sir, it's a fact; six valuable pieces of
+horseflesh have been taken from under our very noses."
+
+"Have you got any particulars?"
+
+"Well, yes, as much as is known, I think. Hopper, as you remember, lives
+on the hill just at the edge of the town. His man sleeps in the little
+office adjoining the stable. It seems the fellow, having no valuables to
+lose, let the window swing open and slept near it. He was chloroformed,
+and is under the doctor's care this morning. Meacham's stable is very
+near the house, but no one was disturbed by the robbers; they threw his
+dog a huge piece of meat that kept his jaws occupied. I heard Arch
+Brookhouse talking with a lot of men; he says the Morgans were in a
+loose box near the rear door of the stable, and that two men were
+sleeping in the room above the front wing. He says they have telegraphed
+to the city for detectives."
+
+"Yes, I'm sorry for that, but it's to be expected."
+
+"What shall we do about it?"
+
+"As we are working for our own satisfaction and have little at stake, I
+am in favor of keeping quiet until we see who they bring down. If it's
+some of our own fellows, or _any one_ that we know to be skillful, we
+can then turn in and help them, or retire from the field without making
+ourselves known, as we think best. If the fellows are strangers--"
+
+"Then we will try the merits of the case with them," broke in Carnes. "I
+tell you, old man, I hate to quit the field now."
+
+"So do I," I acknowledged. "We must manage to know when these new
+experts arrive, and until we have found them out, can do little but keep
+our eyes and ears open. It won't do to betray too much interest just
+yet."
+
+Carnes wheeled about in his chair and turned his eyes toward the street.
+
+"I wish this thing had not happened just yet," he said, moodily. "Last
+night our plans were laid so smoothly. I don't see how we can even
+follow up this grave-robbing business, until these confounded detectives
+have shown their hand."
+
+"Carnes," I replied, solemnly, "do be a philosopher. If ever two
+conceited detectives got themselves into a charming muddle, we're those
+two, at present. If we don't come out of this escapade covered with
+confusion, we shall have cause to be thankful."
+
+My homily had its intended effect. Carnes wheeled upon me with scorn
+upon his countenance.
+
+"The mischief fly away wid yer croakin'," he cried. "An' it's lyin' ye
+know ye are. Is it covered wid confusion ye'd be afther havin' us, bad
+cess to ye? Av we quit this nest we'd be drappin' the natest job two
+lads ever tackled. Ye can quit av ye like, but I'm shtayin', avan if the
+ould boy himself comes down to look intil the bizness."
+
+By "the ould boy," Carnes meant our Chief, and not, as might be
+supposed, his Satanic majesty.
+
+I smiled at the notion of our Chief in the midst of these Trafton
+perplexities, and, letting Carnes' tirade remain unanswered, took from
+my pocket the before mentioned note book and began a new mental
+calculation.
+
+"There goes the ould identical Mephistophiles I used to see in my fairy
+book," broke out Carnes from his station by the window, where he had
+stood for some moments silently contemplating whatever might present
+itself to view in the street below. "Look at 'im now! Av I were an
+artist, wouldn't I ax 'im to sit for 'Satan'."
+
+I looked out and saw 'Squire Brookhouse passing on the opposite side of
+the street, and looking closer, I decided that Carnes' comparison was
+not inapt.
+
+In the days of his youth 'Squire Brookhouse might have been a handsome
+man, when his regular features were rounded and colored by twenty-two
+Summers, or perhaps more; but he must have grown old while yet young,
+for his cadaverous cheeks were the color of most ancient parchment; his
+black eyes were set in hollow, dusky caverns; his mouth was sunken, the
+thin lips being drawn and colorless. His upper lip was smooth shaven,
+but the chin was decorated by a beard, long but thin, and of a peculiar
+lifeless black. His eyebrows were long and drooped above the cavernous
+eyes. His hair was straight and thin, matching the beard in color, and
+he wore it so long that it touched the collar of his coat, the ends
+fluttering dismally in the least gust of wind. He was tall, and angular
+to emaciation, with narrow, stooping shoulders, and the slow, gliding
+gait of an Indian. He was uniformly solemn, it would be a mistake to say
+dignified; preternaturally silent, going and coming like a shadow among
+his loquacious neighbors; always intent upon his own business and
+showing not the least interest in anything that did not in some way
+concern himself. Living plainly, dressing shabbily, hoarding his riches,
+grinding his tenants, superintending the business of his large
+stock-farm, he held himself aloof from society, and had never been seen
+within the walls of a church.
+
+And yet this silent, unsocial man was a power in Trafton; his word of
+commendation was eagerly sought for; his frown was a thing to be
+dreaded; his displeasure to be feared. Whom he would be elected to
+office, and whom he would not, came somehow to be disapproved by all
+Trafton.
+
+"He has certainly an uncommon _ensemble_," I said, looking out over
+Carnes' shoulder, "not a handsome man, to be sure, but one toward whom
+you would turn in a crowd to take the second look at. I wonder where Jim
+Long would place him in the scale of Trafton weights and measures?"
+
+"Not under the head of the model Traftonite," replied Carnes, still
+gazing after the receding figure. "He's guiltless of the small hands and
+feet, perfumed locks and 'more frill to the square yard of shirt front'
+required by Jim for the making of his model. By-the-by, what the 'Squire
+lacks is amply made up by the son. When Jim pictured the model
+Traftonite, I think he must have had Arch Brookhouse in his eye."
+
+"I think so, too; a nature such as Jim's would be naturally antagonistic
+to any form of dandyism. Young Brookhouse is a fastidious dresser, and,
+I should say, a thoroughly good fellow."
+
+"As good fellows go," said Carnes, sententiously. "But dropping the
+dandy, tell me what are we going to do with Jim Long?"
+
+"It's a question I've been asking myself," responded I, turning away
+from the window, "Jim is not an easy conundrum to solve."
+
+"About as easy as a Chinese puzzle," grumbled Carnes, discontentedly.
+"Nevertheless, I tell you, old man, before we get much further on our
+way we've got to take his measure."
+
+"I quite agree with you, and the moment the way seems clear, we must do
+something more."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"We must explore that south road, every foot of it, for twenty miles at
+least."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+'SQUIRE BROOKHOUSE MAKES A CALL.
+
+
+The first train due from the city, by which, supposing 'Squire
+Brookhouse's message to be promptly received, and his commission
+promptly executed, it would be possible for the looked-for detectives to
+arrive, would be due at midnight. It was a fast, through express, and
+arriving so late, when the busy village gossips were, or should be,
+peacefully sleeping, it seemed to us quite probable that they would come
+openly by that train.
+
+Of course we expected them to assume disguise, or to have some plausible
+business in the town, quite foreign to their real errand thither; but,
+equally, of course we expected to be able to penetrate any disguise that
+might be assumed by parties known to us, or to see beneath any business
+subterfuge adopted by strangers.
+
+Until midnight then we had only to wait, and employ our time profitably,
+if we could, which seemed hardly probable.
+
+I remained in my room for the remainder of the morning, and Carnes went
+out among the gossipers, in search of any scrap that he might seize upon
+and manipulate into a thing of meaning.
+
+At the dinner table I met Dr. Bethel. He was his usual calm, courteous
+self, seeming in no wise ruffled or discomposed by the events of the
+previous day.
+
+We chatted together over our dinner, and together left the table. In the
+hall the doctor turned to face me, saying:
+
+"If you have nothing better to occupy your time, come down to my house
+with me. I shall enjoy your company."
+
+I could scarcely have found a way of passing the afternoon more to my
+taste, just then, and I accepted his invitation promptly.
+
+Outside the doctor's dwelling, quiet and order reigned, thanks to Jim
+Long's officious friendliness, but within was still the confusion of
+yesterday; Jim, seemingly, having exhausted himself in the hanging of
+the doctor's front door.
+
+Bethel looked about the disordered rooms, and laughed the laugh of the
+philosopher.
+
+"After all, a man can not be thoroughly angry at the doings of a mob,"
+he said, stooping to gather up some scattered papers. "It's like
+scattering shot; the charge loses its force; there is no center to turn
+upon. I was in a rage yesterday, but it was rather with the author of
+the mischief credited to me, than these fanatical would-be avengers, and
+then--after due reflection--it was quite natural that these village
+simpletons should suspect me, was it not?"
+
+"Candidly, yes," I replied; "and that only proves the cunning of the
+enemy who planned this business for your injury."
+
+Bethel, who was stooping to restore a chair to its proper position,
+lifted his head to favor me with one sharp glance. Then he brought the
+chair up with a jerk; and, taking another with the unoccupied hand,
+said:
+
+"This is hardly a picture of comfort. Fortunately, there is a condensed
+lawn and excellent shade outside. Let's smoke a cigar under the trees,
+and discuss this matter comfortably."
+
+In another moment we were sitting cosily, _vis-�-vis_, on the tiny grass
+plot, styled by the doctor a "condensed lawn," with a huge clump of
+lilacs at our backs, and the quivering leaves of a young maple above our
+heads.
+
+The doctor produced some excellent cigars, which we lighted, and smoked
+for a time in silence. Then he said:
+
+"I scarcely flatter myself that I have seen the end of this business. I
+quite expected the raid of yesterday to be followed by a formal
+accusation and a warrant to-day, in which case--"
+
+"In which case," I interrupted, "I will be responsible for your future
+good behavior, and go your bail."
+
+"Thank you," he said, quite seriously. "I appreciate your championship,
+but confess it surprises me. Why have you voted me guiltless, in
+opposition to the expressed opinions of two-thirds of Trafton?"
+
+"Perhaps," I replied, "it is because I am not a Traftonite, and am
+therefore without prejudice. To be perfectly frank, I _did_ suppose you
+to be implicated in the business when I came here yesterday; when I
+witnessed your surprise, and heard your denial, I wavered; when I saw
+the buried clothing, I doubted; when the body was discovered, I was
+convinced that a less clever head and more bungling hand than yours, had
+planned and executed the resurrection; it was a blunder which I could
+not credit you with making. If I had a doubt, Barnard's testimony would
+have laid it."
+
+"Thank you," said Bethel, with real warmth. "But----I might have had
+confederates."
+
+"No. Doctor Barnard's statement as to the manner of the child's death
+deprives you of a motive for the deed; then the too-easily found tools,
+and the stripped-off clothing could hardly be work of your planning or
+ordering. Depend upon it, when Trafton has done a little calm thinking,
+it will see this matter as I see it."
+
+"Possibly," with a shade of skepticism in his voice. "At least, when I
+have unearthed these plotters against me, they will see the matter as it
+is, and that day I intend to bring to pass."
+
+The fire was nearly extinct on the tip of his cigar, he replaced it in
+his mouth and seemingly only intent upon rekindling the spark; this
+done, he smoked in silence a moment and then said:
+
+"As to the author of the mischief, or his motive, I am utterly at a
+loss. I have given up trying to think out the mystery. I shall call in
+the help of the best detective I can find, and see what he makes of the
+matter."
+
+Gracious heavens! here was another lion coming down upon myself and my
+luckless partner! Trafton was about to be inundated with detectives. My
+brain worked hard and fast. Something must be done, and that speedily,
+or Carnes and I must retreat mutely, ingloriously.
+
+While I smoked in a seemingly careless reverie, I was weighing the
+_pros_ and _cons_ of a somewhat uncertain venture. Should I let this
+third detective come and risk a collision, or should I make a clean
+breast of it, avow my identity, explain the motive of my sojourn in
+Trafton, and ask Bethel to trust his case to Carnes and myself? Almost
+resolved upon this latter course, I began to feel my way.
+
+"A good detective ought to sift the matter, I should think," I said. "I
+suppose you have your man in view?"
+
+"Candidly, no," he replied, with a dubious shake of the head. "I'm
+afraid I am not well posted as regards the police, never expecting to
+have much use for the gentry. I must go to the city and hunt up the
+right man."
+
+I drew a breath of relief.
+
+"That will consume some valuable time," I said, musingly.
+
+"Yes, a day to go; another, perhaps, before I find my man. I shall go
+in person, because I fancy that I shall be able to give something like a
+correct guess as to the man's ability, if I can have a square look at
+his face."
+
+I blew a cloud of smoke before my own face to conceal a smile.
+
+"You are a physiognomist, then?"
+
+"Not a radical one; but I believe there is much to be learned by the
+careful study of the human countenance."
+
+"Give me a test of your ability," I said, jestingly, and drawing my
+chair nearer to him. "Have I the material in me for a passable
+detective?"
+
+"My dear sir," he replied, gravely, "if I had not given you credit for
+some shrewdness, I should hardly have made you, even in a slight degree,
+my confidante; if you were a detective I think you might be expected to
+succeed."
+
+"Thanks, doctor; being what I am I can, perhaps, give you the key to
+this mystery."
+
+"You?"
+
+"Yes, I," tossing away my cigar and now fully resolved to confide in the
+doctor. "I think I have stumbled upon the clue you require. I will tell
+you how."
+
+There was a sharp click at the gate; I closed my lips hurriedly, and we
+both turned to look.
+
+'Squire Brookhouse, if possible a shade more solemn of countenance than
+usual, was entering the doctor's door-yard.
+
+My host arose instantly to receive, but did not advance to meet, his
+latest guest.
+
+'Squire Brookhouse accepted the chair proffered him, having first given
+me a nod of recognition, and, while Bethel entered the house for another
+chair, sat stiffly, letting his small, restless black eyes rove about,
+taking in his surroundings with quick, furtive glances, and I fancied
+that he felt a trifle annoyed at my presence.
+
+"You seem quite serene here, in spite of yesterday's fracas," he said to
+me, in what he no doubt intended for the ordinary affable conversational
+tone.
+
+He possessed a naturally harsh, rasping voice, not loud, but, none the
+less, not pleasant to the ear, and this, coupled with his staccato
+manner of jerking out the beginnings of his sentences, and biting off
+the ends of them, would have given, even to gentle words, the sound of
+severity.
+
+While I replied, I was inwardly wondering what had called out this
+unusual visit, for I saw at once, by the look on Bethel's face, that it
+was unusual, and, just then, a trifle unwelcome.
+
+We were not left long in the dark. Scarcely had the doctor rejoined us
+and been seated before the 'squire gave us an insight into the nature of
+his business.
+
+"I am sorry our people gave you so much trouble yesterday, doctor," he
+began, in his stiff staccato. "Their conduct was as discreditable to the
+town as it was uncomplimentary to you."
+
+"One should always take into consideration the character of the
+elements that assails him," replied Bethel, coolly. "I was comforted to
+know that my assailants of yesterday were notably of the _canaille_ of
+the town; the majority, of the rough, vulgar excitables, who, while not
+being, or meaning to be, absolutely vicious, are, because of their
+inherent ignorance, easily played upon and easily led, especially toward
+mischief. The leaders most certainly were not of the _lower_ classes,
+but of the _lowest_. On the whole, I have experienced no serious
+discomfort, 'Squire Brookhouse, nor do I anticipate any lasting injury
+to my practice by this attempt to shake the public faith in me."
+
+This reply surprised me somewhat, and I saw that the 'squire was, for
+the moment, nonplussed. He sat quite silent, biting his thin under lip,
+and with his restless eyes seemed trying to pierce to the doctor's
+innermost thought.
+
+The silence became to me almost oppressive before he said, shifting his
+position so as to bring me more prominently within his range of vision:
+
+"I hope you are right; I suppose you are. Arch displeased me very much
+by not coming to your aid; he might, perhaps, have had some influence
+upon a portion of the mob. I regret to learn that one or two of my men
+were among them. I believe Arch tried to argue against the movement
+before they came down upon you; he came home thoroughly disgusted and
+angry. For myself, I was too much indisposed to venture out yesterday."
+
+He drew himself a trifle more erect; this long speech seeming to be
+something well off his mind.
+
+"I was well supported, I assure you," replied Bethel, courteously. "But
+I appreciate your interest in my welfare. Your influence in Trafton is
+considerable, I know."
+
+"Hardly that; hardly that, sir. However, such as it is, it is yours, if
+you need it. My call was merely to ask if you anticipated any further
+trouble, or if I could serve you in any way, in case you desired to make
+an investigation."
+
+Bethel hesitated a moment, seemingly at a loss for a reply.
+
+In that moment, while the 'squire's sharp eyes were fixed upon him, I
+lifted my hand, removed my cigar from my mouth with a careless gesture,
+and, catching the doctor's eye, laid a finger on my lip. In another
+instant I was puffing away at my weed, and the keen, quick eyes of
+'Squire Brookhouse were boring me clean through.
+
+"Thank you," said Bethel, after this pause, and without again glancing
+at me. "You are very good."
+
+"We seem to be especially honored by rogues of various sorts," went on
+the 'squire. "Of course you have heard of last night's work, and of my
+loss."
+
+The doctor bowed his head.
+
+"This thing is becoming intolerable," went on the usually silent man,
+"and I intend to make a stanch fight. If it's in the power of the
+detectives, I mean to have my horses back."
+
+"You will bestow a blessing upon the community if you succeed in
+capturing the thieves," said Bethel.
+
+Then the 'squire turned toward me, saying:
+
+"We are a victimized community, sir. I suppose you have found that out?"
+
+[Illustration: "We are a victimized community, sir. I suppose you have
+found that out?"--page 161.]
+
+"Judging from the events of yesterday and last night, I should think
+so," I replied, with an air of indifferent interest. "From the
+conversation I heard at the hotel to-day, I infer that this thieving
+business is no new thing."
+
+"No new thing, sir."
+
+I had no desire to participate in the conversation, so made no further
+comment, and the 'squire turned again to Bethel.
+
+"I suppose you intend to investigate this matter?"
+
+Bethel looked up to the maple, and down at the grass.
+
+"I have scarcely decided," he replied, slowly. "I have hardly had time
+to consider."
+
+"Ah! I supposed, from what I heard in the town, that you had made a
+decided stand."
+
+"So far as this, I have," replied Bethel, gravely. "I am determined not
+to let these underminers succeed in their purpose."
+
+"Then you have fathomed their purpose?"
+
+"I suppose it is to drive me from Trafton?"
+
+"You intend to remain?"
+
+"Most assuredly. I shall reside and practice in Trafton so long as I
+have one patient left who has faith in me."
+
+"That would be an unprofitable game--financially."
+
+"I think not, in the end."
+
+Again the 'squire seemed at a loss for words.
+
+I hugged myself with delight. The dialogue pleased me.
+
+"I like your spirit," he said, at length. "I should also like to see
+this matter cleared up." He rose slowly, pulling his hat low down over
+his cavernous eyes. "I have sent for detectives," he said, slightly
+lowering his tone. "Of course I wish their identity and whereabouts to
+remain a secret among us. If you desire to investigate and wish any
+information or advice from them, or if I can aid you _in any way_, don't
+hesitate to let me know."
+
+Dr. Bethel thanked him warmly, assuring him that if he had need of a
+friend he would not forget his very generously proffered service, and,
+with his solemn face almost funereal in its expression, 'Squire
+Brookhouse bowed to me, and, this time escorted by Bethel, walked slowly
+toward the gate.
+
+A carriage came swiftly down the road from the direction of the village.
+It halted just as they had reached the gate.
+
+I saw a pale face look out, and then 'Squire Brookhouse approached and
+listened to something said by this pale-faced occupant. Meantime Bethel,
+without waiting for further words with 'Squire Brookhouse, came back to
+his seat under the trees.
+
+In a moment the carriage moved on, going rapidly as before, and the
+'squire came back through the little gate and approached the doctor,
+wearing now upon his face a look of unmistakable sourness.
+
+"Doctor," he said, in his sharpest staccato, "my youngest scapegrace has
+met with an accident, and is going home with a crippled leg. I don't
+know how bad the injury is, but you had better come at once; he seems in
+great distress."
+
+The doctor turned to me with a hesitating movement which I readily
+understood. He was loth to leave our interrupted conversation unfinished
+for an indefinite time.
+
+I arose at once.
+
+"Don't let my presence interfere with your duties," I said. "You and I
+can finish our smoke to-morrow, doctor."
+
+He shot me a glance which assured me that he comprehended my meaning.
+
+Five minutes later, Dr. Bethel and 'Squire Brookhouse were going up the
+hill toward the house of the latter, while I, still smoking, sauntered
+in the opposite direction, lazily, as beseemed an idle man.
+
+I felt very well satisfied just then, and was rather glad that my
+disclosure to the doctor had been interrupted. A new thought had lodged
+in my brain, and I wished to consult Carnes.
+
+Just at sunset, while I sat on the piazza of the hotel, making a
+pretence of reading the _Trafton Weekly News_, I saw Charlie Harris, the
+operator, coming down the street with a yellow envelope in his hand.
+
+He came up the steps of the hotel, straight to me, and I noted a
+mischievous smile on his face as he proffered the envelope, saying:
+
+"I am glad to find you so easily. I should have felt it my duty to
+ransack the town in order to deliver that."
+
+I opened the telegram in silence, and read these words:
+
+     The widow B. is in town and anxious to see you. T. C.
+
+Then I looked up into the face of young Harris, and smiled in my turn.
+
+"Harris," I said, "this is a very welcome piece of news, and I am much
+obliged to you."
+
+"I knew you would be," laughed the jolly fellow. "I love to serve the
+ladies. And what shall I say in return?"
+
+"Nothing, Harris," I responded. "I shall go by the first train; the
+widow here referred to, is a particular friend of mine."
+
+Harris elevated his eyebrows.
+
+"In dead earnest, aren't you? Tell me--I'll never, never give you away,
+is she pretty?"
+
+"Pretty!" I retorted; "Harris, I've a mind to knock you down, for
+applying such a weak word to _her_. She's _magnificent_."
+
+"Whew," he exclaimed, "It's a bad case, then. When shall we see you
+again in Trafton?"
+
+"That depends upon the lady. I'll never leave the city while she desires
+me to stay."
+
+After a little more banter of this sort, Harris returned to his duties,
+and I went up-stairs, well pleased with the manner in which he had
+interpreted my Chief's telegram, and wondering not a little what had
+brought the widow Ballou to the city.
+
+Carnes and I had another long talk that night, while waiting the time
+for the arrival of the city express.
+
+I told him that I was called to the city in the interest of the case I
+had abandoned after getting my wound, and that unless my continued
+presence there was absolutely indispensable, I would return in three
+days, at the farthest.
+
+I gave him a detailed account of my visit to Bethel, with its attendant
+circumstances.
+
+"Bethel will hardly make a decided move in the matter for a day or two,
+I think," I said, after we had discussed the propriety of taking the
+doctor into our counsel. "I will write him a note which you shall
+deliver, and the rest must wait."
+
+I wrote as follows:
+
+     DR. CARL BETHEL,
+
+     _Dear Sir_--Am just in receipt of a telegram which calls me to
+     the city. I go by the early train, as there is a lady in the
+     case. Shall return in a few days, I trust, and then hope to
+     finish our interrupted conversation. I _think_ your success
+     will be more probable and speedy if you delay all action for
+     the present.
+
+     This is in confidence.
+
+                                      Yours fraternally, etc., etc.
+
+"There," I said, folding the note, "That is making the truth tell a
+falsehood." And I smiled as I pictured the "lady in the case," likely to
+be conjured up by the imaginations of Harris and Dr. Bethel, and
+contrasted her charms with the sharp features, work-hardened hands, and
+matter-of-fact head, of Mrs. Ballou.
+
+Just ten minutes before twelve o'clock Carnes and myself dropped
+noiselessly out of our chamber window, leaving a dangling rope to
+facilitate our return, and took our way to the depot to watch for the
+expected experts.
+
+Ten minutes later the great fiery eye of the iron horse shone upon us
+from a distance, disappeared behind a curve, reappeared again, and came
+beaming down to the little platform.
+
+The train halted for just an instant, then swept on its way.
+
+But no passengers were left upon the platform; our errand had been
+fruitless; the detectives were still among the things to be looked for.
+
+The next morning, before daybreak, I was _en route_ for the city.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+MRS. BALLOU'S PISTOL PRACTICE.
+
+
+Half an hour after my arrival in the city, I was seated in the private
+office of our Chief, with Mrs. Ballou opposite me.
+
+I had telegraphed from a way station, so that no time might be lost. I
+found the Chief and the lady awaiting me; and, at the first, he had
+signified his wish that I should listen to her story, and then give him
+my version of it.
+
+"She seems ill at ease with me," he said, "and frankly told me that she
+preferred to make her statement to you. Go ahead, Bathurst; above all we
+must retain her confidence."
+
+Mrs. Ballou looked careworn, and seemed more nervous than I had supposed
+it in her nature to be.
+
+She looked relieved at sight of me, and, as soon as we were alone,
+plunged at once into her story, as if anxious to get it over, and hear
+what I might have to say.
+
+This is what she told me in her own plain, concise, and very sensible
+language, interrupted now and then by my brief questions, and her
+occasional moments of silence, while I transferred something to my
+note-book.
+
+"I presume you have wanted to know what I did with that letter I took,"
+she began, smiling a little, probably in recollection of her adroit
+theft. "I will tell you why I took it. When you first showed it to me,
+the printed letters had a sort of familiar look, but I could not think
+where I had seen them. During the night it seemed to come to me, and I
+got up and went into the parlor." Here she hesitated for a moment, and
+then went on hurriedly: "Grace--my girl, you know--has a large autograph
+album; she brought it home when she came from the seminary, and
+everybody she meets that can scratch with a pen, must write in it. I
+found this precious album, and in it I found--this."
+
+She took from her pocket-book a folded paper and put it in my hand. It
+was a leaf torn from an album, and it contained a sentimental couplet,
+_printed_ in large, bold letters.
+
+I looked at the bit of paper, and then muttering an excuse, went
+hurriedly to the outer office. In a moment I was back; holding in my
+hand the printed letter of warning, which I had confided to the care of
+my Chief.
+
+I sat down opposite Mrs. Ballou with the two documents before me, and
+scrutinized them carefully.
+
+They were the same. The letter of warning was penciled, and bore
+evidence of having been hastily done; the album lines were in ink
+carefully executed and elaborately finished, but the lettering was the
+same. Making allowances for the shading, the flourishes, and the extra
+precision of the one, and looking simply at the formation of the
+letters, the height, width, curves, and spacing of both, and the
+resemblance was too strong to pass for a mere coincidence.
+
+I studied the two papers thoughtfully for a few moments, then looked at
+Mrs. Ballou.
+
+"You should have told me of this at once," I began; but she threw up her
+hand impatiently.
+
+"Wait," she said, with almost her ordinary brusqueness, seeming to lose
+her nervousness as she became absorbed in the task of convincing me that
+she thoroughly understood _herself_. "There was no time to compare the
+writing that night. I had not decided what to do, and I was not sure
+then that they were the same. I left the album, just as I found it, and
+went out and harnessed the horses. While I was helping you with your
+coat, I managed to get the letter."
+
+"You were certainly very adroit," I said. "Even now I can recall no
+suspicious movements of yours."
+
+"I made none," she retorted. "I saw where you put the letter, and it was
+easy to get it while helping you."
+
+She paused a moment, then went on:
+
+"When I went home, after driving you to the station, everybody was
+asleep. I knew they would be; I always have to wake them all, from Fred
+to the hired girl. I waked them as usual that morning, told them that I
+had discharged you for impertinence, and for abusing the horses, and
+that settled the matter. In the afternoon the girls went over to
+Morton's; it's only a mile across the fields, and a clear path. I made
+up my mind that I'd have them safe back again before dark, and I know
+where I could get a good man to take your place; he was high-priced, but
+I knew he was to be trusted, and I had made up my mind to keep a close
+eye on the girls, and to send some one with them wherever they went.
+After they were gone, I took the album to my room, locked Fred out, and
+compared the letter with the album verse. I thought the writing was the
+same."
+
+She hesitated a moment, brushed her handkerchief across her lips, and
+then went on.
+
+"I didn't know what to do, nor what to think--my first thought was to
+send for you, then I became frightened. I did not know what you might
+trace out, with this clue, and I did not know how it might affect my
+daughter. Grace is lively, fond of all kinds of gayety, especially of
+dancing. She is always surrounded with beaux, always has half a dozen
+intimate girl friends on hand, and is constantly on the go. There are so
+many young people about Groveland that picnics, neighborhood dances,
+croquet parties, buggy rides, etc., are plenty; and then, Grace often
+has visitors from Amora."
+
+"Where is Amora?" I interrupted.
+
+"It is about twenty-five miles from Groveland. Grace went to school at
+Amora."
+
+I made an entry in my note-book, and then asked:
+
+"Is there a seminary in Amora?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"How long since your daughter left Amora, Mrs. Ballou?"
+
+"She was there during the Winter term."
+
+"Yes. Did Nellie Ewing ever attend school at Amora?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"When?"
+
+Mrs. Ballou moved uneasily.
+
+"Nellie and Grace were room-mates last Winter," she replied.
+
+"And Mamie Rutger? Was she there, too?"
+
+"She began the Winter term, but was expelled."
+
+"Expelled! For what?"
+
+"For sauciness and disobedience. Mamie was a spoiled child, and not fond
+of study."
+
+I wrote rapidly in my note-book, and mentally anathematized myself, and
+my employers in the Ewing-Rutger case. Why had I not learned before that
+Nellie Ewing and Mamie Rutger were together at Amora? Why had their two
+fathers neglected to give me so important a piece of information?
+
+Evidently they had not thought of this fact in connection with the
+disappearance of the two girls, or the fact that Mamie was expelled from
+the school may have kept Farmer Rutger silent.
+
+I closed my note-book and asked:
+
+"Did any other young people from Groveland attend the Amora school? Try
+and be accurate, Mrs. Ballou."
+
+"Not last Winter," she replied; "at least, no other girls. Johnny La
+Porte was there."
+
+"Who is Johnny La Porte?"
+
+"His father is one of our wealthiest farmers. Johnny is an only son. He
+is a good-looking boy, and a great favorite among the young people."
+
+"Do you know his age?"
+
+"Not precisely; he is not more than twenty or twenty-one."
+
+"Where is Johnny La Porte at present?"
+
+"At home, on his father's farm."
+
+"Now, Mrs. Ballou, tell me who is Miss Amy Holmes?"
+
+She started and flushed.
+
+"Another school friend," she replied, in a tone which said plainly, "the
+bottom is reached at last."
+
+Evidently she expected some comment, but I only said:
+
+"One more, Mrs. Ballou, why have you held back this bit of paper until
+now?"
+
+"I am coming to that," she retorted, "when you have done with your
+questions."
+
+"I have finished. Proceed now."
+
+Once more she began:
+
+"I was worried and anxious about the papers, but, on second thought, I
+determined to know something more before I saw or wrote you. I did not
+think it best to ask Grace any questions; she is an odd child, and very
+quick to suspect anything unusual, and it would be an unusual thing for
+me to seem interested in the autographs. It was two days before I found
+out who wrote the lines in the album. I complained of headache that day,
+and Grace took my share of the work herself. Amy was in the parlor
+reading a novel. I went in and talked with her a while, then I began to
+turn over the leaves of the album. When I came to the printed lines, I
+praised their smoothness, and then I carelessly asked Amy if she knew
+what the initials A. B. stood for. She looked up at me quickly, glanced
+at the album, hesitated a moment as if thinking, and then said: 'Oh,
+that's Professor Bartlett's printing, I think, his first name is _Asa_.
+He is an admirable penman.'
+
+"I don't think Amy remembered the lines, or she would not have said
+that. I don't think Professor Bartlett would begin an album verse: 'I
+drink to the eyes of my schoolmate, Grace.' I knew that Amy had told a
+falsehood, and I watched her. She took the first opportunity, when she
+thought I did not see her, to whisper something to Grace. I saw that
+Grace looked annoyed, but Amy laughed, and the two seemed to agree upon
+something.
+
+"I thought I would come to the city the next day, but in the morning my
+boy was very sick; he was sick for more than two weeks, and I had no
+time to think of anything else. Amy helped Grace, and was so kind and
+useful that I almost forgave her for telling me a fib. I had sent your
+letter back during Fred's illness, and, when he began to mend, I thought
+the matter over and over. I knew it would be useless to question Grace,
+and I did not know what harm or scandal I might bring upon my own
+daughter by bringing the matter to your notice. I tried to convince
+myself that the similarity of the printing was accidental, and, as I had
+not the letter to compare with the album, it was easier to believe so. I
+concluded to wait, but became very watchful.
+
+"One night Fred brought in the mail; there was a letter for Amy; she
+opened it and began to read, then she uttered a quick word, and looked
+much pleased. I saw an anxious look on my girl's face and caught a
+glance that passed between them. By-and-by they both went up-stairs, and
+in a few minutes I followed, and listened at the door of their room.
+
+"Amy was reading her letter to Grace. I could tell that by the hum of
+her voice, but I could not catch a word, until Grace exclaimed, sharply,
+'What! the 17th?' 'Yes, the 17th, hush,' Amy answered, and then went on
+with her reading. I could not catch a single word more, so I went back
+down-stairs. It was then about the ninth of the month, and I thought it
+might be as well to keep my eyes open on the 17th, though it might have
+meant last month, or any other month, for all I could guess. After that
+Amy seemed in better spirits than usual, and Grace was gay and nervous
+by turns. On the 17th the girls stayed in their room, as usual--that was
+four days ago."
+
+She paused a moment, during which my eyes never left her face; she
+sighed heavily, and resumed:
+
+"I felt fidgety all day, as if something was going to happen. I expected
+to see the girls preparing for company, or to go somewhere, but they did
+no such thing. When evening came, they went to their room earlier than
+usual, but I sat up later than I often do. It was almost eleven o'clock
+when I went up-stairs, and then I could not sleep. I stopped and
+listened again at the door of the girls' room, but could hear nothing.
+They might both have been asleep.
+
+"It was very warm, and I threw open my shutters, and sat down by the
+window, thinking that I was not sleepy, and, of course, I fell asleep.
+All at once something awoke me. I started and listened; in a moment I
+heard it again; it was the snort of a horse. There was no moon, and the
+shrubbery and trees made the front yard, from the gate to the house,
+very dark. As I heard no wheels nor hoofs, of course I knew that the
+horse was standing still, and the sound came from the front. I sat quite
+still and listened hard. By-and-by I heard something else. This time it
+was a faint rustling among the bushes below--it was not enough to have
+aroused even a light sleeper, but I was wide awake, and all ears.
+'Somebody is creeping through my rose bushes,' I said to myself, then
+tip-toed to my bureau, got out the pistol you gave me, and slipped out,
+and down-stairs, as still as a mouse.
+
+"The girls slept in a room over the parlor, and their windows faced west
+and south; mine faced north and west, so you see I had no view, from my
+bed-room, of the south windows of their room. The croquet ground was on
+the south side of the house, and there was a bit of vacant lawn in front
+of the parlor, also. The windows below were all closed and so I could
+not hear the rustling any more.
+
+"I sat down by one of the parlor windows and peeped out. Presently I saw
+something come out from among the bushes; it was a man; and he came into
+the open space _carrying a ladder_. Then I knew what the rustling meant.
+He had taken the ladder from the big harvest-apple tree in front, where
+the girls had put it that afternoon, and was bringing it toward the
+house.
+
+"The man stopped opposite the south windows of the girls' room, and
+began to raise the ladder. Then I knew what to do. I slipped the pistol
+into my pocket, went out through the dining-room, unbolted the back door
+as quietly as I could, crept softly to the south corner of the house,
+and peeped around. The ladder was already up, and somebody was climbing
+out of the window, while the man steadied the ladder. It was one of the
+girls, but I could not tell which, so I waited. When she stood upon the
+ground not ten feet away from me, I knew by her height that it was
+Grace, and Amy had started down before Grace was off the ladder. Just
+then the man stepped back, so that I had a fair chance at him. I took
+aim as well as I could, and fired.
+
+[Illustration: "Just then the man stepped back, so that I had a fair
+chance at him. I took aim as well as I could, and fired."--page 177.]
+
+"The man yelled. Grace screamed and tumbled over on the grass, just as I
+expected her to. Amy Holmes jumped from the ladder, ran to the man, and
+said, "quick! come!" I fired again, and Grace raised herself suddenly
+with such a moan that I thought in my haste I had hit her.
+
+"I threw down the pistol, ran and picked her up as if she were a baby,
+and took her around to the back door. By the time I found out that she
+was not hurt, and had got back to the ladder, the man and Amy were gone,
+and I heard a buggy going down the road at a furious rate."
+
+She paused and sighed deeply, looked at me for a moment, and then, as I
+made no effort to break the silence, she resumed:
+
+"It's not a pleasant story for a mother to tell concerning her own
+daughter, but when I think of Nellie Ewing I know that it might
+accidentally have been worse.
+
+"I commanded Grace to tell me the whole truth. She cried, and declared
+that she was under oath not to tell. After a little she grew calmer, and
+then told me that she meant no harm. Amy had a lover who was not a
+favorite with her guardian, who lives somewhere South. Amy was about to
+run away and be married, and Grace was to accompany her as a witness.
+They both expected to be safely back before daylight. Of course I did
+not believe this, and I told her so. Her actions after that made me wish
+that I had not disputed her story. I have used every argument, and I am
+convinced that nothing more can be got out of Grace. She is terribly
+frightened and nervous, but she is stubborn as death. Whatever the truth
+is, she is afraid to tell it."
+
+"And Miss Holmes; what more of her?"
+
+"Nothing more; she went away in the buggy with the others."
+
+"The others?"
+
+"Yes; I am sure there were two, for I found the place where the buggy
+stood waiting. It was not at the gate, but further south. There was a
+ditch between the wheel marks and the fence, and nothing to tie to. Some
+one must have been holding the horses."
+
+"And this is all you know about the business?"
+
+"Yes, everything."
+
+"Where is your daughter now?"
+
+"At home, under lock and key, with a trusty hired man to stand guard
+over her and the house until I get back, and with Freddy and the hired
+girl for company."
+
+"Does she know why you came to the city?"
+
+"Not she. I told her I was coming to make arrangements for putting
+her to school at a convent, and I intend to do it, too."
+
+Making no comment on this bit of maternal discipline, I again had
+recourse to my note-book.
+
+"You are fixed in your desire not to have your daughter further
+interviewed?" I asked, presently.
+
+"I am," she replied. "I don't think it would do any good, and she is not
+fit to endure any more excitement. I expect to find her sick in bed when
+I get home."
+
+"Do you think your shot injured the man?"
+
+"I _know_ it did," emphatically. "I aimed at his legs, intending to hit
+them, and I did it. He never gave such a screech as that from sheer
+fright; there was _pain_ in it. Amy must have helped him to the
+carriage."
+
+"Is this escapade known among your neighbors?"
+
+"No. I hushed it up at home, giving my girl and hired man a different
+story to believe. I could not get away by the morning train from Sharon,
+and so started the next evening. I left them all at home with Grace, and
+drove alone to Sharon, leaving my horse at the stable there."
+
+"You certainly acted very wisely, although I regret the delay. Miss
+Holmes and her two cavaliers have now nearly four days the start of us.
+Did you notice the size of the man at the ladder?"
+
+"Yes; he was not a large man, if anything a trifle below the medium
+height."
+
+"You think, then, that Miss Holmes made a willful effort to deceive
+you, when she told you that the album verse was written by Professor
+Bartlett? By-the-by, _is_ there a Professor Asa Bartlett at Amora?"
+
+"Yes, he is the Principal. If you could see him, you would never accuse
+him of having written a silly verse like that. I am sure Amy meant to
+deceive me, and I am sure that she posted Grace about it, in case I
+should ask her."
+
+"But you did not ask her?"
+
+"No. One does not care to make one's own child tell an unnecessary lie.
+Grace would have stood by Amy, no doubt."
+
+It was growing late in the afternoon. There was much to do, much to
+think over, and no time to lose. I was not yet prepared to give Mrs.
+Ballou the benefit of my opinion, as regarded her daughter's escapade,
+so I arranged for a meeting in the evening, promising to have my plans
+decided upon and ready to lay before her at that time.
+
+She wished, if possible, to return home on the following day, and I told
+her that I thought it not only possible, but advisable that she should
+do so.
+
+Then I called a carriage, saw her safely ensconced therein, _en route_
+for her hotel, and returned to my Chief.
+
+I had now two interests. I much desired to arrive at the bottom of the
+Groveland mystery, and thought, with the information now in hand, that
+this was quite possible; and I also desired to remain at my post among
+the Traftonites. I at once decided upon my course. I would tell my Chief
+Mrs. Ballou's story, and then I would give him a brief history of our
+sojourn in Trafton and its motive. After that, we would decide how to
+act.
+
+There was no pause for rest or food, or thought, until I had given my
+Chief a history of Mrs. Ballou's vigil and excellent pistol exploit, and
+followed this up by the story of my Trafton experience.
+
+His first comment, after he had listened for an hour most attentively,
+brought from my lips a sigh of relief; it was just what I longed to
+hear.
+
+"Well, you need have no fear so far as this office is concerned.
+'Squire Brookhouse has not called for its services."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+PREPARATIONS OF WAR.
+
+
+"Bathurst," my Chief said, settling back in his chair, and eyeing me
+with great good humor, "I don't see but that you are getting on
+swimmingly, and I don't feel inclined to dictate much. Your Groveland
+affair is looking up. You may have as many men as you need to look after
+that business. As for Trafton, I think you and Carnes have made good use
+of your holiday. I think you have struck something rich, and that you
+had better remain there, and work it up; or, if you prefer to go to
+Groveland yourself, return there as soon as possible."
+
+"I am glad to hear you talk as I think," I replied. "I believe that
+Trafton is ripe for an explosion, and I confess that, just at present, I
+am more interested in Trafton than in Groveland, besides----. In my
+report from Groveland, you may remember that I mentioned going to the
+station to fetch Miss Amy Holmes?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"And that this young lady was accompanied on that day by a handsome
+young gentleman?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Well, I have since made the acquaintance of this young man."
+
+"Ah!"
+
+"At first I thought it only a coincidence, and dismissed the matter from
+my mind. Since I have heard Mrs. Ballou's story, a queer thought has
+entered my head."
+
+"Explain."
+
+"This young gallant, whom I first saw in the company of the runaway Miss
+Holmes, is Mr. Arch, or Archibald Brookhouse, of Trafton."
+
+"I see," thoughtfully.
+
+"And the initials following that album verse are A. B."
+
+"A. B.! Archibald Brookhouse! There _may_ be something in it, but should
+you feel justified in suspecting this young man as the possible author
+of _your_ anonymous letter?"
+
+"If he is the writer of the album lines, yes."
+
+"What do you propose to do?"
+
+"First," said I, "we must call in the dummy."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then I want a good man to go to Groveland in search of information. I
+want him to find out all that he can concerning the character of this
+Johnny La Porte, who attended school at Amora, and was a fellow-student
+with Nellie Ewing, Mamie Rutger, and Grace Ballou."
+
+"Good."
+
+"Then he must learn if any of the Groveland youths have become _lame_
+since last Sunday, and if any of these same gentry was missing, or
+absent from home, during the night of the 17th, for, of course, Miss Amy
+Holmes being on his hands, the driver of the carriage which Mrs. Ballou
+routed that night must have been absent sometime, _if_ he belonged in
+the community. He surely had to dispose of Miss Holmes in some way."
+
+"Do you think it probable that some Groveland Lothario was mixed up in
+this elopement business?"
+
+"I think it not improbable. The first search was made, seemingly, upon
+the supposition that all Groveland was above suspicion, and that search
+failed. I intend to hold all Groveland Lotharios upon my list of
+suspected criminals until they are individually and collectively proven
+innocent."
+
+"Quite right."
+
+"On second thought we had better let the dummy remain until we have put
+a new man in the field; by this time he must know something about the
+people he is among. Who can you send to Groveland?"
+
+"Wyman, I think."
+
+"Capital; Wyman is good at this sort of thing. He had better present
+himself in person to our dummy, hear all that he can tell, and then
+deliver your letter of recall, and see him safely on his way to the city
+before he has time to open his mouth for the benefit of any one else."
+
+"Very good; Wyman is at your disposal."
+
+I drew toward me a large portfolio containing State and county maps. It
+lay at all times upon the office table, convenient for reference.
+
+While I was tracing the eccentric course of a certain railroad, I could
+feel my Chief's eyes searching my countenance.
+
+"Bathurst," he said, after some moments of silence, and leaning toward
+me as he spoke, "I believe you have a theory, or a suspicion, that is
+not entirely based upon Mrs. Ballou's revelation."
+
+"You are right," I replied, "and it is a suspicion of so strange a sort
+that I almost hesitate to give it utterance, and yet I think it worthy
+of attention. I want to shadow this cavalier, Arch Brookhouse."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I find by this map that the town of Amora is situated twenty-five miles
+from Groveland, and thirty miles from Trafton. Sharon, the nearest
+railroad communication with Groveland, is thirty miles from Amora, so
+that the distance from Trafton to Sharon is sixty miles, and the
+seminary town is midway between."
+
+My Chief made a sign which meant "I comprehend; go on."
+
+"Now, it is possible that accident or business brought Mr. Arch
+Brookhouse to Sharon, and that his meeting with Miss Holmes was quite
+accidental, and his attendance upon Miss Holmes and Grace Ballou merely
+a chance bit of gallantry. But when you consider that he seemed equally
+well known to both young ladies, that Sharon is a small town, and a dull
+one, and that Miss Holmes came from Amora that morning, is it not just
+as probable that Mr. Brookhouse traveled from Trafton to Amora for the
+purpose of escorting Miss Holmes to Sharon? Now, young men of our day
+are not much given to acts of courtesy extending over sixty miles of
+railroad; therefore, if Arch Brookhouse visited Sharon for the sole
+purpose of meeting these two young ladies, and basking in their society
+for a brief half hour, it is fair to presume that he is more than
+ordinarily interested in one of them."
+
+"You are right, Bathurst; at least it would seem so."
+
+"Now let me tell you all that I know concerning the Brookhouses."
+
+Once more I gave a minute description of my first meeting with Arch
+Brookhouse, and of the second, when I recognized him at Trafton. Then I
+told him of my interview with the telegraph operator, of the telegram
+sent by Fred Brookhouse from New Orleans, and of the reply sent by Arch,
+and last I told him how Louis Brookhouse had come home, accompanied by
+another young man, _on the day after the attempted flight of Grace
+Ballou_, and how Dr. Bethel had been called upon to attend him, he
+having met with an accident.
+
+My Chief stroked his chin thoughtfully.
+
+"I see," he said, slowly, "you have some nice points of circumstantial
+evidence against these young gentlemen. How do you propose to use them?"
+
+"First, I must know what motive took Arch Brookhouse to Sharon, and find
+out if either of the Brookhouse brothers have been students at Amora. I
+want therefore to send a second man to Amora."
+
+"Very good."
+
+"If I find that either, or both, of the younger brothers have been
+fellow-students with Grace Ballou, and the missing girls, then I shall
+wish to extend my search."
+
+"To New Orleans?"
+
+"To New Orleans."
+
+"Is there anything more?"
+
+"Yes; one thing. If Carnes goes to New Orleans I shall want a telegraph
+operator in Trafton."
+
+"Then you wish to remain in Trafton?"
+
+"Yes, and this takes me back to the other matter. I quite expected that
+a man like 'Squire Brookhouse would have called upon you for help. If he
+has employed men from either of the other offices, we can easily find
+out who they are."
+
+"Easily."
+
+"I shall wish to inform myself on this point, and if possible, return to
+Trafton to-morrow night. I am to see Mrs. Ballou again to-night; now I
+think I will have some supper."
+
+I arose, but stood, for a moment, waiting for any word of command or
+suggestion my Chief might have to offer.
+
+He sat for many seconds, seemingly oblivious of my presence. Then he
+looked up.
+
+"I shall make no suggestions," he said, waving his hand as if to dismiss
+both the subject and myself. "I will instruct Wyman and Earle at once.
+When you come in after seeing Mrs. Ballou, you will find them at your
+disposal, and give yourself no trouble about those other detectives. I
+will attend to that."
+
+I thanked him and withdrew. This curt sentence from the lips of my Chief
+was worth more to me than volumes of praise from any other source, for
+it convinced me that he not only trusted me, but that he approved my
+course and could see none better.
+
+I saw Mrs. Ballou again that evening, and put to her some questions that
+not only amazed her, but seemed to her most irrelevant, but while she
+answered without fully comprehending my meaning or purpose, some of her
+replies were, to me, most satisfactory.
+
+After I had heard all that she could tell me concerning Mr. Johnny La
+Porte, I gave her a minute description of Arch Brookhouse, and ended by
+asking if she had ever seen any one who answered to that description.
+
+I was puzzled, but scarcely surprised, at her answer, which came slowly
+and after considerable reflection.
+
+Yes, she had seen such a young man; I had described him exactly. She
+had seen him twice. He came to her house in company with Ed. Dwight.
+Dwight was an agent for various sewing machines; he was a jolly,
+good-natured fellow, very much liked by all the young Grovelanders; he
+had traveled the Groveland route for two years, perhaps three. He was
+quite at home at Mrs. Ballou's, and, in fact, anywhere where he had made
+one or two visits. The young man I had described had been over the
+Groveland route twice with Ed. Dwight, each time stopping for dinner at
+Mrs. Ballou's. His name, she believed, was _Brooks_, and he had talked
+of setting up as an agent on his own responsibility.
+
+Did she know Mr. Dwight's place of residence?
+
+He lived on the C. & L. road, somewhere between Sharon and Amora. Mrs.
+Ballou could not recall the name of the town.
+
+I did not need that she should; a sewing machine agent whose name I
+knew, and who lived somewhere between Amora and Sharon, would not be
+difficult to find.
+
+"How did Mr. Dwight travel?"
+
+"In a very nice covered wagon, and with a splendid team."
+
+"How long since Mr. Brooks and Mr. Dwight paid a visit to Groveland?"
+
+Mrs. Ballou thought it was fully six months since their last visit.
+
+"That would be nearly two months before Mamie Rutger and Nellie Ewing
+disappeared?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Have you seen Dwight since?"
+
+"Oh, yes; he comes at stated times, as usual."
+
+It was growing late, and I was more than satisfied with my interview
+with Mrs. Ballou. I advised her to keep Grace for the present under her
+own eye and, promising that she should see or hear from me soon, took my
+leave.
+
+Mrs. Ballou had announced her intention to return by the morning train.
+
+We could not be traveling companions, as I was not to leave the city
+until afternoon.
+
+Reaching my room I sat into the small hours looking over my notes,
+jotting down new ones, smoking and thinking.
+
+The next morning I saw Wyman and Earle, gave them full instructions, and
+arranged to receive their reports at the earliest possible moment, by
+express, at Trafton.
+
+At noon I was in possession of all that could be learned concerning the
+identity of the detectives employed by 'Squire Brookhouse. No officer of
+any of the regular forces had been employed. Mr. Brookhouse had probably
+obtained the services of private detectives.
+
+Private detectives, of more or less ability, are numerous in the city,
+and I was personally known to but few of these independent experts. Most
+of those could be satisfactorily accounted for, and I turned my face
+toward Trafton, feeling that there was little danger of being "spotted"
+by a too knowing brother officer.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+FLY CROOKS IN TRAFTON.
+
+
+My train, which left the city early in the afternoon, would arrive in
+Trafton at midnight. Foreseeing a long and, in my then state of mind,
+tedious ride, I had armed myself with a well-filled cigar case, and
+several copies of the latest editions of the city papers, and we had not
+been long on the wing before I turned my steps toward the smoking car,
+biting off the end of a weed as I went.
+
+A group of four, evidently countrymen, were just beginning a game of
+cards. I took a seat opposite them and idly watched their progress,
+while I enjoyed my cigar.
+
+Presently a gentleman from the front, seemingly attracted by their
+hilarity, arose and sauntered down the aisle, taking up his station
+behind the players, and quietly overlooking the game.
+
+He did not glance at me, as he passed, but, from my lounging position,
+I could watch his face and study it at my leisure. At the first glance
+it struck me as being familiar; I had seen the man before, but where?
+Slowly, as I looked, the familiarity resolved itself into identity, and
+then I watched him with growing interest, and some wonder.
+
+Seven months ago, while working upon a criminal case, I had made the
+acquaintance of this gentleman at a thieves' tavern, down in the slums.
+I was, of course, safely disguised at the time, and in an assumed
+character; hence I had no fear of being recognized now.
+
+"Dimber[A] Joe" had been doing Government service, in consequence of his
+connection with a garroting escapade, and had but just been released
+from "durance vile." His hair was then somewhat shorter than was
+becoming; his face was unshaven, and his general appearance that of a
+seedy, hard-up rascal. The person before me wore his hair a little
+longer than the ordinary cut; his face was clean shaven, his linen
+immaculate, and his dress a well-made business suit, such as a merchant
+or banker abroad might wear. But it was Dimber Joe.
+
+[A] Handsome.
+
+Evidently fortune had dropped a few, at least, of her favors at Dimber
+Joe's feet, but it was quite safe to conjecture that some one was so
+much the worse off for his present prosperity.
+
+What new mischief was on foot? for it was hardly likely that Dimber Joe,
+late the associate of river thieves, was now undertaking an honest
+journey.
+
+I resolved to watch him closely while our way was the same, and to give
+my Chief an account of our meeting, together with a description of Joe's
+"get up," at the first opportunity.
+
+Accordingly, I remained in the smoking car during the entire journey,
+but no suspicious or peculiar movement, on the part of Dimber Joe,
+rewarded my vigilance, until the brakeman called Trafton, and we pulled
+into that station.
+
+Then Dimber Joe arose, stretched himself, flung a linen duster across
+his arm, and, swinging in his hand a small valise, quitted the car,
+stepped down upon the shadowy platform just ahead of me; and, while I
+was looking about for Carnes, vanished in the darkness.
+
+[Illustration: "Then Dimber Joe arose, stretched himself, flung a linen
+duster across his arm, and, swinging in his hand a small valise, quitted
+the car."--page 196.]
+
+"Well, Carnes," I said, when we were once more alone in our room at the
+hotel, "what has happened? Have you seen anything that looks like a
+detective?"
+
+"Niver a wan," he replied. "I've kept an open eye on every train from
+both ways, but the only arrival in this city, worth making mintion of,
+has been--who d'ye think?"
+
+"Myself, I suppose."
+
+"No, sir! Not a bit of it. It's a cove that means no good to Trafton,
+you may depend. It's Blake Simpson, and he's rooming in this very
+house."
+
+"Blake Simpson! are you _sure_?"
+
+"Av coorse I'm sure! Did ye ever know me to miss a face? I never saw
+the fellow before he came here, but I've made the acquaintance of his
+phiz in the rogue's gallery. He came yesterday; he wears good togs, and
+is playing the gentleman; you know he is not half a bad looking fellow,
+and his manner is above suspicion. He is figuring as a patent-right man,
+but he'll figure as something else before we see the last of him in
+Trafton, depend upon it."
+
+Blake Simpson was known, at least by name, to every man on the force. He
+was a mixture of burglar, street robber, and panel-worker; and was a
+most dangerous character.
+
+"Carnes," I said, slowly, "I am afraid some new misfortune menaces
+Trafton, if, as you say, Blake Simpson is already here, for Dimber Joe
+came down on the train to-night, and is in Trafton."
+
+Carnes uttered a long, low whistle.
+
+"Blake and Dimber Joe!" he said. "A fine pair, sure enough; and in what
+shape does the Dimber come?"
+
+"He comes well-dressed, and looking like a respectable member of
+society."
+
+"Well," with a prodigious yawn, "we got here first, and we will try and
+sleep with one eye open while they stay in Trafton. What did you learn
+about the Brookhouse investigation, Bathurst?"
+
+I told him the result of our search among the city detectives, and
+finished by saying:
+
+"Probably the new debutants will be strangers, and will not interfere
+with our movements. I wish I knew whether Bethel will eventually decide
+to employ a detective. I don't think he is the man to let such a matter
+drop."
+
+"He won't take it up for the present, I fancy. Dr. Barnard is
+dangerously ill; was taken yesterday, very suddenly. They depend
+entirely upon Bethel; he is in constant attendance. I heard Porter say
+that the old gentleman's case was a desperate one, and that a change for
+the worse might be expected at any moment."
+
+I was sorry to hear such news of the jovial old doctor. His was a life
+worth something to the community; but I was not sorry to learn that an
+immediate interview with Dr. Bethel could be staved off, without
+exciting wonder or suspicion in his mind; for, since my visit to the
+city, I had reconsidered my intention to confide in the doctor, and
+resolved to keep my own counsel, at least for the present.
+
+Previous to my visit to the city, we had decided that it was time to
+explore the south road, and also that it was desirable to "get the
+measure" of Jim Long at the earliest opportunity.
+
+We settled upon the best method by which to accomplish the former, and
+undertake the latter, object. And then Carnes, who had been very alert
+and active during my absence, and who was now very sleepy, flung himself
+upon his bed to pass the few hours that remained of darkness in slumber.
+
+I had not yet opened up to him the subject of the Groveland operations,
+thinking it as well to defer the telling until I had received reports
+from Wyman and Earle.
+
+We had now upon our hands a superabundance of raw material from which
+to work out some star cases. But, just now, the Groveland affair seemed
+crowding itself to the front, while the Trafton scourges, and the
+villainous grave-robbers, seemed to grow more and more mysterious,
+intangible, and past finding out.
+
+The presence of Blake Simpson and Dimber Joe gave me some uneasiness;
+but, guessing that their stay in Trafton would be short, I resolved not
+to bring myself into prominence by notifying the authorities of the
+presence of two such dangerous characters, but rather to trust them to
+Carnes' watchfulness while I passed a day, or more if need be, in
+exploring the south road.
+
+As I settled my head upon my pillow after a long meditation, I
+remembered that to-morrow would be Sunday, and that Tuesday was the day
+fixed for Miss Manvers' garden party.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+SOUTHWARD TO CLYDE.
+
+
+Early on the following morning I visited Trafton's best livery stable,
+and procuring a good team and light buggy, drove straight to Jim Long's
+cabin, intending to solicit his companionship on my ride. But the cabin
+was deserted; there was no sign of Jim about the premises; and, after
+waiting impatiently for a few moments, and uttering one or two
+resounding halloos, I resumed my journey alone.
+
+I had manufactured a pretext for this journey, which was to be confided
+to Jim by way of setting at rest any wonder or doubt that my maneuvers
+might otherwise give rise to, and I had intended to seize this
+opportunity for sounding him, in order the better to judge whether it
+would be prudent to take him into our confidence, in a less or greater
+degree, as the occasion might warrant.
+
+Such an ally as Jim would be invaluable, I knew; but, spite of the fact
+that we had been much in his society, and that we both considered
+ourselves, and were considered by others, very good judges of human
+nature, neither Carnes nor myself could say truly that we understood Jim
+Long.
+
+His words were a mass of absurd contradictions, betraying no trait of
+his individuality, save his eccentricity; and his face was, at all
+times, as unreadable as the sphinx. When you turned from his
+contradictory words to read his meaning in his looks, you felt as if
+turning from the gambols of Puck to peer into a vacuum.
+
+Regretting the loss of Jim's society, as well as the opportunity it
+might _possibly_ have afforded, I urged my horses swiftly over the
+smooth sun-baked road, noting the aspect of the country as we flew on.
+
+Straight and level it stretched before me, with field, orchard, and
+meadow on either hand; a cultivated prairie. There were well-grown
+orchards, and small artificial groves, rows of tall poplars, clumps of
+low-growing trees, planted as wind breaks, hedges high and branching,
+low and closely trimmed. But no natural timber, no belts of grove, no
+thick undergrowth; nothing that might afford shelter for skulking
+outlaws, or stolen quadrupeds.
+
+The houses were plentiful, and not far apart. There were the pretentious
+new dwellings of the well-to-do farmers, and the humbler abodes of the
+unsuccessful land tiller, and the renter. There were stacks, and barns,
+and granaries, all honest in their fresh paint or their weather-beaten
+dilapidation; no haven for thieves or booty here.
+
+So for ten miles; then there was a stretch of rolling prairie, but still
+no timber, and as thickly settled as before.
+
+Fifteen miles from Trafton I crossed a high bridge that spanned a creek
+almost broad enough and deep enough to be called a river. On either side
+was a fringe of hazel brush and a narrow strip of timber, so much
+thinned by the wood cutter that great gaps were visible among the trees,
+up and down, as far as the eye could see.
+
+I watered my horses here, and drawing forth a powerful field glass,
+which I had made occasional use of along the route, surveyed the
+country. Nothing near or remote seemed worthy of investigation.
+
+Driving beneath some friendly green branches, I allowed my horses to
+rest, and graze upon the tender foliage, while I consulted a little
+pocket map of the country.
+
+I had been driving directly south, and the C. & L. railroad ran from
+Trafton a little to the southwest. At a distance of eighteen miles from
+that town the railroad curved to the south and ran parallel with the
+highway I was now traveling, but at a distance of eight miles. Ten miles
+further south and I would come upon the little inland village of Clyde,
+and running due west from Clyde was a wagon road straight to the
+railroad town of Amora.
+
+I had started early and driven fast; consulting my watch I found that it
+was only half-past ten.
+
+I had intended to push my investigation at least twenty-five miles
+south, and although I was already convinced that no midnight raiders
+would be likely to choose as an avenue of escape a highway so thickly
+dotted with houses, many of them inconveniently near the road, and so
+insufficient in the matter of hills and valleys, forest and sheltering
+underbrush. I decided to go on to Clyde, hoping, if I failed in one
+direction, to increase my knowledge in another.
+
+I put away map and field glass, lit a fresh cigar, turned my horses once
+more into the high road and pursued my journey.
+
+It was a repetition of the first ten miles; broad fields and rich
+meadows, browsing cattle and honest-eyed sheep; thickly scattered farm
+buildings, all upright and honest of aspect; the whole broad face of the
+country seemed laughing my investigations to scorn.
+
+When I found myself within sight of Clyde I stopped my team, having
+first assured myself that no spectator was in sight and selected from
+the roadside a small, round pebble. Looking warily about me a second
+time, I inserted it between the hoof and shoe of the most docile of the
+two horses.
+
+It was an action that would have brought me into disfavor with the great
+Bergh, but in the little game I was about to play, the assistance which
+a lame horse could render seemed necessary.
+
+I promised the martyr a splendid rub down and an extra feed as a
+compensation, and we moved on slowly toward our destination, the near
+horse limping painfully, and his comrade evidently much amazed, and not
+a little disgusted, at this sudden change of gait.
+
+The little village of Clyde was taking its noontide nap when I drove
+down its principal street, and I felt like a wolf in Arcadia; all was so
+peaceful, so clean, so prim and so silent.
+
+A solitary man emerging from a side street roused me to action. I drove
+forward and checked my horses directly before him.
+
+Could I find a livery stable in the town? And was there such a thing as
+a hotel?
+
+Yes, there was a sort of a stable, at least anybody could get a feed at
+Larkins' barn, and he kept two or three horses for hire. As for a hotel,
+there it was straight ahead of me; that biggish house with the new
+blinds on it.
+
+Being directed to Larkins', I thanked my informant, and was soon making
+my wants known to Larkins himself.
+
+Thinking it quite probable that the hired team which I drove might be
+known to some denizen of Clyde, I at once announced myself as from
+Trafton; adding, that I had driven out toward Clyde on business, and,
+being told that I could reach Baysville by a short cut through or near
+Clyde, I had driven on, but one of my horses having suddenly become
+lame, I had decided to rest at Clyde, and then return to Trafton. I had
+been told that Baysville was not more than seven miles from Clyde.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to state that I had really no intention of
+visiting Baysville, and that my map had informed me as to its precise
+location.
+
+The truth was that I had dropped for the moment the Trafton case, and
+had visited Clyde in the interest of Groveland, thinking it not unlikely
+that this little hamlet, being so near Amora, might be within the area
+traversed by Mr. Ed. Dwight, the sewing machine agent.
+
+He was said to live somewhere between Amora and Sharon, perhaps here I
+could learn the precise location of his abiding place.
+
+Leaving my tired horses to the care of Larkins, I next bent my steps
+towards the commodious dwelling which did duty as hotel. There was no
+office, but the sitting-room, with its homely rag carpet, gaudy
+lithographs, old fashioned rocker, and straight-backed "cane seats," was
+clean and cool. There was a small organ in one corner, a sewing machine
+in another, and an old fashioned bureau in a third.
+
+A little girl, of fourteen years or less, entered the room timidly,
+followed by two younger children. She took from the bureau a folded
+cloth, snowy and smooth, and left the room quietly, but the younger
+ones, less timid, and perhaps more curious, remained.
+
+Perching themselves uncomfortably upon the extreme edges of two chairs,
+near together but remote from me, they blinked and stared perseveringly,
+until I broke the silence and set them at their ease by commencing a
+lively conversation.
+
+The organ was first discussed, then the sewing machine furnished a
+fresh topic. After a time my dinner was served: but, during the
+half-hour of waiting, while my hostess concocted yellow soda biscuit,
+and fried monstrous slices of ham, I had gathered, from my seemingly
+careless chatter with the children, some valuable information. While I
+ate my dinner, I had leisure to consider what I had heard.
+
+My hostess had not purchased her sewing machine of Ed. Dwight, but he
+had been there to repair it; besides, he always stopped there when
+making his regular journeys through Clyde. They all liked Dwight, the
+children had declared; he could play the organ, and he sang such funny
+songs. He could dance, too, "like anything." He lived at _Amora_, but he
+had told their mother, when he had paid his last visit, that he intended
+to sell out his route soon, and go away. He was going into another
+business.
+
+If Mr. Dwight lived at Amora, then Mrs. Ballou had misunderstood or been
+misinformed. She was the reverse of stupid, and not likely to err in
+understanding. If she had been misinformed, had it not been for some
+purpose?
+
+The machine agent had talked of abandoning his present business, and
+leaving the country shortly.
+
+If this was true, then it would be well to know where he was going, and
+what his new occupation was to be.
+
+Before I had finished doing justice to my country dinner, I had decided
+how to act.
+
+Returning to Larkins' stable I found that he had discovered the cause
+of my horse's lameness, and listened to his rather patronizing discourse
+upon the subject of "halts and sprains," with due meekness, as well as a
+profound consciousness that he had mentally set me down as a city
+blockhead, shockingly ignorant of "horse lore," and wholly unfit to draw
+the ribbons over a decent beast.
+
+He had been assisted to this conclusion by a neighboring Clydeite, who,
+much to my annoyance, had sauntered in, and, recognizing not only the
+team, but myself, had volunteered the information that:
+
+"Them was Dykeman's bays," and that I was "a rich city fellow that was
+stayin' at Trafton;" he had "seen me at the hotel the last time he
+hauled over market stuff."
+
+Having ascertained my position in the mind of Mr. Larkins, I consulted
+him as to the propriety of driving the bays over to Amora and back that
+afternoon.
+
+Larkins eyed me inquisitively.
+
+"I s'pose then you'll want to get back to Trafton to-night?" he queried.
+
+Yes, I wanted to get back as soon as possible, but if Larkins thought
+it imprudent to drive so far with the team, I would take fresh horses,
+if he had them to place at my disposal. And then, having learned from
+experience that ungratified curiosity, especially the curiosity of the
+country bumpkin with a taste for gossip, is often the detective's worst
+enemy, I explained that I had learned that the distance to Baysville was
+greater than I had supposed, and I had decided to drive over to Amora to
+make a call upon an acquaintance who was in business there.
+
+Mr. Larkins manifested a desire to know the name of my Amora
+acquaintance, and was promptly enlightened.
+
+I wanted to call on Mr. Ed. Dwight, of sewing machine fame.
+
+And now I was the helpless victim in the hands of the ruthless and
+inquisitive Larkins.
+
+He knew Ed. Dwight "like a book." Ed. always "put up" with him, and he
+was a "right good fellow, any way you could fix it." In short, Larkins
+was ready and willing to act as my pilot to Amora; he had "got a flyin'
+span of roans," and would drive me over to Amora in "less than no time";
+he "didn't mind seeing Ed. himself," etc., etc.
+
+There was no help for it. Larkins evidently did not intend to trust his
+roans to my unskilled hands, so I accepted the situation, and was soon
+bowling over the road to Amora, _t�te-�-t�te_ with the veriest
+interrogation point in human guise that it was ever my lot to meet.
+
+Larkins did not converse; he simply asked questions. His interest in
+myself, my social and financial standing, my occupation, my business or
+pleasure in Trafton, my past and my future, was something surprising
+considering the length, or more properly the _brevity_ of our
+acquaintance.
+
+Even my (supposed) relatives, near and remote, came in for a share of
+his generous consideration.
+
+To have given unsatisfactory answers would have been to provoke outside
+investigation.
+
+A detective's first care should be to clear up all doubt or uncertainty
+concerning himself. Let an inquisitive person think that he knows a
+little more of your private history than do his neighbors, and you
+disarm him; he has now no incentive to inquiry. He may ventilate his
+knowledge very freely, but by so doing he simply plays into your hands.
+
+If the scraps of family history, which I dealt out to Larkins during
+that drive, astonished and edified that worthy, they would have
+astonished and edified my most intimate friend none the less.
+
+By the time we had reached our destination, I was bursting with
+merriment, and he, with newly acquired knowledge.
+
+I had made no attempt to extract information concerning Ed. Dwight, on
+the route. I hoped soon to interview that gentleman in _propri�
+person�_, and any knowledge not to be gained from the interview I could
+"sound" for on the return drive.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+A SEWING MACHINE AGENT.
+
+
+On arriving within sight of Amora, I had reason to congratulate myself
+that I had brought Larkins along as convoy.
+
+Amora was by no means a city, but it was large enough to make a search
+after Mr. Dwight a proceeding possibly lengthy, and perhaps difficult.
+
+Larkins knew all about it. We drove past the Seminary, quite a large and
+imposing structure, surrounded by neat and tastefully laid out grounds,
+through a cheery-looking business street, and across a bridge, over a
+hill, and thence down a street which, while it was clean, well built,
+and thrifty of aspect, was evidently not the abode of Amora's _la beau
+monde_.
+
+In another moment Larkins was pulling in his reins before a large,
+unpainted dwelling, in front of which stood a pole embellished with the
+legend, "Boarding House."
+
+Several inquiring faces could be seen through the open windows, and the
+squeak of an untuneful violin smote our ears, as we approached the door.
+
+Larkins, who seemed very much at home, threw open the street door; we
+turned to the right, and were almost instantly standing in a large,
+shabbily-furnished parlor.
+
+Two of the aforementioned faces, carried on the shoulders of two
+blowzy-looking young women, were vanishing through a rear door, through
+which the tones of the violin sounded louder and shriller than before.
+Three occupants still remained in the room, and to one of these,
+evidently the "landlady," Larkins addressed himself.
+
+"Good evening, Mrs. Cole. We want to see Ed. I hear his fiddle, so I
+s'pose he can be seen?"
+
+Proffering us two hard, uninviting chairs, Mrs. Cole vanished, and,
+through the half-closed door, we could hear her voice, evidently
+announcing our presence, but the violin and "Lannigan's Ball" went on to
+the end. Like another musical genius known to fame, Mr. Dwight evidently
+considered "music before all else."
+
+With the last note of the violin came the single syllable, "Eh?" in a
+voice not unpleasant, but unnecessarily loud.
+
+Mrs. Cole repeated her former sentence; there was the sound of some one
+rising, quick steps crossed the floor and, as the door swung inward to
+admit Mr. Dwight, I advanced quickly and with extended hand.
+
+When he halted before me, however, I stepped back in feigned surprise
+and confusion.
+
+[Illustration: "When he halted before me, however, I stepped back in
+feigned surprise and confusion."--page 213.]
+
+But Dwight was equal to the occasion. Before I could drop or withdraw
+my hand, he seized it in his own large palm, and shook it heartily, the
+most jovial of smiles lighting his face meanwhile.
+
+"You've got the advantage of me, just now," he said, in the same loud,
+cheery tone we had heard from the kitchen, "but I'm glad to see you, all
+the same. Larkins! hallo, Larkins, how are you," and, dropping my hand
+as suddenly as he had grasped it, Dwight turned to salute Larkins.
+
+When their greeting was over, I stammered forth my explanation.
+
+I had made a mistake. Mr. DeWhyte must pardon it. Hearing at Clyde that
+a Mr. DeWhyte was living in Amora, and that he was engaged in the sale
+of sewing machines, I had supposed it to be none other than an old
+school friend of that name, who, when last I heard of him, was general
+agent for a city machine manufactory. It was a mistake which I trusted
+Mr. DeWhyte would pardon. I then presented my card and retired within
+myself.
+
+But the genial Dwight was once more "happy to know me." Shifting his
+violin, which he had brought into the room, from underneath his left
+elbow, he rested it upon his knee, and launched into a series of
+questions concerning my suppositious friend, which resulted in the
+discovery that their names, though similar, were not the same, and that
+the existence of a Mr. Edward DeWhyte and of Ed. Dwight, both following
+the same occupation, was not after all a very remarkable coincidence,
+although one liable to cause mistakes like the one just made by me.
+
+After this we were more at our ease. I proffered my cigar case, and both
+Larkins and Dwight accepted weeds, Dwight remarking, as he arose to take
+some matches from a card-board match safe under the chimney, that,
+"smoking was permitted in the parlor," adding, as he struck a match on
+the sole of his boot, that he "believed in comfort, and would not board
+where they were too high-toned to allow smoking."
+
+Conversation now became general; rather Larkins, Dwight, and the two
+hitherto silent "boarders" talked, and I listened, venturing only an
+occasional remark, and studying my "subject" with secret interest.
+
+"When are you comin' our way again, Dwight?" asked Larkins, as, after an
+hour's chat, we rose to take our leave.
+
+"I don't know, Lark.; I don't know," said Dwight, inserting his hands in
+his pockets and jingling some loose coin or keys as he replied. "I don't
+think I'll make many more trips."
+
+"Sho! Ye ain't goin' to take a new route, I hope?"
+
+"N-no; I think I'll try a new deal. I've got a little down on the S. M.
+biz., and talk of taking up my old trade."
+
+"What! the show business?"
+
+"Yes; I've got a pretty good chance for salary, and guess I'll go down
+south and do a little of the heel and toe business this Winter,"
+rattling his heels by way of emphasis.
+
+This fragment of conversation was a mine which I worked faithfully
+during our Clydeward drive, manifesting an interest in Mr. Ed. Dwight
+which quite met with the approval of Larkins, and which he was very
+ready to build up and gratify.
+
+I remained in Clyde that night, and before retiring to rest in the tiny
+room assigned me in the "hotel," I made the following entry in my
+note-book:
+
+     Ed. Dwight, sewing machine agent, living at Amora, is taller
+     than the medium, but slender, and of light weight, being narrow
+     of chest, with slim and slightly bowed legs, and long arms that
+     are continually in motion; large, nervous hands; small head,
+     with close-cropped curly black hair; fine regular features,
+     that would be handsome but for the unhealthy, sallow
+     complexion, and the look of dissipation about the eyes; said
+     eyes very black, restless and bold of expression; mouth
+     sensual, and shaded by a small, black mustache; teeth, white
+     and rather prominent.
+
+     He is full of life and animation; an inveterate joker, his
+     "chaff" being his principal conversational stock in trade. He
+     is loud of speech, somewhat coarse in manner, rakish in dress,
+     and possesses wonderful self-confidence. He is considered a
+     dangerous fellow among the country girls, and gets credit for
+     making many conquests. Is fickle in his fancies, and, like the
+     sailor, seems to have a sweetheart in every port.
+
+     He is a singer of comic songs, a scraper upon the violin, and a
+     some time song and dance man.
+
+     Has sold sewing machines for nearly three years in Amora and
+     vicinity, and is now preparing to return to the stage and to go
+     South.
+
+Early the next morning I bade Larkins a friendly farewell, and turned my
+face toward Trafton.
+
+Nothing noteworthy had occurred during my absence. Blake and Dimber Joe
+had observed Sunday in the most decorous fashion, attending divine
+worship, but not together, and remained in and about the hotel all the
+rest of the day and evening, treating each other as entire strangers,
+and, so far as Carnes could discover, never once exchanging word or
+glance.
+
+One thing Carnes had noted as peculiar: Jim Long had haunted the hotel
+all day, manifesting a lively interest in our city birds, watching them
+furtively, entering into conversation with one or the other as
+opportunity offered, and contriving, while seeming to lounge as
+carelessly as usual, to keep within sight of them almost constantly
+during the day and evening.
+
+Dr. Barnard was still in a critical condition; Carnes had not seen
+Bethel since Saturday.
+
+"And what elephant's tracks did ye's find till the south av us?"
+queried Carnes, after he had given me the foregoing information. "Any
+'nish' lairs, quiet fences, or cosy jungles, eh?"
+
+Whereupon I gave him a full description of the journey over the south
+road, reserving only the portion of my yesterday's experience that
+concerned, for the present, only Mr. Ed. Dwight and myself.
+
+"So there's nothing to get out of that," said Carnes, after listening to
+my recital with a serious countenance. "What do you think _now_, old
+man? If they don't run their booty over that road, where the mischief
+_do_ they take it?"
+
+"That we must find out," I replied. "And in order to do that we must
+investigate in a new direction."
+
+"How?"
+
+"Think a moment. We decided at the first that these systematic thieves
+had, _must have_, a rendezvous within half a night's ride from Trafton."
+
+"Yes; an' I stick to that theory."
+
+"So do I. All these robberies have been committed at distances never
+more than twenty-five miles from Trafton; often less, but _never more_."
+
+"Just so."
+
+"Within a radius of twenty-five miles around Trafton, east, north, and
+west, and at all intermediate points, it has not been safe to own a good
+horse. There is but one break in this unsafe circle and that is to the
+south. Now, that south road, one day, or _two_ days, after a robbery,
+would be anything but safe for a midnight traveler, who rode a swift
+going horse or drove with a light buggy. Carnes, get your map and study
+out my new theory thereon."
+
+Carnes produced his map and spread it out upon his knee, and I followed
+his example with my own.
+
+"Now, observe," I began, "the south road runs straight and smooth for
+twenty miles, intersected regularly by the mile sections."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Until a little north of Clyde, two miles, I believe they call it, a
+more curving irregular road runs southeast. Now, follow that road."
+
+"I'm after it."
+
+"It continues southeast for nearly ten miles, then the road forks."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"One fork, running directly south, takes you straight to some coal beds
+at Norristown--"
+
+"Aye, aye!"
+
+"The other runs beyond the county line and it is not on our maps; it
+takes an easterly course for nearly twenty miles, terminating at the
+river."
+
+"Ah! I begin to see!"
+
+"From Trafton to the river, then, is a little more than forty miles.
+You cross the river and are in another State. Up and down the river, for
+many miles, you have heavy timber; not far inland you find several
+competing railroads. Now, my belief is, that after the excitement
+following these robberies has had time to die out, the horses are
+hurried over this fifty miles of country, and across the river, and kept
+in the timber until it is quite safe to ship them to a distant market."
+
+"But meantime, before they are taken to the river, where are they
+ambushed, then?"
+
+"Under our very noses; here in Trafton!"
+
+Carnes stared at me in consternation.
+
+"Old man," he said, at last, drawing a long, deep breath, "you are
+either insane--or inspired."
+
+"I believe I have caught an inspiration. But time will test my idea,
+'whether it be from the gods or no.' These outlaws have proven
+themselves cunning, and fertile of brain. Who would think of overhauling
+Trafton for these stolen horses? The very boldness of the proceeding
+insures its safety."
+
+"I should think so. And how do you propose to carry out your search?"
+
+"We must begin at once, trusting to our wits for ways and means. In some
+way we must see or know the contents of every barn, stable, granary,
+store-house, outbuilding, and abandoned dwelling, in and about Trafton.
+No man's property, be he what he may, must be held exempt."
+
+"Do you think, then, that the stolen horses, the last haul of course,
+are still in Trafton?"
+
+"It is not quite a week since the horses were taken; the 'nine days'
+wonder' is still alive. If my theory is correct, they are still in
+Trafton!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+HAUNTED BY A FACE.
+
+
+It was the day of Miss Manvers' garden party, and a brighter or more
+auspicious one could not have dropped from the hand of the Maker of
+days.
+
+Never did the earth seem fairer, and seldom did the sun shine upon a
+lovelier scene than that presented to my gaze as I turned aside from the
+dusty highway, and paced slowly up the avenue leading to the Hill House.
+
+Even now the picture and the scenes and incidents of the day, rise
+before my mental vision, a graceful, sunlit, yet fateful panorama.
+
+I see the heiress, as she glides across the lawn to greet me, her
+brunette cheeks glowing, her lips wreathed in smiles. She wears a
+costume that is a marvel of diaphanous creamy material, lighted up here
+and there with dashes of vivid crimson. Crimson roses adorn the loops
+and rippling waves of her glossy hair, and nestle in the rich lace at
+her throat. And, as I clasp her little hand, and utter the commonplaces
+of greeting, I note that the eye is even more brilliant than usual, the
+cheek and lip tinged with the vivid hue left by excitement, and,
+underneath the gay badinage and vivacious hospitality, a suppressed
+something:--anxiety, expectation, displeasure, disappointment; which, I
+can not guess. I only see that something has ruffled my fair hostess,
+and given to her thoughts, even on this bright day, an under current
+that is the reverse of pleasant.
+
+The grounds are beautiful and commodious, tastefully arranged and
+decorated for the occasion, and the _�lite_ of Trafton is there; all,
+save Louise Barnard and Dr. Bethel.
+
+"Have you heard from Dr. Barnard since noon?" queries my hostess, as we
+cross the lawn to join a group gathered about an archery target. "I have
+almost regretted giving this party. It seems unfeeling to be enjoying
+ourselves here, and poor Louise bowed down with grief and anxiety beside
+a father who is, perhaps, dying."
+
+"Not dying, I hope."
+
+"Oh, we all shall hope until hope is denied us. I suppose his chance for
+life is one in a thousand. I am so sorry, and we shall miss Louise and
+Dr. Bethel so much."
+
+"Bethel is in close attendance?"
+
+"Yes, Dr. Barnard has all confidence in him; and then--you know the
+nature of his relation with the family?"
+
+"His relation; that of family physician, I suppose?"
+
+Miss Manvers draws back her creamy skirts as we brush past a thorny rose
+tree.
+
+"That of family physician; yes, and prospective son-in-law."
+
+"Ah! I suspected an attachment there."
+
+"It appears they have been privately engaged for some time, with the
+consent of the Barnards, of course. It has only just been publicly
+announced; rather it will be; I had it from Mrs. Barnard this morning.
+Dr. Barnard desires that it should be made known. He believes himself
+dying, and wishes Trafton to know that he sanctions the marriage."
+
+Her voice has an undertone of constraint which accords with her manner,
+and I, remembering the scene of a week before, comprehend and pity. In
+announcing her friend's betrothal she proclaims the death of her own
+hope.
+
+I do not resume the subject, and soon we are in the midst of a gay
+group, chattering with a bevy of fair girls, and receiving from one or
+two Trafton gallants, glances of envious disfavor, which I, desiring to
+mortify vanity, attributed to my new Summer suit rather than to my own
+personal self.
+
+Arch Brookhouse is the next arrival, and almost the last. He comes in
+among us perfumed and smiling, and is received with marked favor. My new
+costume has now a rival, for Arch is as correct a gentleman of fashion
+as ever existed outside of a tailor's window.
+
+He is in wonderful spirits, too, adding zest to the merriment of the gay
+group of which he soon becomes the center.
+
+After a time bows and quivers come more prominently into use. Archery
+is having its first season in Trafton. Some of the young ladies have yet
+to be initiated into the use of the bow, and presently I find myself
+instructing the pretty sixteen-year-old sister of my friend, Charlie
+Harris.
+
+She manages her bow gracefully, but with a weak hand; her aim is far
+from accurate, and I find ample occupation in following the erratic
+movements of her arrows.
+
+Brookhouse and Miss Manvers are both experts with the bow. They send a
+few arrows flying home to the very center of the target, and then
+withdraw from the sport, and finally saunter away together, the hand of
+the lady resting confidingly upon her escort's arm.
+
+"Arn't they a pretty couple?" exclaims my little pupil, twanging her
+bow-string as she turns to look after them. "I do wonder if they are
+engaged."
+
+"So do I," I answer, with much fervor.
+
+She favors me with a quick roguish glance, and laughs blithely.
+
+"I don't know," turning back to her momentarily forgotten pastime. "Mr.
+Brookhouse has been very attentive, and for a long time we all thought
+him the favored one, until Dr. Bethel came, and since _you_ appeared in
+Trafton. Ah! I'm afraid Adele is a bit of a flirt."
+
+And astute Miss sixteen shoots me another mischievous glance, and poises
+her arrow with all the _nonchalance_ of a veteran.
+
+Again I glance in the direction taken by my hostess and her cavalier,
+but they have disappeared among the plentiful shrubbery.
+
+I turn back to my roguish little pupil, now provokingly intent upon her
+archery practice.
+
+Once more the arrow is fixed; she takes aim with much deliberation, and
+puts forth all her strength to the bending of the bow. Twang! whizz! the
+arrow speeds fast and far--and foul. It finds lodgment in a thicket of
+roses, that go clambering over a graceful trellis, full ten feet to the
+right of the target.
+
+There is a shout of merriment. Mademoiselle throws down the bow with a
+little gesture of despair, and I hasten toward the trellis intent upon
+recapturing the missent arrow.
+
+As I am about to thrust my hand in among the roses, I am startled by a
+voice from the opposite side; startled because the voice is that of my
+hostess, thrilling with intensest anger, and very near me.
+
+"It has gone far enough! It has gone _too_ far. It must stop now, or--"
+
+[Illustration: "It has gone far enough! It has gone _too_ far. It must
+stop now, or--" page 227.]
+
+"Or you will make a confounded fool of yourself."
+
+The voice is that of Arch Brookhouse, disagreeably contemptuous,
+provokingly calm.
+
+"No matter. What will it make of you?"
+
+The words begin wrathful and sibilant, and end with a hiss. Can that be
+the voice of my hostess?
+
+Making a pretense of search I press my face closer to the trellis and
+peer through.
+
+I see Adele Manvers, her face livid with passion, her eyes ablaze, her
+lips twitching convulsively. There is no undercurrent of feeling now.
+Rage, defiance, desperation, are stamped upon her every feature.
+
+Opposite her stands Arch Brookhouse, his attitude that of careless
+indifference, an insolent smile upon his countenance.
+
+"If I were you, I would drop that nonsense," he says, coolly. "You might
+make an inning with this new city sprig, perhaps. He looks like an easy
+fish to catch; more money than brains, I should say."
+
+"I think his brains will compare favorably with yours; he is nothing to
+me--"
+
+Brookhouse suddenly shifts his position.
+
+"Don't you see the arrow?" calls a voice behind me, and so near that I
+know Miss Harris is coming to assist my search.
+
+I catch up the arrow and turn to meet her.
+
+No rustle of the leaves has betrayed my presence; the sound of our
+voices, and their nearness, is drowned by the general hilarity.
+
+We return to our archery, and the two behind the screen finish their
+strange interview. How, I am unable to guess from their faces, when,
+after a time, they are once more among us, Brookhouse as unruffled as
+ever, Miss Manvers flushed, nervous, and feverishly gay.
+
+Throughout the remainder of the _f�te_, the face of my hostess is
+continually before me; not as her guests see it, fair, smiling, and
+serene, but pallid, passionate, vengeful, as I saw it from behind the
+rose thicket. And I am haunted by the thought that somewhere, sometime,
+I have seen just such a face; just such dusky, gleaming, angry eyes;
+just such a scornful, quivering mouth; just such drawn and desperate
+features.
+
+Now and then I find time to chuckle over the words, uncomplimentary in
+intent, but quite satisfactory to me--"a city sprig with more money than
+brains."
+
+So this is the ultimatum of Mr. Brookhouse? Some day, perhaps, he may
+cherish another opinion, at least so far as the money is concerned.
+
+Then, while the gayety goes on, I think of Groveland and its mystery; of
+the anonymous warning, the album verse, the initials A. B. Again I take
+my wild John Gilpin ride, with one arm limp and bleeding.
+
+"Ah," I say to myself, thinking wrathfully of his taunting words and
+insolent bearing, which my hostess had seemed powerless to resent, "Ah,
+my gentleman, if I _should_ trace that unlucky bullet to you, then shall
+Miss Manvers rejoice at your downfall!"
+
+What was the occasion of their quarrel? What was the meaning of their
+strange words?
+
+Again and again I ask myself the question as I go home through the
+August darkness, having first seen pretty Nettie Harris safely inside
+her father's cottage gate.
+
+But I find no satisfactory answer to my questions. I might have
+dismissed the matter from my thoughts as only a lover's quarrel, save
+for the last words uttered by Brookhouse. But lovers are not apt to
+advise their sweethearts to "make an inning" with another fellow. If
+jealousy existed, it was assuredly all on the side of the lady.
+
+Having watched them narrowly after their interview behind the rose
+trellis, I am inclined to think it was not a lover's quarrel; and if not
+that, what _was_ it?
+
+I give up the riddle at last, but I can not dismiss the scene from my
+mental vision, still less can I banish the remembrance of the white,
+angry face, and the tormenting fancy that I have not seen it to-day for
+the first time.
+
+I am perplexed and annoyed.
+
+I stop at the office desk to light a cigar and exchange a word with
+"mine host." Dimber Joe is writing ostentatiously at a small table, and
+Blake Simpson is smoking on the piazza.
+
+The sight of the two rogues, so inert and mysterious, gives me an added
+twinge of annoyance. I cut short my converse with the landlord and go up
+to my room.
+
+Carnes is sitting before a small table, upon which his two elbows are
+planted; his fingers are twisted in his thick hair, and his head is bent
+so low over an open book that his nose seems quite ready to plow up the
+page.
+
+Coming closer, I see that he is glowering over a pictured face in his
+treasured "rogues' gallery."
+
+"If you want to study Blake Simpson's cranium," I say, testily, "why
+don't you take the living subject? He's down-stairs at this moment."
+
+"I've been studying the original till my head got dizzy," replies
+Carnes, pushing back the book and tilting back in his chair. "The fact
+is, the fellow conducts himself so confoundedly like a decent mortal,
+that I have to appeal to the gallery occasionally to convince myself
+that it _is_ Blake himself, and not his twin brother."
+
+I laugh at this characteristic whim, and, drawing the book toward me,
+carelessly glance from page to page.
+
+Carnes prides himself upon his "gallery." He has a large and motley
+collection of rogues of all denominations: thieves, murderers, burglars,
+counterfeiters, swindlers, fly crooks of every sort, and of both sexes.
+
+"They've been here four days now," Carnes goes on, plaintively, "and
+nothing has happened yet. It's enough to make a man lose faith in 'Bene
+Coves.' I wonder--"
+
+"Ah!" The exclamation falls sharply from my lips, the "gallery" almost
+falls from my hands.
+
+[Illustration: "Ah!" The exclamation falls sharply from my lips, the
+"gallery" almost falls from my hands.--page 233.]
+
+Carnes leaves his speech unfinished and gazes anxiously at me, while I
+sit long and silently studying a pictured face.
+
+By-and-by I close the book and replace it upon the table.
+
+One vexed question is answered; I know now why the white, angry face of
+Adele Manvers has haunted me as a shadow from the past.
+
+I arise and pace the floor restlessly; like Theseus, I have grasped the
+clue that shall lead me from the maze.
+
+After a time, Carnes goes out to inform himself as to the movements of
+Blake and Dimber Joe.
+
+Midnight comes, but no Carnes.
+
+The house is hushed in sleep. I lock the door, extinguish my light, and,
+lowering myself noiselessly from the window to the ground, turn my steps
+toward the scene of the afternoon revel.
+
+In the darkness and silence I reach my destination, and scaling a
+high paling, stand once more in the grounds of The Hill.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+SOME BITS OF PERSONAL HISTORY.
+
+
+While Miss Manvers was bidding farewell to the latest of her guests, and
+the "average Traftonite" was making his first voyage into dreamland, Dr.
+Barnard closed his eyes upon Trafton forever, and slept that long,
+sound, last, best sleep that comes once to all of us, and I, as well as
+numerous other restless sleepers, was awakened in the early morning by
+the sound of the tolling bell.
+
+It was sad news to many, for Dr. Barnard was an old and well-beloved
+citizen.
+
+It afforded a new subject for gossip to many more, who now learned for
+the first time that Louise Barnard was affianced to Dr. Carl Bethel, and
+that Dr. Barnard, with almost his latest breath, had proclaimed his
+entire faith in the young man's honor, by formally sanctioning his
+engagement with Louise.
+
+I had not seen Bethel since my return from the city, until we met that
+day, and exchanged a few words across the dinner table.
+
+He looked worn and weary, and seemed to have forgotten his own
+annoyances and interests in the absorption of his regret for the loss of
+his old friend and associate, and sympathy with the sorrow of his
+beloved.
+
+I had spent the entire morning in writing a long letter to my Chief,
+giving a detailed account of my acquaintance with Miss Manvers, and a
+description of the lady, her style of living, and, above all, more
+graphic than all, my experience of the previous day, up to the moment
+when I closed the "rogues' gallery" and opened my eyes to a new and
+startling possibility.
+
+This document I addressed to a city post-office box, and, having sealed
+it carefully, registered and dispatched it through the Trafton
+post-office.
+
+In the afternoon I received an express package from Baysville. It was a
+_book_, so the agent said. Innocent enough, no doubt, nevertheless I did
+not open it until I had closed and locked my door upon all intruders.
+
+It _was_ a book. A cheap volume of trashy poems, but the middle leaves
+were cut away, and in their place I found a bulky letter.
+
+It was Earle's report from Amora.
+
+It was very statistical, very long, and dry because of its minuteness of
+detail, and the constant recurrence of dates and figures. But it was
+most interesting to me.
+
+Arch Brookhouse and his brother, Louis, had both been students at Amora.
+
+Grace Ballou and Nellie Ewing had been fellow-students with them one
+year ago. Last term, however, Arch had not been a student, but Louis
+Brookhouse, Grace Ballou, Nellie Ewing, Mamie Rutger, Amy Holmes, and
+Johnny La Porte, had all been in attendance.
+
+For the last three named this was their first term.
+
+Mamie Rutger had been expelled for misconduct, during the last half of
+the term.
+
+Johnny La Porte and Louis Brookhouse had been "chums" and were,
+accordingly, pretty wild.
+
+Very little could be learned concerning Amy Holmes, previous to her
+coming to Amora. She was said to be an orphan, and came from the South.
+Nothing more definite could be learned concerning her abiding place. She
+was lively, dashing and stylish, not particularly fond of study; in fact
+was considered one of the "loudest" girls in the school. Her escapades
+had been numerous and she had, on more than one occasion, narrowly
+escaped expulsion. She was particularly intimate with Nellie Ewing,
+Mamie Rutger, and Grace Ballou; and had been seen, on several occasions,
+in the company of Arch Brookhouse, who was very often at Amora.
+
+Concerning Ed. Dwight, Earle could say very little.
+
+Dwight had left town with his team early on Monday morning, and had not
+yet returned. Earle had managed, however, to obtain lodgings at Dwight's
+boarding-house, and had made the acquaintance of one of the "girls," who
+had contributed the information that Arch Brookhouse had several times
+dined there with Dwight.
+
+This is an abbreviated account of what Earle's report contained.
+Accompanying said report was an autograph obtained from Professor Asa
+Bartlett, and it bore not the slightest resemblance to the printed album
+lines.
+
+Considering the time consumed in the investigation, Earle had done
+remarkably well. He had done well, too, in going to Baysville to send
+the letter.
+
+How many threads were now in my hands, and yet how powerless I was for
+the time!
+
+Only yesterday I had made, or so I believed, two most important
+discoveries, and yet I could turn them to no account for the present.
+
+Upon the first, it would be unwise to act until further information had
+been forwarded me by my Chief.
+
+As for the second, there was nothing to do but watch. I could not take
+the initiative step. Action depended solely upon others, and as to the
+identity of these others I scarce could give a guess.
+
+Louis Brookhouse had not been seen outside his home since his arrival,
+in a crippled condition, the day after Grace Ballou's escapade. I must
+see Louis Brookhouse. I must know the nature of that "injury" which Dr.
+Bethel had been called upon to attend.
+
+For the first, I must bide my time until the youth was sufficiently
+recovered to appear in public. For the second, I must rely on Bethel,
+and, until the last sorrowful tribute of respect and affection had been
+paid the dead, I could scarcely hope for an interview with him.
+
+A crisis must come soon, but it was not in our power to hasten it.
+
+So long as Dimber Joe and Blake Simpson continued inert and seemingly
+aimless, so long as the days brought no new event and the nights brought
+neither discovery on our part nor movement on the part of the
+horse-thieves, Carnes and I had only to wait and watch--watch--watch.
+
+Our days, to the onlooker, must have seemed only idle indeed, but still
+they were busy days.
+
+Carnes roamed about the town, inspecting the barns and buildings
+closely, when he could venture a near approach without arousing
+suspicion or objection; at a distance, when intrusion would be unsafe or
+unwelcome.
+
+Dr. Barnard was buried on Thursday, and on the afternoon of that day, as
+I was returning from the funeral in fact, I received a report from
+Wyman.
+
+Stripped of its details, and reduced to bare facts, it amounted to this:
+
+The "dummy" had proven of actual service. Wyman had found him with very
+little trouble, and in just the right place. He was domiciled with the
+La Porte family, and had been since the first week of his advent among
+the Grovelanders, and Wyman was indebted to him for much of the
+information contained in his report.
+
+Acting according to our instructions, or, rather, as we had expected
+and desired, overacting them, the "dummy" had soon contrived to let the
+Grovelanders know that he was a detective, sent out from the city to
+occupy the premises and keep his eyes open. He talked freely of the
+missing girls, always frankly avowing that it was his opinion, as well
+as the opinion of his superiors, that the two girls had been murdered.
+Indeed, he darkly hinted that certain facts corroborative of this theory
+had been discovered, and then he lapsed into vagueness and silence. When
+questioned as to his system or intentions regarding the investigation he
+became profoundly mysterious, oracular, and unsatisfactory.
+
+The result was all that we could have wished. The less intelligent among
+his critics looked upon him as a fountain of wisdom and cunning and
+skill. The more acute and observant fathomed his shallowness, but
+immediately set it down as a bit of clever acting, and, joining with
+their less penetrating neighbors, voted our "dummy" "wise as a serpent"
+underneath his "harmless as a dove" exterior, and looked confidently
+forward to something startling when he should finally arouse to action.
+
+To which class of critics Johnny La Porte belonged, Wyman had been
+unable to discover, for during his stay in Groveland he had not seen
+young La Porte.
+
+Whatever his opinion may have been, the young man had been among the
+first to seek our "dummy's" acquaintance, which he had cultivated so
+persistently that within less than a fortnight the two had become most
+friendly, and apparently appreciative of each other's society, and the
+"dummy" had found an abiding place underneath the hospitable roof of La
+Porte _pere_.
+
+Johnny La Porte was a spoiled son. He seemed to have had his own way
+always, and it had not been a way to wisdom. He was not dissipated; had
+none of the larger and more masculine vices, but he was idle, a shirk at
+school and at home. He had no business tact, and seemed as little
+inclined to make of himself a decent farmer as he was incapable of
+becoming a good financier, merchant, or mechanic.
+
+He was short of stature, and girlishly pretty, having small oval
+features, languid black eyes, black curly hair, and a rich complexion of
+olive and red.
+
+He drove a fine span of blacks before a jaunty light carriage, and was
+seldom seen with his turnout except when accompanied by some one of the
+many pretty girls about Groveland.
+
+In fact, he was that most obnoxious creature, a male flirt. He had roved
+from one bright Groveland flower to another, ever since his graduation
+from jackets to tail coats. During the previous Autumn and Winter, he
+had been very devoted to Nellie Ewing; but, since their return from
+school, in the Spring, his attentions had not been quite so marked,
+although Nellie had several times been seen behind the blacks and in
+company with the fickle Johnny.
+
+In short, after reading all that Wyman could say of him, I summed
+Johnny La Porte up, and catalogued him as follows:
+
+Vain, weak, idle, handsome, fickle, selfish, good-natured when not
+interfered with, over fond of pleasure, easily influenced, and a
+spendthrift.
+
+What might or might not be expected of such a character?
+
+He was, as Mrs. Ballou had said, popular among the young people,
+especially the young ladies; and where do you find a young man that
+drives a fine turnout, carries a well-filled purse, dances a little,
+sings a fair tenor and plays his own accompaniment, is handsome, and
+always ready for a frolic, who is _not_ popular with the ladies?
+
+Wyman had not seen La Porte, and for this reason:
+
+On the evening of the 17th, young La Porte had driven away from home
+with his black horses, telling our "dummy," in confidence, that he was
+"going to take a pretty girl out riding."
+
+La Porte and the "dummy" "roomed together," in true country fashion;
+and, at midnight, or later, the "dummy" could not be precise as to the
+lateness of the hour, he returned. Entering the room with evident
+caution, he nevertheless awoke the "dummy," who, turning lazily on his
+pillow, saw La Porte taking from a drawer something white, which our
+"dummy" supposed to be a handful of handkerchiefs, and from a shelf a
+bottle of brandy.
+
+[Illustration: "Entering the room with evident caution, he nevertheless
+awoke the "dummy," who, turning lazily on his pillow, saw La Porte
+taking from a drawer something white,"--page 244.]
+
+On seeing the open eyes of our "dummy," La Porte had explained as
+follows:
+
+One of his horses went lame a bit, and he intended to give him a
+little treatment. The "dummy" must not disturb himself, as the hired man
+was on hand to render all the necessary help.
+
+Then, as he was leaving the room, La Porte had added:
+
+"By-the-by, if the horse comes out all right, and I am gone when you
+turn out in the morning, tell the old man that I am off for Baysville to
+see about the club excursion."
+
+Wondering vaguely what species of lameness it was that must be treated
+with brandy and bandaged with linen handkerchiefs, the "dummy" fell
+asleep, and finding the young man absent on the following morning,
+delivered his message as directed.
+
+It was received without comment, as such excursions were of frequent
+occurrence, and as no one presumed to question the movements of the
+spoiled young pleasure seeker.
+
+He did not return on the next day, but the morning of the 19th brought
+him home, not, however, as he went, but in company with a sewing-machine
+agent whom he called Ed., and whose full name was Edward S. Dwight.
+
+La Porte stated that his horse was lame again, and that he had left his
+team at Amora, and returned with Dwight in the machine wagon.
+
+During that day La Porte accompanied Dwight on his rounds among the
+farmers, and early the following morning the two returned together to
+Amora.
+
+That was a week ago. The following Sunday, La Porte and Dwight had
+again visited Groveland, this time with La Porte's own turnout. During
+the day they had made several calls upon young ladies, and this time our
+"dummy," being cordially invited, accompanied them on their rounds.
+
+On Monday morning, as before, they returned to Amora, and since then had
+not reappeared in Groveland.
+
+Wyman, according to instructions, had visited Mrs. Ballou. She had
+nothing new to communicate, but she gave into his hands a small package,
+which Wyman had inclosed with his report.
+
+It contained three photographs; one of Miss Amy Holmes, one of Johnny La
+Porte, and a third of the same gentleman and Mr. Ed. Dwight, a rather
+rakish-looking duo.
+
+I read and re-read Wyman's long, complete descriptive report. I studied
+the photographed faces again and again, and that evening, before the
+sunset had fairly faded from the west, I told Carnes the whole story,
+and placed before him the printed letter and the autographs, photographs
+and reports.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+"EVOLVING A THEORY."
+
+
+"And you want me to go to New Orleans?" says Carnes, as he rises slowly,
+and stretches himself up to his fullest height, following up his words
+with an immense yawn. "What for, now?"
+
+He has listened so attentively, so silently, with such moveless,
+intelligent eagerness, that I forgive him the yawn, and treat myself to
+a long breath of restfulness and relief, at being at last unburdened of
+this great secret, and he crosses the room and drops into his favorite
+attitude beside the window that overlooks the fast darkening street.
+
+"I hardly know just what I expect you to unearth in New Orleans," I
+answer, after a pause of some moments. "But I have a notion that the
+links we have failed to find here may be in hiding down there."
+
+Carnes plunges his hands deep down into his pockets. I know, from the
+intentness of his face, and the unwinking fixedness of the eyes that
+stare yet see nothing beyond the panorama conjured by his own
+imagination, that he is studying diligently at the Groveland problem;
+and I sit silently, waiting his first movement, that I feel sure will be
+speedily followed by something in the way of an opinion.
+
+"It's a queer muddle," he says at last, coming back to his chair and
+dropping into his former attitude of interested attention. "It's a queer
+muddle; and, it seems to me, you have got hold of the wrong end of the
+business."
+
+"How the wrong end?"
+
+"Why, you have your supposed principals and accessories, and, perhaps,
+the outline of a plot; but where is your _motive_?"
+
+"Where, indeed! I have not even found a theory that suits me, although I
+have pondered over various suppositions. You are good at this sort of
+analysis, Carnes. Can't you help me to some sort of a theory that won't
+break of its own weight?"
+
+Carnes bit his under lip and pondered.
+
+"How far have you got?" he asked, presently.
+
+"I will tell you how I have reasoned thus far. Experience and
+statistics have proved that, of all the missing people, male and female,
+whose dead bodies are never found, or whose deaths are never
+satisfactorily proven, more than three-fourths have eventually turned up
+alive, or it is found they _have_ lived many years after they were
+numbered among the missing. In the majority of cases, say four to one,
+where missing persons, supposed to have been dead, are proved to be
+alive, it is also proved that they have 'disappeared' of their own free
+will. In the list of missing young girls, the police records show that
+two-thirds of those supposed to have been murdered or abducted, have
+eloped or forsaken their friends of their own free will. Let us keep in
+mind these statistics and begin with Nellie Ewing. Was she murdered? Was
+she forcibly abducted? Did she run away?"
+
+"Umph! If _she_ were a man I might venture an opinion," broke in Carnes.
+
+"Let us see. She left her house at sunset, riding a brown pony, and
+intent, or seeming so, upon visiting her friend, Grace Ballou."
+
+"Grace Ballou--oh!" Carnes lifts his head, then drops it again, quickly.
+
+I note the gesture and the ejaculation, and smile as I proceed.
+
+"She had announced her intention of spending the night with her friend
+Grace, but instead of so doing, she is suddenly afflicted with a
+headache, and, at dusk, or perhaps even later, she sets out, on her
+brown pony, for home, a distance of about four miles."
+
+"Um--ah!" from Carnes.
+
+"She is not seen after that. Neither is the brown pony. Was she
+murdered? If so, no trace of her body, no clue to her murderer, no
+motive for the deed, has been discovered. And the horse; if she was
+murdered, was the horse slaughtered also? And were they both buried in
+one grave? She was riding alone, after nightfall, over a country road.
+She might have been assailed by tramps or stragglers of some sort, but
+the first investigation proved that nothing in the form of tramp, or
+stranger of any sort, had been seen about Groveland, neither on that day
+nor for many days previous. And again, a tramp who might have killed her
+to secure the horse, would hardly have tarried to conceal the body so
+effectually that the most thorough search could not bring it to light.
+Nor would he have carried it with him beyond the reach of search. Was
+she murdered for revenge, or from motives of jealousy? Then, in all
+probability, the brown horse would have been found wandering somewhere
+at large."
+
+"It won't do," mutters Carnes, half to himself, and with a slow wag of
+the head; "it won't do."
+
+"That's what I said to myself, after reviewing the pros and cons of the
+'murder theory.' Now, was Nellie Ewing abducted? She _may_ have been,
+but, again, there's the missing horse. If a tramp or a horse-thief would
+take the horse, and leave the girl, a desperate lover would just as
+surely take the girl and leave the horse. Again, an avaricious lover
+_might_, with some difficulty, secure both horse and rider, but he could
+hardly travel far with an unwilling girl and a stolen horse, without
+becoming uncomfortably conspicuous. Did the young lady elope? If so,
+then it is my belief that she and her horse parted company very soon
+after she left the widow Ballou's. And here ends my theorizing. How, and
+why, and whither, the horse was spirited away, I can not guess."
+
+"If the thing had occurred in Trafton," says Carnes, thoughtfully, "one
+might account for the horse."
+
+"True; but as it did not occur within the limit of the Trafton
+operations, I naturally concluded that, if the young lady really did
+abscond, her lover must have had a confederate who took charge of the
+horse. But, at first, this seemed to me improbable."
+
+"Why improbable?"
+
+"Because I did not view the matter, as you do now, in the light of after
+discoveries and developments."
+
+"Then you think now that Miss Ewing eloped?"
+
+"I think she was not murdered; and the elopement theory is much more
+plausible, more reasonable, all things considered, than that of
+abduction. First of all, there are the movements of the girl herself.
+Supposing her quartered for the night with her friend Grace, 'Squire
+Ewing felt no uneasiness at her absence, even when it was prolonged into
+the second day. Might she not have considered all this when she planned
+her flight? When she was actually missed, she had two days the start of
+her inquiring friends."
+
+"True."
+
+"Then, not long after, Mamie Rutger, a friend and schoolmate of the
+missing Nellie, also disappears. While it is yet daylight, or at least
+hardly dark, she vanishes from her father's very door-step, and is seen
+no more. Now, let me call your attention to some facts. Farmer Rutger's
+house stands on a bit of rising ground; the road runs east and west. To
+the east of the house is a thick grove of young trees planted as a
+wind-break for the cattle. This belt of trees begins at the front of the
+house and extends northward, the house being on the north side of the
+highway, past the barns, cow stables, and sheep pens. So while a person
+in the front portion of the house, on the porch or in the door-yard, can
+obtain a clear view of the road to the west, those farther back, in the
+kitchen, the stables, or the milking sheds, are shut off from a view of
+the road by the wind-break on the one hand, by a high orchard hedge on
+the other, and by the house and thick door-yard shrubbery in front. For
+over an hour, on the night of her disappearance, Mamie Rutger was the
+only person within view of this highway. The hired girl was in the
+kitchen washing up the supper things. Mrs. Rutger, who, by-the-by, is
+Miss Mamie's step-mother, was skimming milk in the cellar, and Mr.
+Rutger, with the two hired men, were watering and feeding the stock and
+milking the cows. When the work for the night was done and the lamps
+were lighted, if they thought of Mamie at all it was as sitting alone on
+the front piazza, or perched in her chamber window up-stairs, enjoying
+the quiet of the evening. It was only when their early bed-time came
+that the girl's absence, and more than that, her unusual silence, was
+noted, and that a search proved her missing. Was _she_ murdered? That
+theory in this case is so unreasonable that I discard it at once."
+
+Carnes nodded his head approvingly.
+
+"Was she abducted? Possibly; but to my mind, it is not probable. Mamie
+Rutger was a gypsyish lassie, pretty as a May blossom, skittish as a
+colt, hard to govern and prone to adventurous escapades. Her father was
+kind and her step-mother meant to be so, but the latter perpetually
+frowned down the girl's innocent hilarity, and curbed her gayety, when
+she could, with a stern hand. They sent her to school to tame her, and
+the faculty, after bearing with her, and forgiving her many mischievous
+pranks because of her youth, at last sent her home in disgrace,
+expelled. If this girl, wearied of a humdrum farmhouse existence and
+thirsting for a broader glimpse of the gay outer world, had planned an
+elopement or runaway escapade, she could have chosen no better time.
+While all the others are busy at their evening task, she, from the
+front, watches for a swift horse and a covered buggy, which comes from
+the west. Sure that no eyes are looking, she awaits it at the gate,
+springs in, with a backward glance, and when she is missed, is miles
+away."
+
+"Yes, I see," comments Carnes, dryly; "it's a pity your second sight
+couldn't keep 'em in view till ye see where they land."
+
+I curb my imagination. That useful quality is deficient in the cranium
+of my comrade; he can neither follow nor sympathize.
+
+"Well, here is the condensed truth for you," I reply, amiably: "for
+this much we have ocular and oral testimony: Four young ladies attend
+school at Amora; all are pretty, under the age of discretion, and, with
+perhaps one exception, little versed in the ways of the world and its
+wickedness. During their sojourn at school, where they are not under
+constant discipline owing to the fact that they all board outside of the
+Seminary, and all together, they are much in the society of four young
+men, two of whom are students of the Seminary. This quartette of youths
+are more or less good looking, and all of them notably 'gay and
+festive,' after the manner of the stereotyped young man of the period."
+
+"Right you are now," ejaculated Carnes.
+
+"Just how these gentlemen divided their affections or attentions," I
+continue, "it is difficult to say, in regard to all. We know that Mr.
+Johnny La Porte was the chosen cavalier of Miss Ewing, and that Arch
+Brookhouse and Amy Holmes were frequently seen in each other's society.
+We are told that the eight young people formed frequent pleasure
+parties; riding, picnicking, passing social evenings together.
+
+"They leave school; their jolly companionship is over. By-and-by,
+Nellie Ewing disappears; a little later, Mamie Rutger is also missing;
+after a little time the other two young ladies are caught in the act of
+escaping from home, by the means of a ladder placed at their chamber
+window by an unknown man, while a second, it is supposed, awaits their
+coming with horses and vehicle. This much for the ladies of this
+octette. Now, upon inquiring after the whereabouts of the gentlemen, we
+find that upon the night of this last named escapade, Johnny La Porte,
+with his buggy and horses, was absent from home from sunset until after
+midnight. That he returned when all the household was asleep, and
+securing some clean handkerchiefs and a flask of brandy, ostensibly to
+doctor a sick horse, he again goes, and returns after an absence of two
+days, accompanied by another member of the octette, Mr. Ed. Dwight."
+
+"That's a point," assented Carnes.
+
+"Now, we have previously learned," I resume, "that said Dwight is about
+to abandon his old trade and quit the country. We also remember that
+Mrs. Ballou shot at, and believes she hit, the man who was assisting her
+daughter and guest to escape from the house. Very good. During the time
+that Johnny La Porte is absent from his home, Mr. Louis Brookhouse is
+brought home to Trafton, in a covered buggy, by some unknown friend,
+with a crippled limb!"
+
+"I see; that's a clincher," muttered Carnes.
+
+"This much for three of the gay Lotharios," I continue. "Now for Arch
+Brookhouse. In Grace Ballou's autograph album is a couplet, very neatly
+printed and signed A. B. It bears date one year back, and one year ago
+Grace Ballou and Arch Brookhouse were both students at Amora. Not long
+since I received an interesting letter of warning, and I believe it was
+written by the same hand that indited the lines beginning 'I drink to
+the eyes of my schoolmate, Grace.'"
+
+Carnes opened his lips, but I hurried on.
+
+"I have noted one other thing, which, if you like, you may call
+coincidence of latitude. The eldest of the Brookhouse brothers is a
+resident of New Orleans. At about the time of Nellie Ewing's
+disappearance, Louis Brookhouse went to New Orleans, returning less than
+two weeks ago. Amy Holmes is vaguely described as being 'somewhere
+South,' and Ed. Dwight meditates a Southern journey soon."
+
+"It looks like a league," says Carnes, scratching his head, and
+wrinkling his brows in perplexity. "Are they going to form a colony of
+some new sort? What's your notion?"
+
+"My notion is that we had better not waste our time trying to guess out
+a motive. Consider the language of the telegram sent by Fred Brookhouse
+to his brother, and the reply to it, and then reflect upon the possible
+meaning of both. The New Orleans brother says:
+
+     Hurry up the others, or we are likely to have a balk.
+
+"Arch answers:
+
+     Next week L---- will be on hand.
+
+"Hurry up the others! What others? Why are they likely to have a
+'balk?' Are the two missing girls _there_, in charge of Fred Brookhouse,
+and are they becoming restive at the non-appearance of the others? If
+they had succeeded in escaping, would Grace Ballou and Amy Holmes have
+gone to New Orleans in company with Louis Brookhouse?"
+
+"By Saint Patrick, I begin to see!" cried Carnes.
+
+"The telegram sent by Arch," I resume, "implies that Louis was already
+here, or near here. Yet he made his first appearance at his father's
+house two days later. Is Ed. Dwight going to New Orleans to embrace the
+'heel and toe business,' under the patronage of Fred Brookhouse, who, it
+is said, is connected with a theater? Is Johnny La Porte in hiding at
+Amora? or has he already 'gone to join the circus?'"
+
+Carnes springs suddenly to his feet.
+
+"By the powers, old man, I see how it looks to you;" he cries, "an'
+ye've got the thing by the right end at last. I'll go to New Orleans;
+only say when. But," here his face lengthens a little, "ye must get
+Wyman, or some one else, here in my place. I wish we had got that horse
+rendezvous hunted down."
+
+"As to that," I respond, "give yourself no uneasiness; I believe that I
+have found the right place, and to-night I mean to confirm my
+suspicion."
+
+Carnes stares astonished.
+
+"How did you manage it?" he asks, "and when?"
+
+"Two days ago, and by accident. You will be surprised, Carnes. It is a
+barn."
+
+"It is?"
+
+"A lead-colored barn, finished in brown."
+
+"_What?_"
+
+"It is large, and nearly square," I hasten to say, enjoying his marked
+amazement. "A large stack of hay is pitched against the rear end,
+running the length of it. It has a cupola and a flagstaff."
+
+Carnes simply stares.
+
+"I will send for Wyman if I need his help. What I am studying upon now
+is a sufficient pretext for sending you away suddenly."
+
+"I'll furnish that," Carnes says, with a droll roll of his eye.
+"To-morrow I'll get drunk--beastly drunk. You shall inquire after me
+about the hotel and at Porter's. By-and-by I will come into the office
+too drunk to be endurable. You must be there to reprimand me. I grow
+insolent; you discharge me. I go away somewhere and sleep off the
+effects of my spree. You pay me my wages in the presence of the clerk,
+and at midnight I board the train _en route_ for the Sunny South. You
+shall hear from me----"
+
+"By telegraph," I interrupt. "We shall have a new night operator here
+within the week. I arranged for that when I was in the city, and wrote
+the old man, yesterday, to send him on at once."
+
+"All right; that's a good move," approved Carnes.
+
+"And now," I said, rising hastily, and consulting my watch, "I must go.
+To-night, or perhaps in the 'small hours,' we will talk over matters
+again, and I will explain myself further. For the present, good-by; I am
+expected to-night at the Hill; I shall pass the evening in the society
+of Miss Manvers."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+TWO DEPARTURES.
+
+
+On the ensuing morning, Carnes and I enacted the "quarrel scene," as
+planned by him the previous night.
+
+A more aggravated case of drunkenness than that presented by Carnes, a
+little before noon, could not well be imagined. He was a marvel of
+reeling stupidity, offensive hiccoughs, and maudlin insolence.
+
+Quite a number of people were lounging about the office when Carnes
+staggered in, thus giving me my cue to commence. Among the rest were
+Dimber Joe and Blake Simpson. Our scene went off with considerable
+_eclat_; and, having paid Carnes at the office desk, with a magnificent
+disregard for expense, I turned to leave the room, looking back over my
+shoulder, to say with my grandest air:
+
+"If you think yourself sufficiently sober, you may come up-stairs and
+pack your things. The sooner you, and all that belongs to you, are out
+of my sight, the better I shall be pleased."
+
+[Illustration: "If you think yourself sufficiently sober, you may come
+up-stairs and pack your things."--page 262.]
+
+I had been in my room less than half an hour, when I heard Carnes come
+stumbling noisily through the passage.
+
+When he was fairly within the room, he straightened himself suddenly,
+and uttered a sound midway between a laugh and a chuckle.
+
+"Old man," he said, coming slowly toward me, "I don't think I'll take
+the down train."
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Because," winking absurdly, and then staring up at the ceiling while he
+finished his sentence, "the snakes are beginning to crawl. Blake Simpson
+has just paid his bill, and ordered his baggage to be sent to the 4:30
+train."
+
+"Ah! And you will take the same train?"
+
+"Exactly; I'm curious to see where he is going, and to find out why. We
+must not remain together long, old man. Do you go down-stairs and tell
+them that I am sleeping off my booze up here. I shan't be very sober by
+4:30, but I'll manage to navigate to the depot."
+
+I went down to the office, after a few more words with Carnes.
+
+Simpson and Dimber Joe had both disappeared. Two or three men were
+smoking outside, and a man by the window was falling asleep over a
+newspaper three days old. Mine host, in person, was lounging over the
+desk. He was idle, and inclined to be talkative.
+
+"You weren't trying to give Barney a scare, I suppose?" he said, as I
+approached the desk. "Do you really mean to let him go?"
+
+"I certainly do," I replied, as I lounged upon the desk.
+
+Then, coming nearer mine host, and increasing the distance between
+myself and the old man by the window; "I have been tolerably patient
+with the fellow. He has his good points, but he has tired me out.
+Patience has ceased to be a virtue. I can do very well without him now.
+He never was much of a valet. But I thought him quite necessary as a
+companion on my fishing, hunting, and pedestrian excursions. However, I
+have become pretty well acquainted with places and people, and I find
+there are plenty of guides and companions to be picked up. I can do very
+well without Barney, especially as of late he is drunk oftener than he
+is sober."
+
+Mine host smiled fraternally. It was not my custom to be so
+communicative. Always, in my character of the wealthy aristocrat, I had
+maintained, for the benefit of those about me, an almost haughty
+reserve, only unbending when, because of my supposed financial
+importance, I "was made much of" in the social circles of the Trafton
+_�lite_. To-day, however, I had an object to gain, and I did not bestow
+my condescending confidence without the expectation of "value received."
+
+"You'll have no trouble about finding company," said mine host, with a
+benign smile. "As you say, Barney has been a good many times off. He
+hasn't kept the best of company. He's been too much with that Briggs."
+
+"Yes," I assented, carelessly; "I have repeatedly warned him to let the
+fellow alone. Has he no occupation?"
+
+"Briggs? he's a sort of extra hand for 'Squire Brookhouse; but, he
+plays more than he works," trifling with the leaves of his register, and
+then casting his eye slowly down the page before him. "Here's an odd
+thing, you might say," laughing, as he lifted his eye from the book,
+"I'm losing my most boisterous boarder and my quietest one at the same
+time."
+
+"Indeed; who else is going?"
+
+My entertainer cast a quick glance towards the occupant of the window,
+and lowered his voice as he replied:
+
+"The gentleman in gray."
+
+"In gray?" absently. "Oh! to be sure, a--a patent-right agent, is he
+not?"
+
+Another glance toward the window, then lowering his voice an additional
+half tone, and favoring me with a knowing wink, he said:
+
+"Have you heard anything concerning him?"
+
+"Concerning the gentleman in gray?"
+
+My entertainer nodded.
+
+"Assuredly not," said I, affecting languid surprise. "Nothing wrong
+about the gentleman, I hope?"
+
+"Nothing wrong, oh, no," leaning over the desk, and speaking slowly.
+"They say he is a _detective_."
+
+"A detective!" This time my surprise was not entirely feigned. "Oh--is
+not that a sensationalism?"
+
+"Well," said my host, reflectively, "I might think so if I had heard it
+from any of the ordinary loungers;--the fact is, I had no right to
+mention the matter. I don't think it is guessed at by many."
+
+He was beginning to retire within himself. I felt that I must not lose
+my ground, and became at once more interested, more affable.
+
+"Oh, I assure you, Mr. Holtz, I am quite interested. Do you really think
+the man a detective? Pray, rely on my discretion."
+
+There were two hard, unpainted chairs behind the office desk, and some
+boxes containing cheap cigars, upon a shelf against the wall. I
+insinuated myself into one of the chairs, and presently, Mr. Holtz was
+seated near me in the other, smoking one of his own cigars, at my
+expense, while I, with a similar weed between my lips, drew from him, as
+best I could, all that he had heard and thought concerning Mr. Blake
+Simpson, the gentleman in gray.
+
+It was not much when all told, but Mr. Holtz consumed a full hour in
+telling it.
+
+Jim Long had been so frequently at the hotel since the advent of Blake
+and Dimber Joe, that mine host had remarked upon the circumstance, and,
+only two days ago, had rallied Jim upon his growing social propensities.
+
+Whereupon, Jim had taken him aside, "quite privately and mysteriously,"
+and confided to him the fact that he, Jim, had very good reason for
+believing Blake and Dimber, or, as my informer put it, "The gent in gray
+and the other stranger," to be detectives, who were secretly working in
+the interest of 'Squire Brookhouse.
+
+What these very good reasons were, Jim had declined to state. But he
+had conjured Mr. Holtz to keep silent about the matter, as to bring the
+"detectives" into notice would be to impair their chances of ultimate
+success.
+
+Mr. Holtz had promised to keep the secret, and he had kept it--two days.
+He should never think of mentioning the matter to any of his neighbors,
+he assured me fervently, as they, for the most part, being already much
+excited over the recent thefts, could hardly be expected to keep a
+discreet silence; but I, "being a stranger, and a different person
+altogether," might, in Mr. Holtz's opinion, be safely trusted.
+
+I assured Mr. Holtz that he might rely upon me as he would upon himself,
+and he seemed quite satisfied with this rather equivocal statement.
+
+Having heard all that mine host could tell, I remained in further
+conversation with him long enough to avoid any appearance of abruptness,
+and then, offering the stereotyped excuse, "letters to write," I took a
+second cigar, pressed another upon my companion, and nodding to him with
+friendly familiarity, sauntered away to meditate in solitude upon what I
+had just learned.
+
+And so, if Mr. Holtz had not exaggerated, and Jim Long was not mistaken,
+Blake Simpson and Dimber Joe, two notorious prison birds, were
+vegetating in Trafton in the character of detectives!
+
+What a satire on my profession! And yet, absurd and improbable as it
+seemed, it was not impossible. Indeed, did not this theory account for
+their seemingly aimless sojourn here?
+
+Jim Long was not the man to perpetrate a causeless jest. Neither was he
+one to form a hasty conclusion, or to make an assertion without a
+motive.
+
+Whether his statement were true or false, what had been his reason for
+confiding it to Mr. Holtz? It was not because of any especial friendship
+for, or attachment to, that gentleman. Jim had no intimates, and had he
+chosen such, Mr. Holtz, gossipping, idle, stingy, and shallow of brain,
+would scarcely have been the man.
+
+Why, then, had he confided in the man?
+
+Did he wish the report to circulate, and himself remain unknown as its
+author? Was there some individual whose ears he wished it to reach
+through the talkative landlord?
+
+I paused in my reflections, half startled by a sudden thought.
+
+Had this shrewd, incomprehensible Yankee guessed my secret? And was Mr.
+Holtz's story intended for _me_?
+
+I arose to my feet, having formed a sudden resolution.
+
+I _would_ know the truth concerning Jim Long. I _would_ prove him my
+friend or my enemy, and the story told by Mr. Holtz should be my weapon
+of attack.
+
+As for Blake and Dimber, if they _were_ figuring as dummy detectives,
+who had instigated their masquerade?
+
+Again I started, confronted by a strange new thought.
+
+'Squire Brookhouse had telegraphed to an agent to employ for him two
+detectives. My Chief had been unable to discover what officers had been
+employed. Carnes and myself, although we had kept a faithful lookout,
+had been able to discover no traces of a detective in Trafton. Indeed,
+except for ourselves and the two crooks, there were no strangers in the
+village, nor had there been since the robbery.
+
+If Blake and Dimber were playing at detectives, why was it? Had the
+agent employed by 'Squire Brookhouse played him a trick, or had he been
+himself duped?
+
+'Squire Brookhouse had telegraphed to his _lawyer_, it was said. A
+lawyer could have no motive for duping a wealthy client, nor would he be
+likely to be imposed upon or approached by such men as Blake and Dimber.
+
+Had 'Squire Brookhouse procured the services of these men? And if so,
+why?
+
+Carnes was endeavoring to sustain his _r�le_ by taking a much needed nap
+upon his cot, but I now roused him with eager haste, and regaled his
+sleepy ears with the story I had just listened to below stairs.
+
+At first he seemed only to see the absurdity of the idea, and he buried
+his face in the pillow, to stifle the merriment which rose to his lips
+at the thought of the protection such detectives would be likely to
+afford the innocent Traftonites.
+
+Then he became wide awake and sufficiently serious, and we hastily
+discussed the possibilities of the case.
+
+There was not much to be done in the way of investigation just then;
+Carnes would follow after Blake so long as it seemed necessary, or until
+he could inform me how to guard against any evil the crook might be
+intent upon.
+
+Meantime I must redouble my vigilance, and let no movement of Dimber's
+escape my notice.
+
+To this end I abandoned, for the present, my hastily formed resolution,
+to go at once in search of Jim Long, and bring about a better
+understanding between us. That errand, being of less importance than the
+surveillance of the rascal Dimber, could be left to a more convenient
+season, or so I reasoned in my pitiful blindness.
+
+Where was my professional wisdom then? Where the unerring foresight, the
+fine instinct, that should have warned me of danger ahead?
+
+Had these been in action, one man might have been saved a shameful
+stigma, and another, from the verge of the grave.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+A SHOT IN THE DARK.
+
+
+That afternoon dragged itself slowly away.
+
+I left Carnes in our room, and went below to note the movements of the
+two crooks.
+
+They were both upon the piazza; Blake smoking a well-colored meerschaum
+and seemingly half asleep, and the Dimber, with his well-polished boot
+heels elevated to the piazza railing, reading from a brown volume, with
+a countenance expressive of absorbed interest.
+
+I seated myself where I could observe both without seeming to do so, and
+tilting my hat over my nose, dropped into a lounging attitude. I suppose
+that I looked the personification of careless indolence. I know that I
+felt perplexed, annoyed, uncomfortable.
+
+Perplexed, because of the many mysteries that surrounded me. Annoyed,
+because while I longed to be actively at work upon the solution of these
+mysteries, I could only sit like a sleepy idiot, and furtively watch two
+rascals engaged in killing time, the one with a pipe, the other with a
+French novel. Uncomfortable, because the day was sultry, and the piazza
+chairs were hard, and constructed with little regard for the ease of the
+forms that would occupy them.
+
+But there comes an end to all things, or so it is said. At last there
+came an end to my loitering on the warm piazza.
+
+At the proper time Carnes came lumbering down-stairs seeming not yet
+sobered, but fully equipped for his journey. He took an affectionate
+leave of the landlord, receiving some excellent advice in return. And,
+after favoring me with a farewell speech, half maudlin, half
+impertinent, wholly absurd, and intended for the benefit of the
+lookers-on, who certainly enjoyed the scene, he departed noisily, and,
+as Barney Cooley, was seen no more in Trafton.
+
+A few moments later, "the gentleman in gray" also took his leave,
+bestowing a polite nod upon one or two of the more social ones, but
+without so much as glancing toward Dimber Joe or myself. He walked
+sedately away, followed by the hotel factotum, who carried his natty
+traveling bag.
+
+Still Dimber read on at his seemingly endless novel, and still I lounged
+about the porch, sometimes smoking, sometimes feigning sleep.
+
+At last came supper time. I hailed it as a pleasant respite, and
+followed Dimber Joe to the dining room with considerable alacrity.
+
+Dr. Bethel came in soon, looking grave and weary. We saluted each
+other, but Bethel seemed little inclined to talk, and I was glad not to
+be engaged in a conversation which might detain me at the table after
+Joe had left it.
+
+Bethel, I knew, was much at the house of the Barnards. The shock caused
+by the loss of her husband, together with the fatigue occasioned by his
+illness, had prostrated Mrs. Barnard, who, it was said, was threatened
+with a fever, and Bethel was in constant attendance.
+
+As yet there had been no opportunity for the renewal of the
+conversation, concerning the grave robbery, which had been interrupted
+more than a week since by Mr. Brookhouse, and afterwards effectually cut
+off by my flying visit to the city.
+
+When the Dimber left the table I followed him almost immediately, only
+to again find him poring over that absorbing novel, and seemingly
+oblivious to all else.
+
+Sundown came, and then twilight. As darkness gathered, Dimber Joe laid
+down his book with evident reluctance and carefully lighted a cigar.
+
+Would he sit thus all the evening? I was chafing inwardly. Would the man
+do _nothing_ to break this monotony?
+
+Presently a merry whistle broke upon the stillness, and quick steps came
+down the street.
+
+It was Charlie Harris and, as on a former occasion, he held a telegram
+in his hand.
+
+"For you," he said, having peered hard at me through the gloom. "It came
+half an hour ago, but I could not get down until now."
+
+I took the envelope from his hand and slowly arose.
+
+"I don't suppose you will want my help to read it," he said, with an odd
+laugh, as I turned toward the lighted office to peruse my message.
+
+I gave him a quick glance, and then said:
+
+"Come in, Harris, there may be an answer wanted."
+
+He followed me to the office desk, and I was conscious that he was
+watching my face as I perused its contents.
+
+This is what I read by the office lamp.
+
+    4--. H, c, n, c, e, o, g, k, i, m, b--s, i, a--.
+
+A cipher message. I turned, half smiling, to meet the eye of Harris and
+kept my own eyes upon his face while I said:
+
+"I'm obliged to you, Harris, your writing is capital, and very easily
+read. No answer is required."
+
+The shrewd twinkle of his eye assured me that he comprehended my meaning
+as well as my words.
+
+I offered him a cigar, and lighted another for myself. Then we went out
+upon the piazza together.
+
+We had been in the office less than four minutes, but in that time
+Dimber Joe had disappeared, French novel and all. Much annoyed I peered
+up and down the street.
+
+To the left was the town proper, the stores, the depot, and other
+business places. To the right were dwellings and churches; a hill, the
+summit and sides adorned with the best residences of the village; then a
+hollow, where nestled Dr. Bethel's small cottage; and farther on, and
+back from the highway, Jim Long's cabin. Beyond these another hill,
+crowned by the capacious dwelling of the Brookhouse family.
+
+Which way had Dimber gone?
+
+It was early in the evening, too early to set out on an expedition
+requiring stealth. Then I remembered that Joe had not left the hotel
+since dinner; probably he had gone to the post office.
+
+Harris was returning in that direction. I ran down the steps and
+strolled townward in his company.
+
+"It's deuced hot," said Harris, with characteristic emphasis, as he
+lifted his hat to wipe a perspiring brow. "My office is the warmest hole
+in town after the breeze goes down, and I've got to stay there until
+midnight."
+
+"Extra business?" I inquired.
+
+"Not exactly; we are going to have a night operator."
+
+"Ah!" The darkness hid the smile on my face. "That will relieve you a
+little?"
+
+"Yes, a little; but I'm blessed if I understand it. Business is
+unusually light just now. I needed an assistant more in the Fall and
+Winter."
+
+"Indeed," I said, aloud. Then to myself, "But Carnes and I did not need
+one so much."
+
+Our agency had done some splendid work for the telegraph company whose
+wires ran through Trafton; and I knew, before requesting a new operator
+in the town, that they stood ready to oblige my Chief to any extent
+compatible with their own business. And my Chief had been expeditious
+indeed.
+
+"Then you look for your night operator by the down express?" I
+questioned, carelessly.
+
+"Yes; they wired me that he would come to-night. I hope he'll be an
+obliging fellow, who won't mind taking a day turn now and then."
+
+"I hope so," I replied, "for your sake, Harris."
+
+We had reached the post-office, and bidding him good night, I entered.
+
+A few tardy Traftonites were there, asking for and receiving their mail,
+but Dimber Joe was not among them.
+
+I went slowly back to Porter's store, glancing in at various windows as
+I passed, but saw not the missing man.
+
+How had he eluded me? Where should I look for him?
+
+Returning to the hotel, I sat down in the seat lately occupied by the
+vanished crook, and pondered.
+
+Was Dimber about to strike? Had he strolled out thus early to
+reconnoiter his territory? If so, he would return anon to equip himself
+for the work; he could not well carry a burglar's kit in the light suit
+he wore.
+
+Suddenly I arose and hurried up the stairs, resolved upon a bold
+measure.
+
+Hastily unlocking my trunk, I removed a tray, and from a skillfully
+concealed compartment, took a pair of nippers, some skeleton keys, and a
+small tin case, shaped like the candle it contained. Next, I removed my
+hat, coat, and boots; and, in another moment, was standing before the
+door of the room occupied by Dimber Joe. I knocked lightly and the
+silence within convinced me that the room was unoccupied.
+
+The Trafton House was not plentifully supplied with bolts, as I knew;
+and my nippers assured me that there was no key in the lock.
+
+Thus emboldened, I fitted one of the skeleton keys, and was soon within
+the room, making a hasty survey of Dimber Joe's effects.
+
+[Illustration: "Thus assured, I fitted one of the skeleton keys."--page
+279.]
+
+Aided again by my skeleton keys, I hurriedly opened and searched the two
+valises. They were as honest as they looked.
+
+The first contained a liberal supply of polished linen, a water-proof
+coat and traveling-cap, together with other articles of clothing, and
+two or three novels. The second held the clerical black suit worn by
+Dimber on the evening of his arrival in Trafton; a brace of linen
+dusters, a few articles of the toilet, and a small six-shooter.
+
+There was nothing else; no concealed jimmy, no "tools" of any
+description.
+
+It might have been the outfit of a country parson, but for the novels
+and the revolver. This latter was loaded, and, without any actual motive
+for so doing, I extracted the cartridges and put them in my pocket.
+
+In another moment I was back in my own room, baffled, disappointed, and
+puzzled more than before.
+
+Sitting there alone, I drew from my pocket the lately received telegram,
+and surveyed it once more.
+
+    4--. H, c, n, c, e, o, g, k, i, m, b--s, i, a--.
+
+Well might Harris have been puzzled. Arrant nonsense it must have seemed
+to him, but to me it was simplicity itself. The dispatch was from
+Carnes, and it said:
+
+"He is coming back."
+
+Simplicity itself, as the reader will see, by comparing the letters and
+the words.
+
+"He is coming back." This being interpreted, meant, "Blake Simpson is
+now returning to Trafton."
+
+Was I growing imbecile?
+
+Blake Simpson had departed in the daylight, doubtless taking the "tools
+of his trade" with him, hence the innocent appearance of his partner's
+room, for partners, I felt assured, they were.
+
+He was returning under cover of the darkness; Dimber had gone out to
+meet him, and before morning, Trafton would be supplied with a fresh
+sensation.
+
+How was I to act? How discover their point of attack?
+
+It yet lacked more than two hours of midnight. Trafton had not yet gone
+to sleep.
+
+Blake was coming back, but how?
+
+My telegram came from a village fifteen miles distant. Blake then
+must have left the train at that point, and Carnes had followed him. He
+had followed him until assured that he was actually returning to
+Trafton, and then he had sent the message.
+
+Blake might return in two ways. He might hire a conveyance and drive
+back to Trafton, or he might walk back as far as the next station, a
+distance of five miles, and there wait for the night express.
+
+It seemed hardly probable that he would care to court notice by
+presenting himself at an inn or livery stable. He would be more apt to
+walk away from the village, assume some light disguise, and return by
+the train. It would be a child's trick for him to drop from the moving
+train as it entered the town, and disappear unnoticed in the darkness.
+
+Carnes might return by that train, also, but we had agreed that, unless
+he was fully convinced that Blake meant serious mischief, and that I
+would need his assistance, he was to continue on his journey, as it
+seemed important that he should be in New Orleans as soon as possible.
+
+After some consideration, I decided that I would attach myself to
+Dimber, should he return, as it seemed likely that he would, it being so
+early. And if he failed to appear, I would lie in wait for the night
+express, and endeavor to spot Blake, should he come that way.
+
+Having thus decided, I resumed my hat, coat and boots, extinguished my
+light, locked my door and went down-stairs.
+
+The office lamp was burning its brightest, and there underneath it,
+tilted back in the only arm-chair the room could boast, sat Dimber Joe;
+his hat hung on a rack beside the door, a fresh cigar was stuck between
+his lips, and he was reading again that brown-covered French novel!
+
+I began to feel like a man in a nightmare. Could that indolent-looking
+novel reader be meditating a crime, and only waiting for time to bring
+the hour?
+
+I went out upon the piazza and fanned myself with my hat. I felt
+discomposed, and almost nervous. At that moment I wished devoutly that I
+could see Carnes.
+
+By-and-by my absurd self-distrust passed away, and I began to feel once
+more equal to the occasion.
+
+Dimber's room was not, like mine, at the end of the building. It was a
+"front room," and its two windows opened directly over the porch upon
+which I stood.
+
+I had the side door of the office in full view. He could not leave the
+house unseen by me.
+
+Mr. Holtz came out to talk with me. I complained of a headache and
+declared my intention to remain outside until it should have passed
+away. We conversed for half an hour, and then, as the hands of the
+office clock pointed to half-past ten he left me to make his nightly
+round through kitchen, pantries, and dining-room, locking and barring
+the side door of the office before going. And still Dimber Joe read on,
+to all appearances oblivious of time and all things else.
+
+A wooden bench, hard and narrow, ran along the wall just under the
+office window, affording a seat for loungers when the office should be
+overfull, and the chairs all occupied. Upon this I stretched myself, and
+feigned sleep, for a time that seemed interminable.
+
+Eleven o'clock; eleven loud metalic strokes from the office time keeper.
+
+Dimber Joe lowered the leg that had been elevated, elevated the leg that
+had been lowered, turned a page of his novel and read on. The man's
+coolness was tantalizing. I longed to forget my identity as a detective,
+and his as a criminal, and to spring through the window, strike the book
+from his hand, and challenge him to mortal combat, with dirks at close
+quarters, or pistols at ten paces.
+
+Half-past eleven. Dimber Joe stretched his limbs, closed his book,
+yawned and arose. Whistling softly, as if not to disturb my repose, he
+took a small lamp from a shelf behind the office desk, lighted it
+leisurely and went up-stairs.
+
+As he entered the room above, a ray of light, from his window gleamed
+out across the road. It rested there for, perhaps, five minutes and then
+disappeared.
+
+Had Dimber Joe closed his novel to retire like an honest man?
+
+Ten more long minutes of quiet and silence, and then the stillness was
+broken by a long, shrill shriek, sounding half a mile distant. It was
+the night express nearing Trafton station.
+
+As this sound died upon the air, another greeted my ears; the sound of
+swift feet running heedlessly, hurriedly; coming directly toward me from
+the southward.
+
+As I rose from my lounging place and stepped to the end of the piazza
+the runner came abreast of me, and the light streaming through the
+office window revealed to me Jim Long, hatless, coatless, almost
+breathless.
+
+The lamp light fell upon me also, and even as he ran he recognized me.
+
+Halting suddenly, he turned back with a quick ejaculation, which I did
+not understand.
+
+"Long, what has happened?"
+
+The answer came between short, sharp breaths.
+
+"Carl Bethel has been shot down at his own door! For God's sake go to
+him! He is there alone. I must find a doctor."
+
+[Illustration: "Carl Bethel has been shot down at his own door! For
+God's sake go to him! He is there alone. I must find a doctor."--page
+286.]
+
+In another instant he was running townward at full speed, and I was
+flying at an equal pace through the dark and silent street toward Dr.
+Bethel's cottage.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+JIM LONG SHOWS HIS HAND.
+
+
+As I ran through the silent, dusky street, keeping to the road in
+preference to risking myself, at that pace, over some most uncertain
+"sidewalks," for pavements were unknown in Trafton, my thoughts were
+keeping pace with my heels.
+
+First they dwelt upon the fact that Jim Long, in making his brief, hasty
+exhortation to me, had forgotten, or chosen to ignore, his nasal twang
+and rustic dialect, and that his earnestness and agitation had betrayed
+a more than ordinary interest in Carl Bethel, and a much more than
+ordinary dismay at the calamity which had befallen him.
+
+Carl Bethel had been shot down at his own door!
+
+How came it that Jim Long was near the scene and ready for the rescue,
+at eleven o'clock at night? Who had committed the deed? And why?
+
+Some thoughts come to us like inspirations. Suddenly there flashed upon
+my mind a possible man and a probable motive.
+
+Blake Simpson was coming back. Contrary to my expectations, he had
+probably entered Trafton on foot, having made the journey by means of
+some sort of conveyance which was now, perhaps, carrying him away from
+the scene of his crime.
+
+This would explain the singular apathy of Dimber Joe. He had walked out
+earlier in the evening to ascertain that the way was clear and the game
+within reach, or, in other words, at home and alone. Then perhaps he had
+made these facts known to his confederate, and after that, his part in
+the plot being accomplished, he had returned to the hotel, where he had
+kept himself conspicuously in sight until after the deed was done. Here
+was a theory for the murder ready to hand, and a motive was not wanting.
+
+Only a week since, some party or parties had committed a shameful
+outrage, and the attempt had been made to fasten the crime upon Carl
+Bethel. Fortunately the counter evidence had been sufficient to clear
+him in the eyes of impartial judges. The doctor's courage and popularity
+had carried him safely through the danger. His enemies had done him
+little hurt, and had not succeeded in driving him from Trafton.
+Obviously he was in somebody's way, and the first attempt having failed,
+they had made a second and more desperate one.
+
+Here my mental diagnosis of the case came to an end. I had reached the
+gate of the doctor's cottage.
+
+All was silent as I opened the door and entered the sitting-room. A
+shaded lamp burned softly on the center-table, and beside it stood the
+doctor's easy-chair and footrest. An open book lay upon the table, as if
+lately laid down by the occupant of the chair, who had put a half-filled
+pipe between the pages, to mark the place where he had stopped reading
+when interrupted by--what?
+
+Thus much I observed at a glance, and then turned toward the inner room
+where, upon the bed, lay Carl Bethel.
+
+Was he living or dead?
+
+Taking the lamp from the table I carried it to the bedside, and bent to
+look at the still form lying thereon. The loose coat of white linen, and
+also the vest, had been drawn back from the right shoulder; both were
+blood-stained, and the entire shirt front was saturated with blood.
+
+I put the lamp upon a stand beside the bed, and examined closer. The
+hands were not yet cold with the chill of death, the breath came feebly
+from between the parted lips.
+
+What should I do?
+
+As I glanced about the room while asking myself this helpless question,
+there came a step upon the gravel outside, quick, light, firm. Then the
+door opened, and Louise Barnard stood before me.
+
+Shall I ever forget that woful face, white as the face of death, rigid
+with the calmness of despair? Shall I ever banish from my memory those
+great dark eyes, too full of anguish for tears? It was another mental
+picture of Louise Barnard never to be forgotten.
+
+"Carl, Carl!"
+
+She was on her knees at the bedside clasping the limp hand between her
+own, bowing her white face until it rested upon his.
+
+"Carl, Carl! speak to me!"
+
+[Illustration: "Carl, Carl! speak to me!"--page 292.]
+
+But there was no word of tenderness in answer to her pitiful appeal, no
+returning pressure from the still hand, and she buried her head in the
+pillows, uttering a low moan of despair.
+
+In the presence of one weaker than myself, my own helplessness forsook
+me. I approached the girl who knelt there believing her lover dead, and
+touched her shoulder lightly.
+
+"Miss Barnard, we have no time now for grief. He is not dead."
+
+She was on her feet in an instant.
+
+"Not dead! Then he must not die!"
+
+A red flush mounted to her cheek, a new light leaped to her eye. She
+waited to ask or give no explanation, but turned once more and laid her
+hand upon the blood-ensanguined garments.
+
+"Ah, we must waste no more time. Can you cut away this clothing?"
+
+I nodded and she sprang from the room. I heard a clicking of steel and
+the sound of opening drawers, then she was back with a pair of sharp
+scissors in her hand.
+
+"Use these," she said, taking command as a matter of course, and
+flitting out again, leaving me to do my work, and as I worked, I
+marveled at and admired her wonderful presence of mind--her splendid
+self-control.
+
+In a moment I knew, by the crack of a parlor match and a responsive
+flash of steady light, that she had found a lamp and lighted it.
+
+There were the sounds of another search, and then she was back again
+with restoratives and some pieces of linen.
+
+Glancing down at the bed she uttered a sharp exclamation, and all the
+blood fled out of her face. I had just laid bare a ghastly wound in the
+right shoulder, and dangerously near the lung.
+
+It was with a mighty effort that she regained her self-control. Then she
+put down the things she held, and said, quite gently:
+
+"Please chafe his hands and temples, and afterward try the restoratives.
+There is a fluid heater out there. I must have warm water before--"
+
+"Long has gone for a doctor," I interrupted, thinking her possibly
+ignorant of this fact.
+
+"I know; we must have everything ready for him."
+
+She went out and I began my work of restoration.
+
+After some time passed in the outer room, she came back to the bedside
+and assisted me in my task.
+
+After a little, a faint sigh and a feeble fluttering of the eyelids
+assured us that we were not thus active in vain. The girl caught her
+breath, and while she renewed her efforts at restoration I saw that she
+was fast losing her self-control.
+
+And now we heard low voices and hurrying footsteps.
+
+It was the doctor at last.
+
+Excepting Bethel, Dr. Hess was the youngest practitioner in Trafton. He
+was a bachelor, and slept at his office, a fact which Jim took into
+account in calling for him, instead of waking up old Dr. Baumbach, who
+lived at the extreme north of the village.
+
+Dr. Hess looked very grave, and Jim exceedingly anxious, as the two bent
+together over the patient.
+
+After a brief examination, Dr. Hess said:
+
+"I must get at Bethel's instruments. I know he keeps them here, so did
+not stop to fetch mine."
+
+"They are all ready."
+
+He turned in surprise. Miss Barnard had drawn back at his entrance, and
+he was now, for the first time, aware of her presence.
+
+"I knew what was required," she said, in answer to his look of surprise.
+"They are ready for you."
+
+The doctor moved toward the outer room.
+
+"I must have some tepid water," he said.
+
+"That, too, is ready. I shall assist you, Dr. Hess."
+
+"You!"
+
+"Yes, I. I know something about the instruments. I have helped my father
+more than once."
+
+"But--"
+
+"There need be no objection. I am better qualified than either of these
+gentlemen."
+
+He looked at me, still hesitating.
+
+"I think you can trust the lady," I said; "she has proved her
+capability."
+
+"Very well, Miss Barnard," said the doctor, more graciously; "it may try
+your nerves;" and, taking up some instruments, he turned toward the
+inner room.
+
+"I shall be equal to it," she replied, as, gathering up some lint, and
+going across the room for a part of the water, fast heating over the
+fluid lamp, she followed him.
+
+"Doctor, can't _we_ do something?" asked Jim Long.
+
+"Nothing at present."
+
+How still it was! Jim Long stood near the center of the room, panting
+heavily, and looking down at a dark stain in the carpet,--a splash of
+human blood that marked the place where Bethel had fallen under the fire
+of the assassin. His face was flushed, and its expression fiercely
+gloomy. His hands were clenched nervously, his eye riveted to that spot
+upon the carpet, his lips moved from time to time, as if framing
+anathemas against the would-be destroyer.
+
+After a time, I ventured, in a low tone:
+
+"Long, you are breathing like a spent racer. Sit down. You may need your
+breath before long."
+
+He turned, silently opened the outer door, making scarcely a sound, and
+went out into the night.
+
+That was a long half hour which I passed, sitting beside the little
+table with that splash of blood directly before my eyes, hearing no
+sound save an occasional rustle from the inner room, and now and then a
+low word spoken by Dr. Hess.
+
+To think to the purpose seemed impossible, in that stillness where life
+and death stood face to face. I could only wait; anxiously, impatiently,
+fearing the worst.
+
+At last it was over; and Jim, who evidently, though out of sight, had
+not been out of hearing, came in to listen to the verdict of Dr. Hess.
+
+"It was a dangerous wound," he said, "and the patient was in a critical
+condition. He might recover, with good nursing, but the chances were
+much against him."
+
+A spasm of pain crossed Louise Barnard's face, and I saw her clench her
+small hand in a fierce effort to maintain her self-control. Then she
+said, quite calmly:
+
+"In his present condition, will he not require the constant attention of
+a surgeon?"
+
+Dr. Hess bowed his head.
+
+"Hemorrhage is likely to occur," he said. "He _might_ need surgical aid
+at a moment's notice."
+
+"Then, Dr. Hess, would you object to our calling for counsel--for an
+assistant?"
+
+He elevated his eyebrows, more in surprise at the pronoun, I thought,
+than at the suggestion, or request.
+
+"I think it might be well to have Dr. Baumbach in to-morrow," he
+replied.
+
+"I was not thinking of Dr. Baumbach," she said. "I wish to send to New
+York for a doctor who is a relative of Mr. Bethel's. I know--it is what
+he would wish."
+
+Dr. Hess glanced from her face to mine and remained silent.
+
+"When my father was sick," she went on, now looking appealingly from the
+doctor's face to mine, and then over my shoulder at Jim, who had
+remained near the door, "Dr. Bethel said that if he had any doubts as to
+his case, he should telegraph at once for Dr. Denham, and he added that
+he knew of no surgeon more skillful."
+
+Still no answer from Dr. Hess.
+
+Jim Long came forward with a touch of his old impatience and accustomed
+quaintness in his words and manner.
+
+"_I'm_ in favor of the city doctor," he said, looking, not at Dr. Hess,
+but straight into my face. "And I'm entitled to a voice in the matter.
+The patient's mine by right of discovery."
+
+Miss Barnard gave him a quick glance of gratitude, and I rallied from
+the surprise occasioned by the mention of "our old woman," to say:
+
+"I think you said that this gentleman is a _relative_ of Dr. Bethel's;
+if so, he should be sent for by all means."
+
+"He is Dr. Bethel's uncle," said Miss Barnard.
+
+"Then," I repeated, with decision, "as a relative he should be sent for
+at once."
+
+"Most certainly," acquiesced Dr. Hess, who now saw the matter in, to
+him, a more favorable light. "Send for him; the sooner the better."
+
+"Oh," breathed the anxious girl, "I wish it could be done at once."
+
+"It can," I said, taking my hat from the table as I spoke. "Fortunately
+there is a new night operator at the station; he came to-night, or was
+expected. If he is there, we shall save time, if not, we must get Harris
+up."
+
+"Oh, thank you."
+
+Dr. Hess went to take a look at his patient, and came back, saying:
+
+"I will remain here until morning, I think."
+
+"And I will come back as soon as possible," I responded, turning to go.
+
+Jim Long caught up his hat from the floor, where he had flung it on
+entering.
+
+"I reckon I had better go along with you," he said, suddenly assuming
+his habitual drawl; "you may have to rout Harris up, and I know right
+where to find him."
+
+I was anxious to go, for a reason of my own, and I was not sorry to have
+Jim's company. "Now, if ever," I thought, "is the time to fathom 'the
+true inwardness' of this strange man."
+
+We waited for no more words, but set out at once, walking briskly
+through the night that seemed doubly dark, doubly silent and mysterious,
+at the witch's hour of one o'clock.
+
+We had walked half the distance to the station; in perfect silence, and
+I was studying the best way to approach Jim and overcome his reticence,
+when suddenly he opened his lips, to give me a glimpse of his "true
+inwardness," that nearly took me, figuratively, off my feet.
+
+"Men are only men, after all," he began, sententiously, "and
+_detectives_ are only common men sharpened up a bit. I wonder, now, how
+you are going to get the address of this Dr. Denham?"
+
+I started so violently, that he must have perceived it, dark though it
+was.
+
+What a blunder! I had walked away from the cottage forgetting to ask for
+Dr. Denham's address.
+
+Uttering an exclamation of impatience, I turned sharply about.
+
+"What are you going to do?" he asked.
+
+"I'm going back after the address, of course."
+
+"I wouldn't do that; time's precious. Do you go ahead and send the
+message. I'll run back and ask after the address."
+
+"Long," I said, sharply, "what do you mean?"
+
+"I mean this," he replied, his tone changing suddenly. "I mean that
+it's time for you and I to understand each other!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+IN WHICH I TAKE JIM ON TRUST.
+
+
+"It is time for you and I to understand each other. Don't stop there
+looking moon-struck! Go ahead, and don't waste time. I'll run back and
+ask for the address. Miss Barnard, if she scented a secret, might be
+trusted with it. But, Dr. Hess--his brain has not kept pace with the
+steps of the universe."
+
+With these remarkable words, Jim Long lowered his head, compressed his
+elbows after the fashion of a professional prize-runner, and was off
+like a flying shadow, while I stood staring after him through the
+darkness, divided betwixt wonder at his strange words and manner, and
+disgust at my own stupidity.
+
+What did he mean? Had he actually discovered my identity? And, if so,
+how?
+
+While waiting for a solution to these riddles, it would be well to
+profit by Jim's advice. So I turned my face toward the village, and
+hurried forward.
+
+As I approached the station, a bright light from the operator's window
+assured me that I should not find the office empty, and coming
+stealthily toward it, I peered in, to see, seated in the most commodious
+office chair, Gerald Brown, of our agency, the expected "night
+operator."
+
+On a lounge opposite the window, lay Charlie Harris asleep.
+
+I tapped softly on the open casement, and keeping myself in the shadow
+whispered:
+
+"Come outside, Gerry, and don't wake Harris."
+
+The night-operator, who knew the nature of the services required of him
+in Trafton, and who doubtless had been expecting a visit, arose quietly
+and came out on the platform with the stealthy tread of a bushman.
+
+After a cordial hand-clasp, and a very few words of mutual inquiry, I
+told Brown what had happened at the doctor's cottage, and of my
+suspicions regarding Blake Simpson; and, then, using a leaf from my
+note-book, and writing by the light from the window, I wrote two
+messages, to be sent before Harris should awake.
+
+The first was as follows:
+
+    DOCTOR CHARLES DENHAM,
+
+                     No. 300 ---- street, N. Y.
+
+    Carl Bethel is in extreme danger; requires your professional
+    services. Come at once.
+
+                                                        BATHURST.
+
+The second was addressed to our office, and was much longer. It ran
+thus:
+
+    CAPT. B., A----, N. Y.
+
+    Murder was attempted last night; Bethel the victim. See that
+    Denham comes by the first train to attend to him. Give him some
+    hints before starting. Look out for B. S. If he returns to the
+    city in the morning, keep him shadowed. Will write particulars.
+
+                                                        BATHURST.
+
+"There," I said, as I passed them to Brown, "send them as soon as you
+can, Gerry. The doctor will hardly receive his before morning, but the
+other will be delivered at once, and then they can hurry up the "old
+woman." As for Blake, he will probably take the morning train, if he
+returns to the city, so they have ample time to prepare for him. Did you
+see Carnes on the express?"
+
+"Yes; but only had a moment's speech with him. He told me to tell you
+that Blake left the train at Ireton, and that he went straight to a sort
+of feed stable, kept by a man named Briggs--"
+
+"Briggs!" I exclaimed, involuntarily.
+
+"Yes, that was the name. At this stable he was furnished with a good
+team and light buggy, and he drove straight south."
+
+"Ah! he did. But my time is not at my disposal just now, Gerry; I have a
+companion somewhere on the road. I suppose you got the bearings of this
+Trafton business at the Agency?"
+
+"Yes; I think I am pretty well posted. I have read all your reports."
+
+"So much the better. Gerry, you had better take up your quarters at the
+Trafton House. I am stopping there. It will be convenient, for more than
+one reason."
+
+Gerry agreed with me in this, and, as at that moment we heard footsteps
+approaching, which I rightly guessed to be those of Jim Long, we
+separated at once, and I went forward to meet Jim.
+
+Before, I had deemed it necessary to press the siege, and lead Jim to
+talk by beginning the attack in a voluble manner. Now, I was equally
+intent upon holding my own forces in reserve, and letting him open the
+engagement, which, after a few moments' silence, he did.
+
+A few rods away from the depot stood a church, with broad, high steps
+leading up from the street, and a deep, old-fashioned portico.
+
+Here Jim came to an abrupt halt, for we had turned our steps southward,
+and said, with more of courtesy in his voice than might have been
+expected, considering his recent abruptness:
+
+"Let us go up there, and sit under the porch. It's safer than to talk
+while walking, and I fancy you would like me to explain myself."
+
+I followed him in silence up the steps, and sat down beside him on the
+portico.
+
+"I wonder," began Jim, lowering his voice to insure himself against
+possible eavesdroppers, "I wonder why you have not asked me, before this
+time, how it happened that I was the first to discover Bethel's
+condition, or, at any rate, the first to give the alarm."
+
+"There has scarcely been time," I replied, guardedly. "Besides I, being
+so nearly a stranger, thought that a question to be more properly asked
+by Miss Barnard or the doctor."
+
+"You are modest," said Jim, with a short laugh. "Probably it will not
+occur to Miss Barnard to ask that question, until her mind is more at
+ease concerning Bethel's condition. As for Dr. Hess, he had asked it
+before he took off his nightcap."
+
+"And did you answer it," asked I, maliciously, "in the same good English
+you are addressing to me?"
+
+"I hope not," he replied, laughing again. "I told him the truth,
+however, in a very few words, and now I will tell it to you. Last
+night--I suppose it is morning now by the clock--I spent the evening in
+the village, principally about the Trafton House. I presume you are
+wondering how it came that you did not see me there, for I happen to
+know that you spent the entire evening in the office or on the porch.
+Well, the fact is, I was there on a little private business, and did not
+make myself very conspicuous for that reason. It was late when I came
+home, and, on looking about the cabin, I discovered that my gun was
+missing. My door, for various reasons, I always leave unlocked _when
+absent_, so I did not waste any time in wondering how the thief got in.
+I missed nothing else, and, after a little, I went outside to smoke, and
+think the matter over. I had not been out many minutes before I heard
+the report of a gun,--_my_ gun, I could have sworn. It sounded in the
+direction of Bethel's cottage, and I was not many minutes in getting
+there. I found the door open, and Bethel lying across the threshold,
+wounded, as you have seen. He was almost unconscious then, but as I bent
+above him he whispered one word, 'Louise.' I could not leave him lying
+there in the doorway, so I lifted him and carried him to the bed, and
+then, seeing that it was a shoulder wound, and that he still breathed, I
+rushed off, stopping to tell Louise Barnard that her lover was wounded
+and, maybe, dying, and then on again until I saw you, the very man whose
+help I wanted."
+
+"And why my help rather than that of another?"
+
+"Because, next to that of a physician, the presence of a _detective_
+seemed most necessary."
+
+"Long," I said, turning upon him sharply, "this is the second time you
+have referred to me as 'a detective.' Will you be good enough to
+explain?"
+
+"I have spoken of you as a detective," he replied, gravely, "because I
+believe you to be one, and have so believed since the day you came to
+Trafton. To explain in full would be to occupy more time than you or I
+can well spare to story telling. I have watched you since you first came
+to this place, curiously at first, then earnestly, then anxiously. I
+believe you are here to ferret out the authors of the many robberies
+that have happened in and about Trafton. If this is so, then there is no
+one more anxious to help you, or who could have a stronger motive for so
+doing, than Jim Long."
+
+He paused for a moment, but I remained silent, and he began anew.
+
+"I think you are interested in Bethel and his misfortunes. I think you
+know him for the victim of those who believe him to be what you really
+are."
+
+"You think there are those who fear Bethel because they believe him to
+be a detective? Is that your meaning?"
+
+"That is my meaning."
+
+"Long," I said, seriously, "you tell me that your gun was stolen last
+night; that you recognized the sound of the report coming from the
+direction of Bethel's house."
+
+He moved closer to me and laid a hand on my shoulder.
+
+"It was my gun that shot Bethel," he said, solemnly. "To-morrow that gun
+will be found and _I_ shall be accused of the crime. If the devils had
+possessed my knowledge, it would have been you, instead of Carl Bethel,
+lying somewhere now, dying or dead. I say these things to you to-night
+because, if my gun is found, as I anticipate, and I am accused of the
+shooting, I may not be able to serve Carl Bethel, and he is not yet out
+of danger. If he lives he will still be a target for his enemies."
+
+He spoke with suppressed emotion, and my own feelings were stirred as I
+replied:
+
+"Long, you have been a mystery to me from the first, and I do not read
+your riddle even now, but I believe you are a man to be trusted. Give me
+your hand, and depend upon it you shall not rest long under a false
+accusation. Carl Bethel, living, shall not want a friend; Carl Bethel,
+dead, shall have an avenger. As for you, and myself--"
+
+"We shall understand each other better," he broke in, "when the time
+comes for me to tell you my own story in my own way."
+
+"Then," I said, "let us go back to Bethel. I want to take a look about
+the premises by the first streak of daylight."
+
+"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, "that is what I wanted to hear you say."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+THE TRAIL OF THE ASSASSIN.
+
+
+During the night there was little change in Bethel's condition, and in
+the gray of dawn Miss Barnard went reluctantly home, having been assured
+by the doctor that the patient was in no immediate danger, and, by Jim
+and myself, converted to the belief that he might be safely trusted for
+a short time to our care.
+
+A little later, with the first clear light of the dawn, I left Jim on
+guard at the bedside, and went to take a survey of the premises.
+
+I was not long in convincing myself that there was little to be
+discovered outside, and returning to the house seated myself in Bethel's
+easy-chair.
+
+"Long," I called softly,--somehow since last night I could not bring
+myself to use the familiar "Jim," as of old.
+
+He came from the inner room looking a mute inquiry.
+
+"Long, you had ought to know something about your own gun; was that
+wound of Bethel's made at long or short range?"
+
+He looked surprised at first, then a gleam of intelligence leaped to his
+eyes.
+
+"What do you mean by short range?" he asked.
+
+"Suppose Bethel to have stood on the steps outside, was the gun fired
+from behind that evergreen just beyond, and close to the gravel walk, or
+from some other point equally distant?"
+
+He opened the door and glanced out at the tree, seeming to measure the
+distance with his eye.
+
+"It was further away," he said, after a moment's reflection. "If the
+scoundrel had stood as you suggest, the muzzle of the gun would have
+been almost at Bethel's breast. The powder would have scorched his
+clothing and his flesh."
+
+"Do you think it may have been fired from the gate, or a few feet beyond
+it?"
+
+"Judging by the appearance of the wound, I should say it must have been
+from a little beyond the gate."
+
+"I think so too," I said. "I think some one drove to the gate last
+night with a light buggy, and two small horses. He or they drove quite
+close to the fence and stopped the horses, so that they were hidden from
+the view of any one who was nearer the house. The buggy was directly
+before the gate and so close that it could not have been opened, as it
+swings outward. The horses were not tied, but they were doubtless well
+trained animals. A man jumped out of the buggy, and, standing beside it,
+on the side farthest from the gate, of course, leveled your gun across
+the vehicle and called aloud for the doctor. Bethel was alone, sitting
+in this chair by this table. His feet were on this footstool," touching
+each article as I named it. "He was smoking this pipe, and reading this
+book. The window was open, and the blinds only half closed. The man, who
+probably drove close to the fence for that purpose, could see him quite
+distinctly, and from his attitude and occupation knew him to be alone.
+
+"When Bethel heard the call, he put down the book and pipe with cool
+deliberation, pushed back the footstool and opened the door, coming from
+the light to the darkness. At that moment he could see nothing, and
+leaving the door open he stepped outside, standing clearly outlined in
+the light from within. _Then_ the assassin fired."
+
+[Illustration: "When Bethel heard the call, he put down the book and
+pipe with cool deliberation, pushed back the footstool and opened the
+door,"--page 312.]
+
+Jim Long came toward me, his eyes earnestly searching my face.
+
+"In Heaven's name, what foundation have you for such a theory," he
+asked, slowly.
+
+"Excellent foundation," I replied. "Let us demonstrate my theory."
+
+Long glanced at his charge in the inner room, and then said, "go on."
+
+"Suppose me to be Bethel," I said, leaning back in the big chair. "That
+window is now just as it was last night, I take it?"
+
+"Just the same."
+
+"Well, if you choose to go outside and walk beside the fence, you will
+be able to decide whether I could be seen as I have stated."
+
+He hesitated a moment, and then said:
+
+"Wait; I'll try it;" and opened the door.
+
+"Long," I whispered, as he passed out, "keep _this side_ of the fence."
+
+"Yes."
+
+He was back in a moment.
+
+"I can see you plainly," he said.
+
+"And, of course, with a light within and darkness outside you could see
+me still more plainly."
+
+"I suppose so," he assented.
+
+"Now for the second test. I hear my name called, I lay aside my book and
+meerschaum, push back my footrest, and go to the door. I can see nothing
+as I open it," I was suiting the action to the word, "so I fling it wide
+open, and step outside. Now, Long, that spot of blood tells me just
+about the location of Bethel's head when you discovered him. Will you
+point out the spot where his feet rested?"
+
+Long considered a moment and then laid two fingers on the step.
+
+"There, as nearly as I can remember," he said.
+
+I planted my own feet on the spot indicated by him.
+
+"Now, please go to the gate. Go outside of it. There are some bits of
+paper scattered about; do not step where you see any of these."
+
+He obeyed my directions, striding over and around the marked places.
+
+"Now," I called, retaining my position on the door-step, "step about
+four feet from the gate, and from that distance how must you stand to
+take aim at me, on this spot?"
+
+He shifted his position a trifle, went through the motion of taking aim,
+looking down at his feet, then dropped his arms, and said:
+
+"I can't do it; to aim at you there, I would have to stand just where
+you have left some bits of paper. In any other position the bushes
+obstruct the sight."
+
+I came down to the gate and swung it open.
+
+"Just what I wanted to establish. Now for the next test," I said. "Mark
+me, Long; do you see those bits of paper along the fence? Go and look at
+the ground, where they lie, and you will see the faint impression of a
+wheel. Just before the gate where the vehicle stood for a moment, the
+print is deeper, and more easily noticed. I said that the gun was fired
+across the buggy; you have convinced yourself that aim could be taken
+from only one position, at this distance. The man must stand where those
+bits of paper are scattered. Now, look;" I bent down and gathered up the
+fragments of paper; "look close. Here is a fine, free imprint from the
+heel of a heavy boot. As there is but one, and that so marked, it is
+reasonable to suppose that the assassin rested one foot upon the buggy
+wheel, thus throwing his weight upon this heel."
+
+Long bent to examine the print and then lifted his head to ejaculate:
+
+"It is wonderful!"
+
+"It is simplicity itself," I replied; "the a, b, c of the detective's
+alphabet. I said there were two horses; look, here is where one of them
+scraped the fence with his teeth, and here the other has snatched a
+mouthful of leaves from the doctor's young shade tree. Here, too, are
+some faint, imperfect hoof-prints, but they are enough to tell us, from
+their position, that there were two horses, and from their size, that
+the animals were pretty small."
+
+Long examined the different marks with eager attention, and then stood
+gazing fixedly at me, while I gathered up my bits of paper.
+
+"I shall not try to preserve these as evidence in the case," I said. "I
+think we shall do very well without them. They were marked for your
+benefit, solely. Are you convinced?"
+
+"Convinced! Yes, convinced and satisfied that you are the man for this
+business."
+
+We returned to the house, each intent on his own thoughts.
+
+The sun was rising in a cloudless sky. It would not be long before
+curious visitors would be thronging the cottage. After a time I went to
+the door of the room where Jim had resumed his watch.
+
+"Long," I asked, in a low tone, "do you know any person in Ireton?"
+
+He shook his head.
+
+"Do you know whether this fellow Tom Briggs has any relatives about
+Trafton?"
+
+He pondered a moment.
+
+"Yes," he said, finally. "He has a brother somewhere in the
+neighborhood. I don't know just where. He comes to Trafton
+occasionally."
+
+"What is he like?"
+
+"He is not unlike Tom, but goes rather better dressed."
+
+"Do you know his occupation?"
+
+"A sort of horse-trading character, I think."
+
+I considered for a time, and then resumed my catechism.
+
+"Among the farmers whose horses have been stolen, do you know one who is
+thoroughly shrewd, cautious and reliable?"
+
+"I think so," after a moment's reflection. "I think Mr. Warren is such a
+man."
+
+"Where can he be found?"
+
+"He lives five miles northwest of Trafton."
+
+"If you wished to organize a small band of regulators, say six or eight,
+where could you find the right men, and how soon?"
+
+"I should look for them among the farmers. I think they could be
+organized, _for the right purpose_, in half a day's ride about the
+country."
+
+As my lips parted to launch another question, the outer door opened
+slowly and almost noiselessly, and Louise Barnard brushed past me and
+hurried to the bedside.
+
+"Miss Barnard--"
+
+"Don't lecture me, please," she said, hurriedly. "Mamma is better and
+could spare me, and I _could_ not sleep. I have taken a cordial, and
+some food. You must let me stay on guard until Dr. Denham arrives. I
+will resign my post to him."
+
+"Which means that you will not trust to us. You are a 'willful woman,'
+Miss Barnard, and your word is our law, of course. There is actually
+nothing to do here just now but to sit at the bedside and watch our
+patient. And so, if you _will_ occupy that post, Long and myself will
+take a look at things out of doors."
+
+She took her seat by the bedside, and, beckoning Jim to follow me, I
+went out, and, turning to see that he was close behind me, walked to the
+rear of the house.
+
+Here we seated ourselves upon the well platform, where Jim had once
+before stationed himself to watch the proceedings of the raiding party,
+and for a full half-hour remained in earnest consultation.
+
+At the end of that time, Jim Long saddled and bridled the doctor's
+horse, led him softly from the yard, mounted, and rode swiftly away to
+the northwest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+AN ANGRY HEIRESS.
+
+
+Very soon after Jim's departure, the first visitors arrived at the
+cottage, and most welcome ones they were.
+
+Miss Barnard, who seemed capable of wise thought in the midst of her
+grief and anxiety, had dispatched her own servant with a message to Mr.
+Harris, and, early as was the hour, that good man had hastened to the
+cottage, with his wife at his side. Their presence was comforting to
+Miss Barnard and myself. Mr. Harris was the right man to assume
+responsibilities, which I, for various reasons, had no desire to take
+upon myself, and Mrs. Harris was the very companion and assistant needed
+by the anxious girl. They were soon in possession of all the facts, as
+we knew them, concerning the previous night, and its calamity.
+
+I say, as we knew them; Miss Barnard had heard nothing concerning the
+part Jim's gun was believed to have played in the sad affair, and I did
+not think it necessary to enlighten either her or Mr. Harris on that
+subject, at that time.
+
+Leaving Bethel in such good hands, I went back to the hotel. But before
+I could breakfast or rest, I was called upon to repeat again and again
+all that I could or would tell concerning this new calamity that had
+befallen Dr. Bethel, for the news of the night was there before me.
+
+As I re-entered the office, after quitting the breakfast table, I found
+a considerable crowd assembled, and was again called upon to rehearse my
+story.
+
+"It looks sorter queerish to me," commented a hook-nosed old Traftonite,
+who had listened very intently to my words. "It's sorter _queerish_! Why
+warn't folks told of this sooner? Why warn't the alarm given, so'at
+citizens could agone and seen for theirselves how things was?"
+
+I recognized the speaker as one who had been boisterously and
+vindictively active on the day of the raid upon Bethel's cottage, and I
+fixed my eye upon his face with a look which he seemed to comprehend, as
+I retorted:
+
+"Dr. Bethel has received one visit from a delegation of 'citizens who
+were desirous to see for theirselves how things was,' and if he suffered
+no harm from it, it was not owing to the tender mercies of the
+'citizens' aforesaid. The attendance of a mob last night would not have
+benefited Bethel. What he needed was a doctor and good nursing. These he
+had and will have," and I turned upon my heel to leave the room.
+
+"I should say," spoke up another voice, "that there was a detective
+needed around there, too."
+
+"Nothing shall be lacking that is needed," I retorted, over my
+shoulder, and then ascended the stairs, wishing heartily, as I entered
+my room, that Trafton and a large majority of its inhabitants were
+safely buried under an Alpine avalanche.
+
+Two hours later I awoke, and being in a more amiable mood, felt less
+inclined to consign all Trafton to annihilation.
+
+Going below I found the office comparatively quiet, and Dimber Joe and
+the new operator socially conversing on the porch.
+
+Gerald's presence was a relief to me. I felt sure that he would keep a
+sharp eye upon the movements of Dimber, and, being anxious about the
+situation of Bethel I returned to the cottage.
+
+Dr. Hess stood in the doorway, in conversation with Mr. Harris.
+
+"How is the patient?" asked I, approaching them.
+
+"Much the same," replied the doctor. "But there will be a change soon."
+
+"Has he spoken?"
+
+"No; he will hardly do that yet, and should not be allowed to talk even
+if he could. When the change comes there will be fever, and perhaps
+delirium."
+
+I passed them and entered the sick-room.
+
+Mrs. Harris sat by the bed. Louise Barnard was not there.
+
+"We have sent Louise home," Mrs. Harris whispered, seeing me glance
+about inquiringly. "The doctor told her that if she insisted upon
+remaining she would soon be sick herself, and unable to help us at all.
+That frightened her a little. The poor child is really worn out, with
+her father's sickness and death, her mother's poor health, and now
+this," nodding toward the bed.
+
+"Have you had any visitors?"
+
+"Oh, yes. But we knew that the house must be kept quiet, and Mr. Harris
+has received the most of them out in the yard. Dr. Hess says it will be
+best to admit none but personal friends."
+
+"Dr. Hess is very sensible."
+
+Going back to join the two gentlemen, I saw that Dr. Hess was hastening
+toward the gate with considerable alacrity, and that a pony ph�ton had
+just halted there.
+
+Swinging the gate wide open, the doctor assisted the occupant to alight.
+
+It was Miss Manvers.
+
+There was an anxious look upon her face, and in her eyes a shadow of
+what I had once discovered there, when, myself unseen, I had witnessed
+her interview with Arch Brookhouse on the day of the garden party. She
+was pale, and exceedingly nervous.
+
+She said very little. Indeed her strongest effort to preserve her
+self-control seemed almost a failure, and was very evident to each of
+us. She listened with set lips to the doctor's description and opinion
+of the case, and then entered the inner room, and stood looking down at
+the figure lying there, so stalwart, yet so helpless. For a moment her
+features were convulsed, and her hands clenched each other fiercely. Her
+form was shaken with emotion so strong as to almost overmaster her. It
+was a splendid picture of fierce passion held in check by an iron will.
+
+She came out presently, and approached me.
+
+"You were one of the first to know this, I am told," she said, in a low,
+constrained tone. "Please tell me about it."
+
+I told her how I was called to the rescue by Jim, and gave a brief
+outline of after events.
+
+"And has all been done that can be?" she asked, after a moment of
+silence.
+
+"Not quite all, Miss Manvers. We have yet to find this would-be murderer
+and bring him to justice." I spoke with my eyes fixed on her face.
+
+She started, flushed, and a new excited eagerness leaped to her eyes.
+
+"Will you do that? _Can_ you?"
+
+"It shall be done," I replied, still watching her face.
+
+She gave a little fluttering sigh, drew her veil across her arm, and
+turned to go.
+
+"If I can be of service, in any way," she began, hesitatingly.
+
+"We shall not hesitate to ask for your services," I interrupted,
+walking beside her to the door, and from thence to the gate, a little to
+the annoyance of Dr. Hess, I fancied.
+
+As I assisted her to her seat in the ph�ton, and put the reins in her
+hands, I saw Arch Brookhouse galloping rapidly from the direction of
+town. And, just as she had turned her ponies homeward, and I paused at
+the gate to nod a final good-bye, he reined his horse up sharply beside
+her vehicle.
+
+"How is the doctor, Adele?" he asked, in a tone evidently meant for my
+ears.
+
+"Don't speak to me," she replied, vehemently, and utterly regardless of
+my proximity. "Don't speak to me. I wish it were _you_ in his place."
+
+She snatched up her whip, as though her first instinct was to draw the
+lash across his face, but she struck the ponies instead, and they flew
+up the hill at a reckless gait.
+
+As Brookhouse turned in the saddle to look after the flying ph�ton, I
+saw a dark frown cross his face.
+
+But the next instant his brow cleared, and he turned again to bestow on
+me a look of sharp scrutiny.
+
+Springing from his horse, and throwing the bridle across his arm, he
+approached the gate.
+
+"Did you hear her?" he exclaimed. "That is what I get for being an
+amiable fellow. My friend is not amiable to-day."
+
+"Evidently not," I responded, carelessly. "Lovers' quarrels are fierce
+affairs, but very fleeting."
+
+He smiled and shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I have been so unfortunate as to offend her," he said. "By to-morrow
+she will have forgotten the circumstances."
+
+"Will she, indeed?" thought I. "We shall see, my friend."
+
+But I made no audible comment, and he dismissed the subject to ask the
+stereotyped questions, "How was Dr. Bethel? Could he be of any service?
+How did it happen?"
+
+While I was answering these questions with the best grace I could
+muster, there came the patter of horse's hoofs, and Jim Long rode up to
+the side gate, dismounted with a careless swing, nodded to me, and,
+opening the gate, led the doctor's horse stableward.
+
+The look of surprise on my companion's face was instantly followed by a
+malicious smile, which, in its turn, was banished to give place to a
+more proper expression.
+
+"Long has been giving the doctor's horse some exercise," he said, half
+inquiringly.
+
+"I believe he has been executing some commission for Miss Barnard," I
+fabricated, unblushingly. "Long has been very useful here."
+
+"Indeed," carelessly; then glancing at his watch, "nearly noon, I see."
+
+He turned, vaulted into his saddle, and touched his hat. "Good-morning.
+In case of necessity, command me;" and with a second application of his
+finger-tip to the brim of his hat, he shook the reins and cantered away.
+
+As soon as he was out of sight I went straight to the stable where Jim
+was bountifully feeding the tired horse.
+
+"Well, Long?"
+
+"It's all right, captain. I've had a hard ride, but it's _done_."
+
+"And the men?"
+
+"Will be at the cabin to-night."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+JIM GIVES BAIL.
+
+
+Upon Jim's reappearance in the cottage, Mrs. Harris installed him as
+nurse, and, herself, set about improvising a kitchen in the rear room.
+
+Mr. Harris had been despatched to town for sundry articles, and, at
+noon, we were served with a plentiful lunch, of which we partook in
+rather primitive fashion.
+
+Not long after, while Jim and I were conversing out under the trees, and
+Mr. Harris was discoursing to two Trafton ladies who had called to
+proffer service and sympathy, I saw Gerald Brown coming toward the
+cottage, and guessing that his real business was with me, whatever
+pretext he might present, I advanced to the gate and met him there.
+
+He carried in his hand a telegraph envelope, which he proffered me
+ostentatiously over the gate.
+
+I opened it and read:
+
+                                        N. Y., etc., etc.
+
+    Will come to-night.
+
+                                                  DENHAM.
+
+Underneath this was written:
+
+    _They are wild in town; are about to arrest Jim Long for the
+    shooting of Bethel._
+
+Two pair of eyes, at least, were looking out from the cottage door and
+window.
+
+I turned the message over, and resting it upon the gate post, wrote the
+following:
+
+    _Don't lose sight of Dimber; telegraph to the Agency to ask if Blake
+    has arrived. Tell them not to let him get out of reach. We may want
+    him at any moment._
+
+While I was writing this Gerry shifted his position, so that his face
+could not be seen by the observers in the house, and said:
+
+"Dimber is in it. He claims to have seen Long with his gun near Bethel's
+house last night. The gun has been found."
+
+"Of course," I returned. "We will put a muzzle on friend Dimber very
+shortly."
+
+I refolded the message and returned it to Gerry, who touched his hat and
+turned back toward the village.
+
+Going to the door of the cottage, I informed Mr. Harris and the ladies
+that the new operator had just brought the news we so much wished for,
+viz.: the coming of Bethel's uncle from New York by that night's
+express. Then, sauntering back to my old place under the trees, I
+communicated to Jim the purport of the postscript written by Gerry.
+
+He listened attentively, but with no sign of discomposure visible upon
+his countenance.
+
+"I've had time to think the matter over," he said, after a moment's
+silence, "and I think I shall pull through, but," with a waggish twinkle
+in his eye, "I am puzzled to know why that young man going up the hill
+should take so much interest in me, or was it Harris?"
+
+"It was not Harris," returning his look with interest. "That young man
+going up the hill is Gerald Brown, of New York. He's the new night
+operator, and he will not fail to do his _duty_, in the office and out
+of it."
+
+"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, turning his eyes once more toward the receding
+form of Gerry.
+
+I let my own gaze follow his and there, just coming into sight on the
+brow of the hill, was a party of men.
+
+It consisted of the constable, supported by several able-bodied
+citizens, and followed, of course, by a promiscuous rabble.
+
+Jim gave vent to a low chuckle.
+
+"See the idiots," he said, "coming like mountain bandits. No doubt they
+look for fierce resistance. Don't let them think you are too much
+interested in the case."
+
+"I won't," I said, briefly, for the men were hurrying down the hill. "It
+would not be politic, but I'll have you out of their clutches, Long,
+without a scratch, sure and soon."
+
+I turned toward the house as I finished the sentence, and Jim arose and
+went toward the gate; not the man of easy movements and courteous speech
+who had been my companion for the past twenty-four hours, not Long, the
+gentleman, but "Long Jim," the loafer, awkward, slouching, uncouth of
+manner and speech.
+
+As the crowd made a somewhat noisy approach, Jim leaned over the gate
+and motioned them to silence.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said, seriously, "ye can't be any too still about this
+place, an' ye'd a' showed better gumption if ye hadn't paid yer respects
+in a squad, as if ye was comin' to a hangin'. Somehow ye seem mighty
+fond o' waitin' on Dr. Bethel in a gang."
+
+Acting upon a hint from me, Mr. Harris now went out, and in milder
+words, but with much the same meaning, exhorted the visitors to quiet.
+
+And then, casting a quick glance behind him, and a somewhat apprehensive
+one toward Jim, the constable read his warrant. The two men inside the
+gate listened with astonished faces. Indeed, Jim's assumption of
+amazement, viewed in the light of my knowledge concerning its
+genuineness, was ludicrous beyond description.
+
+Mr. Harris began an earnest expostulation, and turned to beckon me to
+his assistance, but Jim checked him by a gesture.
+
+"We can't have any disputing here," he said, sharply. "Don't argy,
+parson; tain't wuth while."
+
+Then he opened the gate and stepped suddenly out among them.
+
+"I'll go with ye," he said, "for the sake of peace. But," glaring about
+him fiercely, "if it wan't fer makin' a disturbance, again the doctor's
+orders, I'd take ye one at a time and thrash a little sense into ye.
+Come along, Mr. Constable; I'm goin' to 'pear' afore Jestice Summers,
+an' I'm goin' to walk right to the head o' this mob o' your'n, an' don't
+ye try to come none o' yer jailer dodges over me. Ye kin all walk
+behind, an' welcome, but the first man as undertakes to lay a finger on
+me, or step along-side--somethin'll happen to him."
+
+And Jim thrust his hands deep down in his pockets, walked coolly through
+the group, which divided to let him pass, and strode off up the hill.
+
+"Goodness!" ejaculated the valorous officer of the law, "is--is there a
+man here that's got a pistol?"
+
+[Illustration: "Goodness!" ejaculated the valorous officer of the law,
+"is--is there a man here that's got a pistol?"--page 332.]
+
+No reply from his supporters.
+
+I put my hand behind me and produced a small revolver.
+
+"Take this," I said, proffering the weapon over the gate. "You had
+better humor his whim, but if he attempts to escape, you know how to
+stop him."
+
+He seized the protecting weapon, nodded his thanks, and hastened after
+his prisoner, followed by the entire body guard.
+
+"My dear sir," said Mr. Harris, gravely, "I was sorry to see you do
+that. You surely don't think Long guilty?"
+
+I turned toward him, no longer trying to conceal my amusement.
+
+"He is as innocent as you or I," I replied, "and the pistol is not
+loaded. One may as well retain the good will of the magnates of the law,
+Mr. Harris."
+
+He smiled in his turn, and, wishing to avoid a discussion, in which I
+must of necessity play a very hypocritical part, I turned back and
+entered the cottage to explain the situation to the ladies.
+
+During that long, still afternoon, visitors came and went. Louise
+Barnard, a little refreshed and very anxious returned and resumed her
+post at the bedside. She was shocked and indignant at the news of Jim
+Long's arrest; and she breathed a sigh of relief and gratification upon
+being told of the expected coming Dr. Denham. Late in the afternoon, Dr.
+Hess made a second visit, and when he returned to town Mr. Harris
+accompanied him, the two driving back in the doctor's gig.
+
+It was very quiet. Mrs. Harris dozed in the easy-chair; Louise sat mute
+and statue-like by the bedside of her lover, and I, oppressed by the
+stillness, was leaning over the open window sill, wondering how it was
+faring with Jim Long, when the gate gave the faintest creak, and I
+lifted my eyes to see the object of my mental inquiry coming toward me.
+
+Uttering an exclamation which roused good Mrs. Harris and caused the
+watcher in the inner room to turn her head, I hastened to meet him.
+
+"Long," I exclaimed, "what lucky fate has brought you back?"
+
+He glanced from me to the doorway, where Mrs. Harris was now standing,
+with an expectant look on her benevolent countenance, and replied,
+laconically:
+
+"Bail."
+
+"Good! I was thinking of that."
+
+"Jim," broke in Mrs. Harris, eagerly, "who did it? We'll all bless his
+kindness."
+
+He advanced to the door, planted his right foot upon the lower step,
+rested his elbow on his knee, pushed his hat off his forehead, and
+grinned benignly on us both.
+
+"Then I'm the feller that'll walk off with the blessin'," he said, with
+a chuckle. "I went my own bail to the tune of five thousand dollars!"
+
+Mrs. Harris gave a gasp of surprise. I seated myself on the corner of
+the step farthest from Jim, and, seeing that he was about to volunteer a
+further explanation, remained silent.
+
+At the same moment I observed what was unnoticed by the other two; Miss
+Barnard had left her post and was standing behind Mrs. Harris.
+
+"Ye see," continued Jim, giving me a sidelong glance, and then fixing
+his eyes upon the hem of Mrs. Harris's apron, "Ye see, I had ter appear
+afore Jestice Summers. Now, the Jestice," with another sidelong glance,
+and an almost imperceptible gesture, "is a man an' a brother. I ain't
+agoin' ter say anythin' agin' him. I s'pose he had to do his duty. There
+was some in that office that wanted ter see me put where I couldn't be
+so sassy, but I didn't mind them. The minit I got in my oar, I jest
+talked right straight at the Jestice, an' I told him in short order that
+ef I was sure of bein' treated on the square, I'd jest waive an
+examination. An' then I kind o' sighed, an' appealed to their feelin's,
+tellin' them that I hadn't no friends nor relations, but that may be, ef
+they gave me half a show, an' didn't set my bail too high, may be some
+one would go my security, an' give me a chance ter try ter clear myself.
+Wal! ef you could a looked around that office, ye'd a thought my chance
+o' gittin security was slim. The Jestice called the time on me, an'
+allowed 'twould be fair ter give me bail. An' then 'Squire Brookhouse,
+an' one or two more, piped in with objections, until the Jestice put the
+bail up ter five thousand. Of course that wilted me right down.
+Everybody grinned or giggled, an' nobody didn't offer any more
+objections, an' the bizness was finished up. Then, when they had got ter
+a place where there was no backin' out, I jest unbuttoned my coat an'
+vest, whipped off a belt I'd got fixed handy for the 'casion, an'
+counted five thousand dollars right down under their noses!"
+
+Here he paused to lift his eyes to the face of Mrs. Harris, and to see,
+for the first time, his third auditor, who now came forward to grasp his
+hand, and utter rejoicings at his present liberty, and indignant
+disapproval of the parties who had brought against him a charge which
+she unhesitatingly pronounced absurd and without reasonable foundation.
+
+Next Jim's hand came into the cordial grasp of good Mrs. Harris, who was
+more voluble than Louise Barnard, and none the less sincere.
+
+When, after a time, Jim and I found ourselves _t�te-�-t�te_ for a
+moment, I said:
+
+"Long, I look on it as a fortunate thing that you were taken before
+Justice Summers."
+
+"Well," said Jim, dryly, "all things considered, so do I."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+VIGILANTS.
+
+
+The long day is ended at last; the sun has set in a bank of dim clouds.
+There is no moon as yet, and that orb, which is due above the horizon in
+exactly eight minutes, by an authentic almanac, will scarcely appear at
+her best to-night, for the leaden clouds that swallowed up the sun have
+spread themselves across all the sky, leaving scarce a rent through
+which the moon may peep at the world.
+
+The darkness is sufficient to cover my journey, and the hour is yet
+early--too early for birds of the night to begin to prowl, one might
+think; yet, as I approach Jim Long's cabin, I encounter a sentinel,
+dimly outlined but upright before me, barring the way.
+
+"Hold on, my--"
+
+"Jim."
+
+"Oh! it's you, Cap'n; all right. Come along; we're waitin'."
+
+I follow him into his own cabin, and stand beside the door, which some
+one has closed as we enter, while Jim strikes a light. Then I see that
+the cabin is occupied by half a dozen men.
+
+[Illustration: "I follow him into his own cabin, and stand beside the
+door, which some one has closed as we enter, while Jim strikes a
+light."--page 339.]
+
+"Pardner," says Jim, setting down the candle, and indicating the
+various individuals, by a gesture, as he names them, "this 'er's Mr.
+Warren, the captain o' the Trafton vigilants."
+
+I turn upon Jim a look of surprise, but he goes placidly on.
+
+"This is young Mr. Warren."
+
+I return the nod of a bright-looking young farmer.
+
+"This is Mr. Booth, Mr. Benner, and Mr. Jaeger."
+
+The three men who stand together near the window bow gravely.
+
+"And this," finishes Jim, "is Mr. Harding."
+
+As Mr. Harding moves forward out of the shadow, I recognize him. It is
+the man whose recital of the misfortunes of Trafton, overheard by me on
+the day of my departure from Groveland, had induced me to come to the
+thief-ridden village.
+
+"I have met Mr. Harding before," I say, as I proffer my hand to him.
+
+"I don't remember," with a look of abashed surprise.
+
+"Perhaps not, Mr. Harding; nevertheless, if it had not been for you I
+should, probably, never have visited Trafton."
+
+The look of surprise broadens into amazement. But it is not the time for
+explanations. I turn back to Mr. Warren.
+
+"Am I to understand that you have a vigilance committee already
+organized here?"
+
+"We have an organized party, sir." Here Jim interposes.
+
+"Ye see, I happen ter belong ter the vigilants. An' when ye asked me ter
+name a reliable man, why, I jest thought I'd bring you an' Mr. Warren
+together an' 'twould simplify matters. 'Twant my business to explain
+jest then."
+
+"Charlie," says Mr. Warren, addressing the young man near the door, "go
+outside and see that no one comes within seeing or hearing distance. We
+want Long here."
+
+The young vigilant mounts guard and I turn again to Mr. Warren.
+
+"Mr. Long has explained the nature of my business?"
+
+"Yes, you may be sure it was a surprise to me."
+
+"How many men have you?"
+
+"Fifteen in all."
+
+"And you have all failed to find a clue to the identity of the
+horse-thieves?"
+
+"Yes, sir, we have failed. We have organized in secret and worked in
+secret. We hoped and expected to sift this matter to the bottom, and we
+have failed utterly. But Jim tells me that you have succeeded where we
+have failed."
+
+"Not quite that. Listen, gentlemen. I know where to put my hands, now,
+to-night, upon the six horses that were stolen one week ago. If it were
+merely a question of the recovery of these, I should not need your aid.
+It might be worth something to me if I recovered the horses, but it will
+be worth much more to us, and to all Trafton, if we capture the thieves,
+and they cannot be taken to-night, perhaps not for many nights. We are
+surrounded with spies; the man we might least suspect, may be the very
+one to betray us. Our only safe course is to work in harmony, and, for
+the present, at least, trust none outside of this room. I have trusted
+this organization to Jim Long, believing in his discretion. He assures
+me that I can rely upon every man of you."
+
+Mr. Warren bares his head, and comes forward.
+
+"We have all been losers at the hands of these rascally thieves," he
+says, earnestly. "And we all want to see the town free from them. We are
+not poor men; the vigilants are all farmers who have something at stake.
+Show us how to clean out these horse-thieves, and if you want reliable
+men, they will be on hand. If you want money, that can be had in
+plenty."
+
+"All we want, is here; half a dozen men with ordinary courage and
+shrewdness, and a little patience. The moon is now at its full; before a
+new moon rises, we will have broken up the gang of Trafton outlaws!"
+
+"And why," asks Mr. Warren, eagerly, "must our time be regulated by the
+moon?"
+
+"Because," I say, significantly, "horse-thieves are seldom abroad on
+moonlight nights."
+
+An hour passes; an hour during which Mr. Warren, Mr. Harding, and
+myself, talk much, and the others listen attentively, making, now and
+then, a brief comment, or uttering an approving ejaculation. All except
+Jim. He has forced young Warren to join the conference within, and has
+stood on picket-duty outside, to all appearances, the least interested
+of any gathered there for counsel.
+
+It is ten o'clock when we separate; the vigilants going their way
+silently, and one at a time, and Jim and myself returning to the cottage
+together.
+
+"Ye couldn't have found six better men," says Jim, who has chosen to
+sustain his _r�le_ of illiterate rustic throughout the evening. "Ye can
+trust 'em."
+
+"I have given them no unnecessary information, Long. Not half so much as
+you have scented out for yourself. They know enough to enable them to do
+what will be required of them and nothing more."
+
+"Then," with a dry laugh, "they know more than I do."
+
+"If they know that you are actually capable of drawing the reins over
+the 'nine parts of speech,'" I retort, "they did not learn it from me."
+
+"Then," with another chuckling laugh, "I fancy they don't know it."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Dr. Denham came at midnight, and Miss Barnard greeted him with a smile
+that ended in a sob.
+
+Evidently "our old woman" had been enlightened concerning her, for he
+took her in his arms and kissed her with grave tenderness, before going
+to the bedside of his patient.
+
+He took absolute command of the cottage, and no one, not even Louise,
+ventured to oppose him or raise the voice of argument. He took all
+responsibility out of my hands, and dismissed me with his usual formula.
+
+"Go about your business, you young rascal. I might have known you'd be
+at some new deviltry shortly. Go about your business, and by the time I
+get Bethel on his feet, you'll have me another patient, I'll be bound."
+
+But Jim found favor in the eyes of "our old woman," who straightway
+elected him general assistant, and he soon discovered that to be
+assistant to Dr. Denham was no sinecure. Indeed, a more abject bond
+slave than Jim, during that first week of Bethel's illness, could not
+well be imagined.
+
+"Our old woman's" scepter extended, too, over poor Louise. He was as
+tender as possible, allowing her to assist him when she could, and
+permitting her to watch by the bedside four or five hours each day. But
+beyond that she could not trespass. There must be no exhausting effort,
+no more night vigils.
+
+Louise rebelled at first; tried coaxing, then pouting, then submitted to
+the power that would wield the scepter.
+
+The good doctor brought from the city a package sent me by my Chief,
+which he put into my hands at the first opportunity.
+
+It contained papers, old and yellow; some copied memoranda, and two
+photographs. When I had examined all these, I breathed a sigh of
+relieved surprise.
+
+Another link was added to my chain of evidence, another thread to the
+web I was weaving.
+
+Without that packet I had cherished a suspicion. With it, I grasped a
+certainty.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+A CHAPTER OF TELEGRAMS.
+
+
+The following week was to me one of busy idleness. Now at the cottage,
+where Bethel, pain-racked and delirious, buffeted between life and
+death. Now closeted for a half-hour with the new night operator. Keeping
+an eye upon Dimber Joe, who continued his lounging and novel reading,
+and who was, to all appearances, the idlest and most care-free man in
+Trafton.
+
+I saw less of Jim Long than pleased me, for, when he was not bound to
+the chariot wheel of "our old woman," he contrived somehow to elude me,
+or to avoid all _t�te-�-t�tes_. I scarcely saw him except in the
+presence of a third party.
+
+Mr. Warren, or one or two other members of the party who had met me at
+Jim Long's cabin, were constantly to be seen about Trafton. During the
+day they were carelessly conspicuous; during the night their
+carelessness gave place to caution; but they were none the less present,
+as would have been proven by an emergency.
+
+The new telegraph operator was a host in himself. He was social,
+talkative, and something of a lounger. He found it easy to touch the
+pulse of Trafton gossip, and knew what they thought at Porter's
+concerning Bethel's calamity, Long's arrest and subsequent release under
+bail, etc., without seeming to have made an effort in search of
+information.
+
+The two questions now agitating the minds of the Trafton gossips were:
+"Who shot Dr. Bethel, if Jim Long did not?" and "Where did Jim Long, who
+had always been considered but one remove from a pauper, get the money
+to pay so heavy a bail?"
+
+The theories in regard to these two questions were as various as the
+persons who advocated them, and were as astounding and absurd as the
+most diligent sensation-hunter could have desired.
+
+Jim's gun had been found in a field less than half a mile from Bethel's
+cottage, by some workmen who had been sent by 'Squire Brookhouse to
+repair one of his farm fences, and I learned, with peculiar interest,
+that _Tom Briggs_ was one of these workmen.
+
+Upon hearing that the gun had been found, Dimber Joe had made his
+statement. He had seen Jim Long, between the hours of nine and ten
+P. M., going in the direction of the cottage, with a gun upon his
+shoulder.
+
+Of course, when making this assertion, he had no idea of the use to
+which it would be put; and equally, of course, he much regretted that he
+had mentioned the fact when he found himself likely to be used as a
+witness against Long, whom he declared to be an inoffensive fellow, so
+far as he had known him, and toward whom he could have no ill-will.
+
+In due time, sooner, in fact, than I had dared hope, there came a
+message from Carnes.
+
+It came through the hands of young Harris. Carnes, having sent it early
+in the day, and knowing into whose hands it would probably fall, had
+used our cipher alphabet:
+
+    4. F d, t, t, o w n--u h e--n a x----, --, --. C----.
+
+This is the cipher which, using the figure at the head as the key, will
+easily be interpreted:
+
+    Found. What next?                    CARNES.
+
+Found! That meant much. It meant that the end of the Groveland mystery
+was near at hand!
+
+But there was much to learn before we could decide and reply to the
+query, "What next?"
+
+While Harris was absent for a few moments, during the afternoon, the
+night operator sent the following to Carnes:
+
+    Where found? In what condition? What do you advise?
+
+Before midnight, this answer came:
+
+     In a fourth-rate theater. One well, the other sick. Their
+     friends had better come for them at once. Can you get your
+     hands on Johnny La Porte?
+
+To this I promptly replied:
+
+     Telegraph particulars to the Agency. We can get La Porte, but
+     must not alarm the others too soon. State what you want with
+     him. Wyman will come to you, if needed.
+
+This message dispatched, I dictated another to my Chief.
+
+     Let Wyman act with Carnes. Can not quit this case at present.
+     Carnes will wire you particulars.
+
+This being sent, I went back to my hotel and waited.
+
+The next day the night operator offered to relieve Harris, an offer
+which was gladly accepted.
+
+A little before noon the following message came:
+
+     Instructions received. Wyman, Ewing, Rutger, and La Porte start
+     for New Orleans to-morrow. Do you need any help?
+
+I heaved a sigh of relief and gratification, and sped back the answer,
+"_No._"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+CARNES TELLS HIS STORY.
+
+
+The time came when Carnes told me the story of his New Orleans search.
+As he related it to me then, let him relate it now:--
+
+Arrived in New Orleans without trouble or delay, at three o'clock in the
+afternoon. Registered at the "Hotel Honore," a small house near the
+levees; giving my name as George Adams, sugar dealer, from St. Louis.
+
+Then began a hunt among the theaters, and, before seven o'clock I had
+found the place I wanted,--"The Little Adelphi," owned and managed by
+"Storms & Brookhouse." It is a small theater, but new and neatly fitted
+up, has a bar attached, and beer tables on the floor of the auditorium.
+I made no effort to see Brookhouse, but went back to the "Honore," after
+learning that money would open the door of the green room to any patron
+of the theater.
+
+After supper I refreshed my memory by a look at the pictures of the
+missing young ladies, including that of Miss Amy Holmes, and then I set
+out for the little Adelphi.
+
+There was never an easier bit of work than this New Orleans business.
+The curtain went up on a "Minstrel first part," and there, sitting next
+to one of the "end men," was Mamie Rutger!
+
+Her curly hair was stuck full of roses. She wore a very short pink satin
+dress, and her little feet were conspicuous in white kid slippers. If
+Miss Mamie was forcibly abducted, she has wasted no time in grieving
+over it. If she has been in any manner deceived or deluded, she bears it
+wonderfully well. She sang her ballad with evident enjoyment, and her
+voice rang out in the choruses, clear and sweet. Her lips were wreathed
+in smiles, her cheeks glowed, and her eyes sparkled. Occasionally she
+turned her head to whisper to the blacked-up scamp who sat at her right
+hand. Altogether she deported herself with the confidence of an old
+_habitu�_ of the stage. Evidently she had made herself popular with the
+Little Adelphi audiences, and certainly she enjoyed her popularity.
+
+After the first part, I watched the stage impatiently, it being too
+early to venture into the green-room.
+
+Mamie Rutger did not re-appear, but, after an hour, occupied
+principally by "burnt cork artists," Miss Lotta Le Clair, "the song and
+dance Queen," came tripping from the wings; and Miss Lotta Le Clair, in
+a blue velvet coat and yellow satin nether garments, was none other than
+Amy Holmes! She danced very well, and sang very ill; and I fancied that
+she had tasted too often of the cheap wine dealt out behind the bar.
+Very soon after her exit I made my way to the green-room, piloted by the
+head waiter. I had, of course, gotten myself up for the occasion, and I
+looked like a cross between a last year's fashionplate and a Bowery
+blackleg.
+
+It is always easy to make a variety actress talk, and those at the
+Little Adelphi proved no exception. Two or three bottles of wine opened
+the way to some knowledge.
+
+By chatting promiscuously with several of the Adelphi belles, I learned
+that Amy Holmes and Mamie Rutger, who, by the way, was "Rose
+Deschappelles" on the bills, lived together. That Amy, who was not known
+at the theater by that name, was "a hard one," and "old in the
+business;" while "Rose" was a soft little prig who "wore her lover's
+picture in a locket," and was "as true to him as steel." The girls all
+united in voting Amy disagreeable, in spite of her superior wisdom; and
+Mamie, "a real nice, jolly little thing," spite of her verdancy.
+
+The fair Amy was then approached, and my real work began. I ordered, in
+her honor, an extra brand of wine. I flattered her, I talked freely of
+my wealth, and displayed my money recklessly. I became half intoxicated
+in her society, and, through it all, bemoaned the fact that I could not
+offer, for her quaffing, the sparkling champagne that was the only
+fitting drink for such a goddess.
+
+The Adelphi champagne _was_ detestable stuff, and Miss Amy was
+_connoisseur_ enough to know it. She frankly confessed her fondness for
+good champagne, and could tell me just where it was to be found.
+
+The rest came as a matter of course. I proposed to give her a champagne
+banquet; she accepted, and the programme was speedily arranged.
+
+At eleven o'clock the next day, she would meet me at a convenient little
+restaurant near the theater. I must come with a carriage. We would have
+a drive, and, just outside the city, would come upon Louis Meniu's
+Summer _caf�_. There we would find fine luscious fruits, rare wines,
+everything choice and dainty.
+
+Miss Amy, who seemed to possess all the luxurious tastes of a native
+creole, arranged the programme, and we parted at the green-room door,
+mutually satisfied, she anticipating a gala day, and I seeing before me
+the disagreeable necessity of spoiling her frolic and depriving the
+Little Adelphi, for a time at least, of one of its fairest attractions.
+
+The course which I had resolved to pursue was not the one most to my
+taste; but it was the simplest, shortest, and would accord best with the
+instructions given me, viz., that no arrests must be made, nor anything
+done to arouse the suspicions of Fred Brookhouse, and cause him to give
+the alarm to his confederates in the North.
+
+I had purposely held aloof from Mamie Rutger, feeling convinced that it
+were best not to approach _her_ until a definite course of action had
+been decided upon. Nor was I entirely certain that my scheme would
+succeed. If Amy Holmes should prove a shade wiser, shrewder, and more
+courageous, and a trifle less selfish and avaricious than I had judged
+her to be, my plans might fail and, in that case, the girl might work me
+much mischief.
+
+I weighed the possibilities thoughtfully, and resolved to risk the
+chances.
+
+Accordingly, on the morning after my visit to the Little Adelphi, I sent
+my first telegram, and made arrangements for putting my scheme into
+execution.
+
+The beginning of the programme was carried out, as planned by the young
+lady.
+
+We drove to the _caf�_, kept by Louis Meniu, and tested his champagne,
+after which I began to execute my plans.
+
+"Louis Meniu might be all very well," I said, "but there was no man in
+New Orleans, so I had often been told by Northern travelers, who could
+serve such a dinner as did the _chef_ at the P---- Hotel. Should we
+drive to this house and there eat the best dinner to be served in the
+city?"
+
+The prospect of dining at a swell hotel pleased the young lady. She gave
+instant consent to the plan, and we turned back to the city and the
+P---- Hotel.
+
+Here we were soon installed in a handsome private parlor, and, after I
+had paused a few moments in the office, to register, "Geo. Adams and
+sister, St. Louis, Mo.," I closed the door upon servants and intruders,
+and the engagement commenced.
+
+Having first locked the door and put the key in my pocket, I approached
+Miss Amy, who stood before a mirror, carelessly arranging a yellow rose
+in her black frisettes. Dropping my swaggering, half-maudlin,
+wholly-admiring tone and manner, I said, quietly:
+
+"Now, Miss Amy Holmes, if you will sit down opposite me, we will talk
+things over."
+
+She started violently, and turned toward me with a stare of surprise, in
+which, however, I could observe no fear. The name had caused her
+astonishment. I had been careful to address her by her stage name, or
+rather the one she chose to use at the theater. I hardly suppose her
+real name to be Holmes,--probably it is Smith or Jones instead.
+
+She let the hand holding the rose drop at her side, but did not loosen
+her grasp of the flower.
+
+"Look here," she exclaimed, sharply. "Where did you pick up that name?
+and what kind of a game are you giving me, anyhow?"
+
+After the surprise occasioned by the utterance of her discarded name, my
+altered tone and manner had next impressed her.
+
+"I got that name where I got several others, Miss Amy, and the game I am
+playing is one that is bound to win."
+
+She sat down upon the nearest chair, and stared mutely.
+
+"How would you like to go back to Amora, Miss Holmes? Or to Groveland
+and the widow Ballou's?"
+
+She sprang up with her eyes flashing, and made a sudden dash for the
+door. Of course it resisted her effort to open it.
+
+"Open that door," she said, turning upon me a look of angry defiance.
+"You are either a fool or a meddler. Open the door!"
+
+[Illustration: "Open that door," she said, turning upon me a look of
+angry defiance.--page 358.]
+
+I laid one hand somewhat heavily upon her shoulder, and led her back to
+the seat she had just vacated.
+
+"Possibly I may be both fool and meddler," I replied, in a tone so stern
+that it seemed to arrest her attention, and impress her with the fact
+that I was neither trifling nor to be trifled with. "But I am something
+else, and I know more of you, my young lady, and of your past career,
+than you would care to have me know. Perhaps you may never have heard of
+Michael Carnes, the detective, but there are others who have made his
+acquaintance."
+
+Now, all this was random firing, but I acted on the knowledge that
+nine-tenths of the women who are professional adventuresses have, in
+their past, something either criminal or disgraceful to conceal, and on
+the possibility that Miss Amy Holmes might not belong to the exceptional
+few.
+
+The shot told. I saw it in the sudden blanching of her cheek, in the
+startled look that met mine for just an instant. If there were nothing
+else to conceal, I think she would have defied me and flouted at my
+efforts to extract information on the subject of the Groveland mystery.
+
+But I had touched at a more vulnerable point. If I could now convince
+her that I knew her past career, the rest would be easy.
+
+It was a delicate undertaking. I might say too much, or too little, but
+I must press the advantage I had gained. Her attention was secured. Her
+curiosity was aroused. There was a shade of anxiety on her face.
+
+Drawing a chair opposite her, and seating myself therein, I fixed my
+eyes upon her face, and addressed her in a tone half stern, half
+confidential:
+
+"You are a plucky girl," I began, "and I admire you for that; and when I
+tell you that I have followed you, or tracked you, from the North,
+through Amora, through Groveland, down to the Little Adelphi, you will
+perhaps conjecture that I do not intend to be balked or evaded, even by
+so smart a little lady as you have proved yourself. I bear you no
+personal ill-will, and I much dislike to persecute a woman even when she
+has been guilty of"----
+
+I paused; she made a restless movement, and a look of pain flitted
+across her face.
+
+"Perhaps we may be able to avoid details," I said, slowly. "I will let
+you decide that."
+
+"How?" with a gasp of relief or surprise, I could hardly guess which.
+
+"Listen. Some time ago two girls disappeared from a little northern
+community, and I was one of the detectives employed to find them. I need
+not go into details, since you know so much about the case. In the
+course of the investigation, we inquired pretty closely into the
+character of the company kept by those two young ladies, and learned
+that a Miss Amy Holmes had been a schoolmate of the missing girls.
+Afterward, this same Amy Holmes and a Miss Grace Ballou made an attempt
+to escape from the Ballou farm house. The scheme was in part frustrated,
+but Amy Holmes escaped. Mrs. Ballou furnished us with a photo of Miss
+Amy Holmes, and when I saw it _I knew it_!"
+
+"Ah!"
+
+This time it was an interjection of unmistakable terror. It gave me my
+cue.
+
+"I knew it for the picture of a young woman who had--committed--a crime;
+a young woman who would be well received at police headquarters, and I
+said to myself I will _now_ find this young person who calls herself Amy
+Holmes."
+
+A look of sullen resolution was settling upon her face. She sat before
+me with her eyes fixed upon the carpet and her lips tightly closed.
+
+"I have found her," I continued, mercilessly. "And now--shall I take you
+back with me, a prisoner, and hand you over to the officers of the law,
+or will you answer truthfully such questions as I shall put to you, and
+go away from this house a free woman?"
+
+She was so absorbed by her own terror, or so overshadowed by some ghost
+of the past, that she seemed to take no note of my interest in the
+Groveland business, except as it had been an incidental aid in hunting
+her down.
+
+"Do you think I would trust you?" she said, with a last effort at
+defiance. "You want to make me testify against myself."
+
+"You mistake, or you do not understand. I am at present working in the
+interest of the Groveland case. My discovery of you was an accident, and
+my knowledge concerning you I am using as a means toward the elucidation
+of the mystery surrounding the movements of Mamie Rutger and Nellie
+Ewing. Mamie Rutger I saw last night at the Little Adelphi. Nellie Ewing
+is no doubt within reach. I might find them both without your
+assistance. It would only require a little more time and a little more
+trouble; but time just now is precious. I have other business which
+demands my attention at the North. Therefore, I say, tell me all that
+you know concerning these two girls--_all_, mind. If you omit one
+necessary detail, if you fabricate in one particular, I shall know it.
+Answer all my questions truthfully. I shall only ask such as concern
+your knowledge or connection with this Groveland affair. If you do this,
+you have nothing to fear from me. If you refuse--you are my _prisoner_.
+You comprehend me?"
+
+She eyed me skeptically.
+
+"How do I know that you will let me go, after all?" she said.
+
+"You have my promise, and I am a man of my word. You are a woman, and I
+don't want to arrest you. If you were a man, I should not offer you a
+chance for escape. Do as I wish and you are free, and if you need
+assistance you shall have it. You must choose at once; time presses."
+
+She hesitated a moment, and then said:
+
+"I may as well tell you about the girls, as you seem to know so much,
+and--I can't be arrested for that."
+
+"Very well! Tell your story, then, truly and without omissions."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+AMY HOLMES CONFESSES.
+
+
+"You say that you have seen Mamie Rutger at the theater," began the
+unwilling narrator, rather ungraciously, "and so I should think you
+wouldn't need to be told why she ran away from home. She wanted to go on
+the stage, and so did Nellie Ewing. Every country girl in christendom
+wants to be an actress, and if she has a pretty face and a decent voice
+she feels sure that she can succeed. The girls had both been told that
+they were pretty, and they could both sing, so they ran away to come out
+at the Little Adelphi.
+
+"Mamie took to the business like a duck to water. Nellie got sick and
+blue and whimsical, and has not appeared at the theater for several
+weeks. They live at 349 B---- place."
+
+I made a careful note of the address, and then said:
+
+"Well, proceed."
+
+"Proceed! what more do you want to know? I have told you why they ran
+away and where to find them."
+
+This was too much. My wrath must have manifested itself in face and
+voice, for she winced under my gaze and made no further attempt to
+baffle or evade me.
+
+"I want to know who devised the villainous plot to allure two innocent
+country girls away from home and friends! Who set you on as decoy and
+temptress, and what reward did you receive? There are men or scoundrels
+connected with this affair; who are they; and what means have they used
+to bring about such a misfortune to the girls and their friends? Tell
+the _whole_ truth, and remember what I have said. If you evade, omit,
+equivocate, _I shall know it_!"
+
+"Will you give me time?" she faltered.
+
+"Not ten minutes. Do you want time to telegraph to Arch Brookhouse? It
+will be useless; he is in the hands of the detectives, and no message
+can reach him."
+
+"What has Arch done?" she cried, excitedly. "He is not the one to be
+blamed."
+
+"He has done enough to put him out of the way of mischief. You have seen
+the last of Arch Brookhouse."
+
+"But Fred is the man who set this thing going!"
+
+"Very likely. And Arch and Louis Brookhouse were the brothers to help
+him. What about Johnny La Porte and Ed. Dwight? You see I know too much.
+There are two officers down-stairs. If you have not finished your story,
+and told it to my satisfaction, before half-past four, I will call them
+up and hand you over to them. It is _now_ ten minutes to four."
+
+She favored me with a glance full of impotent hatred, sat quite silent
+for a long moment, during which I sat before her with a careless glance
+fixed on my watch.
+
+Then she began:
+
+"I worked at the Little Adelphi over a year ago. There was a hot rivalry
+between us, the Gayety, and the 'Frolique.' Fred Brookhouse was managing
+alone then; _Storms_--only came into partnership in the Spring.
+
+"During the winter the Gayety brought out some new attractions,--I mean
+new to the profession; no old names that had been billed and billed, but
+young girls with fresh faces and pretty voices. They were new in the
+business, and the 'old stagers,' especially the faded and cracked-voiced
+ones, said that they would fail, they would hurt the business. But the
+managers knew better. They knew that pretty, youthful faces were the
+things most thought of in the varieties. And the 'freshness' of the new
+performers was only another attraction to green-room visitors. Nobody
+knew where these new girls came from, and nobody could find out; but
+they _drew_, and the Little Adelphi lost customers, who went over to the
+'Gayety.'
+
+"Fred Brookhouse was angry, and he began to study how he should outdo
+the 'Gayety,' and 'put out' the new attractions.
+
+"At the carnival season, Arch and Louis Brookhouse came down; and we
+got to be very good friends. Do you mean to use anything that I say to
+make me trouble?" she broke off, abruptly.
+
+"Not if you tell the entire truth and spare nobody."
+
+"Then I will tell it just as it happened. Arch and Fred and I were
+together one day after rehearsal. I was a favorite at the theater, and
+Fred consulted me sometimes. Fred wanted some fresh attractions, and
+wondered how they got the new girls at the 'Gayety.' And I told him that
+I thought they might have been 'recruited.' He did not seem to
+understand, and I explained that there were managers who paid a
+commission to persons who would get them young, pretty, bright girls,
+who could sing a little, for the first part, and for green-room talent.
+
+"I told him that I knew of an old variety actress who went into the
+country for a few weeks in the Summer, and picked up girls for the
+variety business. They were sometimes poor girls who 'worked out,' and
+were glad of a chance to earn an easier living, and sometimes daughters
+of well-to-do people; girls who were romantic or ambitious,
+stage-struck, and easily flattered.
+
+"Fred asked me how I knew all this, and I told him that I was roped into
+the business in just that way."
+
+"Was that true?"
+
+"Yes; it was true," a dark shade crossing her face. "But never mind me.
+Fred asked me if I knew where to go to find three or four pretty girls.
+He said he did not want '_biddies_;' they must be young and pretty; must
+be fair singers, and have nice manners. He could get gawks in plenty. He
+wanted lively young girls who would be interesting and attractive. Some
+new idea seemed to strike Arch Brookhouse. He took Fred aside, and
+by-and-by they called Louis, and the three talked a long time.
+
+"The next day, Arch and Louis came to me. They knew where to find just
+the girls that would suit Fred, but it would be some trouble to get
+them. Then they told me all about the Groveland girls; Nellie and her
+sister, Mamie, Grace Ballou and one or two others. Arch knew Nellie and
+Grace. Louis seemed particularly interested in Mamie.
+
+"Fred is a reckless fellow, and he would spend any amount to outdo the
+'Gayety,' and he seemed infatuated with the new scheme for getting
+talent. Besides, he knew that he could pay them what he liked; they
+would not be clamoring for high salaries. He agreed to pay my expenses
+North if I would get the girls for him.
+
+"Arch and Louis went home, and we corresponded about the business.
+Finally, Arch wrote that three of the girls would attend school at
+Amora, the Spring term, and it was settled that I should attend also.
+
+"I rather liked the prospect. Fred fitted me out in good style, and I
+went.
+
+"Of course I soon found how to manage the girls. Mamie Rutger was ripe
+for anything new, and she did not like her step-mother. She was easy to
+handle.
+
+"Grace was vain and easily influenced. She thought she could run away
+and create a sensation at home, and come back after a while to astonish
+the natives with her success as an actress.
+
+"Nellie Ewing was more difficult to manage, but I found out that she was
+desperately in love with Johnny La Porte. Johnny had begun by being in
+love with Nellie, but her silly devotion had tired him, and besides, he
+is fickle by nature.
+
+"I told Arch that if we got Nellie, it would have to be through La
+Porte. Arch knew how to manage La Porte, who was vain, and prided
+himself upon being a 'masher.' He thought to be mixed up in a
+sensational love affair, would add to his fame as a dangerous fellow. He
+sang a good tenor, and often sang duets with Nellie.
+
+"Louis Brookhouse had a chum named Ed. Dwight; Ed. had been, or claimed
+to have been, a song and dance man. _I_ don't think he was ever anything
+more than an amateur, but he was perpetually dancing jigs, and singing
+comic songs, and went crazy over a minstrel show.
+
+"Louis used to take Grace out for an occasional drive, and one day he
+introduced Ed. to Mamie.
+
+"After a time, Arch and Louis thought they could better their original
+plan. Arch is a shrewd fellow, with a strong will, and he could just
+wind Johnny La Porte around his finger. Johnny took him for a model, for
+Arch was a stylish fellow, who knew all the ropes, and had seen a deal
+of the world; and Johnny, while he had been a sort of prince among the
+Grovelanders, had never had a taste of town life.
+
+"Arch managed Johnny, and _he_ managed Nellie Ewing."
+
+She paused, and something in her face made me say, sternly:
+
+"How did Johnny La Porte manage Nellie Ewing?" and then I glanced
+ominously at my watch, which I still held in my hand.
+
+She moved uneasily, and averted her eyes.
+
+"Nellie was conscientious," she resumed, reluctantly. "She had all sorts
+of scruples. But Johnny told her that he was to go South and study law
+with his mother's cousin, who lived in New Orleans. He said that he
+dared not marry until he had finished his studies, but if she would
+marry him privately, and keep the marriage a secret, she could go South
+and they would not be separated.
+
+"She agreed to this, and the ceremony was performed. After it was over,
+he told her that he had just discovered that he would be subject to
+arrest under some new marriage law, and that they would be separated if
+it became known.
+
+"And then he persuaded her to come here before him and work at the
+Little Adelphi; telling her that if her father found her there they
+would not suspect him, and as soon as his studies were over he would
+claim her openly."
+
+Again she hesitated.
+
+"And was this precious programme carried out?" I demanded.
+
+"Yes. It was a long time before Nellie consented, but a little cool
+treatment from Johnny brought her to terms. She got away very nicely. I
+presume you know something about that."
+
+"Never mind what I know. How did she get rid of her horse after leaving
+Mrs. Ballou's house?"
+
+"Not far from Mrs. Ballou's there is a small piece of timber. Johnny was
+there with his team and he had a fellow with him who took charge of the
+pony. Johnny drove Nellie ten miles towards Amora, driving at full
+speed. There Ed. Dwight, with his machine wagon, waited, and Nellie was
+taken by Ed. into Amora. On the way she put on some black clothes and a
+big black veil. At Amora, Louis Brookhouse was waiting. They got there
+just in time to catch the midnight express, and were almost at their
+journey's end before Nellie was missed."
+
+"Stop. You have said that Nellie Ewing has not been at the theater of
+late; has been blue, and ill. What has caused all this?"
+
+She colored hotly, and a frightened look crept into her eyes.
+
+"You are not to hold me to blame?"
+
+"Not if you answer me truly."
+
+"One night I had come home from the theater with Nellie, and she began
+crying because Johnny did not come as he had promised, and did not write
+often enough. I was tired and cross, and I suppose I had taken too much
+wine. I forgot myself, and told her that Johnny had hired a man to
+personate a parson, and that she was not married at all. She broke down
+entirely after that."
+
+I sprang to my feet, for the moment forgetting that the creature before
+me was a woman. I wanted to take her by the throat and fling her from
+the window.
+
+"Go on!" I almost shouted. "Go on; my patience is nearly exhausted. Is
+Nellie Ewing seriously ill?"
+
+"She is fretting and pining; she thinks she is dying, and she loves
+Johnny La Porte as much as ever."
+
+"And Mamie Rutger?"
+
+"She was glad to run away. One evening when every body about the farm
+was busy, she waited at the front gate for Ed. Dwight. People were used
+to the sight of his covered wagon, and it was the last thing to suspect.
+But Mamie Rutger went from her father's gate in that wagon, and she and
+Dwight drove boldly to Sharon, and both took the midnight train as the
+others did at Amora.
+
+"Ed. only went a short distance with Mamie; he came back the next
+morning. Mamie was plucky enough to come on alone."
+
+"And then you and Grace Ballou tried to elope?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Well, I won't trouble you to tell you that story. I know all about it.
+Now, listen to me. I have registered you here as my sister, and you are
+going to stay here for one week a prisoner. You are to speak to no one,
+write to no one. You will be constantly watched, and if you attempt to
+disobey me you know the consequences. As soon as Mr. Rutger and 'Squire
+Ewing arrive I will set you at liberty, and no one shall harm you; but
+until then you must remain in your own room, and see no one except in my
+presence."
+
+"But you promised--"
+
+"I shall keep my promise, but choose my own time."
+
+"But the theater--"
+
+"You can write them a note stating that you are going to leave the city
+for a little recreation. You may send a similar note to Mamie and
+Nellie."
+
+"You are not treating me fairly."
+
+"I am treating you better than you deserve. Did you deal fairly at
+Amora and Groveland? If I were not morally sure that such crimes as
+yours must be punished sooner or later, I should not dare set you free."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+JOHNNY LA PORTE IS BROUGHT TO BOOK.
+
+
+That is how Miss Amy Holmes was brought to judgment. I had managed her
+by stratagem, and extracted the truth from her under false pretenses.
+The weapon that I brandished above her head was a reed of straws, but it
+sufficed. My pretended knowledge of her past history had served my
+purpose.
+
+What her secret really was, and is, I neither know nor care. She is a
+woman, and when a woman has stepped down from her pedestal the world is
+all against her. The law may safely trust such sinners and their
+punishment to Dame Nature, who never errs, and never forgives, and to
+Time, who is the sternest of all avengers.
+
+After hearing her story, I sent my second telegram to you, and then my
+third; and after assuring myself that the girl had told the truth
+concerning Nellie Ewing, I telegraphed to the office, giving the hints
+which Wyman acted on.
+
+I should not have liked Wyman's task of going to those two honest
+farmers and telling them the truth concerning their daughters; but I
+should not have been averse to the other work.
+
+I can imagine Johnny La Porte, under the impression that he was
+preparing for a day's lark, oiling his curly locks, scenting his pocket
+handkerchief, and driving Wyman, in whom he thought he had found a boon
+companion, to Sharon, actually flying into the arms of the avengers, at
+the heels of his own roadsters. I should have driven over that ten miles
+of country road, had I been in Wyman's place, bursting with glee,
+growing fat on the stupidity of the sleek idiot at my side.
+
+But Wyman is a modest fellow, and given to seeing only the severe side
+of things, and he says there is no glory in trapping a fool. Possibly he
+is right.
+
+I should like to have seen Johnny La Porte when he was brought,
+unexpectedly, before 'Squire Ewing and Farmer Rutger, to be charged with
+his villainy, and offered one chance for his life. He had heard the
+Grovelanders talk, and he knew that the despoilers of those two
+Groveland homes had been dedicated to Judge Lynch.
+
+Small wonder that he was terror-stricken before these two fathers, and
+that under the lash of Wyman's eloquence he already felt the cord
+tightening about his throat.
+
+I don't wonder that he whined and grovelled and submitted, abjectly, to
+their demands. But I do wonder that those two fathers could let him out
+of their hands alive; and I experienced a thrill of ecstasy when I
+learned that Wyman kicked him three times, with stout boots!
+
+That must have been an unpleasant journey to New Orleans. The two
+farmers, stern, silent, heavy of heart, and filled with anxiety. La
+Porte, who was taken in hand by Wyman, writhing under the torments of
+his own conscience and his own terror, and compelled to submit to his
+guardian's frequent tirades of scorn and contempt, treated, for the
+first time in his life, like the poltroon he was.
+
+I found the two girls at the address given by Amy Holmes; and, more to
+spare the two farmers the sight of her, than for her sake, I did not
+compel her to repeat her story in their presence, but related it myself
+instead.
+
+It's not worth while to attempt a description of the meeting between the
+two girls and their parents. Mamie was, at first, inclined to rebel; but
+Nellie Ewing broke down completely, and begged to be taken home. She was
+pale and emaciated, a sad and pitiful creature. Her father was overcome
+with grief at sight of the change in her. He could not trust himself to
+speak to her of Johnny La Porte; and so--what a Jack of all trades a
+detective is--he called me from the room and delegated to me the
+unpleasant task.
+
+I did it as well as I could. I told her as gently as possible that
+Johnny La Porte was in New Orleans, and asked if she wanted to see him.
+She cried for joy, poor child, and begged me to send for him at once.
+And then I told her why we had brought him; he was prepared to make what
+reparation he could. Did she wish him to make her his wife? She
+interrupted me with a joyful cry.
+
+"Would he do that? Oh, then she could go home and die happy."
+
+In that moment I made a mental vow that this dying girl, if she could be
+made any happier by it, should have not only the name of the young
+scoundrel she so foolishly loved, but his care and companionship as
+well.
+
+I assured her that he was ready to make her his lawful wife, but could
+not tell her that he did it under compulsion.
+
+After a long talk with 'Squire Ewing, during which I persuaded him to
+think first of his daughter's needs, and to make such use of Johnny La
+Porte as would best serve her, I went back to the hotel, where we had
+left the young scamp in charge of Wyman, and a little later in the day
+the ceremony was performed which made Johnny La Porte the husband of the
+girl he had sought to ruin.
+
+Not long after this I invited the young man to a _t�te-�-t�te_, and he
+followed me somewhat ungraciously into a room adjoining that in which
+his new wife lay.
+
+"Sit down," I said, curtly, motioning him to a chair opposite the one in
+which I seated myself. "Sit down. I want to give you a little advice
+concerning your future conduct."
+
+He threw back his head defiantly; evidently he believed that he was now
+secure from further annoyance, and no longer within reach of law and
+justice.
+
+"I don't need your advice," he said, pettishly. "I have done all that
+you, or any one else, can require of me."
+
+"Mistaken youth, your conformity with my wishes is but now begun."
+
+"You can't bully me, now," he retorted. "I have married the girl, and
+that's enough."
+
+"It is _not_ enough! it is not all that you will do."
+
+"You are a liar."
+
+I took him by the shoulders, and lifting him fairly off his feet shook
+him as a terrier shakes a rat. Then I popped him down upon the chair he
+had refused to occupy, and said:
+
+"There, you impudent little dunce, if you want to call me any more
+names, don't hesitate. Now, hear me; you will do _precisely_ what I bid
+you, now, and hereafter, or you will exchange that smart plaid suit for
+one adorned with horizontal stripes, and I'll have that curly pate of
+yours as bare as a cocoanut."
+
+[Illustration: "I took him by the shoulders, and lifting him fairly off
+his feet shook him as a terrier shakes a rat."--page 379.]
+
+"The law,"--he began.
+
+"The _law_ may permit you to break the marriage vow you have just taken,
+but _I_ will not."
+
+"You?" incredulously.
+
+"Yes, _I_," I retorted, firmly. "The law of this mighty country, made by
+very wise men, and enacted by very great fools, is a wondrous vixen. You
+have stolen 'Squire Ewing's daughter, and for that the law permits you
+to go unhung. You have stolen 'Squire Ewing's horse, and for that, the
+law will put you in the State's prison."
+
+"His horse--I!--" the poor wretch gasped, helplessly.
+
+"Exactly. The horse! and you! You see, the daughter has been found, but
+the horse has _not_."
+
+"But--I can prove--"
+
+"You can prove nothing. I know all about the affair. _You_ carried
+Nellie Ewing away in your own carriage. _You_ handed her pony over to an
+accomplice. I have, at my finger's ends, testimony enough to condemn you
+before any jury, and the only thing that can save you from the fate of a
+common horse-thief, is--your own good behavior."
+
+"What do you want?" he said, abjectly.
+
+"I _want_ to see you hung as high as Haman. But that poor girl in the
+next room wants something different, and I yield my wishes to hers. She
+is so foolish as to value your miserable existence, and so I give you
+this one chance. Go home with your wife, not to your home, but hers, and
+remain there so long as she needs or wants you. Treat her with
+tenderness, serve her like a slave, and try thus to atone for some of
+your past villainy. Quit your old associates, be as decent and dutiful
+as the evil within will let you. So long as I hear no complaint, so long
+as your wife is made happy, you are safe. Commit one act of cruelty,
+unkindness, or neglect, and your fate is sealed. And, remember this, if
+you attempt to run away, I will bring you back, if I have to bring you
+dead."
+
+He whined, he blustered, he writhed like a cur under the lash. But he
+was conquered. 'Squire Ewing behaved most judiciously. Poor Nellie was
+foolishly happy. Mamie Rutger, too, became our ally, and, after a time,
+La Porte, who loved his ease above all things, seemed resigned, or
+resolved to make the best of the situation. I think, too, that he was,
+in his way, fond of his poor little wife. Perhaps his conscience
+troubled him, for when a physician was called in by the anxious father,
+her case was pronounced serious, and the chances for her recovery less
+than three in ten. The physician advised them to take her North at once,
+and they hastened to obey his instructions.
+
+Our next care was to quiet Fred Brookhouse, for the present, and punish
+him, as much as might be, for the future.
+
+Accordingly, Brookhouse was arrested, on a trumped-up charge, and locked
+up in the city jail, and then Wyman and myself gave to the Chief of
+police and the Mayor of the city, a detailed account of his scheme to
+provide attractions for his theater, and took other measures to insure
+for the Little Adelphi a closer surveillance than would be at all
+comfortable or welcome to the enterprising manager.
+
+Brookhouse was held in jail until we were out of the city, and far on
+our way Northward, thus insuring us against the possibility of his
+telegraphing the alarm to any one who might communicate it to Arch, or
+Ed. Dwight, and then, there being no one to appear against him, at the
+proper time, he was released.
+
+Amy Holmes remained a prisoner at the hotel, conducting herself quite
+properly during the time of her compulsory sojourn there; and on the day
+of our departure I paid her a sum equivalent to the week's salary she
+had lost, and bade her go her way, having first obtained her promise
+that she would not communicate with any of her accomplices; a promise
+which I took good care to convince her it would be safest to keep.
+
+She was not permitted to see either Mamie or Nellie, and she had no
+desire to see the other members of the homeward-bound party. And thus
+ended our case in New Orleans.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+HOW BETHEL WAS WARNED.
+
+
+While Carnes was solving the Groveland problem, in that far-away
+Southern city, we, who were in Trafton, were living through a long, dull
+week of waiting.
+
+There were two dreary days of suspense, during which Carl Bethel and Dr.
+Denham wrestled with the deadly fever fiend, the one unconsciously, the
+other despairingly. But when the combat was over, the doctor stood at
+his post triumphant, and "Death, the Terrible," went away from the
+cottage without a victim.
+
+Then I began to importune the good doctor.
+
+"When would Bethel be able to talk? at least to answer questions? For it
+was important that I should ask, and that he should answer _one_ at
+least."
+
+I received the reward I might have expected had I been wise. "Our old
+woman" turned upon me with a tirade of whimsical wrath, that was a
+mixture of sham and real, and literally turned me out of doors, banished
+me three whole days from the sick room; and so great was his ascendancy
+over Jim Long, that even he refused to listen to my plea for admittance,
+and kept me at a distance, with grim good nature.
+
+At last, however, the day came when "our old woman" signified his
+willingness to allow me an interview, stipulating, however, that it must
+be very brief and in his presence.
+
+"Bethel is better," he said, eyeing me severely, "but he can't bear
+excitement. If you think you _must_ interview him, I suppose you must,
+but mind, _I_ think it's all bosh. Detectives are a miserable tribe
+through and through. Is not that so, Long?"
+
+And Jim, who was present on this occasion, solemnly agreed with him.
+
+And so the day came when I sat by Bethel's bedside and held his weak,
+nerveless hand in my own, while I looked regretfully at the pallid face,
+and into the eyes darkened and made hollow by pain.
+
+[Illustration: "And so the day came when I sat by Bethel's bedside and
+held his weak, nerveless hand in my own."--page 386.]
+
+The weak hand gave mine a friendly but feeble pressure. The pale lips
+smiled with their old cordial friendliness, the eyes brightened, as he
+said:
+
+"Louise has told me how good you have been, you and Long."
+
+"Stuff," interrupted Dr. Denham. "_He_ good, indeed; stuff! stuff! Now,
+look here, young man, you can talk with my patient just five minutes,
+then--out you go."
+
+"Very well," I retorted, "then see that you don't monopolize four
+minutes out of the five. Bethel, you may not be aware of it, but, that
+cross old gentleman and myself are old acquaintances, and, I'll tell you
+a secret, we, that is myself and some friends,--"
+
+"A rascally lot," broke in the old doctor, "a _rascally_ lot!"
+
+"We call him," I persisted, "our old woman!"
+
+"Humph!" sniffed the old gentleman, "upstarts! 'old woman,' indeed!"
+
+But it was evident that he was not displeased with his nickname in the
+possessive case.
+
+We had judged it best to withhold the facts concerning our recent
+discoveries, especially those relating to his would-be assassin, from
+Bethel, until he should be better able to bear excitement. And so, after
+I had finished my tilt with the old doctor, and expressed my regret for
+Bethel's calamity, and my joy at his prospective recovery, I said:
+
+"I have been forbidden the house, Bethel, by your two dragons here, and
+now, I am only permitted a few moments' talk with you. So I shall be
+obliged to skip the details; you shall have them all soon, however. But
+I will tell you something. We are having things investigated here, and,
+for the benefit of a certain detective, I want you to answer me a
+question. You possess some professional knowledge which may help to
+solve a riddle."
+
+"What is your question?" he whispers, with a touch of his natural
+decisiveness.
+
+"One night, nearly two weeks ago," I began, "you and I were about to
+renew an interview, which had been interrupted, when the second
+interruption came in the shape of a call, from 'Squire Brookhouse, who
+asked you to accompany him home, and attend to his son, who, so he said,
+had received some sort of injury."
+
+"I remember."
+
+"Was your patient Louis Brookhouse?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Did you dress a wound for him?"
+
+He looked at me wonderingly and was silent.
+
+"Bethel, I am tracing a crime; if your professional scruples will not
+permit you to answer me, I must find out by other means what you can
+easily tell me. But to resort to other measures will consume time that
+is most valuable, and might arouse the suspicions of guilty parties. You
+can tell me all that I wish to learn by answering my question with a
+simple 'Yes,' or 'No.'"
+
+While Bethel continued to gaze wonderingly, my recent antagonist came to
+my assistance.
+
+"You may as well answer him, boy," "our old woman" said. "If you don't,
+some day he'll be accusing you of ingratitude. And then this is one of
+the very _rare_ instances when the scamp may put his knowledge to good
+use."
+
+Bethel looked from the doctor's face to mine, and smiled faintly.
+
+"I am overpowered by numbers," he said; "put your questions, then."
+
+"Did you dress a wound for Louis Brookhouse?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"A wound in the leg?"
+
+"Yes, the right leg."
+
+"Was it a bullet wound?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Did you extract the ball?"
+
+"I did."
+
+"Who has it?"
+
+"I. Nobody seemed to notice it. I put it in my pocket."
+
+"Brookhouse said that his wound was caused by an accident, I suppose?"
+
+"Yes, an accidental discharge of his own pistol."
+
+"Some one had tried to dress the wound, had they not?"
+
+"Yes, it had been sponged and--"
+
+"And bound with a fine cambric handkerchief," I interrupted.
+
+"Yes," with a stare of surprise, "so it was."
+
+"How old was the wound, when you saw it?"
+
+"Twenty-four hours, at least."
+
+"Was it serious?"
+
+"No; only a flesh wound, but a deep one. He had ought to be out by this
+time."
+
+"Can you show me the bullet, sometime, if I wish to see it?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+My five minutes had already passed, but "our old woman" sat with a look
+of puzzled interest on his face, and as Bethel was quite calm, though
+none the less mystified, I took advantage of the situation, and hurried
+on.
+
+"Bethel, I want to ask you something concerning your own hurt, now. Will
+it disturb or excite you to answer?"
+
+"No; it might relieve me."
+
+"This time I _will_ save you words. On the night when you received your
+wound, you were sitting by your table, reading by the light of the
+student's lamp, and smoking luxuriously; the door was shut, but the
+front window was open."
+
+"True!" with a look of deepening amazement.
+
+"You heard the sound of wheels on the gravel outside, and then some one
+called your name."
+
+"Oh!" a new look creeping into his eyes.
+
+"When you opened the door and looked out, could you catch a glimpse of
+the man who shot at you?"
+
+"No," slowly, as if thinking.
+
+"Have you any reason for suspecting any one? Can you guess at a motive?"
+
+"Wait;" he turned his head restlessly, seemingly in the effort to
+remember something, and then looked toward Dr. Denham.
+
+"In my desk," he said, slowly, "among some loose letters, is a yellow
+envelope, bearing the Trafton post-mark. Will you find it?"
+
+Dr. Denham went to the desk, and I sat silently waiting. Bethel was
+evidently thinking.
+
+"I received it," he said, after a moment of silence, disturbed only by
+the rustling of papers, as the old doctor searched the desk, "I received
+it two days after the search for little Effie Beale. I made up my mind
+then that I would have a detective, whom I could rely upon, here in
+Trafton. And then Dr. Barnard was taken ill. After that I waited--have
+you found it?"
+
+Dr. Denham stood beside me with a letter in his hand, which Bethel, by a
+sign, bade him give to me.
+
+"Do you wish me to read it?" I asked.
+
+"Yes."
+
+I glanced at the envelope and almost bounded from my seat. Then,
+withdrawing the letter with nervous haste, I opened it.
+
+     _Dr. Bethel. If that is your name, you are not welcome in
+     Trafton. If you stay here three days longer, it will be_ AT
+     YOUR OWN RISK.
+
+                                          _No resurrectionists._
+
+I flushed with excitement; I almost laughed with delight. I got up,
+turned around, and sat down again. I wanted to dance, to shout, to
+embrace the dear old doctor.
+
+I held in my hand a _printed warning_, every letter the counterpart of
+those used in the anonymous letter sent to "Chris Oleson" at Mrs.
+Ballou's! It was a similar warning, written by the same hand. Was the
+man who had given me that pistol wound really in Trafton? or--
+
+I looked up; the patient on the bed, and the old doctor beside me, were
+both gazing at my tell-tale countenance, and looking expectant and
+eager.
+
+"Doctor," I said, turning to "our old woman," "you remember the day I
+came to you with my wounded arm?"
+
+"Umph! Of course."
+
+"Well, shortly before getting that wound I received just such a thing as
+this," striking the letter with my forefinger, "a warning from the same
+hand. And now I am going to find the man who shot _me_, who shot
+_Bethel_, and who robbed the grave of little Effie Beale, here, in
+Trafton, and _very soon_."
+
+"What is it? I don't understand," began Bethel.
+
+But the doctor interposed.
+
+"This must be stopped. Bethel, you shan't hear explanations now, and you
+_shall_ go to sleep. Bathurst, how dare you excite my patient! Get out."
+
+"I will," I said, rising. "I must keep this letter, Bethel, and I will
+tell you all about it soon; have patience."
+
+Bethel turned his eyes toward the doctor, and said, eagerly:
+
+"Why did you call him _Bathurst_?"
+
+"Did I?" said the old man, testily. "It was a slip of the tongue."
+
+The patient turned his head and looked from one to the other, eagerly.
+Then he addressed me:
+
+"If you will answer me one question, I promise not to ask another until
+you are prepared to explain."
+
+"Ask it," I replied.
+
+"Are _you_ a detective?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Thank you," closing his eyes, as if weary. "I am quite content to
+wait. Thank you."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+WE PREPARE FOR A "PARTY."
+
+
+My first movement, after having made the discovery chronicled in the
+last chapter, was to go to the telegraph office and send the following
+despatch:
+
+     Arrest Blake Simpson instantly, on charge of attempted
+     assassination. Don't allow him to communicate with any one.
+
+This message was sent to the Agency, and then I turned my attention to
+other matters, satisfied that Blake, at least, would be properly
+attended to.
+
+Early the following morning Gerry Brown presented himself at the door of
+my room, to communicate to me something that instantly roused me to
+action.
+
+At midnight, or a little later, Mr. Arch Brookhouse had dropped in at
+the telegraph office; he was in evening dress, and he managed to convey
+to Gerry in a careless fashion the information that he, Arch, had been
+enjoying himself at a small social gathering, and on starting for home
+had bethought himself of a message to be sent to a friend. Then he had
+dashed off the following:
+
+     ED. DWIGHT, Amora, etc.
+
+     Be ready for the party at The Corners to-morrow eve. Notify
+     Lark. B.---- will join you at Amora. A. B.
+
+"There," he had said, as he pushed the message toward the seemingly
+sleepy operator, "I hope he will get that in time, as I send it in
+behalf of a lady. Dwight's always in demand for parties."
+
+Then, with a condescending smile as he drew on his right glove, "Know
+anybody at Amora?"
+
+"No," responded Gerry, with a yawn, "nor anywhere else on this blasted
+line; wish they had sent me East."
+
+"You must get acquainted," said the gracious young nabob. "I'll try and
+get you an invitation to the next social party; should be happy to
+introduce you."
+
+And then, as Gerry was too sleepy to properly appreciate his
+condescension, he had taken himself away.
+
+"Gerry," I said, after pondering for some moments over the message he
+had copied for my benefit, "I'm inclined to think that this means
+business. You had better sleep short and sound this morning, and be on
+hand at the office as early as twelve o'clock. I think you will be
+relieved from this sort of duty soon, and as for Mr. Brookhouse, perhaps
+you may be able to attend this 'party' in question, even without his
+valuable patronage."
+
+After this I went in search of Jim Long. I found him at Bethel's
+cottage, and in open defiance of "our old woman," led him away where we
+could converse without audience or interruption. Then I put the telegram
+in his hand, telling him how it had been sent, much as Gerry had told
+the same to me.
+
+"What do you make of it?" asked Jim, as he slowly folded the slip of
+paper and put it in my hand.
+
+"Well, I may be amiss in my interpretation, but it seems to me that we
+had better be awake to-night. The moon has waned; it will be very dark
+at ten o'clock. I fancy that _we_ may be wise if we prepare for this
+party. I don't know who B---- may stand for, but there is, at Clyde, a
+man, who is a friend of Dwight's, and whose name is _Larkins_."
+
+"Larkins! To be sure; the man is often in Trafton."
+
+"Exactly. He appears like a good-natured rustic, but he is a good judge
+of a horse. Do you know of a place in this vicinity called The Corners?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Well, you are probably aware that the south road forks, just two miles
+north of Clyde, and that the road running east goes to the river, and
+the coal beds. It would not be a long drive from Amora to these corners,
+and Larkins is only two miles off from them. Both Dwight and Larkins own
+good teams."
+
+"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, in a tone which conveyed a world of meaning. "Ah,
+yes!" Then after a moment's silence, and looking me squarely in the
+face, "what do you want me to do?"
+
+"Our movements must be regulated by theirs. We must see Warren and all
+the others."
+
+"All?"
+
+"Yes, all. It will not be child's play. I think Mr. Warren is the man to
+lead one party, for there must be two. I, myself, will manage the other.
+As for you and Gerry--"
+
+"Gerry?" inquiringly.
+
+"Gerald Brown, our night operator. You will find him equal to most
+emergencies, I think."
+
+"And what are we to do?"
+
+"Some special business which will depend on circumstances. We must
+capture the gang outside of the town, if possible, and the farther away
+the better."
+
+"But--"
+
+"Wait. There are others who must not take the alarm too soon."
+
+"They will ride fleet horses; remember that."
+
+"Long," I said, earnestly, "we won't let them escape us. If they ride,
+we will pounce upon them at the very outset. But if my theory, which has
+thus far proven itself correct, holds good to the end _they will not
+ride_."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+SOMETHING THE MOON FAILED TO SEE.
+
+
+It has come at last; that night, almost the last in August, which I and
+others, with varying motives and interests, have so anxiously looked
+forward to.
+
+It has come, and the moon, so lately banished from the heavens, had she
+been in a position to overlook the earth, would have witnessed some
+sights unusual to Trafton at the hour of eleven P. M.
+
+A little more than a mile from Trafton, at a point where the first mile
+section crosses the south road, not far from the Brookhouse dwelling,
+there is a little gathering of mounted men. They are seven in number;
+all silent, all cautious, all stern of feature. They have drawn their
+horses far into the gloom of the hedge that grows tall on either side,
+all save one man, and he stands in the very center of the road, looking
+intently north and skyward.
+
+Farther away, midway between Trafton and Clyde, six other horsemen are
+riding southward at an easy pace.
+
+These, too, are very quiet, and a little light would reveal the earnest
+faces of Messrs. Warren, Harding, Benner, Booth, Jaeger and Meacham; the
+last mentioned being the owner of the recently stolen matched sorrels,
+and the others being the most prominent and reliable of the Trafton
+vigilants.
+
+A close inspection would develop the fact that this moving band of men,
+as well as the party whose present mission seems "only to stand and
+wait," is well armed and strongly mounted.
+
+The Hill, Miss Manvers' luxurious residence, stands, as its name
+indicates, on an elevation of ground, at the extreme northern boundary
+of Trafton.
+
+It stands quite alone, this abode of the treasure-ship heiress, having
+no neighbors on either hand for a distance of more than a quarter of a
+mile.
+
+The road leading up the hill from the heart of Trafton, is bordered on
+either side by a row of shade trees, large and leafy. All about the
+house the shrubbery is dense, and the avenue, leading up from the road,
+and past the dwelling, to the barns and outhouses, is transformed, by
+two thickly-set rows of poplars into a vault of inky blackness.
+
+To-night, if the moon were abroad, she might note that the fine
+roadster driven by Arch Brookhouse had stood all the evening at the
+roadside gate at the foot of the dark avenue of poplars, and, by peeping
+through the open windows, she would see that Arch Brookhouse himself
+sits in the handsome parlor with the heiress, who is looking pale and
+dissatisfied, and who speaks short and seldom, opposite him.
+
+The lady moon might also note that the new telegraph operator is not at
+his post, in the little office, at eleven o'clock P. M. But then, were
+the fair orb of night actually out, and taking observations, these
+singular phenomena might not occur.
+
+At half-past ten, on "this night of nights," three shadows steal through
+the darkness, moving northward toward the Hill.
+
+At a point midway between the town proper and the mansion beyond, is a
+junction of the roads; and here, at the four corners, the three shadows
+pause and separate.
+
+Two continue their silent march northward, and the third vanishes among
+the sheltering, low-bending branches of a gnarled old tree that
+overhangs the road, and marks the northwestern corner.
+
+At twenty minutes to eleven Arch Brookhouse takes leave of the
+treasure-ship heiress, and comes out into the darkness striding down the
+avenue like a man accustomed to the road. He unties the waiting horse
+which paws the ground impatiently, yet stands, obedient to his low
+command, turns the head of the beast southward, seats himself in the
+light buggy, lights a cigar, and then sits silently smoking, and
+waiting,--for what?
+
+The dull red spark at the end of his cigar shines through the dark; the
+horse turns his head and chafes to be away, but the smoker sits there,
+moveless and silent.
+
+Presently there comes a sound, slight but distinct; the crackling of a
+twig beneath a man's boot, and almost at the same instant the last light
+disappears from the windows of the "Hill House."
+
+One, two, three. Three dark forms approach, one after the other, each
+pauses for an instant beside the light buggy, and seems to look up to
+the dull red spark, which is all of Arch Brookhouse that is clearly
+visible through the dark. Then they enter the gate and are swallowed up
+in the blackness of the avenue.
+
+And now, a fourth form moves stealthily down the avenue after the
+others. It does not come from without the grounds, it starts out from
+the shrubbery within, and it is unseen by Arch Brookhouse.
+
+How still the night is! The man who follows after the three first comers
+can almost hear his pulses throb, or so he fancies.
+
+Presently the three men pause before the door of the barn, and one of
+them takes from his pocket a key, with which he unlocks the door, and
+they enter.
+
+As soon as they are inside, a lantern is lighted, and the three men move
+together toward the rear of the barn, the part against which is piled a
+monstrous stack of hay.
+
+Meanwhile the watcher outside glides close to the wall of the building,
+listening here and there, as he, too, approaches the huge hay pile.
+
+And now he does a queer thing. He begins to pull away handfuls of hay
+from the bottom of the stack, where it is piled against the barn. He
+works noiselessly, and very soon has made an opening, into which he
+crawls. Evidently this mine has been worked before, for there is a long
+tunnel through the hay, penetrating to the middle of the stack. Here the
+watcher peeps through two small holes, newly drilled in the thick boards
+of the barn. And then a smile of triumph rests upon his face.
+
+[Illustration: "He works noiselessly, and very soon has made an opening,
+into which he crawls."--page 404.]
+
+He sees a compartment that, owing to the arrangement of the hay against
+the rear wall, is in the very heart of the barn, shut from the gaze of
+curious eyes. On either side is a division, which our spy knows to
+contain a store of grain piled high, and acting as a complete
+non-conductor of sound. In front is a small room hung about with
+harness, and opening into a carriage room. The place is completely
+hidden from the ordinary gaze, and only a very inquiring mind would have
+fathomed its secret.
+
+The spy, who is peering in from his vantage ground among the hay, _has_
+fathomed the secret. And he now sees within six horses--two bay Morgans,
+two roans, and two sorrels.
+
+The three men are there, too, busily harnessing the six horses. They are
+working rapidly and silently.
+
+The watcher lingers just long enough to see that the harness looks
+new and that it is of the sort generally used for draft horses, and then
+he executes a retreat, more difficult than his entrance, inasmuch as he
+can not turn in his hay tunnel, but must withdraw by a series of
+retrograde movements more laborious than graceful.
+
+A moment more, and from among the poplars and evergreens a light goes
+shooting up, high and bright against the sky; a long, red ribbon of
+fire, that says to those who can read the sign,
+
+"The Trafton horse-thieves are about to move with their long-concealed
+prey. Meacham's matched sorrels, Hopper's two-forty's, and the bay
+Morgans stolen from 'Squire Brookhouse."
+
+It was seen, this fiery rocket, by the little band waiting by the
+roadside more than a mile away.
+
+"There it is!" exclaims young Warren, who is the leader of this
+party--"It is the red rocket. They _are_ going with the wagons; it's all
+right, boys, we can't ride too fast now."
+
+The seven men file silently out from the roadside and gallop away
+southward.
+
+At the four corners, not far from the house on the hill, where, a short
+time before, a single individual had stationed himself, as a sentinel in
+the darkness, this signal rocket was also seen, and the watcher uttered
+an exclamation under his breath, and started out from underneath the
+tree that had sheltered him.
+
+He could never remember how it happened, but his next sensation was
+that of being borne to the ground, clutched with a tiger-like grip,
+crushed by a heavy weight.
+
+And then a voice, a voice that he had not heard for years, hissed above
+him,
+
+"Lie still, Joe Blaikie! I've waited for this opportunity for eight long
+years, and it won't be worth your while to trifle with Harvey James
+_now_."
+
+[Illustration: "Lie still, Joe Blaikie! I've waited for this opportunity
+for eight long years, and it won't be worth your while to trifle with
+Harvey James _now_."--page 408.]
+
+And something cold and hard is pressed against the temple of the fallen
+sentinel, who does not need the evidence of the accompanying ominous
+click to convince him that it is a revolver in the hand of his deadliest
+foe.
+
+"You did not use to be a horse-thief, Joe," continues the voice, and the
+speaker's words are emphasized by the pressure of a knee upon his chest,
+and the weapon at his forehead. "They could not trust you to do the fine
+business, it seems, and so you are picketed here to give the alarm if
+anything stirs up or down the road. If it's all right, you are to remain
+silent. If anything occurs to alarm you, you are to give the signal.
+Now, listen; you are to get up and stand from under this tree. I shall
+stand directly behind you with my revolver at your head, and I shall not
+loosen my grip upon your collar. When your friends pass this way, _you
+had better remain silent_, Joe Blaikie."
+
+Arch Brookhouse, waiting at the avenue gate, has not seen the red
+rocket. The tall poplars that overshadow him have shut the shooting
+fiery ribbon from his vision; besides, he has been looking down the
+hill. Neither has he seen the form that is creeping stealthily toward
+him from behind the tree that guards the gate.
+
+Those within the barn have not seen the rocket, of course; and presently
+they come forth and harness the six horses to two huge wagons that stand
+in readiness. Four horses to one wagon, two to the other. The wheels are
+well oiled, and the wagons make no unnecessary rumbling as they go down
+the dark poplar avenue.
+
+At the gate the foremost wagon halts, just long enough to enable the
+driver to catch the low-spoken word that tells him it is safe to
+proceed.
+
+"All right," Arch Brookhouse says, softly, and the two wagons pass out
+and down the hill, straight through the village of Trafton.
+
+At the foot of the hill, where the four roads cross, the drivers peer
+through the darkness. Yes, their sentinel is there. The white
+handkerchief which he holds in his hand, as a sign that all is safe,
+gleams through the dark, and they drive on merrily, and if the sound of
+their wheels wakens any sleeper in Trafton, what then? It is not unusual
+to hear coal wagons passing on their way to the mines.
+
+Should they meet a belated traveler, no matter. He may hear the rumble
+of the wheels, and welcome, so long as the darkness prevents him from
+seeing the horses that draw those innocent vehicles of traffic.
+
+Meanwhile, his duty being done, Arch Brookhouse heaves a sigh of
+relief, gathers up his reins, and chirrups to his horse.
+
+But the animal does not obey him. Arch leans forward; is there something
+standing by the horse's head? He gives an impatient word of command, and
+then,--yes, there is some one there.
+
+Arch utters a sharp exclamation, and his hand goes behind him, only to
+be grasped by an enemy in the rear, who follows up his advantage by
+seizing the other elbow and saying:
+
+"Stop a moment, Mr. Brookhouse; you are my prisoner, sir. Gerry, the
+handcuffs."
+
+The man at the horse's head comes swiftly to my assistance, Arch
+Brookhouse is drawn from his buggy, and his hands secured behind him by
+fetters of steel. Not a captive to be proud of; his teeth chatter, he
+shivers as with an ague.
+
+"Wh--who are you?" he gasps. "Wh--what do you want?"
+
+"I'm a city sprig," I answer, maliciously, "and I'm an easy fish to
+catch. But not so easy as _you_, my gay Lothario. By-and-by you may
+decide, if you will, whether I possess most money or brains; now I have
+more important business on hand."
+
+Just then comes a long, low whistle.
+
+"Gerry," I say, "that is Long. Go down to him and see if he needs help."
+
+Gerry is off in an instant, and then my prisoner rallies his cowardly
+faculties, and begins to bluster.
+
+"What does this assault mean? I demand an explanation, sir!"
+
+"But I am not in the mood to give it," I retort. "You are my prisoner,
+and likely to remain so, unless you are stolen from me by Judge Lynch,
+which is not improbable."
+
+"Then, y--you are an impostor!"
+
+"You mistake; I am a detective. You shot at the wrong man when you
+winged Bethel. You did better when you crippled widow Ballou's hired
+man."
+
+"What, are you?--" he starts violently, then checks his speech.
+
+"I'm the man you shot, behind the hedge, Mr. Brookhouse, and I'll
+trouble you to explain your conduct to-morrow."
+
+My prisoner moves restlessly under my restraining hand, but I cock my
+pistol, and he comprehending the unspoken warning, stands silent beside
+his buggy.
+
+Presently I hear footsteps, and then Gerry comes towards me, lighting
+the way with a pocket lantern, which reveals to my gaze Dimber Joe,
+handcuffed and crest-fallen, marching sedately over the ground at the
+muzzle of a pistol held in the firm clutch of Jim Long, upon whose
+countenance sits a look of grim, triumphant humor.
+
+"Here," says Gerry, with aggravating ceremony, "is Mr. Long, with
+sentinel number two, namely: Mr. Dimber Joe Blaikie, late of Sing Sing."
+
+"And very soon to return there," adds Jim Long, emphatically. "What
+shall we do with these fellows?"
+
+"We must keep everything quiet to-night," I say, quickly. "If you and
+Gerry think you won't go to sleep over the precious scamps you might
+take them to the barn and let them pass the night where they have hidden
+so many horses. We will take them there now, and bind them more
+securely. Then one of you can look after them easily, while the other
+stands guard outside. All must be done quietly, so that they may not
+take the alarm in the house. If your prisoners attempt to make a noise,
+gag them without scruple."
+
+"But," gasps Brookhouse, "you can not; you have no power."
+
+"No power," mocks Jim Long. "We'll see about that! It may be
+unparliamentary, gentlemen, but you should not object to that. If you
+give us any trouble, we will convince you that we have inherited a
+little brief authority."
+
+Ten minutes later we have carried out our programme. The two prisoners
+are safely housed in the hidden asylum for stolen horses, with Jim Long
+as guard within, and Gerry as sentinel without, and I, seated in the
+light buggy from which I have unceremoniously dragged Arch Brookhouse,
+am driving his impatient roadster southward, in the wake of the honest
+coal wagons.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+CAUGHT IN THE ACT.
+
+
+It is long past midnight. A preternatural stillness broods over the four
+corners where the north and south road, two miles north from Clyde,
+intersects the road running east and west, that bears westward toward
+the coal beds and the river.
+
+There are no houses within sight of these corners, and very few trees;
+but the northeastern corner is bounded by what the farmers call a "brush
+fence," an unsightly barricade of rails, interwoven with tall, ragged,
+and brambly brush, the cuttings, probably, from some rank-growing hedge.
+
+The section to the southwest is bordered by a prim hedge, thrifty and
+green, evenly trimmed, and so low that a man could leap across it with
+ease.
+
+And now the silence is broken by the sound of wheels coming from the
+direction of Clyde; swift running wheels that soon bring their burden to
+the four corners, and then come to a sudden halt.
+
+It is a light buggy, none other than that owned by Mr. Larkins, of
+Clyde, drawn by his roans that "go in no time," and it contains three
+men.
+
+"There!" says the driver, who is Larkins himself, springing to the
+ground, and thrusting his arm through the reins, "here we are, with
+nothing to do but wait. We always do wait, you know."
+
+"Yes, I know," assents a second individual, descending to the ground in
+his turn. "We're always on time. Now, if a man only could smoke--but he
+can't."
+
+And Ed. Dwight shrugs his shoulders and burrows in his pockets, and
+shuffles his feet, as only Ed. Dwight can.
+
+"Might's well get out, Briggs," says Larkins, to the man who still sits
+in the buggy.
+
+"Might's well stay here, too," retorts that individual, gruffly. "I'm
+comfortable."
+
+Larkins sniffs, and pats the haunch of the off roan.
+
+Dwight snaps a leaf from the hedge and chews it nervously.
+
+The man in the buggy sits as still as a mummy.
+
+Presently there comes again the sound of wheels. Not noisy wheels, that
+would break in upon midnight slumbers, nor ghostly wheels, whose honesty
+might be called in question, but well oiled, smooth running wheels, that
+break but do not disturb the stillness.
+
+These also approach the cross roads, and then stop.
+
+The first are those of a coal wagon, drawn by four handsome horses; the
+second, those of a vehicle of the same description, drawn by two fine
+steeds.
+
+Two men occupy the first wagon; one the next.
+
+As the foremost wagon pauses, Larkins tosses his reins to the silent man
+in the buggy, and advances, followed by Dwight.
+
+"Anything wrong?" queries Larkins.
+
+"Not if _you_ are all right," replies a harsh voice, a voice that has a
+natural snarl in it.
+
+"All right, Cap'n; give us your orders."
+
+The two men in the wagon spring to the ground, and begin to unharness
+the foremost horses. The other wagon comes closer.
+
+"You and Briggs are to take in these two teams. Tom is to go on with the
+Morgans. Dwight is to take us back to Trafton," says the rasping voice.
+
+Dwight comes closer, and then exclaims:
+
+"By George, Captain, it's _you_ in person."
+
+"Yes, it's me," shortly. "Simpson failed to come, and I wanted to have a
+few words with you and Larkins. Hark! _What's that?_"
+
+Wheels again; swift rushing, rattling wheels. Six heads are turned
+toward the north, whence they approach.
+
+Suddenly there is a whistle, short and shrill.
+
+Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are rising up from
+the long grass by the roadside!
+
+[Illustration: "Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are
+rising up from the long grass by the roadside!"--417.]
+
+Oaths, ejaculations, cracking of pistols, plunging of horses--
+
+"The first man who attempts to run will be shot down!"
+
+I hear these words, as I drive the Brookhouse roadster, foaming and
+panting, into the midst of the melee.
+
+In spite of the warning one man has made a dart for liberty, has turned
+and rushed directly upon my horse.
+
+In spite of the darkness his sharp eyes recognize the animal. What could
+his son's horse bring save a warning or a rescue?
+
+He regains his balance, which, owing to his sudden contact with the
+horse, he had nearly lost, and springs toward me as my feet touch the
+earth.
+
+"Arch!"
+
+Before he can realize the truth my hands are upon him. Before he can
+recover from his momentary consternation other hands seize him from
+behind.
+
+The captain of the horse-thieves, the head and front and brains of the
+band, is bound and helpless!
+
+It is soon over; the horse-thieves fight well; strive hard to evade
+capture; but the attack is so sudden, so unexpected, and they are
+unprepared, although each man, as a matter of course, is heavily armed.
+
+The vigilants have all the advantage, both of numbers and organization.
+While certain ones give all their attention to the horses, the larger
+number look to the prisoners.
+
+Briggs, the silent man in the buggy, is captured before he knows what
+has happened.
+
+Tom Briggs, his cowardly brother, is speedily reduced to a whimpering
+poltroon.
+
+Ed. Dwight takes to his heels in spite of the warning of Captain
+Warren, and is speedily winged with a charge of fine shot. It is not a
+severe wound, but it has routed his courage, and he is brought back,
+meek and pitiful enough, all the jauntiness crushed out of him.
+
+Larkins, my jehu on a former occasion, makes a fierce fight; and Louis
+Brookhouse, who still moves with a limp, resists doggedly.
+
+Our vigilants have received a few bruises and scratches, but no wounds.
+
+The struggle has been short, and the captives, once subdued, are silent
+and sullen.
+
+We bind them securely, and put them in the coal wagons which now, for
+the first time, perhaps, are put to a legitimate use.
+
+We do not care to burden ourselves with Larkins' roans, so they are
+released from the buggy and sent galloping homeward.
+
+The bay Morgans, which have been "stolen" for the sake of effect, are
+again harnessed, as leaders of the four-in-hand. The vigilants bring out
+their horses from behind the brush fence, and the procession starts
+toward Trafton.
+
+No one attempts to converse with the captives. No one deigns to answer a
+question, except by a monosyllable.
+
+'Squire Brookhouse is wise enough to see that he can gain nothing by an
+attempt at bluster or bribery. He maintains a dogged silence, and the
+others, with the exception of Dwight, who can not be still under any
+circumstances, and Tom Briggs, who makes an occasional whimpering
+attempt at self-justification, which is heeded by no one, all maintain a
+dogged silence. And we move on at a leisurely pace, out of consideration
+for the tired horses.
+
+As we approach Trafton, the Summer sun is sending up his first streak of
+red, to warn our side of the world of his nearness; and young Warren
+reins his horse out from the orderly file of vigilants, who ride on
+either side of the wagons.
+
+He gallops forward, turns in his saddle to look back at us, waves his
+hat above his head, and then speeds away toward the village.
+
+I am surprised at this, but, as I look from one face to another, I see
+that the vigilants, some of them, at least, understand the movement, and
+so I ask no questions.
+
+I am not left long in suspense as to the meaning of young Warren's
+sudden leave-taking, for, as we approach to within a mile of Trafton,
+our ears are greeted by the clang of bells, all the bells of Trafton,
+ringing out a fiercely jubilant peal.
+
+I turn to look at 'Squire Brookhouse. He has grown old in an instant;
+his face looks ashen under the rosy daylight. The caverns of his eyes
+are larger and deeper, and the orbs themselves gleam with a desperate
+fire. His lifeless black locks flutter in the morning breeze. He looks
+forlorn and desperate. Those clanging bells are telling him his doom.
+
+Warren has done his work well. When we come over the hill into Trafton,
+we know that the news is there before us, for a throng has gathered in
+the street, although the hour is so early.
+
+The bells have aroused the people. The news that the Trafton
+horse-thieves are captured at last, in the very act of escaping with
+their booty, has set the town wild.
+
+Not long since these same horse-thieves have led Trafton on to assault,
+to accuse, and to vilify an innocent man. Now, those who were foremost
+at the raiding of Bethel's cottage, are loudest in denouncing those who
+were then their leaders; and the cry goes up,
+
+"Hand over the horse-thieves! Hand them out! Lynch law's good enough for
+them!"
+
+But we are fourteen in number. We have captured the prisoners, and we
+mean to keep them.
+
+Once more my pistols, this time fully loaded, are raised against a
+Trafton mob, and the vigilants follow my example.
+
+We guard our prisoners to the door of the jail, and then the vigilants
+post themselves as a wall of defence about the building, while Captain
+Warren sets about the easy task of raising a trusty relief guard to take
+the places of his weary men.
+
+[Illustration: "Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of defence
+about the building."--page 423.]
+
+It is broad day now. The sun glows round and bright above the Eastern
+horizon. I am very weary, but there is work yet to be done.
+
+I leave Captain Warren at the door of the jail, and hasten toward the
+Hill.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+"THE COUNTERFEITER'S DAUGHTER."
+
+
+I am somewhat anxious about this coming bit of work, and a little
+reluctant as well, but it must be done, and that promptly.
+
+Just outside of the avenue gate I encounter a servant from the Hill
+House, and accost him.
+
+"Is Miss Manvers at home, and awake?"
+
+"Yes, she is at home; she has been disturbed by the bells," and has sent
+him to inquire into the cause of the commotion.
+
+She does not know, then! I heave a sigh of relief and hurry on.
+
+I cross the avenue, and follow the winding foot-path leading up to the
+front entrance. I make no effort to see Jim or Gerry, at the barn; I
+feel sure that they are equal to any emergency that may arise.
+
+Miss Manvers is standing at an open drawing-room window; she sees my
+approach and comes herself to admit me.
+
+Then we look at each other.
+
+She, I note, seems anxious and somewhat uneasy, and she sees at a
+glance that I am not the jaunty, faultlessly-dressed young idler of past
+days, but a dusty, dishevelled, travel-stained individual, wearing,
+instead of the usual society smile, a serious and preoccupied look upon
+my face.
+
+"Miss Manvers," I say, at once, "you will pardon my abruptness, I trust;
+I must talk with you alone for a few moments."
+
+She favors me with a glance of keen inquiry, and a look of apprehension
+crosses her face.
+
+Then she turns with a gesture of careless indifference, and leads the
+way to the drawing-room, where she again turns her face toward me.
+
+"I have before me an unpleasant duty," I begin again; "I have to inform
+you that Arch Brookhouse has been arrested."
+
+A fierce light leaps to her eyes.
+
+"_Is that all?_" she questions.
+
+"The charge against him is a grave one," I say, letting her question
+pass unanswered. "He is accused of attempted abduction."
+
+"Abduction!" she exclaims.
+
+"And attempted assassination."
+
+"Assassination! ah, _who_?"
+
+"Attempt first, upon myself, in June last. Second attempt, upon Dr. Carl
+Bethel."
+
+A wrathful look crosses her face.
+
+"I wish they could hang him for it!" she says, vindictively. Then she
+looks me straight in the eyes. "Did you come to tell me this because you
+fancy that I care for Arch Brookhouse?" she questions.
+
+"No."
+
+"Why, then?"
+
+"Because I am a detective, and it was my duty to come. There is more to
+tell you. 'Squire Brookhouse and his gang were arrested last night in
+the act of removing stolen horses from your barn."
+
+Her face pales and she draws a long sighing breath, but she does not
+falter nor evince any other sign of fear.
+
+"So it has come," she says. "And now you are here to arrest me. I don't
+think I shall mind it much."
+
+"I have come to make terms with you, Miss Lowenstein, and it will be
+your fault if they are hard terms. I know your past history, or, at
+least--"
+
+"At _least_, that I am a counterfeiter's daughter, and that I have
+served a term as a convict," she finishes, sarcastically.
+
+"I know that you are the daughter of Jake Lowenstein, forger and
+counterfeiter. I know that you were arrested with him, as an accomplice;
+that immunity was offered you if you would testify against your father,
+the lawyers being sure that your evidence alone would easily convict
+him. I know that you refused to turn State's evidence; that you scoffed
+at the lawyers, and rather than raise your voice against your father,
+let them send you to prison for two years."
+
+"You know all this?" wonderingly. "How did you find me out here?"
+
+"Before you were taken to prison, they took your picture for--"
+
+I hesitate, but she does not.
+
+"For the rogue's gallery," she says, impatiently. "Well! go on."
+
+"You were fiercely angry, and the scorn on your face was transferred to
+the picture."
+
+"Quite likely."
+
+"I had heard of your case, and your father's, of course. But I was not
+personally concerned in it, and I never saw him. I had never seen you,
+until I came to Trafton."
+
+"I have changed since then," she breaks in, quickly.
+
+"True; you were a slender, pretty young girl then. You are a handsome
+woman, now. Your features, however, are not much changed; yet probably,
+if I had never seen you save when your face wore its usual serene smile,
+I should never have found you out. But my comrade, who came to Trafton
+with me--"
+
+"As your servant," she interposes.
+
+"As my servant; yes. He had your picture in his collection. On the day
+of your lawn party, I chanced to see you behind a certain rose thicket,
+in conversation with Arch Brookhouse. He was insolent; you, angry and
+defiant. I caught the look on your face, and knew that I had seen it
+before, somewhere. I went home puzzled, to find Carnes, better known to
+you as Cooley, looking at a picture in his rogue's gallery. I took the
+book and began turning its leaves, and there under my eye was your
+picture. Then I knew that Miss Manvers, the heiress, was really Miss
+Adele Lowenstein."
+
+"You say that it will be my fault if you make hard terms with me. My
+father is dead. I suppose you understand that?"
+
+"Yes; I know that he is dead, but I do not know why you are here, giving
+shelter to stolen property and abbetting horse-thieves. Frankly, Miss
+Lowenstein, so far as your past is concerned, I consider you sinned
+against as much as sinning. Your sacrifice in behalf of your father was,
+in my eyes, a brave act, rather than a criminal one. I am disposed to be
+ever your friend rather than your enemy. Will you tell me how you became
+connected with this gang, and all the truth concerning your relations
+with them, and trust me to aid you to the limit of my power?"
+
+"You do not promise me my freedom if I give you this information," she
+says, more in surprise than in anxiety.
+
+"It is not in my power to do that and still do my duty as an officer;
+but I promise you, upon my honor, that you shall have your freedom if it
+can be brought about."
+
+"I like the sound of that," says this odd, self-reliant young woman,
+turning composedly, and seating herself near the open window. "If you
+had vowed to give me my liberty at any cost I should not have believed
+you. Sit down; I shall tell you a longer story than you will care to
+listen to standing."
+
+I seat myself in obedience to her word and gesture, and she begins
+straightway:
+
+"I was seventeen years old when my father was arrested for
+counterfeiting, and I looked even younger.
+
+"He had a number of confederates, but the assistant he most valued was
+the man whom people call 'Squire Brookhouse. He was called simply Brooks
+eight years ago.
+
+"When my father was arrested, 'Squire Brookhouse, who was equally
+guilty, contrived to escape. He was a prudent sharper, and both he and
+father had accumulated considerable money.
+
+"If you know that my father and myself were sentenced to prison, he for
+twenty years, and I for two, you know, I suppose, how he escaped."
+
+"I know that he did escape; just how we need not discuss at present."
+
+"Yes; he escaped. Brookhouse used his money to bribe bolder men to do
+the necessary dangerous work, for he, Brookhouse, needed my father's
+assistance, and he escaped. I had yet six months to serve.
+
+"Well, Brookhouse had recently been down into this country on a
+plundering expedition. He was an avaricious man, always devising some
+new scheme. He knew that without my father's assistance, he could hardly
+run a long career at counterfeiting, and he knew that counterfeiting
+would be dangerous business for my father to follow, in or near the
+city, after his escape.
+
+"They talked and schemed and prospected; and the result was that they
+both came to Trafton, and invested a portion of their gains, the largest
+portion of course, in two pieces of real estate; this and the Brookhouse
+place.
+
+"Before we had been here a year, my father grew venturesome. He went to
+the city, and was recognized by an old policeman, who had known him too
+well. They attempted to arrest him, but only captured his dead body. The
+papers chronicled the fact that Jake Lowenstein, the counterfeiter, was
+dead. And we, at Trafton, announced to the world that Captain Manvers,
+late of the navy, had been drowned while making his farewell voyage.
+
+"After that, I became Miss Manvers, the heiress, and the good
+Traftonites were regaled with marvelous stories concerning a
+treasure-ship dug out from the deep by my father, 'the sea captain.'
+
+"Their main object in settling in Trafton, was to provide for themselves
+homes that might afford them a haven should stormy times come. And,
+also, to furnish them with a place where their coining and engraving
+could be safely carried on.
+
+"Then the 'Squire grew more enterprising. He wanted more schemes to
+manage. And so he began to lay his plans for systematic horse-stealing.
+
+"Little by little he matured his scheme, and one by one he introduced
+into Trafton such men as would serve his purpose, for, if you inquire
+into the matter, you will find that every one of his confederates has
+come to this place since the first advent of 'Squire Brookhouse.
+
+"The hidden place in our barn was prepared before my father was killed,
+and after that--well, 'Squire Brookhouse knew that I could be a great
+help to him, socially.
+
+"I did not know what to do. This home was mine, I felt safe here; I had
+grown up among counterfeiters and law-breakers, and I did not see how I
+was to shake myself free from them--besides--"
+
+Here a look of scornful self-contempt crosses her face.
+
+"Besides, I was young, and up to that time had seen nothing of society
+of my own age. Arch Brookhouse had lately come home from the South, and
+I had fallen in love with his handsome face."
+
+She lifts her eyes to mine, as if expecting to see her own self-scorn
+reflected back in my face, but I continue to look gravely attentive, and
+she goes on:
+
+"So I stayed on, and let them use my property as a hiding-place for
+their stolen horses. I kept servants of their selection, and never knew
+aught of their plans. When I heard that a horse had been stolen, I felt
+very certain that it was concealed on my premises, but I never
+investigated.
+
+"After a time I became as weary of Arch Brookhouse as he, probably, was
+of me. Finally indifference became detestation. He only came to my house
+on matters of business, and to keep up the appearance of friendliness
+between the two families. Mrs. Brookhouse is a long-suffering,
+broken-down woman, who never sees society.
+
+"I do not intend to plead for mercy, and I do not want pity. I dare say
+that nine-tenths of the other women in the world would have done as I
+did, under the same circumstances. I have served two years in the
+penitentiary; my face adorns the rogues' gallery. I might go out into
+the world and try a new way of living, but I must always be an impostor.
+Why not be an impostor in Trafton, as well as anywhere else? I have
+always believed that, some day, I should be found out."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX.
+
+"LOUISE BARNARD'S FRIENDSHIP."
+
+
+When she has finished her story there is a long silence, then she says,
+with a suddenness that would have been surprising in any other woman
+than the one before me:
+
+"You say you have arrested Arch Brookhouse for the shooting of Dr.
+Bethel. Tell me, is it true that Dr. Bethel is out of danger?"
+
+"He is still in a condition to need close attention and careful medical
+aid; with these, we think, he will recover."
+
+"I am very glad to know that," she says, earnestly.
+
+"Miss Lowenstein, I have some reason for thinking that you know who is
+implicated in that grave-robbing business."
+
+"I do know," she answers, frankly, "but not from them. The Brookhouses,
+father and sons, believed Dr. Bethel to be a detective, and to be
+candid, so did I. You know 'the wicked flee when no man pursueth.' They
+construed his reticence into mystery. They fancied that his clear,
+searching eye was looking into all their secrets. I knew they were
+plotting against him, but I had told Arch Brookhouse that they should
+not harm him. When I went down to the cottage with Louise Barnard, I
+felt sure that it was _their_ work, the grave-robbing.
+
+"Tom Briggs was there, the fiercest of the rioters. Tom had worked about
+my stable for a year or more, and I thought that I knew how to manage
+him. I contrived to get a word with him. Did you observe it?"
+
+"Yes, I observed it."
+
+"I told him to come to The Hill that evening, and he came. Then I made
+him tell me the whole story.
+
+"Arch Brookhouse had planned the thing, and given it to Briggs to
+execute. There were none of the regular members of the gang here to help
+him at that work, so he went, under instructions, of course, to Simmons
+and Saunders, two dissolute, worthless fellows, and told them that Dr.
+Bethel had offered him thirty dollars to get the little girl's body, and
+offered to share with them.
+
+"Those three did the work. Briggs buried the clothing and hid the tools.
+Then, when the raid began, Briggs told his two assistants that, in order
+to avoid suspicion, they must join the hue and cry against Dr. Bethel,
+and so, as you are aware, they did."
+
+This information is valuable to me. I am anxious to be away, to meet
+Simmons and Saunders. I open my lips to make a request, when she again
+asks a sudden question.
+
+"Will you tell me where and how you arrested the Brookhouse gang? I am
+anxious to know."
+
+"I will tell you, but first will you please answer one more question?"
+
+She nods and I proceed.
+
+"I have told you that Arch Brookhouse is charged with attempted
+abduction; I might say Louis Brookhouse stands under the same charge. Do
+you know anything about the matter?"
+
+"I? No."
+
+"Did you ever know Miss Amy Holmes?"
+
+"Never," she replies, emphatically. "Whom did they attempt to abduct?"
+
+"Three young girls; three innocent country girls."
+
+"Good heavens!" she exclaims, her eyes flashing fiercely, "that is a
+deed, compared with which horse-thieving is honorable!"
+
+I give her a brief outline of the Groveland affair, or series of
+affairs, so far as I am able, before having heard Carnes' story. And
+then I tell her how the horse-thieves were hunted down.
+
+"So," she says, wearily, "by this time I am known all over Trafton as
+the accomplice of horse-thieves."
+
+"Not so, Miss Lowenstein. The entire truth is known to Carnes and
+Brown, the two detectives I have mentioned, to Jim Long, and to Mr.
+Warren. The vigilants knew that the horses had been concealed near
+Trafton, but, owing to the manner in which the arrests were made, they
+do not know where. I suppose you are aware what it now becomes my duty
+to do?"
+
+"Assuredly," with constrained voice and manner. "You came here to arrest
+me. I submit."
+
+"Wait. From first to last it has been my desire to deal with you as
+gently as possible. Now that I have heard your story, I am still more
+inclined to stand your friend. The three men in Trafton who know your
+complicity in this business, are acting under my advice. For the
+present, you may remain here, if you will give me your promise not to
+attempt an escape."
+
+"I shall not try to escape; I would be foolish to do so, after learning
+how skillfully you can hunt down criminals."
+
+"Thanks for the compliment, and the promise implied. If you will give
+your testimony against the gang, telling in court the story you have
+told me, you shall not stand before these people without a champion."
+
+"I don't like to do it. It seems cowardly."
+
+"Why? Do you think they would spare you were the positions reversed?"
+
+"No, certainly not; but--" turning her eyes toward the foliage without,
+and speaking wistfully, "I wish I knew how another woman would view my
+position. I never had the friendship of a woman who knew me as I am. I
+wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would advise me."
+
+[Illustration: "I wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would
+advise me."--page 438.]
+
+Scarcely knowing how to reply to this speech, I pass it by and hasten to
+finish my own.
+
+Will she remain in her own house until I see her again, which may not
+be until to-morrow? And will she permit me to leave Gerry Brown here,
+for form's sake?
+
+Jim Long would hardly question my movements and motives, but Mr. Warren,
+who is the fourth party in our confidence, might. So, for his
+gratification, I will leave Gerry Brown at the Hill.
+
+She consents readily enough, and I go out to fetch Gerry.
+
+"Miss Lowenstein, this is my friend, Gerry Brown, who has passed the
+night in your barn and in very bad company. Will you take pity on him
+and give him some breakfast?" I say, as we appear before her.
+
+She examines Gerry's handsome face attentively, and then says:
+
+"If your late companions were bad, Mr. Brown, you will not find your
+present company much better. You do look tired. I will give you some
+breakfast, and then you can lock me up."
+
+"I'll eat the breakfast with relish," replies Gerry, gallantly; "but as
+for locking you up, excuse me. I've been told that you would feed me and
+let me lie down somewhere to sleep; and I've been ordered to stay here
+until to-morrow. It looks to me as if I were your prisoner, and such I
+prefer to consider myself."
+
+I leave them to settle the question of keeper and prisoner as best they
+can, and go out to Jim.
+
+He is smoking placidly, with Arch Brookhouse, in a fit of the sulks,
+sitting on an overturned peck measure near by, and Dimber Joe asleep on
+a bundle of hay in a corner.
+
+We arouse Dimber and casting off the fetters from their feet, set them
+marching toward the town jail, where their brethren in iniquity are
+already housed.
+
+Trafton is in a state of feverish excitement. As we approach the jail
+with our prisoners the air is rent with jeers and hisses for them, and
+"three cheers for the detective," presumably for me.
+
+I might feel flattered and gratified at their friendly enthusiasm, but,
+unfortunately for my pride, I have had an opportunity to learn how
+easily Trafton is excited to admiration and to anger, so I bear my
+honors meekly, and hide my blushing face, for a time, behind the walls
+of the jail.
+
+All the vigilants are heroes this morning, and proud and happy is the
+citizen who can adorn his breakfast table with one of the band. The
+hungry fellows, nothing loath, are borne away one by one in triumph, and
+Jim and I, who cling together tenaciously, are wrangled over by Justice
+Summers and Mr. Harris, and, finally, led off by the latter.
+
+We are not bored with questions at the parsonage, but good, motherly
+Mrs. Harris piles up our plates, and looks on, beaming with delight to
+see her good things disappearing down our hungry throats.
+
+We have scarcely finished our meal, when a quick, light step crosses
+the hall, and Louise Barnard enters. She has heard the clanging bells
+and witnessed the excitement, but, as yet, scarcely comprehends the
+cause.
+
+"Mamma is so anxious," she says, deprecatingly, to Mr. Harris, "that I
+ran in to ask you about it, before going down to see Carl--Dr. Bethel."
+
+While she is speaking, a new thought enters my head, and I say to myself
+instantly, "here is a new test for Christianity," thinking the while of
+that friendless girl at this moment a paroled prisoner.
+
+"Miss Barnard," I say, hastily, "it will give me pleasure to tell you
+all about this excitement, or the cause of it."
+
+"If I understand aright, you are the cause, sir," she replies,
+smilingly. "How horribly you have deceived us all!"
+
+"But," interposes Mr. Harris, "this is asking too much, sir. You have
+been vigorously at work all night, and now--"
+
+"Never mind that," I interrupt. "Men in my profession are bred to these
+things. I am in just the mood for story telling."
+
+They seat themselves near me. Jim, a little less interested than the
+rest, occupying a place in the background. Charlie Harris is away at his
+office. I have just the audience I desire.
+
+I begin by describing very briefly my hunt for the Trafton outlaws. I
+relate, as rapidly as possible, the manner in which they were captured,
+skipping details as much as I can, until I arrive at the point where I
+turn from the Trafton jail to go to The Hill.
+
+Then I describe my interview with the counterfeiter's daughter minutely,
+word for word as nearly as I can. I dwell on her look, her tone, her
+manner, I repeat her words: "I wish I knew how another woman would view
+my position. I wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would
+advise me." I omit nothing; I am trying to win a friend for Adele
+Lowenstein, and I tell her story as well as I can.
+
+When I have finished, there is profound silence for a full moment, and
+then Jim Long says:
+
+"I know something concerning this matter. And I am satisfied that the
+girl has told no more and no less than the truth."
+
+I take out a pocket-book containing papers, and select one from among
+them.
+
+"This," I say, as I open it, "is a letter from the Chief of our force.
+He is a stern old criminal-hunter. I will read you what _he_ says in
+regard to the girl we have known as Adele Manvers, the heiress. Here it
+is."
+
+And I read:
+
+     In regard to Adele Lowenstein, I send you the papers and copied
+     reports, as you request; but let me say to you, deal with her
+     as mercifully as possible. There should be much good in a girl
+     who would go to prison for two long years, rather than utter
+     one word disloyal to her counterfeiter father. Those who knew
+     her best, prior to that affair, consider her a victim rather
+     than a sinner. Time may have hardened her nature, but, if there
+     are any extenuating circumstances, consider how she became what
+     she is, and temper justice with mercy.
+
+"There," I say, as I fold away the letter, "that's a whole sermon,
+coming from our usually unsympathetic Chief. Mr. Harris, I wish you
+would preach another of the same sort to the Traftonites."
+
+Still the silence continues. Mr. Harris looks serious and somewhat
+uneasy. Mrs. Harris furtively wipes away a tear with the corner of her
+apron. Louise Barnard sits moveless for a time, then rises, and draws
+her light Summer scarf about her shoulders with a resolute gesture.
+
+"I am going to see Adele," she says, turning toward the door.
+
+Mr. Harris rises hastily. He is a model of theological conservatism.
+
+"But, Louise,--ah, don't be hasty, I beg. Really, it is not wise."
+
+"Yes, it is," she retorts. "It is wise, and it is right. I have eaten
+her bread; I have called myself her friend; I shall not abandon her
+now."
+
+"Neither shall I!" cries Mrs. Harris, bounding up with sudden energy.
+"I'll go with you, Louise."
+
+"But, my dear," expostulates Mr. Harris, "if you really insist, I will
+go first; then, perhaps--"
+
+"No, you won't go first," retorts his better half. "You don't know what
+that poor girl needs. You'd begin at once to administer death-bed
+consolation. That will do for 'Squire Brookhouse, but not for a
+friendless, unhappy girl. Take your foot off my dress, Mr. Harris; I'm
+going for my bonnet!"
+
+She conquers, of course, gets her bonnet, and ties it on energetically.
+
+During the process, I turn to Jim.
+
+"Long," I say, "we have yet one task to perform. Dr. Denham is on duty
+at the cottage, and fretting and fuming, no doubt, to know the meaning
+of all this storm in Trafton. Bethel, too, may be anxious--"
+
+"Now, hear him!" interrupts our hostess, indignantly. "Just hear that
+man! As if you were not both tired to death already. You two are to stay
+right here; one in the parlor bed, and one in Charlie's room; and you're
+to sleep until dinner, which I'll be sure to have late. Mr. Harris can
+run down to the cottage and tell all the news. It will keep him from
+going where he is not wanted."
+
+Mr. Harris warmly seconds this plan. Jim and I are indeed weary, and
+Mrs. Harris is an absolute monarch. So we submit, and I lay my tired
+head on her fat pillows, feeling that everything is as it should be.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL.
+
+THE STORY OF HARVEY JAMES.
+
+
+It is late in the afternoon when I awake, for Mrs. Harris has been
+better than her word.
+
+Jim is already up, and conversing with Mr. Harris on the all-absorbing
+topic, of course.
+
+After a bountiful and well-cooked dinner has received our attention, Jim
+and I go together to the cottage.
+
+Here we are put upon the witness stand by "our old woman," who takes
+ample vengeance for having been kept so long in the dark concerning my
+business in Trafton.
+
+After he has berated us to his entire satisfaction, and after Bethel,
+who, having heard a little, insists upon hearing more, has been
+gratified by an account of the capture, given for the most part by Jim
+Long, we go southward again and come to a halt in Jim's cottage. Here we
+seat ourselves, and, at last, I hear the story of Jim Long, or the man
+who has, for years, borne that name.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"My name is Harvey James," he begins, slowly. "My father was a farmer,
+and I was born upon a farm, and lived there until I became of age.
+
+"Except two years passed at a college not far from my home, I had never
+been a week away from my father's farm. But after my twenty-first
+birthday, I paid a visit to the city.
+
+"It was short and uneventful, but it unsettled me. I was never content
+upon the home farm again.
+
+"After my father died and the property came into my possession, I
+resolved to be a farmer no longer, but to go and increase my fortune in
+the city.
+
+"My farm was large and valuable, and there was considerable money in the
+bank. My mother clung to the farm; so, as the house was a large one, I
+reserved for her use, and mine when I should choose to come home, a few
+of the pleasantest rooms, and put a tenant into the remainder of the
+house.
+
+"I was engaged to be married to a dear girl, the daughter of our nearest
+neighbor. She was pretty and ambitious. She heartily approved of my new
+departure, but when I urged our immediate marriage, she put the matter
+off, saying that she preferred to wait a year, as by that time I should
+be a city gentleman; and until I should have become established in
+business, I would have no time to devote to a rustic wife. If she had
+married me then, my fate might have been different, God knows! But I
+went to the city alone, and before the year had elapsed I was in a
+prison cell!
+
+"I took with me a considerable sum of money, and I commenced to enjoy
+city life. I began with the theaters and billiards, and went on down the
+grade. Before I had been in town a mouth I became acquainted with
+Brooks, the name then used by 'Squire Brookhouse. He professed to be a
+lawyer, and this profession, together with his superior age, won my
+confidence, as, perhaps, a younger man could not have done. After a time
+he made me acquainted with Joe Blaikie and Jake Lowenstein, both
+brokers, so he said.
+
+"I was an easy victim; I soon began to consult the 'brokers' as to the
+best investment for a small capital.
+
+"Of course they were ready to help me. I think I need not enter into
+details; you know how such scoundrels work. We soon became almost
+inseparable, and I thought myself in excellent company, and wrote
+glowing letters to my mother and sweetheart, telling them of my fine new
+friends and the promising prospect for a splendid investment, which was
+to double my money speedily, and laying great stress upon the fact that
+my prospective good fortune would be mainly brought about by my
+'friends,' the lawyer and the brokers, who 'knew the ropes.'
+
+"At last the day came when I drew a considerable sum of money from my
+home bankers, to invest in city stock. The 'brokers' strongly advised me
+to put in all I could command, even to the extent of mortgaging my farm,
+but this I would not do. I adhered to my stern old father's principle,
+'never borrow money to plant,' and I would not encumber my land; but I
+drew every dollar of my ready capital for the venture.
+
+"I had established myself in comfortable rooms at a hotel, which,
+by-the-by, was recommended me by Brooks, as a place much frequented by
+'solid men.' And soon the three blacklegs began dropping in upon me
+evenings, sometimes together, sometimes separately. We would then amuse
+ourselves with 'harmless' games of cards. After a little we began to bet
+chips and coppers, to make the game more interesting.
+
+"They worked me with great delicacy. No doubt they could have snared me
+just as easily with half the trouble they took. I was fond of cards, and
+it was not difficult to draw me into gambling. I had learned to drink
+wine, too, and more than once they had left me half intoxicated after
+one of our 'pleasant social games,' and had laughingly assured me, when,
+after sobering up, I ventured a clumsy apology, that 'it was not worth
+mentioning; such things would sometimes happen to gentlemen.'
+
+"On the night of my downfall I had all my money about my person,
+intending to make use of it early on the following morning. I expected
+the three to make an evening in my room, but at about eight o'clock
+Lowenstein came in alone and looking anxious.
+
+"He said that he had just received a telegram from a client who had
+entrusted him with the sale of a large block of buildings, and he must
+go to see him that evening. It was a long distance, and he would be out
+late. He had about him a quantity of gold, paid in to him after banking
+hours, and he did not like to take it with him. He wanted to leave it in
+my keeping, as he knew that I intended passing the evening in my rooms,
+and as he was not afraid to trust me with so large a sum.
+
+"I took the bait, and the money, three rouleaux of gold; and then, after
+I had listened to his regrets at his inability to make one at our social
+game that evening, I bowed him out and locked the door.
+
+"As I opened my trunk and secreted the money in the very bottom,
+underneath a pile of clothing and books, I was swelling with gratified
+vanity, blind fool that I was, at the thought of the trust imparted to
+me. Did it not signify the high value placed upon my shrewdness and
+integrity by this discriminating man of business?
+
+"Presently Brooks and Blaikie came, and we sat down to cards and wine.
+Blaikie had brought with him some bottles of a choice brand, and it had
+an unusual effect upon me.
+
+"My recollections of that evening are very indistinct. I won some gold
+pieces from Brooks, and jingled them triumphantly in my pockets, while
+Blaikie refilled my glass. After that my remembrance is blurred and then
+blank.
+
+"I do not think that I drank as much wine as usual, for when I awoke it
+was not from the sleep of intoxication. I was languid, and my head
+ached, but my brain was not clouded. My memory served me well. I
+remembered, first of all, my new business enterprise, and then recalled
+the events of the previous evening, up to the time of my drinking a
+second glass of wine.
+
+"I was lying upon my bed, dressed, as I had been when I sat down to play
+cards with Brooks and Blaikie. I strove to remember how I came there on
+the bed, but could not; then I got up and looked about the room.
+
+"Our card table stood there with the cards scattered over it. On the
+floor was an empty wine-bottle--where was the other, for Blaikie had
+brought two? On a side table sat _two_ wine-glasses, each containing a
+few drops of wine, and a third which was _clean_, as if it had been
+unused.
+
+"Two chairs stood near the table, as if lately occupied by players.
+
+"What did it mean?
+
+"I stepped to the door and found that it had not been locked. Then I
+thought of my money. It was gone, of course. But I still had in my
+pockets the loose gold won at our first game, and the three rouleaux
+left by Lowenstein were still in my trunk. I had also won from Brooks
+two or three bank notes, and these also I had.
+
+"You can easily guess the rest. The three sharpers had planned to
+secure my money, and had succeeded; and to protect themselves, and get
+me comfortably out of the way, they had laid the trap into which I fell.
+
+"Blaikie appeared at the police station, and entered his complaint. He
+had been invited to join in a social game of cards at my rooms. When he
+arrived there, Brooks was there, seemingly on business, but he had
+remained but a short time. Then we had played cards, and Blaikie had
+lost some bank-notes. Next he won, and I had paid him in gold pieces. He
+had then staked his diamond studs, as he had very little money about
+him. These I had won, and next had permitted him to win a few more gold
+pieces. Blaikie did not accuse me of cheating, oh, no; but he had just
+found that I had won his diamonds and his honest money, and had paid him
+in _counterfeit coin_.
+
+"At that time, Blaikie had not become so prominent a rogue as he now is.
+His story was credited, and, while I was yet frantically searching for
+my lost money, the police swooped down upon me, and I was arrested for
+having circulated counterfeit money. The scattered cards, the two
+wine-glasses, the two chairs, all substantiated Blaikie's story.
+
+"A search through my room brought to light Blaikie's diamonds, and some
+plates for engraving counterfeit ten dollar bills, hidden in the same
+receptacle. In my trunk were the three rouleaux of freshly-coined
+counterfeit gold pieces, and in my pockets were some more loose
+counterfeit coin, together with the bank-notes which Blaikie had
+described to the Captain of police.
+
+"It was a cunning plot, and it succeeded. I fought for my liberty as
+only a desperate man will. I told my story. I accused Blaikie and his
+associates of having robbed me. I proved, by my bankers, that a large
+sum of money had actually come into my possession only the day before my
+arrest. But the web held me. Brooks corroborated Blaikie's statements;
+Lowenstein could not be found.
+
+"I was tried, found guilty, and condemned for four years to State's
+prison. A light sentence, the judge pronounced it, but those four years
+put streaks of gray in my hair and changed me wonderfully, physically
+and mentally.
+
+"I had gone in a tall, straight young fellow, with beardless face and
+fresh color; I came out a grave man, with stooping shoulders, sallow
+skin, and hair streaked with gray.
+
+"My mother had died during my imprisonment; my promised wife had married
+another man. I sold my farm and went again to the city; this time with a
+fixed purpose in my heart. I would find my enemies and revenge myself.
+
+"I let my beard grow, I dropped all habits of correct speaking, I became
+a slouching, shabbily-dressed loafer. I had no reason to fear
+recognition,--the change in me was complete."
+
+He paused, and seemed lost in gloomy meditations, then resumed:
+
+"It was more than three months before I struck the trail of the gang,
+and then one day I saw Brooks on the street, followed him, and tracked
+him to Trafton. He had just purchased the 'Brookhouse farm' and I
+learned for the first time that he had a wife and family. I found that
+Lowenstein, too, had settled in Trafton, having been arrested, and
+escaped during my long imprisonment; and I decided to remain also. I had
+learned, during my farm life, something about farriery, and introduced
+myself as a traveling horse doctor, with a fancy for 'settling' in a
+good location. And so I became the Jim Long you have known.
+
+"I knew that the presence of ''Squire Brookhouse' and 'Captain Manvers,
+late of the navy,' boded no good to Trafton; I knew, too, that
+Lowenstein was an escaped convict, and I might have given him up at
+once; but that would have betrayed my identity, and Brooks might then
+escape me. So I waited, but not long.
+
+"One day 'Captain Manvers,' in his seaman's make-up, actually ventured
+to visit the city. He had so changed his appearance that, but for my
+interference, he might have been safe enough. But my time had come. I
+sent a telegram to the chief of police, telling him that Jake Lowenstein
+was coming to the city, describing his make-up, and giving the time and
+train. I walked to the next station to send the message, waited to have
+it verified, and walked back content.
+
+"When Jake Lowenstein arrived in the city, he was followed, and in
+attempting to resist the officers, he was killed.
+
+"Since that time, I have tried, and tried vainly, to unravel the mystery
+surrounding these robberies. Of course, I knew Brooks and his gang to be
+the guilty parties, but I was only one man. I could not be everywhere at
+once, and I could never gather sufficient evidence to insure their
+conviction, because, like all the rest of Trafton, I never thought of
+finding the stolen horses in the very midst of the town. I assisted in
+organizing the vigilants, but we all watched the roads leading out from
+the town, and were astounded at our constant failures.
+
+"And now you know why I hailed your advent in Trafton. For four years I
+have hoped for the coming of a detective. I would have employed one on
+my own account, but I shrank from betraying my identity, as I must do in
+order to secure confidence. In every stranger who came to Trafton I have
+hoped to find a detective. At first I thought Bethel to be one, and I
+was not slow in making his acquaintance. I watched him, I weighed his
+words, and, finally, gave him up.
+
+"When you came I made your acquaintance, as I did that of every
+stranger who tarried long in Trafton. You were discreetness itself, and
+the man you called Barney was a capital actor, and a rare good fellow
+too. But I studied you as no other man did. When I answered your
+careless questions I calculated your possible meaning. Do you remember a
+conversation of ours when I gave my opinion of Dr. Bethel, and the
+'average Traftonite'?"
+
+"Yes; and also told us about Miss Manvers and the treasure-ship. Those
+bits of gossip gave us some pointers."
+
+"I meant that they should. And now you know why I preferred to hang on
+the heels of Joe Blaikie rather than go with the vigilants."
+
+"I understand. Has Blaikie been a member of the gang from the first?"
+
+"I think not. Of course when I heard that Brooks intended to employ a
+detective, I was on the alert. And when Joe Blaikie and that other
+fellow, who was a stranger to me, came and established themselves at the
+Trafton House, I understood the game. They were to personate detectives.
+Brooks was too cunning to make their pretended occupations too
+conspicuous; but he confided the secret to a few good citizens who might
+have grown uneasy, and asked troublesome questions, if they had not been
+thus confided in. I think that Blaikie and Brooks went their separate
+ways, when the latter became a country gentleman. Blaikie is too
+cowardly a cur ever to succeed as a horse-thief, and Brooks was the man
+to recognize that fact. I think Blaikie was simply a tool for this
+emergency."
+
+"Very probable. When you told my landlord that Blaikie was a detective,
+did you expect the news to reach me through him?"
+
+"I did," with a quizzical glance at me; "and it reached you, I take it."
+
+"Yes; it reached me. And now, Long--it seems most natural to call you
+so--I will make no comments upon your story now. I think you are assured
+of my friendship and sympathy. I can act better than I can talk. But be
+sure of one thing, from henceforth you stand clear of all charges
+against you. The man who shot Dr. Bethel is now in limbo, and he will
+confess the whole plot on the witness stand; and, as for the old
+trouble, Joe Blaikie shall tell the truth concerning that."
+
+He lifts his head and looks at me steadfastly for a moment.
+
+"When that is accomplished," he says, earnestly, "I shall feel myself
+once more a man among men."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI.
+
+A GATHERING OF THE FRAGMENTS.
+
+
+There was a meeting of the vigilants that night and Gerry Brown, Mr.
+Harris, Justice Summers and myself, were present with them.
+
+I gave them the details of my investigation, and related the cause of
+Doctor Bethel's troubles. When they understood that the outlaws had
+looked upon Bethel as a detective, and their natural enemy, the
+vigilants were ready to anticipate the rest of my story.
+
+When everything concerning the male members of the clique had been
+discussed, I entered a plea for Adele Lowenstein, and my audience was
+not slow to respond.
+
+Mr. Harris arose in his place, and gave a concise account of the visit
+paid by his wife and Miss Barnard to the dethroned heiress, as he had
+heard it described by Mrs. Harris.
+
+Adele Lowenstein had been sincerely grateful for their kindness, and
+had consented to act precisely as they should advise, let the result be
+what it would. She would give her testimony against the horse-thieves,
+and trust to the mercy of the Traftonites. Her story may as well be
+completed here, for there is little more to tell.
+
+She was not made a prisoner. Mrs. Harris and Louise Barnard were not the
+women to do things by halves. They used all their influence in her
+favor, and they had the vigilants and many of the best citizens to aid
+them. They disarmed public opinion. They appealed to men high in power
+and won their championship. They conducted their campaign wisely and
+they carried the day.
+
+There were found for Adele Lowenstein, the counterfeiter's daughter,
+"extenuating circumstances:" what the jury could not do the governor
+did, and she went out from the place, where justice had been tempered
+with mercy, a free woman.
+
+The Hill was sold, and Miss Lowenstein, who had avowed her intention of
+retaking her father's name, sullied as it was, prepared to find a new
+home in some far away city.
+
+One day while the trial was pending, Gerry Brown came to me with fidgety
+manner and serious countenance.
+
+"Old man," he said, anxiously, "I've been thinking about Miss
+Lowenstein."
+
+"Stop it, Gerry. It's a dangerous occupation for a fellow of your age."
+
+"My, age indeed! Two years, four months and seventeen days younger than
+your ancient highness, I believe."
+
+"A man may learn much in two years, four months, and seventeen days--,
+Gerry. What about Miss Lowenstein?"
+
+"I'm sorry for the girl."
+
+"So am I."
+
+"Don't be a bore, old man."
+
+"Then come to the point, youngster."
+
+"Youngster!" indignantly, "well, I'll put that to our private account.
+About Miss Lowenstein, then: She is without friends, and is just the
+sort of woman who needs occupation to keep her out of mischief and
+contented. She's ladylike and clever, and she knows the world; don't you
+think she would be a good hand on the force."
+
+I paused to consider. I knew the kind of woman that we sometimes needed,
+and it seemed to me that Adele Lowenstein would "be a good hand." I
+knew, too, that our Chief was not entirely satisfied with one or two
+women in his employ. So I stopped chaffing Gerry and said soberly:
+
+"Gerry, it's a good idea. We'll consult the lady and if she would like
+the occupation, I will write to our Chief."
+
+Adele Lowenstein was eager to enter upon a career so much to her taste,
+and our Chief was consulted. He manifested a desire to see the lady, and
+she went to the city.
+
+The interview was satisfactory to both. Adele Lowenstein became one of
+our force, and a very valuable and efficient addition she proved.
+
+I had assured Jim Long,--even yet I find it difficult to call him
+Harvey James,--that his name should be freed from blot or suspicion. And
+it was not so hard a task as he evidently thought it.
+
+Blake Simpson, like most scamps of his class, was only too glad to do
+anything that would lighten his own sentence, and when he found that the
+Brookhouse faction had come to grief, and that his own part in their
+plot had been traced home to him by "the detectives," he weakened at
+once, and lost no time in turning State's evidence. He confessed that he
+had come to Trafton, in company with Dimber Joe, to "play detective," at
+the instigation, and under the pay of Brookhouse senior, who had visited
+the city to procure their services. And that Arch Brookhouse had
+afterward bribed him to make the assault upon Bethel, and planned the
+mode of attack; sending him, Simpson, to Ireton, and giving him a note
+to the elder Briggs, who furnished him with the little team and light
+buggy, which took him back to Trafton, where the shooting was done
+precisely as I had supposed after my investigation.
+
+Dimber Joe made a somewhat stouter resistance, and I offered him two
+alternatives.
+
+He might confess the truth concerning the accusations under which
+Harvey James had been tried and wrongfully imprisoned; in which case I
+would not testify against him except so far as he had been connected
+with the horse-thieves in the capacity of sham detective and spy. Or, he
+might refuse to do Harvey James justice, in which case I would put
+Brooks on the witness stand to exonerate James, and I myself would
+lessen his chances for obtaining a light sentence, by showing him up to
+the court as the villain he was; garroter, panel-worker, counterfeiter,
+burglar, and general utility rascal.
+
+Brooks or Brookhouse was certain of a long sentence, I assured Blaikie,
+and he would benefit rather than injure his cause by exposing the plot
+to ruin and fleece James. Would Mr. Blaikie choose, and choose quickly?
+
+And Mr. Blaikie, after a brief consideration, chose to tell the truth,
+and forever remove from Harvey James the brand of counterfeiter.
+
+The testimony against the entire gang was clear and conclusive. The
+elder Brookhouse, knowing this, made very little effort to defend
+himself and his band, and so "The 'Squire" and Arch Brookhouse were
+sentenced for long terms. Louis Brookhouse, the two Briggs, Ed. Dwight,
+the festive, Larkins and the two city scamps, were sentenced for lesser
+periods, but none escaped lightly.
+
+Only one question, and that one of minor importance, yet lacked an
+answer, and one day, before his trial, I visited Arch Brookhouse in his
+cell, my chief purpose being to ask this question.
+
+"There is one thing," I said, after a few words had passed between us,
+"there is one thing that I should like you to tell me, merely as a
+matter of self-gratification, as it is now of no special importance; and
+that is, how did you discover my identity, when I went to Mrs. Ballou's
+disguised as a Swede?"
+
+He laughed harshly.
+
+"You detectives do not always cover up your tracks," he said, with a
+sneer. "I don't object to telling you what you seem so curious about.
+'Squire Ewing and Mr. Rutger went to the city to employ you, and no
+doubt you charged them to be secret as the grave concerning your plans.
+Nevertheless, Mr. Rutger, who is a simple-minded confiding soul, told
+the secret in great confidence to Farmer La Porte; and he repeated it,
+again in great confidence in the bosom of his family."
+
+"And in the presence of his son, Johnnie?"
+
+"Just so. When we learned that a disguised detective was coming into the
+community, and that he would appear within a certain time, we began to
+look for him, and _you_ were the only stranger we discovered."
+
+"And you wrote me that letter of warning?"
+
+"Precisely."
+
+"And undoubtedly _you_ are the fellow who shot at me?"
+
+"I am happy to say that I am."
+
+"And I am happy to know that I have deprived you of the pleasure of
+handling firearms again for some time to come. Good morning, Mr.
+Brookhouse."
+
+That was my final interview with Arch Brookhouse, but I saw him once
+more, for the last time, when I gave my testimony against him at the
+famous trial of the Trafton horse-thieves.
+
+When the whole truth concerning the _modus operandi_ of the
+horse-thieves was made public at the trial, when the Traftonites learned
+that for five years they had harbored stolen horses under the very
+steeples of the town, and that those horses, when the heat of the chase
+was over, were boldly driven away across the country and toward the
+river before a lumbering coal cart, they were astounded at the boldness
+of the scheme, and the hardihood of the men who had planned it.
+
+But they no longer marveled at their own inability to fathom so cunning
+a plot.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLII.
+
+IN CONCLUSION.
+
+
+When Winter closed in, and the first snow mantled the farms of
+Groveland, the poor girl whom Johnny La Porte had reluctantly made his
+wife, closed her eyes upon this earthly panorama.
+
+She never rallied after her return from the South. They said that she
+died of consumption, but her friends knew, whatever medical name might
+be applied to her disease at the end, that it began with a broken heart.
+
+When it was over, and Nellie Ewing had no further need of his presence,
+Johnny La Porte,--who, held to his duty by the stern and oftentimes
+menacing eye of 'Squire Ewing, as well as by the fear which Carnes had
+implanted in his heart, had been as faithful and as gentle to his poor
+wife as it was in his worthless nature to be,--now found himself shunned
+in the community where he had once been petted and flattered.
+
+There was no forgiveness in the heart of 'Squire Ewing, and his door was
+closed against his daughter's destroyer; for such the Grovelanders, in
+spite of his tardy reparation, considered Johnny La Porte.
+
+He attempted to resume his old life in Groveland; but 'Squire Ewing was
+beloved in the community, and when _he_ turned his back upon Johnny La
+Porte his neighbors followed his example.
+
+Nowhere among those cordial Grovelanders was there a place or a welcome
+for the man who had blighted the life of Nellie Ewing, and so he drifted
+away from Groveland, to sink lower and lower in the scale of
+manhood--dissolute, brainless, a cumberer of the ground.
+
+Nellie Ewing's sad death had its effect upon thoughtless little Mamie
+Rutger. She was shocked into sobriety, and her grief at the loss of her
+friend brought with it shame for her own folly, and then repentance and
+a sincere effort to be a more dutiful daughter and a better woman.
+
+Mrs. Ballou put her threat into execution after mature deliberation. She
+put her daughter Grace into a convent school, and then, to make
+assurance doubly sure, she rented her fine farm, and took up her abode
+near that of the good sisters who had charge of her daughter's mental
+and spiritual welfare.
+
+As for the Little Adelphi and Fred Brookhouse, they both lost prestige
+after coming under the severe scrutiny of the police. One iniquitous
+discovery concerning the theatre and its manager led to more; and before
+another Spring visited the Sunny South, the Little Adelphi and Fred
+Brookhouse had vanished together, the one transformed into an excellent
+green grocers' establishment, and the other into a strolling disciple of
+chance.
+
+Amy Holmes clung to the Little Adelphi to the last; and, after its final
+fall, she, too, wandered away from New Orleans, carrying with her, her
+secret which had been so serviceable a weapon in the hands of Carnes,
+but which he never knew.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+It is written in the book of Fate that I shall pay one more visit to
+Trafton.
+
+This time there is no gloom, no plotting; there are no wrongs to right.
+The time is the fairest of the year, May time, and the occasion is a
+joyous one.
+
+Doctor Denham, funny, talkative, and lovable as ever; Carnes, bubbling
+over with whimsical Hibernianisms; Gerry Brown, handsome and in high
+spirits; and myself, quite as happy as are the rest; all step down upon
+the platform at the Trafton depot, and one after another grasp the
+outstretched hands of Harvey James, whom we all _will_ call Jim Long in
+spite of ourselves, and then receive the hearty welcome of the Harris's,
+senior and junior, and many other Traftonites.
+
+We have come to witness the end of our Trafton drama, viz., the marriage
+of Louise Barnard and Carl Bethel.
+
+Bethel is as happy as mortals are ever permitted to be and as handsome
+as a demigod. There are left no traces of his former suffering; the
+wound inflicted by a hired assassin has healed, leaving him as strong as
+of old, and only the scar upon his breast remains to tell the story of
+the long days when his life hung by a thread.
+
+Of the blow that was aimed at his honor, there remains not even a scar.
+The plot of the grave robbers has recoiled upon their own heads. Dr.
+Carl Bethel is to-day the leading physician, and the most popular man in
+Trafton.
+
+"I have waited for this event," says Harvey James, as we sit chatting
+together an hour before the marriage. "I have waited to see them
+married, and after this is over, I am going West."
+
+"Not out of our reach, I hope!"
+
+"No; I have still the surplus of the price of my farm; enough to buy me
+a ranche and stock it finely. I mean to build a roomy cabin and fit it
+up so as to accomodate guests. Then by-and-by, when you want another
+Summer's vacation, you and Carnes shall come to my ranche. I have talked
+over my plans with Bethel and his bride, and they have already accepted
+my hospitality for next year's vacation. I anticipate some years of
+genuine comfort yet, for I have long wanted to explore the West, and try
+life as a ranchman, but I would not leave Trafton while Brooks continued
+to flourish in it. Do you mean to accept my invitation, sir?"
+
+"I do, indeed; and as for Carnes, you'll get him to come easier than you
+can persuade him to leave."
+
+"Nothing could suit me better."
+
+Louise Barnard made a lovely bride, and there never was a merrier or
+more harmonious wedding party.
+
+During the evening, however, the fair bride approached Jim--or Harvey
+James--and myself, as we stood a little aloof from the others. There was
+the least bit of a frown upon her face, too, as she said:
+
+"I can't help feeling cross with you, sir detective. Somebody must bear
+the blame of not bringing Adele Lowenstein to my wedding. I wrote her
+that I should take her presence as a sign that she fully believed in the
+sincerity of my friendship, and that Trafton would thus be assured of my
+entire faith in her, and yet, she declined."
+
+I do not know what to say in reply. So I drop my eyes and mentally
+anathematize my own stupidity.
+
+"Do you know why she refused to come?" she persists.
+
+While I still hesitate, Jim--I must say Jim--touches my arm.
+
+"Your delicacy is commendable," he says in my ear. "But would it not be
+better to tell Mrs. Bethel the truth, than to allow her to think the
+woman she has befriended, ungrateful?"
+
+I feel that he is wise and I am foolish; so I lift my eyes to her face
+and say:
+
+"Mrs. Bethel, Adele Lowenstein had one secret that you never guessed. If
+you had seen her, as I saw her, at the bedside of your husband, on the
+day after the attempt upon his life, _you_, of all women in the world,
+would understand best why she is not at your wedding to-day."
+
+She utters a startled exclamation, and her eyes turn involuntarily to
+where Carl Bethel stands, tall and splendid, among his guests; then a
+look of pitying tenderness comes into her face.
+
+"Poor Adele!" she says softly, and turns slowly away.
+
+"Adele Lowenstein is not the woman to forget easily," I say to my
+companion. "But there," and I nod toward Gerry Brown, "is the man who
+would willingly teach her the lesson."
+
+"Then," says Jim, contentedly, "it is only a question of time. Gerry
+Brown is bound to win."
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+LAWRENCE L. LYNCH'S WORKS.
+
+
+Madeline Payne, the Expert's Daughter; with 44 Illustrations. Price,
+$1.50.
+
+Shadowed by Three; with 55 Illustrations. Price, $1.50.
+
+Sold on all Railway trains, by all Booksellers, and sent postpaid, on
+receipt of price, by the Publishers.
+
+
+
+
+POPULAR BOOKS.
+
+
+_Dangerous Ground; or, The Rival Detectives._
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH. Illustrated by 45 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.
+
+Its incidents are splendidly handled. There is not a dull page or line
+in it. Dick Stanhope is a character to be admired for his courage; while
+one's deepest sympathies twine about the noble, tender-hearted Leslie
+Warburton.
+
+
+_Madeline Payne, the Detective's Daughter._
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH. Illustrated by 44 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.
+
+"One of the most fascinating of modern novels. It combines the
+excitement that ever attends the intricate and hazardous schemes of a
+detective, together with as cunningly elaborated a plot as the best of
+Wilkie Collins' or Charles Reade's."
+
+
+_Out of a Labyrinth._
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH. Illustrated by 36 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.
+
+"We have so often spoken of Mr. Lynch's superb abilities that further
+praise is scarcely essential. Suffice it to say that this work is in no
+way inferior to those which have preceded it."--_Aurora News._
+
+
+_The Gold Hunters' Adventures in Australia._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated by 41 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.
+
+An exciting story of adventures in Australia, in the early days, when
+the discovery of gold drew thither a motley crowd of reckless, daring
+men.
+
+
+_The Bushrangers; or, Wild Life in Australia._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated. Price, $1.50.
+
+The record of a second voyage to that land of mystery and
+adventure--Australia--by the "Gold Hunters," and replete with exciting
+exploits among lawless men.
+
+
+_The Gold Hunters in Europe; or, the Dead Alive._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated by 34 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.
+
+The heroes of "The Gold Hunters' Adventures" seek excitement in a trip
+through Europe, and meet with a constant succession of perilous
+adventures.
+
+
+_A Slaver's Adventures on Sea and Land._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated by 40 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.
+
+A thrilling story of an exciting life on board a slaver, chased by
+British gunboats, and equally interesting adventures in the wilds of
+Africa and on the Island of Cuba.
+
+
+_A Whaleman's Adventures on Sea and Land._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated by 36 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.
+
+A vivid story of life on a whaler, in the Pacific Ocean, and of
+adventures in the Sandwich Islands, and in California in the early days.
+
+
+_Running the Blockade._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Profusely illustrated. Price, $1.50.
+
+A tale of adventures on a Blockade Runner during the rebellion, by a
+Union officer acting in the Secret Service of the United States.
+
+
+Sold on all Railroad Trains, by all Booksellers, or will be sent
+postpaid on receipt of price by The Publishers.
+
+
+ALEX. T. LOYD & CO.,
+
+133 LASALLE STREET, CHICAGO.
+
+
+
+
+A New Detective Story.
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH,
+
+Author of "SHADOWED BY THREE," "MADELINE PAYNE," etc.
+(_Ready Dec. 1st, 1884._)
+
+[Illustration: "Don't pull, boys; I've got the drop on ye!" Page 58.]
+
+DANGEROUS GROUND;
+
+OR THE
+
+RIVAL DETECTIVES.
+
+The author's latest and greatest work; intensely interesting.
+45 Elegant Illustrations.
+PRICE, $1.50.
+
+Sold on all Railway Trains and by all Booksellers.
+
+
+
+
+Madeline Payne
+
+THE EXPERT'S DAUGHTER.
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH
+
+Author of "Shadowed by Three." "Out of a Labyrinth," etc., etc.
+
+Illustrated with 45 Original Engravings.
+
+PRICE, $1.50.
+
+CONTENTS.--The Lovers' Meeting. The Serpent in Eden. A Sudden
+Departure. What the Old Tree Revealed. Two Heartless Plotters. The Story
+of a Mother's Wrongs and a Husband's Crimes. Turns her Back on the Old
+Home, and Trusts the Future and Lucian Davlin. Nurse Hagar is "Out of
+Sorts." Madeline Defies her Enemies. "_You are her Murderer!_" The
+Railway Station at Night. A Disappointed Schemer Rejoiced. Madeline's
+Flight. The Night Journey to New York. A Friendly Warning Unheeded.
+"Take it; _in the Name of your Mother I ask it_!" Alone in the Great
+City. A Shrewd Scheme. An Ever-Present Face. Olive Gerard's Warning. The
+Cruel Awakening. The Bird in a Golden Cage. The Luxurious Apartments of
+Lucian Davlin, the Man of Luck. A Dissatisfied Servant. The Man of Luck
+Defied. A Well-Aimed Pistol Shot. "Little Demon, I will kill you before
+I will lose you now!" Doctor Vaughn Summoned. A Charming Widow at
+Bellair. "The Danger is Past!" Gone! "When Next we Meet, I Shall Have
+Other Weapons!" Bonnie, Bewitching Claire. A Tell-tale Photograph.
+"Cruel, Crafty, Treacherous." Madeline and Olive in Conference. "Kitty,
+the Dancer, will Die!" The Story of an Old Crime Retold. "Percy! Percy!
+Percy!" A Message from the Dead. "May God's Curse fall on all who Drove
+her to her Doom!" Miss Arthur's French Maid. Cora Growing Weary of
+Dissembling. Celine Leroque Overhears an Important Conversation. Mr.
+Percy startled. Cora Shares this Feeling. Percy Turns the Tables. "And
+yet you are on the Earth!" Celine Manages to Play the Spy to some
+Purpose. Cora and Celine Measure Swords. Cora's Cunning Plot. "Celine
+looked Cautiously about her." An Intercepted Telegram. Face to Face. A
+Midnight Appointment. "I am Afraid for _you_; but give it up now?
+never!" An Irate Spinster. Celine's Highly Probable Story. Gathering
+Clues. A Hurried Visit. The Hand of Friendship Wields the Surgeon's
+Knife. Claire Keith Placed Face to Face with Trouble. A Dual
+Renunciation. An Astonishing Disclosure. "I am not Worthy of Him, and
+_she_ is!" Struggling Against Fate. "Ah, how Dared I think to Become one
+of you?" A Fiery Fair Champion. Hagar and Cora have a Meeting. Cora gets
+a Glimmer of a False Light. "To be, to do, to Suffer." A Troubled
+Spinster. An Aggravating French Maid. "Won't there be a Row in the
+Castle!" Setting some Snares. Cora and Celine form an Alliance. A
+Veritable Ghost Awakens Consternation in the Household. "If ever you
+want to make him feel what it is to Suffer, Hagar will help you!" Doctor
+Vaughn Visits Bellair. Not a Bad Day's Work. Henry Reveals his Master's
+Secrets. Claire Turns Circe. A Mysterious Tenant. Celine Hurries Matters
+a Trifle. The Curtain Rises on the Mimic Stage. Celine Discharged by the
+Spinster, takes Service with Cora. The Sudden Illness. The Learned
+"Doctor from Europe." "I am Sorry, very Sorry." The Plot Thickens. A
+Midnight Conflagration. The Mysterious House in Flames, and its
+Mysterious Tenant takes Refuge with Claire. The Story of a Wrecked Life.
+"Well, it is a Strange Business, and a Difficult." Letters from the Seat
+of War. Mr. Percy Shakes Himself. A Fair Invalid. "Two Handsomer
+Scoundrels Never Stood at Bay!" A Silken Belt Worth a King's Ransom. A
+Successful Burglary. Cross Purposes. A Slight Complication. A new
+Detective on the Scene. Clarence Vaughn seeks to Cultivate him. Bidding
+High for First-Class Detective Service. "Thou shalt not Serve two
+Masters" set at naught. Mr. Lord's Letter. Premonitions of a Storm.
+"The--fellow is Dead!" A Thunderbolt. "I have come back to my own!" A
+Fair, but Strong, Hand. Cora Restive under Orders. "You--you are----?"
+"Celine Leroque, Madam." A Madman. A Bogus Doctor Uncomfortable. "Don't
+you try that, sir!" Lucian Davlin's "Points" are False Beacons. Cora's
+Humiliation. An Arrival of Sharp-Eyed Well-Borers. Rather Strange Maid
+Servants. The Cords are Tightening and the Victims Writhe. A Veritable
+Sphynx. Sleeping with Eyes Open. A Savage Toothache. A Judicious Use of
+Chloroform. A Bold Break for Freedom. An Omnipresent Well-Borer. "No
+Nonsense, Mind; I'm not a Flat." "For God's sake, _what_ are you?" "A
+Witch!" The Doctor's Wooing. Mrs. Ralston Overhears Something. A Fresh
+Complication. "He is very Handsome; so are Tigers!" An Astounding
+Revelation. Mrs. Ralston's Story. "No," gasped Olive, "I--I--." A
+Movement in Force. Cora stirs up the Animals. A Wedding Indefinitely
+Postponed for Cause. Nipped in the Bud. Ready for Action. "Be at the
+Cottage to-night." A Plea for forgiveness. Sharpening the Sword of Fate.
+The Weight of a Woman's Hand. "Officers, take him; he has been my
+Prisoner long enough!" "Man, you have been a Dupe, a Fool!" Cora's
+Confession. "The Pistol is Aimed at Madeline's Heart!" "It is a Death
+Wound!" "The Goddess you Worship has Deserted you!" The Death-bed of a
+Hypocrite. "And then comes Rest!" The World is Clothed in a New White
+Garment.
+
+    "God's greatness shines around our incompleteness,
+    Round our restlessness His rest!"
+
+
+
+
+THE GOLD HUNTERS' ADVENTURE
+
+OR, WILD LIFE IN AUSTRALIA.
+
+By WM. H. THOMES, author of "The Bushrangers," "The Gold Hunters in
+Europe," "A Whaleman's Adventures," "Life in the East Indies,"
+"Adventures on a Slaver," "Running the Blockade," etc., etc.
+
+[Illustration: "Now for a rush.--Cut them to pieces!"]
+
+A FASCINATING STORY OF ADVENTURE.
+
+
+
+
+A SLAVER'S ADVENTURES
+
+ON SEA AND LAND.
+
+[Illustration: "We saw many species of wild animals." Page 39.]
+
+By WM. H. THOMES,
+
+Author of "THE GOLD HUNTERS' ADVENTURES IN AUSTRALIA," "THE
+BUSHRANGERS," "RUNNING THE BLOCKADE," etc., etc.
+
+ILLUSTRATED WITH FORTY ELEGANT ENGRAVINGS.
+
+SOLD ON ALL RAILWAY TRAINS AND BY ALL BOOKSELLERS.
+
+
+
+
+A Whaleman's Adventures
+
+_AT SEA, IN THE SANDWICH ISLANDS AND CALIFORNIA._
+
+[Illustration]
+
+By WM. H. THOMES,
+
+Author of "THE GOLD HUNTERS' ADVENTURES IN AUSTRALIA," "THE
+BUSHRANGERS," "RUNNING THE BLOCKADE," etc., etc.
+
+Illustrated with Thirty-Six Fine Engravings.
+
+SOLD ON ALL RAILWAY TRAINS AND BY ALL BOOKSELLERS.
+
+
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's note:
+
+Apparent printer's errors have been retained, unless stated below.
+
+Punctuation, capitalization, accents and formatting markup have been
+made consistent.
+
+Page numbers cited in illustration captions refer to their discussion in
+the text. Illustrations have been moved near their mention in the text.
+
+Page 13, "tress" changed to "trees". (Mamie Rutger, the only daughter of
+a prosperous German farmer; wild little Mamie, who rode the wickedest
+colts, climbed the tallest trees, sang loudest in the singing-school,
+and laughed oftenest at the merry-makings, also vanished.)
+
+Page 32, "a a" changed to "a". (Instead of working swiftly on to a
+successful issue, this must be a case of waiting, of wit against wit,
+and I must report to my chief a balk in the very beginning.)
+
+Page 65, "facts" changed to "facks" for consistency in dialect within
+the paragraph. (They're facks, as anybody can see.)
+
+Page 89, Missing "on" added. (Brookhouse tore off half of the yellow
+envelope, and sitting on his horse, wrote a few words, resting his scrap
+of paper on the horn of his saddle.)
+
+Page 92, "then" changed to "them". (He had put the matter before them in
+a new light, and each man felt himself for the moment responsible for
+his own acts.)
+
+Page 98, "bad" changed to "had". (Those who at first had been held in
+check by the doctor's manner were once more spurred to action by the
+sight of those earth-stained tools, and the general verdict was that
+"Bethel was bluffing, sure.")
+
+Page 139, "thus" changed to "this". (I arose and made a hasty toilet,
+feeling sure that something unusual had called him from his bed this
+early.)
+
+Page 148, "he" changed to "be". (Whom he would be elected to office, and
+whom he would not, came somehow to be disapproved by all Trafton.)
+
+Page 157, "dis-displeased" changed to "displeased". (Arch displeased me
+very much by not coming to your aid;)
+
+Page 158, "in" changed to "is". (Your influence in Trafton is
+considerable, I know.)
+
+Page 199, "is is" changed to "is". ("I am afraid some new misfortune
+menaces Trafton, if, as you say, Blake Simpson is already here, for
+Dimber Joe came down on the train to-night, and is in Trafton.")
+
+Page 203, "undividuality" changed to "individuality". (His words were a
+mass of absurd contradictions, betraying no trait of his individuality,
+save his eccentricity;)
+
+Page 213, "he" changed to "be". (I hear his fiddle, so I s'pose he can
+be seen?)
+
+Page 214, "machime" changed to "machine". (I had supposed it to be none
+other than an old school friend of that name, who, when last I heard of
+him, was general agent for a city machine manufactory.)
+
+Page 221, "began" changed to "begin". ("Ah! I begin to see!")
+
+Page 266, "compainions" changed to "companions". (I find there are
+plenty of guides and companions to be picked up.)
+
+Page 276, Telegram edited to match one on Page 280, as it states it is
+the same telegram.
+
+Page 335, "statute" changed to "statue". (Louise sat mute and
+statue-like by the bedside of her lover, and I, oppressed by the
+stillness, was leaning over the open window sill, wondering how it was
+faring with Jim Long, when the gate gave the faintest creak, and I
+lifted my eyes to see the object of my mental inquiry coming toward me.)
+
+Page 336, "and and" changed to "and". (He glanced from me to the
+doorway, where Mrs. Harris was now standing, with an expectant look on
+her benevolent countenance, and replied, laconically:)
+
+Page 336, "unoticed" changed to "unnoticed". (At the same moment I
+observed what was unnoticed by the other two; Miss Barnard had left her
+post and was standing behind Mrs. Harris.)
+
+Page 336, "imperceptable" changed to "imperceptible". ("Now, the
+Jestice," with another sidelong glance, and an almost imperceptible
+gesture, "is a man an' a brother.")
+
+Page 344, "litttle" changed to "little". (All we want, is here; half a
+dozen men with ordinary courage and shrewdness, and a little patience.)
+
+Page 376, "ecstacy" changed to "ecstasy". (I experienced a thrill of
+ecstasy when I learned that Wyman kicked him three times, with stout
+boots!)
+
+Page 403, "darks" changed to "dark". (Three dark forms approach, one
+after the other,)
+
+
+
+***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OUT OF A LABYRINTH***
+
+
+******* This file should be named 38888-8.txt or 38888-8.zip *******
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+<body>
+<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, Out of a Labyrinth, by Lawrence L. Lynch</h1>
+<pre>
+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 <a href = "http://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a></pre>
+<p>Title: Out of a Labyrinth</p>
+<p>Author: Lawrence L. Lynch</p>
+<p>Release Date: February 15, 2012  [eBook #38888]</p>
+<p>Language: English</p>
+<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p>
+<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OUT OF A LABYRINTH***</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<h4>E-text prepared by Veronika Redfern, Suzanne Shell,<br />
+    and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.pgdp.net">http://www.pgdp.net</a>)<br />
+    from page images generously made available by<br />
+    Internet Archive/American Libraries<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.archive.org/details/americana">http://www.archive.org/details/americana</a>)</h4>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<table border="0" style="background-color: #ccccff;margin: 0 auto;" cellpadding="10">
+  <tr>
+    <td valign="top">
+      Note:
+    </td>
+    <td>
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive/American Libraries. See
+      <a href="http://www.archive.org/details/outoflabyrin00lynciala">
+      http://www.archive.org/details/outoflabyrin00lynciala</a>
+	</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="full" />
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 399px;">
+<a href="images/cover.jpg">
+  <img src="images/th_cover.jpg" width="399" height="600" alt="Cover: Lynch's Detective Novels" title="Cover: Lynch's Detective Novels" />
+</a>
+</div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus001.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus001.jpg" width="400" height="585" alt="&quot;Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of
+defence about the building.&quot;&mdash;page 423." title="&quot;Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of
+defence about the building.&quot;&mdash;page 423." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of
+defence about the building.&quot;&mdash;page 423.</span>
+</div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+
+<h1>OUT OF A LABYRINTH.</h1>
+<p class="center">BY</p>
+<p class="center big">LAWRENCE L. LYNCH,</p>
+<p class="center">(OF THE SECRET SERVICE.)</p>
+<p class="center">Author of "Shadowed by Three," "Madeline Payne,"<br />
+"Dangerous Ground," "The Diamond Coterie,"<br />
+etc., etc.</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+
+<p class="center">
+<span class="center">CHICAGO:</span><br />
+<span class="center">ALEX. T. LOYD &amp; CO.,</span><br />
+<span class="center">1885.</span><br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class="center small">Copyright, 1885, by</span><br />
+<span class="center">ALEX. T. LOYD &amp; CO.,</span><br />
+<span class="center small">CHICAGO.</span><br /><br />
+<span class="center small">Copyright, 1882, by</span>
+<span class="center small">DONNELLEY, LOYD &amp; CO.</span>
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2>TABLE OF CONTENTS</h2>
+
+<table width="90%" border="0" summary="contents">
+  <tr>
+    <td style="width:20%"><a href="#CHAPTER_I">Chapter I.</a></td>
+    <td style="width:30%">A Bad Beginning.</td>
+    <td style="width:20%"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">Chapter XXII</a><a href="#CHAPTER_III">.</a></td>
+    <td style="width:30%">Two Departures.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_II">Chapter II.</a></td>
+    <td>The Enemy Makes a Move.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">Chapter XXIII.</a></td>
+    <td>A Shot in the Dark.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_III">Chapter III.</a></td>
+    <td>Scenting a Mystery.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">Chapter XXIV.</a></td>
+    <td>Jim Long Shows His Hand.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_IV">Chapter IV.</a></td>
+    <td>Chartering a Dummy.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">Chapter XXV.</a></td>
+    <td>In Which I Take Jim on Trust.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_V">Chapter V.</a></td>
+    <td>En Route for Trafton.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">Chapter XXVI.</a></td>
+    <td>The Trail of the Assassin.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_VI">Chapter VI.</a></td>
+    <td>Jim Long.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">Chapter XXVII.</a></td>
+    <td>An Angry Heiress.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_VII">Chapter VII.</a></td>
+    <td>We Organize.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII">Chapter XXVIII.</a></td>
+    <td>Jim Gives Bail.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">Chapter VIII.</a></td>
+    <td>A Resurrection.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX">Chapter XXIX.</a></td>
+    <td>Vigilants.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_IX">Chapter IX.</a></td>
+    <td>Mob Law.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXX">Chapter XXX.</a></td>
+    <td>A Chapter of Telegrams.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_X">Chapter X.</a></td>
+    <td>Two Fair Champions.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXI">Chapter XXXI.</a></td>
+    <td>Carnes Tells His Story.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XI">Chapter XI.</a></td>
+    <td>A Cup of Tea.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXII">Chapter XXXII.</a></td>
+    <td>Amy Holmes Confesses.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XII">Chapter XII.</a></td>
+    <td>A Big Haul.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXIII">Chapter XXXIII.</a></td>
+    <td>Johnny La Porte is Brought to Book.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">Chapter XIII.</a></td>
+    <td>'Squire Brookhouse Makes a Call.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXIV">Chapter XXXIV.</a></td>
+    <td>How Bethel was Warned.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">Chapter XIV.</a></td>
+    <td>Mrs. Ballou's Pistol Practice.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXV">Chapter XXXV.</a></td>
+    <td>We Prepare For a &quot;Party.&quot;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XV">Chapter XV.</a></td>
+    <td>Preparations of War.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXVI">Chapter XXXVI.</a></td>
+    <td>Something the Moon Failed to See.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">Chapter XVI.</a></td>
+    <td>Fly Crooks in Trafton.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXVII">Chapter XXXVII.</a></td>
+    <td>Caught in the Act.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">Chapter XVII.</a></td>
+    <td>Southward to Clyde.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXVIII">Chapter XXXVIII.</a></td>
+    <td>&quot;The Counterfeiter's Daughter.&quot;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">Chapter XVIII.</a></td>
+    <td>A Sewing Machine Agent.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXXIX">Chapter XXXIX.</a></td>
+    <td>&quot;Louise Barnard's Friendship.&quot;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">Chapter XIX.</a></td>
+    <td>Haunted by a Face.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XL">Chapter XL.</a></td>
+    <td>The Story Of Harvey James.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XX">Chapter XX.</a></td>
+    <td>Some Bits Of Personal History.</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XLI">Chapter XLI.</a></td>
+    <td>A Gathering of the Fragments.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">Chapter XXI.</a></td>
+    <td>&quot;Evolving a Theory.&quot;</td>
+    <td><a href="#CHAPTER_XLII">Chapter XLII.</a></td>
+    <td>In Conclusion.</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="4">&nbsp;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="4" class="center"><strong>Advertisements:</strong></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="2" class="center"><a href="#LAWRENCE_L_LYNCHS_WORKS">Lawrence L. Lynch's Works</a></td>
+    <td colspan="2" class="center"><a href="#POPULAR_BOOKS">Popular Books</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="2" class="center"><a href="#New_Detective_Story">A New Detective Story.</a></td>
+    <td colspan="2" class="center"><a href="#Madeline_Payne">Madeline Payne: The Expert's Daughter.</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="2" class="center"><a href="#Gold_Hunters">The Gold Hunters' Adventures.</a></td>
+    <td colspan="2" class="center"><a href="#Slavers">A Slaver's Adventures on Sea and Land.</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="4" class="center"><a href="#Whalemans">A Whaleman's Adventures at Sea, in the Sandwich Islands and California.</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="4">&nbsp;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="4" class="center"><a href="#Transcribers_Notes"><strong>Transcriber's Notes</strong></a></td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h1>OUT OF A LABYRINTH.</h1>
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I.<br />
+<small>A BAD BEGINNING.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>It was a June day; breezy, yet somewhat too warm. The slow going old
+passenger train on the slow going mail route, that shall be nameless in
+these chronicles, seemed in less of a hurry than usual, and I, stretched
+lazily across two seats, with my left arm in a sling, was beginning to
+yield to the prevailing atmosphere of stupidity, when we rumbled up to a
+village station, and took on board a single passenger.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span></p><p>I was returning from a fruitless mission; and had stepped on board the
+eastward-bound train in anything but an enviable frame of mind; and no
+wonder! I, who prided myself upon my skill in my profession; <i>I</i>, who
+was counted by my chief the "best detective on the force, sir,"&mdash;had
+started, less than a week before, for a little farming settlement in one
+of the interior States, confident of my ability to unravel soon, and
+easily, a knotty problem.</p>
+
+<p>I had taken every precaution to conceal my identity, and believed myself
+in a fair way to unveil the mystery that had brought grief and
+consternation into the midst of those comfortable, easy-going farmers;
+and I had been <i>spotted</i> at the very outset! I had been first warned, in
+a gentlemanly but anonymous fashion, to leave the neighborhood, and
+then, because I did not avail myself of the very first opportunity to
+decamp, had been shot from behind a hedge!</p>
+
+<p>And this is how it happened:</p>
+
+<p>Groveland, so called, doubtless, because of the total absence of
+anything bearing closer resemblance to a grove than the thrifty orchards
+scattered here and there, is a thriving township, not a town.</p>
+
+<p>Its inhabitants reside in the midst of their own farms, and, save the
+farm buildings, the low, rambling, sometimes picturesque farm houses, or
+newer, more imposing, "improved" and often exquisitely ugly, white
+painted dwellings; the blacksmith shop, operated by a thrifty farmer and
+his hard-fisted sons; the post-office, kept in one corner of the "front
+room" by a sour-visaged old farmer's wife; and the "deestrict"
+school-house, then in a state of quiescence,&mdash;town institutions there
+were none in Groveland.</p>
+
+<p>The nearest village, and that an exceedingly small one, was five miles
+west of Groveland's western boundary line; and the nearest railroad town
+lay ten miles east of the eastern boundary.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span></p><p>So the Grovelanders were a community unto themselves, and were seldom
+disturbed by a ripple from the outside world.</p>
+
+<p>It was a well-to-do community. Most of its inhabitants had "squatted"
+there when the land was cheap and uncultivated, and they were poor and
+young.</p>
+
+<p>Time, railroads, and the grand march of civilization had increased the
+value of their acres; and their own industry had reared for them
+pleasant homes, overflowing granaries, barns "good enough to live in,"
+orchards, vineyards, all manner of comforts and blessings. Strong sons
+and fair daughters had grown up around them; every man knew his
+neighbor, and had known him for years. They shared in their neighborhood
+joys and griefs, and made common cause at weddings, funerals,
+threshings, huskings, cider makings, everything.</p>
+
+<p>One would suppose it difficult to have a secret in Groveland, and yet a
+mystery had come among them.</p>
+
+<p>'Squire Ewing, 'squire by courtesy, lived in a fine new white house on a
+fine farm in the very center of the township. His family consisted of
+his wife, two daughters, the eldest, eighteen, the younger, fifteen, and
+two sons, boys of twelve and ten.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span></p><p>The daughters of 'Squire Ewing were counted among the brightest and
+prettiest in Groveland, and they were not lacking in accomplishments, as
+accomplishments go in such communities. Much learning was not considered
+a necessity among the Groveland young ladies, but they had been smitten
+with the piano-playing mania, and every Winter the district school-house
+was given over, for one night in the week, to the singing school.</p>
+
+<p>The Misses Ewing were ranked among the best "musicians" of Groveland,
+and they had also profited for a time by the instructions of the nearest
+seminary, or young ladies' school.</p>
+
+<p>One evening, just as the sun was setting, Ellen, or Nell Ewing, as she
+was familiarly called, mounted her pony and cantered blithely away, to
+pass the night with a girl friend.</p>
+
+<p>It was nothing unusual for the daughters of one farmer to ride or drive
+miles and pass the night or a longer time with the daughters of another,
+and Nellie's destination was only four miles away.</p>
+
+<p>The night passed and half of the ensuing day, but the eldest daughter of
+Farmer Ewing did not return.</p>
+
+<p>However, there was no cause for alarm in this, and 'Squire Ewing ate his
+evening meal in peace, confident that his daughter would return before
+the night had closed in. But a second night came and went, and still she
+did not come.</p>
+
+<p>Then the good farmer became impatient, and early on the morning of the
+second day he dispatched his eldest son to hasten the return of the
+tardy one.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span></p><p>But the boy came back alone, and in breathless agitation. Nellie had
+not been seen by the Ballous since the night she left home. She had
+complained of a headache, and had decided to return home again. She had
+remained at Mrs. Ballou's only an hour; it was not yet dark when she
+rode away.</p>
+
+<p>Well, Nellie Ewing was never seen after that, and not a clue to her
+hiding-place, or her fate, could be discovered.</p>
+
+<p>Detectives were employed; every possible and impossible theory was
+"evolved" and worked upon, but with no other result than failure.</p>
+
+<p>Groveland was in a state of feverish excitement; conjectures the most
+horrible and most absurd were afloat; nothing was talked of save the
+mysterious disappearance of Nellie Ewing.</p>
+
+<p>And so nearly three months passed. At the end of that time another
+thunderbolt fell.</p>
+
+<p>Mamie Rutger, the only daughter of a prosperous German farmer; wild
+little Mamie, who rode the wickedest colts, climbed the tallest trees,
+sang loudest in the singing-school, and laughed oftenest at the
+merry-makings, also vanished. At first they thought it one of her jokes,
+for she was given to practical joking; but she did not come back. No
+trace of her could be found.</p>
+
+<p>At twilight one June evening she was flitting about the door-yard,
+sometimes singing gayly, sometimes bending over a rosebush, sometimes
+snatching down handfuls of early cherries. After that she was seen no
+more.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span></p><p>Then ensued another search, and a panic possessed that once quiet
+community. The country was scoured. Every foot of road, every acre of
+ground, every hedge or clump of trees, every stream, every deserted or
+shut-up building for miles around was faithfully searched.</p>
+
+<p>And then Farmer Rutger and 'Squire Ewing closeted themselves together,
+took counsel of each other, and decided to call in the aid of a city
+detective. They came together to our office and laid their case before
+our chief.</p>
+
+<p>"If any man can clear up this matter, it's Bathurst," said that bluff
+old fellow.</p>
+
+<p>And so I was called into the consultation.</p>
+
+<p>It was a very long and very earnest one. Questions were asked that would
+have done credit to the brightest lawyer. Every phase of the affair, or
+the two affairs, was closely examined from different standpoints. Every
+possibility weighed; copious notes taken.</p>
+
+<p>Before the two men left us, I had in my mind's eye a tolerably fair map
+of Groveland, and in my memory, safely stowed away, the names of many
+Grovelanders, together with various minute, and seemingly irrelevant,
+items concerning the families, and nearest friends and neighbors, of the
+two bereaved fathers.</p>
+
+<p>They fully perceived the necessity for perfect secrecy, and great
+caution. And I felt assured that no word or sign from them would betray
+my identity and actual business when, a few days later, I should appear
+in Groveland.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span></p><p>It was a strange case; one of the sort that had a wonderful fascination
+for me; one of the sort that once entered upon, absorbed me soul and
+body, sleeping or waking, day and night, for I was an enthusiast in my
+profession.</p>
+
+<p>After waiting a few days I set out for the scene of the mystery. I did
+not take the most direct route to reach my destination, but went by a
+circuitous way to a small town west of the place, and so tramped into
+it, coming, not from the city, but from the opposite direction.</p>
+
+<p>My arrival was as unobtrusive as I could make it, and I carried my
+wardrobe in a somewhat dusty bundle, swung across my shoulder by a
+strap.</p>
+
+<p>I had assumed the character of a Swede in search of employment, and my
+accent and general <i>ensemble</i> were perfect in their way.</p>
+
+<p>Perseveringly I trudged from farm to farm, meeting sometimes with
+kindness, and being as often very briefly dismissed, or ordered off for
+a tramp. But no one was in need of a man until I arrived at the widow
+Ballou's.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span></p><p>This good woman, who was a better farmer than some of her male
+neighbors, and who evidently had an eye to the saving of dollars and
+cents, listened quite indifferently to my little story while I told how
+long I had looked for work, and how I had been willing to labor for very
+small wages. But when I arrived at the point where I represented myself
+as now willing to work for my board until I could do better, her eyes
+brightened, she suddenly found my monotone more interesting, decided
+that I "looked honest," and, herself, escorted me to the kitchen and
+dealt me out a bountiful supper, for I had reached the Ballou farmhouse
+at sundown.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II.<br />
+<small>THE ENEMY MAKES A MOVE.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>Three days passed, and of course during that time I heard much about the
+two girls and their singular disappearance.</p>
+
+<p>At night, after work was done, and supper disposed of, Mrs. Ballou would
+send some one to the post-office. This duty had usually fallen to Miss
+Grace Ballou, or been chosen by her, but since the night when Nellie
+Ewing rode away from the door, never again to be seen, Mrs. Ballou had
+vetoed the evening canters that Grace so much loved, and so the
+post-office was attended to by Master Fred, the spoiled son and heir,
+aged thirteen, or by the "hired man."</p>
+
+<p>On the evening of the third day of my service, I saddled one of the farm
+horses, and rode to the post-office to fetch the widow's mail, and great
+was my surprise when the grim postmistress presented me with a letter
+bearing my assumed name, Chris Ollern, and directed to the care of Mrs.
+Ballou.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span></p><p>Stowing away the widow's papers and letters in a capacious coat pocket,
+and my own letter in a smaller inner one, I rode thoughtfully homeward.</p>
+
+<p>Who had written me? Not the men at the office; they were otherwise
+instructed; besides, the letter was a local one, bearing only the
+Groveland mark. Could it be that Farmer Rutger or 'Squire Ewing had
+forgotten all my instructions, and been insane enough to write me?</p>
+
+<p>I hurriedly put my horse in his stable, unburdened my pocket of the
+widow's mail, and mounted to my room.</p>
+
+<p>Locking my door and lighting a tallow candle&mdash;the widow objected to
+kerosene in sleeping rooms,&mdash;I opened my letter.</p>
+
+<p>It was brief, very, containing only these words:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot"><span class="smcap">Chris Ollern</span>&mdash;As you call yourself, unless you wish to
+disappear as effectually as did Nellie Ewing and Mamie Rutger,
+you will abandon your present pursuit. A word to the wise is
+sufficient.</p>
+
+<p>Here was an astonisher, and here was also a clue. I was betrayed, or
+discovered. But the enemy had showed his hand. I had also made a
+discovery.</p>
+
+<p>There was an enemy then; there had been foul play; and that enemy was
+still in the vicinity, as this letter proved.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span></p><p>It was a wily enemy too; the letter would betray nothing as regarded
+identity. It was <i>printed</i>; the letters were smooth and even, but
+perfectly characterless. It was a wily enemy, but not quite a wise one,
+as the sending of such a letter proved.</p>
+
+<p>I did not leave my room again that night, but sat for hours thinking.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning as I came from the barn-yard with a pail of milk, I
+encountered Miss Grace Ballou. She was feeding a brood of chickens, and
+seemed inclined to talk with me.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you ever see such fine chicks, Chris?" she asked; "and they are
+only two weeks old."</p>
+
+<p>I stopped, of course, to admire the chickens and express my admiration
+in broken English.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly she moved nearer me, and said, in a lower tone:</p>
+
+<p>"Chris, did you bring any letters for any one except mother, last
+night?"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus002.jpg">
+  <img src="images/th_illus002.jpg" width="400" height="563" alt="&quot;Chris, did you bring any letters for any one, except
+mother, last night?&quot;&mdash;page 18." title="&quot;Chris, did you bring any letters for any one, except
+mother, last night?&quot;&mdash;page 18." />
+</a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Chris, did you bring any letters for any one, except
+mother, last night?&quot;&mdash;page 18.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Promptly and unblushingly, yet somewhat surprised, I answered, "No."</p>
+
+<p>Her eyes searched my face for a second, and then she said, falling back
+a step:</p>
+
+<p>"Well, don't say anything about my asking you, Chris. I&mdash;I expected a
+letter."</p>
+
+<p>That night I went to the post-office as usual, and the next morning Miss
+Grace repeated her question:</p>
+
+<p>"Did you bring no letters for <i>any one, positively</i>?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, there were only papers that night."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span></p><p>The third night after the receipt of my mysterious warning, however,
+there came a letter for Grace, which, a little to my surprise, was
+promptly handed over by her mother. Whether this was the expected
+missive or not it threw the young lady into unmistakable raptures.</p>
+
+<p>Amy was coming! Amy Holmes; she would be at the station to-morrow, and
+Grace must go in the carriage to meet her.</p>
+
+<p>Everybody was pleased except Fred Ballou. Mrs. Ballou heartily expressed
+her satisfaction, and announced that I should drive with Grace to "the
+station;" and Ann, the "help," became quite animated.</p>
+
+<p>But Fred scornfully declined his mother's proposition, that he should
+ride to town with his sister and myself.</p>
+
+<p>"Catch me," he sniffed, "for that stuck-up town girl; she was always
+putting ideas into Grace's head; and&mdash;he hated girls anyway. And hoped
+some one would just carry Amy Holmes off as they did Nellie Ewing."</p>
+
+<p>Whereupon Grace turned, first pale, then scarlet, and lastly, flew at
+her brother and boxed his ears soundly.</p>
+
+<p>The next day we went as per programme to the town, ten miles distant,
+where Miss Holmes would be. She had arrived before us, and was waiting.</p>
+
+<p>She was a handsome, showy-looking girl, stylishly dressed, and very
+self-possessed in manner; evidently a girl who knew something of town
+life.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span></p><p>We found her beguiling the time of waiting by conversation with a
+well-dressed, handsome young fellow, who was evidently a prime favorite
+with both young ladies. He accompanied them while they went about making
+certain purchases that Mrs. Ballou had charged her daughter not to
+forget, and then he assisted them into the carriage, while I stowed away
+their bundles, shook their hands at parting, and stood gazing after them
+as the carriage rolled away, the very model of a young Don Juan, I
+thought.</p>
+
+<p>I had hoped to gain something from my ten-mile drive with the two young
+ladies sitting behind me. I had learned that Miss Holmes was a friend of
+the Ewings, and also of Mamie Rutger, and as she had not been in the
+vicinity since these young ladies had vanished, what more natural than
+that she should talk very freely of their mysterious fate, and might not
+these girl friends know something, say something, that in my hands would
+prove a clue?</p>
+
+<p>But I was disappointed; during the long drive the names of Nellie Ewing
+and Mamie Rutger never once passed their lips. Indeed, save for a few
+commonplaces, these two young ladies, who might be supposed to have so
+much to say to each other, never talked at all.</p>
+
+<p>I had driven the steady old work horses in going for Miss Holmes, and so
+when night came, a feeling of humanity prompted me to buckle the saddle
+upon a young horse scarcely more than half broken, and set off upon his
+back for the post-office.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span></p><p>It was a little later than usual, and by the time I had accomplished
+the first half of my journey, stowed away the usual newspapers, and
+remounted my horse, it was fully dark; and I rode slowly through the
+gloom, thinking that Groveland was ambitious indeed to bring the mail
+every day from a railway ten miles distant, and wondering what it would
+be like to be the mail boy, and jog over that same monotonous twenty
+miles of fetching and carrying every day.</p>
+
+<p>I had now reached a high hedge that assured me that my homeward journey
+was half accomplished, when, from an imaginary inland mail boy, I was
+suddenly transformed into an actual, crippled John Gilpin. From out the
+blackness of the hedge came a flash and a sharp report; my horse bounded
+under me, my left arm dropped helpless, and then I was being borne over
+the ground as if mounted upon a whirlwind!</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus003.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus003.jpg" width="400" height="552" alt="&quot;From out the blackness of the hedge came a flash and a
+sharp report; my horse bounded under me, my left arm dropped
+helpless.&quot;&mdash;page 23." title="&quot;From out the blackness of the hedge came a flash and a
+sharp report; my horse bounded under me, my left arm dropped
+helpless.&quot;&mdash;page 23." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;From out the blackness of the hedge came a flash and a
+sharp report; my horse bounded under me, my left arm dropped
+helpless.&quot;&mdash;page 23.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>It was useless to command, useless to strive with my single hand to curb
+the frightened beast. It was a miracle that I did not lose my seat, for
+at first I reeled, and feeling the flow of blood, feared a loss of
+consciousness. But that swift rush through the dewy evening air revived
+me, and rallied my scattered senses.</p>
+
+<p>As we dashed on, I realized that my life had been attempted, and that
+the would-be assassin, the abductor or destroyer of the two missing
+girls, had been very near me; that but for the unruly beast I rode I
+might perhaps have returned his little compliment; at least have found
+some trace of him.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span></p><p>My horse kept his mad pace until he had reached his own barn-yard gate,
+and then he stopped so suddenly as to very nearly unseat me.</p>
+
+<p>I quickly decided upon my course of action, and now, dismounting and
+merely leading my horse into the inclosure, I went straight to the
+house. I knew where to find Mrs. Ballou at that hour, and was pretty
+sure of finding her alone.</p>
+
+<p>As I had anticipated, she was seated in her own room, where she
+invariably read her evening papers in solitude. I entered without
+ceremony, and much to her surprise.</p>
+
+<p>But I was not mistaken in her; she uttered no loud exclamation, either
+of anger at my intrusion, or of fright at sight of my bleeding arm. She
+rose swiftly and came straight up to me.</p>
+
+<p>Before she could ask a question, I motioned her to be silent, and closed
+the door carefully. After which, without any of my foreign accent, I
+said:</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Ballou, a woman who can manage a great farm and coin money in the
+cattle trade, can surely keep a secret. Will you bind up my arm while I
+tell you mine?"</p>
+
+<p>"What!" she exclaimed, starting slightly; "you are not a&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Not a Swede? No, madame," I replied; "I am a detective, and I have been
+shot to-night by the hand that has struck at the happiness of 'Squire
+Ewing and his neighbor."</p>
+
+<p>The splendid woman comprehended the situation instantly.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span></p><p>"Sit there," she said, pointing to her own easy chair.
+"And don't talk any more now. I shall cut away your sleeve."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you?" I asked, deprecatingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Can I?" contemptuously; "I bleed my cattle."</p>
+
+<p>I smiled a little in spite of myself; then&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Consider me a colt, a heifer, anything," I said, resignedly. "But I
+feel as if I had been bled enough."</p>
+
+<p>"I should think so," she replied, shortly. "Now be still; it's lucky
+that you came to me."</p>
+
+<p>I thought so too, but obedient to her command, I "kept still."</p>
+
+<p>She cut away coat and shirt sleeves; she brought from the kitchen tepid
+water and towels, and from her own especial closet, soft linen rags. She
+bathed, she stanched, she bandaged; it proved to be only a flesh wound,
+but a deep one.</p>
+
+<p>"Now then," she commanded in her crisp way, when all was done, and I had
+been refreshed with a very large glass of wine, "tell me about this."</p>
+
+<p>"First," I said, "your colt stands shivering yet, no doubt, and all
+dressed in saddle and bridle, loose in the stable-yard."</p>
+
+<p>"Wait," she said, and hurried from the room.</p>
+
+<p>In a few moments she came back.</p>
+
+<p>"The colt is in his stable, and no harm done," she announced, sitting
+down opposite me. "How do you feel?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span></p><p>"A little weak, that is all. Now, I will tell you all about it."</p>
+
+<p>In the fewest words possible, I told my story, and ended by saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Ballou, you, as a woman, will not be watched or suspected; may I
+leave with you the task of telling 'Squire Ewing and Mr. Rutger what has
+happened to me?"</p>
+
+<p>"You may," with decision.</p>
+
+<p>"And I must get away from here before others know how much or little I
+am injured. Can your woman's wit help me? I want it given out that my
+arm is broken. Do you comprehend me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perfectly. Then no one here must see you, and&mdash;you should have that
+wound dressed by a good surgeon, I think. There is a train to the city
+to-morrow at seven. I will get up in the morning at three o'clock, make
+us a cup of coffee, harness the horses, and drive you to Sharon."</p>
+
+<p>"<i>You?</i>" I exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I! Why not? It's the only way. And now, would you mind showing me
+that letter?"</p>
+
+<p>I took it from my pocket-book and put it in her hand. She read it
+slowly, and then looked up.</p>
+
+<p>"Why did you not heed this warning?" she asked.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus004.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus004.jpg" width="400" height="549" alt="&quot;Why did you not heed this warning?&quot; she asked.&mdash;page 28." title="&quot;Why did you not heed this warning?&quot; she asked.&mdash;page 28." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Why did you not heed this warning?&quot; she asked.&mdash;page 28.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"Because I wanted to find out what it meant."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you found out," sententiously. "Now, go to bed, but first let me
+help you remove that coat."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span></p><p>"Mrs. Ballou, you are a woman in a thousand," I exclaimed, as I rose
+to receive her assistance. "And I don't see how I can ever repay you.
+You are your own reliance."</p>
+
+<p>As I spoke, the coat fell from my shoulder and my hand touched the
+weapon in my pistol pocket.</p>
+
+<p>She saw it, too, and pointing to it, said:</p>
+
+<p>"I have never owned a pistol, because I could not buy one without
+letting Fred know it; he is always with me in town. If you think I have
+earned it give me that."</p>
+
+<p>"Gladly," I said, drawing out the small silver-mounted six-shooter; "it
+is loaded, every barrel. Can you use it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I know how to use firearms."</p>
+
+<p>"Then when you do use it, if ever, think of me." I laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"I will," she said, quite soberly.</p>
+
+<p>And little either of us dreamed how effectively she would use it one
+day.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning, at half-past three, we drove out of the farm yard, <i>en
+route</i> for the railway station.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span></p><p>During our drive, we talked like two men, and when we parted at Sharon
+we were very good friends. I dropped her work-hardened hand reluctantly,
+and watched her drive away, thinking that she was the only really
+sensible woman I had ever known, and feeling half inclined to fall in
+love with her in spite of the fact that she was twenty-five years my
+senior.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III.<br />
+<small>SCENTING A MYSTERY.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>That is how I chanced to be rolling city-ward on that phlegmatic,
+oft-stopping, slow going, accomodation train, and that is why I was out
+of temper, and out of tune.</p>
+
+<p>My operation had been retarded. Instead of working swiftly on to a
+successful issue, this must be a case of waiting, of wit against wit,
+and I must report to my chief a balk in the very beginning.</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, as I said in the outset, fifty miles of monotonous rumble,
+together with the soothing influence of a good cigar, had blunted the
+edge of my self-disgust; my arm was quite easy, only warning me now and
+then that it was a crippled arm; I was beginning to feel phlegmatic and
+comfortable.</p>
+
+<p>I had formed a habit of not thinking about my work when the thinking
+would be useless, and there was little room for effective thought in
+this case. My future movements were a foregone conclusion. So I rested,
+and fell almost asleep, and then it was that the single passenger of
+whom I made mention, came on board.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span></p><p>I had not noticed the name of the station, but as I roused myself and
+looked out, I saw that we were moving along the outskirts of a pretty
+little town, and then I turned my eyes toward the new passenger.</p>
+
+<p>He was coming down the aisle towards me, and was a plain, somewhat
+heavy-featured man, with a small, bright, twinkling eye. Certainly it
+was not a prepossessing countenance, but, just as certainly, it was an
+honest one. He was dressed in some gray stuff, the usual "second best"
+of a thriving farmer or mechanic, and might have been either.</p>
+
+<p>By the time I had arrived at this stage in my observations, there was
+rustle and stir behind me, and a man who had been lounging, silent,
+moveless, and, as I had supposed, asleep, stretched forward a brown
+fist, exclaiming:</p>
+
+<p>"Hallo, old boy! Stop right here. Harding, how are ye?"</p>
+
+<p>Of course the "old boy" stopped. There was the usual hand shaking, and
+mutual exclamations of surprise and pleasure, not unmixed with
+profanity. Evidently they had been sometime friends and neighbors, and
+had not met before for years.</p>
+
+<p>They talked very fast and, it seemed to me, unnecessarily loud; the one
+asking, the other answering, questions concerning a certain village,
+which, because it would not be wise to give its real name we will call
+Trafton.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span></p><p>Evidently Trafton was the station we had just left, and where we took
+on this voluble passenger. They talked of its inhabitants, its
+improvements, its business; of births, and deaths, and marriages. It was
+very uninteresting; I was beginning to feel bored, and was meditating a
+change of seat, when the tone of the conversation changed somewhat, and,
+before I could sufficiently overcome my laziness to move, I found myself
+getting interested.</p>
+
+<p>"No, Trafton ain't a prosperous town. For the few rich ones it's well
+enough, but the poor&mdash;well, the only ones that prosper are those who
+live without work."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! the rich?"</p>
+
+<p>"No! the poor. 'Nuff said."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I see; some of the old lot there yet; wood piles suffer?"</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Wood piles!</i>"</p>
+
+<p>"And hen roosts."</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Hen roosts!</i>" in a still deeper tone of disgust.</p>
+
+<p>"Clothes lines, too, of course."</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Clothes lines!</i>" Evidently this was the last straw. "Thunder and
+lightning, man, that's baby talk; there's more deviltry going on about
+Trafton than you could scoop up in forty ordinary towns."</p>
+
+<p>"No! you don't tell me. What's the mischief?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, it's easy enough to tell <i>what</i> the mischief is, but <i>where</i> it
+is, is the poser; but there's a good many in Trafton that wouldn't
+believe you if you told them there was no such thing as an organized
+gang of marauders near the place."</p>
+
+<p>"An organized gang!"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span></p><p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"But, good Lord, that's pretty strong for Trafton. Do you believe it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Rather," with Yankee dryness.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'm blessed! Come, old man, tell us some of the particulars. What
+makes you suspect blacklegs about that little town?"</p>
+
+<p>"I've figured the thing down pretty close, and I've had reason to. The
+thing has been going on for a number of years, and I've been a loser,
+and ever since the beginning it has moved like clock-work. Five years
+ago a horse thief had not been heard of in Trafton for Lord knows how
+long, until one night Judge Barnes lost a valuable span, taken from his
+stable, slick and clean, and never heard of afterwards. Since then, from
+the town and country, say for twenty-five miles around, they have
+averaged over twenty horses every year, and they are always the very
+best; picked every time, no guess work."</p>
+
+<p>The companion listener gave a long, shrill whistle, and I, supposed by
+them to be asleep, became very wide awake and attentive.</p>
+
+<p>"But," said the astonished man, "you found some of them?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; horses that leave Trafton between two days never come back
+again."</p>
+
+<p>"Good Lord!"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span></p><p>There was a moment's silence and then the Traftonite said:</p>
+
+<p>"But that ain't all; we can beat the city itself for burglars."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus005.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus005.jpg" width="400" height="561" alt="&quot;But that ain&#39;t all; we can beat the city itself for
+burglars.&quot;&mdash;page 36." title="&quot;But that ain&#39;t all; we can beat the city itself for
+burglars.&quot;&mdash;page 36." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;But that ain&#39;t all; we can beat the city itself for
+burglars.&quot;&mdash;page 36.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"Burglars, too!"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, <i>burglars</i>!" This the gentleman emphasized very freely. "And cute
+ones; they never get caught, and they seldom miss a figure."</p>
+
+<p>"How's that?"</p>
+
+<p>"They always know where to strike. If a man goes away to be absent for a
+night or two, they know it. If a man draws money from the bank, or sells
+cattle, they know that. And if some of our farmers, who like to go home
+drunk once in a while, travel the road alone, they are liable to be
+relieved of a part of their load."</p>
+
+<p>"And who do the folks suspect of doing the mischief?"</p>
+
+<p>"They talk among themselves, and very carefully, about <i>having</i>
+suspicions and <i>being</i> on the watch; but very few dare breathe a name.
+And after all, there is no clear reason for suspecting anyone."</p>
+
+<p>"But <i>you</i> suspect some one, or I miss my guess."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, and so I do, but I ain't the man to lay myself liable to an
+action for damages, so I say nothing, but <i>I'm watching</i>."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span></p><p>Little more was said on the subject that interested me, and presently
+the Traftonite took leave of his friend, and quitted the train at a
+station, not more than twenty miles east of Trafton; the other was going
+to the city, like myself.</p>
+
+<p>When quiet was restored in my vicinity, I settled myself for a fresh
+cogitation, and now I gave no thought to the fate of Mamie Rutger and
+'Squire Ewing's daughter. My mind was absorbed entirely with what I had
+just heard.</p>
+
+<p>The pretty, stupid-looking little town of Trafton had suddenly become to
+me what the great Hippodrome is to small boys. I wanted to see it; I
+wanted to explore it, and to find the mainspring that moved its mystery.</p>
+
+<p>The words that had fallen from the lips of the Trafton man, had revealed
+to my practiced ear a more comprehensive story than he had supposed
+himself relating.</p>
+
+<p>Systematic thieving and burglary for five years! Systematic, and always
+successful. What a masterful rogue must be the founder of this system!
+How secure he must be in his place, and his scheming, and what a foeman
+to encounter. It would be something to thwart, to baffle, and bring to
+justice a villain of such caliber.</p>
+
+<p>After a while my thoughts turned back to Groveland. Certainly the
+mystery there was quite as deep, and the solution of it of more vital
+importance. But&mdash;Groveland was the mystery that I had touched and
+handled; Trafton was the mystery unseen.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span></p><p>So my mind returned to the latter subject, and when, hours later, we
+ran into the city, Groveland was still absent, and Trafton present, in
+my thoughts.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV.<br />
+<small>CHARTERING A DUMMY.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>By the time I reached the city my arm, which needed fresh bandages,
+began to pain me, and I went straight to the office of a surgeon,
+well-known to fame, and to the detective service. He had bound up many a
+broken bone for our office, and we of the fraternity called him "Our
+Samaritan." Some of the boys, and, let me confess it, myself among the
+number, called him "Our old woman," as well, for, while he bandaged and
+healed and prescribed, he waged continued warfare upon our profession,
+or rather the dangers of it.</p>
+
+<p>Of course, the country needed secret service men, and must have them,
+but there was an especial reason why each one of us should not be a
+detective. We were too young, or too old; we were too reckless, or we
+were cut out for some other career. In short, every patient that came
+under the hand of good Dr. Denham, became straightway an object of
+interest to his kindly old heart; and&mdash;strange weakness in a man of his
+cloth&mdash;he desired to keep us out of danger.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span></p><p>"So ho!" cried "our old woman," when I appeared before him with my
+bandaged arm, "here <i>you</i> are! I knew you'd be along soon. You've kept
+out of my clutches a good while. Arm, eh? Glad of it! I'll cut it off;
+I'll cut it off! That'll spoil <i>one</i> detective."</p>
+
+<p>I laughed. We always laughed at the talkative soul, and he expected it.</p>
+
+<p>"Cut it off, then," I retorted, flinging myself down in a chair and
+beginning to remove my sling. "I don't need a left arm to shoot the
+fellow that gave me this, and I'm bound to do that, you know."</p>
+
+<p>"So! Got shot again? Go on, go on, sir! I'll have the pleasure of
+dissecting you yet. You'll come home dead some day, you scoundrel. Ah!
+here we are. Um! flesh wound, rear of arm, under side; close, pretty
+close, pret-ty close, sir!"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus006.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus006.jpg" width="400" height="559" alt="&quot;So! Got shot again? Go on, go on, sir! I&#39;ll have the
+pleasure of dissecting you yet.&quot;&mdash;page 43." title="&quot;So! Got shot again? Go on, go on, sir! I&#39;ll have the
+pleasure of dissecting you yet.&quot;&mdash;page 43." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;So! Got shot again? Go on, go on, sir! I&#39;ll have the
+pleasure of dissecting you yet.&quot;&mdash;page 43.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>All this was jerked out in short breaths, while he was undoing and
+taking a first look at my arm. When the actual business of dressing
+commenced, "our old woman" was always silent and very intent upon the
+delicate task.</p>
+
+<p>"Pity it wasn't a little worse," he sniffled, moving across the room and
+opening a case of instruments. "You chaps get off too easy; you don't
+come quite near enough to Death's door. There's Carnes, now; got a knife
+through his shoulder, and fretting and fuming because he can't put
+himself in a position to get another dig."</p>
+
+<p>"Is Carnes in?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span></p><p>"Yes. And was badly cut."</p>
+
+<p>"Poor fellow! I'm sorry for that, but glad of the chance to see him;
+he's been on a long cruise."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'm not so sure about his going on another. Now then."</p>
+
+<p>And the doctor applied himself to business, and I sat, wincing
+sometimes, under his hand, but thinking through it all of Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>He was the <i>comique</i> of the force; a man who was either loved or hated
+by all who knew him. No one could be simply indifferent to Carnes. He
+was a well-educated man, although he habitually spoke with a brogue. But
+I knew Carnes was not an Irishman; although he professed to have "hailed
+from Erin," he could drop the accent at pleasure and assume any other
+with perfect ease,&mdash;a feat rather difficult of accomplishment by a
+genuine Irishman.</p>
+
+<p>Nobody knew much about Carnes; he had no confidants, although he had his
+favorites, one of whom I chanced to be.</p>
+
+<p>He was older than myself by ten years, but when the mood seized him,
+could be younger by twenty. He had been absent from the office for
+nearly a year, and I mentally resolved that, after making my report and
+attending to business, I would lose no time in seeing him.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p><p>Under the skilled hand of Dr. Denham my arm was soon dressed and made
+comfortable. It would be well in a fortnight, the good doctor assured
+me, and then as soon as I could, I withdrew from his presence and his
+customary fire of raillery and questions, and stopping only to refresh
+myself at a restaurant by the way, hastened on toward our office, where
+I was soon closeted with my Chief.</p>
+
+<p>As usual, he made no comments, asked no questions, when I dawned upon
+him thus unexpectedly. He never made use of unnecessary words. He only
+turned out one or two of the force who were lounging there, waiting his
+pleasure to attend to less important business, saw that the doors were
+closed and the outer office properly attended, and then seating himself
+opposite me at the desk, said quietly:</p>
+
+<p>"Now, Bathurst?"</p>
+
+<p>I was well accustomed to this condensed way of doing things, and it
+suited me. In a concise manner matching his own, I put him in possession
+of the facts relating to the Groveland case, and then I made a
+discovery. After relating how I had received the anonymous letter I
+produced my pocket-book, where I supposed it to be, and found it
+missing! It was useless to search; the letter was not in my pocket-book,
+neither was it on my person.</p>
+
+<p>"Well!" I said, when fully convinced that the letter was certainly not
+in my possession, "here's another complication. I've been robbed and&mdash;I
+know who did it!"</p>
+
+<p>My companion made no comment, and I continued:</p>
+
+<p>"The letter was of no vital importance; I will finish my story and then
+you will know what has become of it."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span></p><p>I told the rest; of my ride upon Mrs. Ballou's colt, of the pistol
+shot, my runaway steed, and my subsequent interview with Mrs. Ballou.
+How she had dressed my wound, how the circumstances had compelled me to
+confide in her, and how she had risen to the occasion, and driven me to
+the station at half-past three in the morning, and I finished by saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Now it looks to me as if Mrs. Ballou had stolen my letter, and if so,
+one might take that fact and the one that Nellie Ewing was never seen
+after leaving her house, and count it as strong circumstantial evidence;
+but, that kind of evidence won't convince me that Mrs. Ballou is
+implicated in the crime or the mystery. When I told her of the printed
+letter, I saw her eyes gleam; and when she asked to see the document I
+read anxiety in her face. I am sure she took the letter, and I think she
+has a suspicion of some sort; but if she has the letter she will return
+it."</p>
+
+<p>My chief made no comment on all that I had told him; he picked up a
+paper weight and laid it down again with great precision, then he put
+all my story "on the shelf," as we were wont to express it, by asking
+abruptly:</p>
+
+<p>"What are you going to do next?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span></p><p>The question did not surprise me. He was not in the habit of offering
+much advice to such operatives as he trusted with delicate cases, for he
+never trusted a man until he felt full confidence in his skill and
+integrity. But when we desired to consult with him, he entered into the
+study of the case with animation and zeal; and then, and then only, did
+he do a full share of the talking.</p>
+
+<p>"Going to send them a 'dummy,' if we can find one with the grit to face
+the chances. They must suppose me entirely out of the business."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"I want an extraordinary dummy, too; a blusterer."</p>
+
+<p>"Wait," interrupted my companion, beginning to smile, "I have got just
+the animal. When do you want to see him?"</p>
+
+<p>"As soon as possible; I want him in the field at once."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. This fellow came here yesterday, and he's the greatest
+combination of fool and egotist I ever saw. Knows he was born for a
+detective and is ready to face a colony of desperadoes; there is no
+limit to his cheek and no end to his tongue. If you want a talkative
+fool he'll do."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," I replied, "that's what I want, but the man must not be quite
+destitute of courage. I don't think that the party or parties will make
+another attack upon a fresh man, and yet they may; and this dummy must
+remain there quite alone until the rascals are convinced that he has no
+confederates. There is a keen brain at the bottom of this Groveland
+mischief. I mean to overreach it and all its confederates, for I believe
+there must be confederates; and, sir, I don't believe those girls have
+been murdered."</p>
+
+<p>"No?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span></p><p>"No. But I want our dummy to act on the supposition that they <i>have</i>
+been. This will ease the vigilance of the guilty parties, and when they
+are off their guard, our time will come. Where is Carnes?"</p>
+
+<p>My companion was in full sympathy with my abrupt change of the subject,
+and he answered, readily:</p>
+
+<p>"At his old rooms. Carnes had a bad cut, but he is getting along
+finely."</p>
+
+<p>"Is he? The doctor gave me the idea that he was still in a doubtful
+condition."</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff," giving a short laugh, "some of his scarey talk; he told me that
+Carnes would be about within two weeks. Carnes did some good work in the
+West."</p>
+
+<p>"He is a splendid fellow; I must see him to-night. But about our dummy:
+when can you produce him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Will to-morrow do? say ten o'clock."</p>
+
+<p>"It must be later by an hour; the doctor takes me in hand at ten."</p>
+
+<p>"Eleven, then. I will have him here, and you'll find him a jewel."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good," I said, rising, and taking up my hat, "any message to send
+to Carnes? I shall see him to-night."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span></p><p>"Look here," turning upon me suddenly, "you are not to go to Carnes for
+any purpose but to <i>see</i> him. You must not talk to him much, nor let him
+talk; the doctor should have told you that. He is weak, and easily
+excited. It's bad enough to have two of my best men crippled and off at
+once; you must not retard his recovery. Carnes is as unruly as a
+ten-year old, now."</p>
+
+<p>I laughed; I could see just how this whimsical comrade of mine would
+chafe under his temporary imprisonment.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span></p><p>"I won't upset the old fellow," I said, and took my leave.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V.<br />
+<small>EN ROUTE FOR TRAFTON.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>Over the minor events of my story I will not linger, for although they
+cannot be omitted altogether, they are still so overshadowed by
+startling and thrilling after events that they may, with propriety, be
+narrated in brief.</p>
+
+<p>I saw Carnes, and found that the Chief had not exaggerated, and that the
+doctor had.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes was getting well very fast, but was chafing like a caged bear, if
+I may use so ancient an illustration.</p>
+
+<p>We compared notes and sympathized with each other, and then we made some
+plans. Of course we were off duty for the present, and could be our own
+masters. Carnes had been operating in a western city, and I proposed to
+him a change. I told him of the conversation I had overheard that
+morning, and soon had him as much interested in Trafton as was myself.
+Then I said:</p>
+
+<p>"Now, old man, why not run down to that little paradise of freebooters
+and see what we think of it?"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus007.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus007.jpg" width="400" height="552" alt="&quot;Now, old man, why not run down to that little paradise
+of freebooters and see what we think of it?&quot;&mdash;page 50." title="&quot;Now, old man, why not run down to that little paradise
+of freebooters and see what we think of it?&quot;&mdash;page 50." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Now, old man, why not run down to that little paradise
+of freebooters and see what we think of it?&quot;&mdash;page 50.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"Begorra and that'll jist suit me case," cried Carnes, who was just then
+in his Hibernian mood. "And it's go we will widen the wake."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span></p><p>But go "widen the wake" we did not.</p>
+
+<p>We were forced to curb our impatience somewhat, for Carnes needed a
+little more strength, and my arm must be free from Dr. Denham's sling.</p>
+
+<p>We were to go as Summer strollers, and, in order to come more naturally
+into contact with different classes of the Traftonites, I assumed the
+<i>r�le</i> of a well-to-do Gothamite with a taste for rural Summer sports,
+and Carnes made a happy hit in choosing the character of half companion,
+half servant; resolving himself into a <i>whole</i> Irishman for the
+occasion.</p>
+
+<p>It was a fancy of his always to operate in disguise, so for this reason,
+and because of his pallor, and the unusual length of his hair and beard,
+he chose to take his holiday <i>en naturale</i>, and most unnatural he looked
+to me, who had never seen him in ill-health.</p>
+
+<p>As for me, I preferred on this occasion to adopt a light disguise.</p>
+
+<p>In spite of the warning of our Chief, but not in defiance of it, I
+talked Carnes into a fidget, and even worked myself into a state of
+enthusiasm. Of course I made no mention of the Groveland case; we never
+discussed our private operations with each other; at least, not until
+they were finished and the <i>finale</i> a foregone conclusion.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span></p><p>After bidding Carnes good-night, I sauntered leisurely homeward, if a
+hotel may be called home, and the ring of a horse's hoofs on the
+pavement brought to my mind my wild ride, Groveland, and Mrs. Ballou.</p>
+
+<p>Why had she stolen that letter of warning? That she had I felt assured.
+Did she give her true reason for wishing my revolver? Would she return
+my letter? And would she, after all, keep the secret of my identity?</p>
+
+<p>I did not flatter myself that I was the wonderful judge of human nature
+some people think themselves, but I did believe myself able to judge
+between honest and dishonest faces, and I had judged Mrs. Ballou as
+honest.</p>
+
+<p>So after a little I was able to answer my own questions. She <i>would</i>
+return my letter. She <i>could</i> keep a secret, and&mdash;she would make good
+use, if any, of my weapon.</p>
+
+<p>It was not long before my judgment of Mrs. Ballou, in one particular at
+least, was verified.</p>
+
+<p>On the morning after my interview with Carnes, I saw the man who was
+destined to cover himself with glory in the capacity of "Dummy," and
+here a word of explanation may be necessary.</p>
+
+<p>Sometimes, not often, it becomes expedient, if not absolutely necessary,
+for a detective to work under a double guard. It is not always enough
+that others should not know him as a detective; it is required that they
+should be doubly deluded by fancying themselves aware of <i>who is</i>, hence
+the dummy.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span></p><p>But in this narrative I shall speak in brief of the dummy's operations.
+Suffice it to say that he was just the man for the place; egotistical,
+ignorant, talkative to a fault, and thoroughly imbued, as all dummies
+should be, with the idea that he was "born for a detective."</p>
+
+<p>Of course he was not aware of the part he was actually to play. He was
+instructed as to the nature of the case, given such points as we thought
+he would make best use of, and told in full just what risk he might run.</p>
+
+<p>But our dummy was no coward. He inspected my wounded arm, expressed
+himself more than ready to take any risk, promised to keep within the
+bounds of safety after nightfall, and panted to be in the field.</p>
+
+<p>Just one day before our departure for Trafton I received a letter from
+Mrs. Ballou. Enclosed with it was my lost note of warning. Its contents
+puzzled me not a little. It ran thus:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot"><span class="smcap">Dear Sir</span>&mdash;I return you the letter I took from your pocket the
+morning you left us. You did not suspect me of burglary, did
+you? Of course you guessed the truth when you came to miss it.
+I thought it might help me to a clue, but was wrong. <i>I can not
+use it.</i></p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">If anything <i>new or strange</i> occurs, it may be to your interest
+to inform <i>me</i> first of all.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">The time may come when you can doubly repay the service I
+rendered you not long since. If so, remember me. I think I
+shall come to the city soon.</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+Respectfully, etc., &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <span class="smcap">M. A. Ballou</span><br />
+</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">P. S.&mdash;<i>Please destroy.</i></p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span></p><p>From some women such a letter might have meant simply nothing. From
+Mrs. Ballou it was fraught with meaning.</p>
+
+<p>How coolly she waived the ceremony of apology! She wanted the
+letter&mdash;she took it; a mere matter of course.</p>
+
+<p>And as a matter of course, she returned it.</p>
+
+<p>Thus much of the letter was straight-forward, and suited me well enough;
+but&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"<i>I thought it might help me to a clue, but was wrong.</i> <span class="smcap">I can not use
+it.</span>"</p>
+
+<p>Over these words I pondered, and then I connected them with the
+remainder of the letter. Mrs. Ballou was clever, but she was no
+diplomatist. She had put a thread in my hands.</p>
+
+<p>I made some marks in a little memorandum book, that would have been
+called anything but intelligible to the average mortal, but that were
+very plain language to my eye, and to none other. Next I put a certain
+bit of information in the hands of my Chief; then I turned my face
+toward Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>To my readers the connection between the fate of the two missing girls,
+and the mysterious doings at Trafton, may seem slight.</p>
+
+<p>To my mind, as we set out that day for the scene of a new operation,
+there seemed nothing to connect the two; I was simply, as I thought, for
+the time being, laying down one thread to take up another.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span></p><p>A detective has not the gift of second sight, and without this gift how
+was I to know that at Trafton I was to find my clue to the Groveland
+mystery, and that that mystery was in its turn to shed a light upon the
+dark doings of Trafton, and aid justice in her work of requital?</p>
+
+<p>So it is. Out of threads, divers and far-fetched, Fate loves to weave
+her wonderful webs.</p>
+
+<p>And now, for a time, we leave Groveland with the shadow upon it. We
+leave the shadow now; later it comes to us.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span></p><p>For the present we are <i>en route</i> for Trafton.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI.<br />
+<small>JIM LONG.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>"Trafton?" said Jim Long, more familiarly known as Long Jim, scratching
+his head reflectively, "can't remember just how long I <i>did</i> live in
+Trafton; good sight longer'n I'll live in it any more, I calklate;
+green, oh, dretful green, when I come here; in fact mem'ry hadn't
+de-welluped; wasn't peart then like I am now. But I ain't got nothin' to
+say agin' Trafton, <i>I</i> ain't, tho' there <i>be</i> some folks as has. Thar's
+Kurnel Brookhouse, now, <i>he's</i> bin scalped severial times; then
+thar's&mdash;hello!"</p>
+
+<p>Jim brought his rhetoric up standing, and lowered one leg hastily off
+the fence, where he had been balancing like a Chinese juggler.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment a fine chestnut horse dashed around a curve of the
+road, bearing a woman, who rode with a free rein, and sat as if born to
+the saddle. She favored Jim with a friendly nod as she flew past, and
+that worthy responded with a delighted grin and no other sign of
+recognition.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span></p><p>When she had disappeared among the trees, and the horse's hoofs could
+scarcely be heard on the hard dry road, Jim drew up his leg, resumed his
+former balance, and went on as if nothing had happened.</p>
+
+<p>"There was Kurnel Brookhouse and&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"The mischief fly away wid old Brookhouse," broke in Carnes, giving the
+fence a shake that nearly unseated our juggler. "Who's the purty girl as
+bowed till yee's? That's the question on board now."</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, Mr. Ireland," expostulated Jim, getting slowly off the fence
+backward, and affecting great timidity in so doing, "ye shouldn't shake
+a chap that way when he's practisin' jimnasti&mdash;what's its name? It's
+awful unsafe."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus008.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus008.jpg" width="400" height="558" alt="&quot;Look here, Mr. Ireland,&quot; expostulated Jim, &quot;ye shouldn&#39;t
+shake a chap that way.&quot;&mdash;page 59." title="&quot;Look here, Mr. Ireland,&quot; expostulated Jim, &quot;ye shouldn&#39;t
+shake a chap that way.&quot;&mdash;page 59." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Look here, Mr. Ireland,&quot; expostulated Jim, &quot;ye shouldn&#39;t
+shake a chap that way.&quot;&mdash;page 59.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>And he assured himself that his two feet were actually on <i>terra firma</i>
+before he relinquished his hold upon the top rail of the fence. Then
+turning toward Carnes he asked, with a most insinuating smile:</p>
+
+<p>"Wasn't you askin' something?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's jist what I was, by the powers," cried Carnes, as if his fate
+hung upon the answer. "Who is the leddy? be dacent, now."</p>
+
+<p>We had been some two weeks in Trafton when this dialogue occurred, and
+Jim Long was one of our first acquaintances. Carnes had picked him up
+somewhere about town; and the two had grown quite friendly and intimate.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span></p><p>Long was a character in the eyes of Carnes, and was gradually
+developing into a genius in mine. Jim was, to all outward appearances,
+the personification of laziness, candor, good nature, and a species of
+blundering waggishness; but as I grew to know him better, I learned to
+respect the irony under his innocent looks and boorish speeches, and I
+soon found that he possessed a faculty, and a fondness, for baffling and
+annoying Carnes, that delighted me; for Carnes was, like most
+indefatigible jokers, rather nonplussed at having the tables turned.</p>
+
+<p>Jim never did anything for a livelihood that could be discovered, but he
+called himself a "Hoss Fysician," and indeed it was said that he could
+always be trusted with a horse, if he could be induced to look at one.
+But he had his likes and dislikes, so he said, and he would obstinately
+refuse to treat a horse toward which he had what he called "onfriendly
+feelin's."</p>
+
+<p>Jim could tell us all there was to tell concerning the town of Trafton.
+It was only necessary to set him going; and no story lost anything of
+spirit through being told by him.</p>
+
+<p>He was an oracle on the subjects of fishing and hunting; indeed, he was
+usually to be found in the companionship of gun or fishing rod.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p><p>Fortunately for us, Trafton had rare facilities for sports of the
+aforementioned sort, and we gathered up many small items while, in the
+society of Long Jim, we scrambled through copses, gun in hand, or
+whipped the streams, and listened to the heterogenous mass of
+information that flowed from his ready tongue.</p>
+
+<p>But the spirit of gossip was not always present with Jim. Sometimes he
+was in an argumentative mood, and then would ensue the most astounding
+discussions between himself and Carnes. Sometimes he was full of
+theology, and then his discourse would have enraptured Swing, and
+out-Heroded Ingersoll, for his theology varied with his moods. Sometimes
+he was given to moralizing, and then Carnes was in despair.</p>
+
+<p>Jim lived alone in a little house, or more properly, "cabin," something
+more than a mile from town. He had a small piece of ground which he
+called his "farm," and all his slight amount of industry was expended on
+this.</p>
+
+<p>"Who is the leddy, I tell yee's?" roared Carnes, who, I may as well
+state here, had introduced himself to the Traftonites as Barney Cooley.
+"Bedad, a body would think she was your first shwateheart by the
+dumbness av yee's!"</p>
+
+<p>"And so she air," retorted Jim with much solemnity. "Don't <i>you</i> go ter
+presoomin', Mr. Ireland. That are Miss Manvers, as lives in the house
+that's just a notch bigger'n Kurnel Brookhouse's; and her father was
+Captain Manvers, as went down in the good ship <i>Amy Audrey</i>, and left
+his darter that big house, and a bigger fortune dug out 'en a
+treasure-ship on the coast uv&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span></p><p>"Stop a bit, long legs," interposed Carnes, or Barney, as we had better
+call him, "was it a threasure-ship yee's wur hatchin' when it tuck yee's
+so long to shun out yer little sthory?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, then, Erin, tell your own stories, that's all. If yer wan't ter
+kick over one uv the institooshuns uv Trafton, why, wade in."</p>
+
+<p>But Carnes only shook his head, and lying at full length upon the ground
+feigning great pain, groaned at intervals:</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! h! h! threasure-ship!"</p>
+
+<p>"But, Long," I interposed, "does this young lady, this Miss Manvers,
+sanction the story of a treasure from the deep, or is it only a flying
+rumor?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p><p>"It's flyin' enough," retorted Jim, soberly. "It's in everybody's
+mouth; that is, everybody as has an appetite for flyin' rumors. And I
+never knew of the lady contradictin' it, nuther. The facks is jest
+these, boss. There's Miss Manvers, and there's the big house, and the
+blooded horses, an' all the other fine things that I couldn't begin to
+interduce by their right names. They're facks, as anybody can see. There
+seems to be plenty o' money backin' the big house an' other big fixins,
+an' <i>I</i> ain't agoin' to be oudacious enough ter say there ain't a big
+treasure-ship backin' up the whole business. Now, I ain't never seen
+'em, an' I ain't never seen anyone as has, not bein' much of a society
+man; but folks <i>say</i> as Miss Manvers has got the most wonderfullest
+things dug out o' that ship; old coins, heaps of 'em; jewels an'
+<i>aunteeks</i>, as they call 'em, that don't hardly ever see daylight. One
+thing's certain: old Manvers come here most six years ago; he dressed,
+looked, and talked like a sailor; he bought the big house, fitted it up,
+an' left his daughter in it. Then he went away and got drowned. They say
+he made his fortune at sea, and it's pretty sartin that he brought some
+wonderful things home from the briny. Mebbe you had better go up to the
+Hill, that's Miss Manvers' place, and interduce yourself, and ask for
+the family history, Mr. 'Exile of Erin,'" concluded Jim, with a grin
+intended to be sarcastic, as he seated himself on a half decayed stump,
+and prepared to fill his pipe.</p>
+
+<p>"Bedad, an' so I will, Long Jim," cried Barney, springing up with
+alacrity. "An' thank ye kindly for mintionin' it. When will I find the
+leddy at home, then?"</p>
+
+<p>Partly to avert the tournament which I saw was about to break out afresh
+between the two, and partly through interest in the fair owner of the
+treasure-ship spoils, I interposed once more.</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Manvers must be a fair target for fortune-hunters, Long; are there
+any such in Trafton?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span></p><p>"Wall, now, that's what <i>some</i> folks says, tho' I ain't goin' ter lay
+myself liable ter an action fer slander. There's <i>lovers</i> enough; it
+ain't easy tellin' jest what they <i>air</i> after. There's young Mr.
+Brookhouse; now, <i>his</i> pa's rich enough; <i>he</i> ain't no call to go fortin
+huntin'. There's a lawyer from G&mdash;&mdash;, too, and a young 'Piscopal parson;
+then there's our new young doctor. I ain't hearn anyone say anythin'
+about him; but <i>I've</i> seen 'em together, and I makebold ter say that
+he's anuther on 'em. Seen the young doctor, ain't ye?" turning to me
+suddenly with the last question.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," I replied, carelessly; "he dines at the hotel."</p>
+
+<p>"Just so, and keeps his own lodgin' house in that little smit on a
+cottage across the creek on the Brookhouse farm road."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, does he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. Queer place for a doctor, some think, but bless you, it's as
+central as any, when you come ter look. Trafton ain't got any <i>heart</i>,
+like most towns; you can't tell where the middle of it is. It's as
+crookid as&mdash;its reputation."</p>
+
+<p>Not desiring to appear over anxious concerning the reputation of
+Trafton, I continued my queries about the doctor.</p>
+
+<p>"He's new to Trafton, I think you said?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, bran new; <i>too</i> new. We don't like new things, we don't; have to
+learn 'em afore we like 'em. We don't like the new doctor like we
+orter."</p>
+
+<p>"<i>We</i>, Long? Don't you like Dr. Bethel?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, speakin' as an individual, I like him fust rate. <i>I</i> wuz speakin'
+as a good citizen, ye see; kind o' identifyin' myself with the common
+pulse," with an oratorical flourish.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I do see," I responded, laughingly.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span></p><p>"Yis, we see!" broke in Barney, who had bridled his tongue all too long
+for his own comfort. "He's runnin' fur office, is Jim; he's afther
+wantin' to be alderman."</p>
+
+<p>"Ireland," retorted Long, in a tone of lofty admonition, "we're talkin'
+sense, wot nobody expects ye to understand. Hold yer gab, won't yer?"</p>
+
+<p>Thus admonished, Barney relapsed into silence, and Jim, who was now
+fairly launched, resumed:</p>
+
+<p>"Firstly," said he, "the doctor's a leetle too good lookin', don't you
+think so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why, he is handsome, certainly, but it's in a massive way; he is not
+effeminate enough to be <i>too</i> handsome."</p>
+
+<p>"That's it," replied Long, disparagingly; "he ain't our style. <i>Our</i>
+style is curled locks, cunnin' little moustachys, little hands and feet,
+and slim waists. Our style is more ruffles to the square fut of shirt
+front, and more chains and rings than this interlopin' doctor wears."</p>
+
+<p>"Our sthyle! Och, murther, hear him!" groaned Carnes, in a stage aside.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span></p><p>"His manners ain't our style, nuther," went on Long, lugubriously.
+"<i>We</i> always has a bow and a smile fur all, rich an poor alike,
+exceptin' now and then a no count person what there's no need uv wastin'
+politeness on. <i>He</i> goes along head up, independenter nor Fouth o' July.
+He don't make no distincshun between folks an' folks, like a man orter.
+I've seen him bow jist the same bow to old Granny Sanders, as lives down
+at the poor farm, and to Parson Radcliffe, our biggest preachin' gun.
+Now, <i>that's</i> no way fer a man ter do as wants ter live happy in
+Trafton; it ain't <i>our</i> way."</p>
+
+<p>A mighty groan from Barney.</p>
+
+<p>"He's got a practice, though," went on Jim, utterly ignoring the
+apparent misery of his would-be tormentor. "Somehow he manages to cure
+folks as some of our old doctors can't. I reckon a change o' physic's
+good fer folks, same's a change o' diet&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Or a clane shirt," broke in Carnes, with an insinuating glance in the
+direction of Jim's rather dingy linen.</p>
+
+<p>"Eggsackly," retorted Long, turning back his cuffs with great care and
+glancing menacingly at his enemy&mdash;"er a thrashin'."</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," I interposed, "let us have peace. And tell me, Jim, where
+may we find your model Traftonite, your hero of the curls, moustaches,
+dainty hands, and discriminating politeness? I have not seen him."</p>
+
+<p>"Whar?" retorted Long, in an aggrieved tone, "look here, boss, you don't
+think <i>I</i> ever mean anythin' personal by my remarks? I'd sworn it were
+all that way when you come ter notice. The average Traftonite's the
+sleekest, pertiest chap on earth. We wuz born so."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span></p><p>Some more demonstrations in pantomime from Carnes, and silence fell
+upon us. I knew from the way Long smoked at his pipe and glowered at
+Carnes that nothing more in the way of information need be expected from
+him. He had said enough, or too much, or something he had not intended
+to say; he looked dissatisfied, and soon we separated, Long repairing to
+his farm, and Carnes and I to our hotel, all in search of dinner.</p>
+
+<p>"We won't have much trouble in finding the 'Average Traftonite,' old
+man," I said, as we sauntered back to town.</p>
+
+<p>No answer; Carnes was smoking a huge black pipe and gazing thoughtfully
+on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder if any attempt has been made to rob Miss Manvers of those
+treasure-ship jewels," I ventured next.</p>
+
+<p>"Umph!"</p>
+
+<p>"Or of her blooded horses. Carnes, what's your opinion of Long?"</p>
+
+<p>Carnes took his pipe from his mouth and turned upon me two serious eyes.
+When I saw the expression in them I knew he was ready to talk business.</p>
+
+<p>"Honor bright?" he queried, without a trace of his Irish accent.</p>
+
+<p>"Honor bright."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," restoring his pipe and puffing out a black cloud, "he's an odd
+fish!"</p>
+
+<p>"Bad?"</p>
+
+<p>"He's a fraud!"</p>
+
+<p>"As how?"</p>
+
+<p>"Cute, keen, has played the fool so long he sometimes believes himself
+one. Did you notice any little discrepancies in his speech?</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span></p><p>"Well, rather."</p>
+
+<p>"Nobody else ever would, I'll be bound; not the 'Average Traftonite,' at
+least. That man has not always been at odds with the English grammar,
+mark me. What do you think, Bathurst?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think," responded I, soberly, "that we shall find in him an ally or
+an enemy."</p>
+
+<p>We had been sauntering "across lots," over some of the Brookhouse acres,
+and we now struck into a path leading down to the highway, that brought
+us out just opposite the cottage occupied by Dr. Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>As we approached, the doctor was leaning over the gate in conversation
+with a gentleman seated in a light road wagon, whose face was turned
+away from us.</p>
+
+<p>As we came near he turned his head, favoring us with a careless glance,
+and, as I saw his face, I recognized him as the handsome young gallant
+who had attended the friend of Miss Grace Ballou, on the occasion of
+that friend's visit to the Ballou farm, and who had bidden the ladies
+such an impressive good-bye as I drove them away from the village
+station.</p>
+
+<p>Contrary to my first intention I approached the gate, and as I drew
+near, the young man gathered up his reins and nodding to the doctor
+drove away.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Bethel and myself had exchanged civilities at our hotel, and I
+addressed him in a careless way as I paused at the gate.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span></p><p>"That's a fine stepping horse, doctor," nodding after the receding
+turnout; "is it owned in the town?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," replied the doctor; "that is young Brookhouse, or rather one of
+them. There are two or three sons; they all drive fine stock."</p>
+
+<p>I was passing in the town for a well-to-do city young man with sporting
+propensities, and as the doctor swung open the gate and strode beside me
+toward the hotel, Carnes trudging on in advance, the talk turned quite
+naturally upon horses, and horse owners.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span></p><p>That night I wrote to Mrs. Ballou, stating that I had nothing of much
+moment to impart, but desired that she would notify me several days in
+advance of her proposed visit to the city, as I wished to meet her. This
+letter I sent to our office to be forwarded to Groveland from thence.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII.<br />
+<small>WE ORGANIZE.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>We had not been long in Trafton before our reputation as thoroughly good
+fellows was well established, "each man after his kind."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes entered with zest into the part he had undertaken. He was hail
+fellow well met with every old bummer and corner loafer; he made himself
+acquainted with all the gossippers and possessed of all the gossip of
+the town.</p>
+
+<p>After a little he began to grow somewhat unsteady in his habits, and
+under the influence of too much liquor, would occasionally make remarks,
+disparaging or otherwise as the occasion warranted, concerning me, and
+so it came about that I was believed to be a young man of wealth, the
+possessor of an irascible temper, but very generous; the victim of a
+woman's falseness;&mdash;but here Carnes always assured people that he did
+not know "the particulars," and that, if it came to my ears that he had
+"mentioned" it, it would cost him his place, etc.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span></p><p>These scraps of private history were always brought forward by, or
+drawn out of, him when he was supposed to be "the worse for liquor." In
+his "sober" moments he was discreetness itself.</p>
+
+<p>So adroitly did he play his part that, without knowing how it came
+about, Trafton had accepted me at Carnes' standard, and I found my way
+made smooth, and myself considered a desirable acquisition to Trafton
+society.</p>
+
+<p>I became acquainted with the lawyers, the ministers, the county
+officials, for Trafton was the county seat. I was soon on a social
+footing with the Brookhouses, father and son. I made my bow before the
+fair owner of the treasure-ship jewels; and began to feel a genuine
+interest in, and liking for, Dr. Bethel, who, according to Jim Long, was
+<i>not</i> Trafton style.</p>
+
+<p>Thus fairly launched upon the Trafton tide, and having assured ourselves
+that no one entertained a suspicion of our masquerade, we began to look
+more diligently about us for fresh information concerning the
+depredations that had made the town attractive to us.</p>
+
+<p>Sitting together one night, after Carnes had spent the evening at an
+especially objectionable saloon, and I had returned from a small social
+gathering whither I had been piloted by one of my new acquaintances, we
+began "taking account of stock," as Carnes quaintly put it.</p>
+
+<p>"The question now arises," said Carnes, dropping his Hibernianisms, and
+taking them up again as his enthusiasm waxed or waned. "The question is
+this: What's in our hand? What do wee's know? What do wee's surmise, and
+what have wee's got till find out?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span></p><p>"Very comprehensively put, old fellow," I laughed, while I referred to
+a previously mentioned note book. "First, then, what do we know?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well," replied Carnes, tilting back his chair, "we know more than mony
+a poor fellow has known when he set out to work up a knotty case. We
+know we are in the field, bedad. We know that horses have been stolen,
+houses broken open, robberies great and small committed <i>here</i>. We know
+they have been well planned and systematic, engineered by a cute head."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes stopped abruptly, and looked over as if he expected me to finish
+the summing up.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," I replied, "we knew all that in the beginning; now for what we
+have picked up. First, then, just run your eye over this memorandum; I
+made it out to-day, and, like a love letter, it should be destroyed as
+soon as read. Here you have, as near as I could get them, the names of
+the farmers who have lost horses, harness, buggies, etc. Here is the
+average distance of their respective residences from the town, and their
+directions. Do you see the drift?"</p>
+
+<p>Carnes rubbed the bridge of his nose; a favorite habit.</p>
+
+<p>"No, be the powers," he ejaculated; "St. Patrick himself couldn't see
+the sinse o' that."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. Now, here is a map of this county. On this map, one by one,
+you must locate those farms."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span></p><p>"Bother the location," broke in Carnes, impatiently. "Serve it up in a
+nutshell. What's the point?"</p>
+
+<p>"The point, then, is this," drawing the map toward me. "The places where
+these robberies have been committed, are all in certain directions.
+Look; east, northeast, west, north; scarce one south, southeast, or
+southwest. Hence, I conclude that these stolen horses are run into some
+rendezvous that is not more than a five hours' ride from the scene of
+the theft."</p>
+
+<p>"The dickens ye do!" muttered Carnes, under his breath.</p>
+
+<p>"Again," I resumed, perceiving that Carnes was becoming deeply
+interested, and very alert, "the horses, etc., have been stolen from
+points ten, twelve, twenty miles, from Trafton; the most distant, so far
+as I have found out, is twenty-two miles."</p>
+
+<p>"Ar-m-m-m?" from Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, then, let us suppose the robbers to be living in this town. They
+leave here at nine, ten, or later when the distance is short. They ride
+fleet horses. At midnight, let us say, the robbery is committed. The
+horses must be off the road, and safe from prying eyes, before morning,
+and must remain <i>perdu</i> until the search is over. What, then? The
+question is, do the robbers turn them over to confederates, in order to
+get safely back to the town under cover of the night; or, is the
+hiding-place so near that no change is necessary?"</p>
+
+<p>I paused for a comment, but Carnes sat mute.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span></p><p>"Now, then," I resumed, "I am supposing this lair of horse-thieves to
+be <i>somewhere</i> south, or nearly south, of the town, and not more than
+thirty miles distant."</p>
+
+<p>"Umph!"</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose it to be south, or nearly south, for obvious reasons. Don't
+you see what they are?"</p>
+
+<p>"Niver mind; prache on."</p>
+
+<p>"No horses have been taken from the south road, or from any of the roads
+that intersect it from this. I infer that it is used as an avenue of
+escape for the marauding bands. Consequently&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"We must make the acquaintance of that north and south highway," broke
+in Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>"Just so; and we must begin a systematic search from this out."</p>
+
+<p>"System's the word," said Carnes, jerking his chair close to the table,
+upon which he planted his elbows. "Now, then, let's organize."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus009.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus009.jpg" width="400" height="550" alt="&quot;System&#39;s the word,&quot; said Carnes, jerking his chair close
+to the table, upon which he planted his elbows. &quot;Now, then, let&#39;s
+organize.&quot;&mdash;page 76." title="&quot;System&#39;s the word,&quot; said Carnes, jerking his chair close
+to the table, upon which he planted his elbows. &quot;Now, then, let&#39;s
+organize.&quot;&mdash;page 76." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;System&#39;s the word,&quot; said Carnes, jerking his chair close
+to the table, upon which he planted his elbows. &quot;Now, then, let&#39;s
+organize.&quot;&mdash;page 76.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>It was nearly daybreak before we knocked the ashes from our pipes,
+preparatory to closing the consultation, and when we separated to
+refresh ourselves with a few hours' sleep, we were so thoroughly
+"organized" that had we not found another opportunity for private
+consultation during our operations in Trafton, we could still have gone
+on with the programme, as we had that night arranged it, without fear of
+blunder or misunderstanding.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span></p><p>"You came down upon me so sudden and solemn with your statistics and
+all that, last night," said Carnes, the following morning, "that I
+entirely forgot to treat you to a beautiful little Trafton vagary I was
+saving for your benefit. They <i>do</i> say that the new doctor is suspected
+of being a <i>detective</i>!"</p>
+
+<p>"What!" I said, in sincere amazement; "Carnes, that's one of Jim Long's
+notions."</p>
+
+<p>"Yis, but it isn't," retorted Carnes. "I haven't seen Jim Long this day.
+D'ye mind the chap ye seen me in company with last evening early?"</p>
+
+<p>"The loutish chap with red hair and a scarred cheek?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's him; well, his name is Tom Briggs, and he's a very close-mouthed
+fellow when he's sober; to-day he was drunk, and he told me in
+confidence that <i>some</i> folks looked upon Dr. Bethel as nothing more nor
+less than a detective, on the lookout for a big haul and a big reward."</p>
+
+<p>"What is this Briggs?"</p>
+
+<p>"He's a sort of a roust-about for 'Squire Brookhouse, but the 'squire
+don't appear to work him very hard."</p>
+
+<p>"Carnes," I said, after a moment of silence between us, "hadn't you
+better cultivate Briggs?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span></p><p>"Like enough I had," he replied, nonchalantly. Then turning slowly
+until he faced me squarely "If I were you, I would give a little
+attention to <i>Dr. Bethel</i>."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII.<br />
+<small>A RESURRECTION.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>Two weeks passed, during which time Carnes and I worked slowly and
+cautiously, but to some purpose.</p>
+
+<p>Having arrived at the conclusion that here was the place to begin our
+search for the robbers, we had still failed in finding in or about
+Trafton a single man upon whom to fix suspicion.</p>
+
+<p>After thoroughly analyzing Trafton society, high and low, I was obliged
+to admit to Carnes, 'spite of the statement made by the worthy farmer on
+board the railway train that "the folks as prospered best were those who
+did the least work," that I found among the poor, the indolent and the
+idle, no man capable of conducting or aiding in a prolonged series of
+high-handed robberies.</p>
+
+<p>The only people in Trafton about whom there seemed the shadow of
+strangeness or mystery, were Dr. Bethel and Jim Long.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p><p>Dr. Bethel had lived in Trafton less than a year; he was building up a
+fine practice; was dignified, independent, uncommunicative. He had no
+intimates, and no one knew, or could learn, aught of his past history.
+He was a regularly authorized physician, a graduate from a well-known
+and reliable school. He was unmarried and seemed quite independent of
+his practice as a means of support.</p>
+
+<p>According to Jim Long, he was "not Trafton style," and if Tom Briggs was
+to be believed, he was "suspected" of making one profession a cloak for
+the practice of another.</p>
+
+<p>Jim Long had been nearly five years in Trafton. He had bought his bit of
+land, built thereon his shanty, announced himself as "Hoss Fysician,"
+and had loafed or laughed, smoked or fished, hunted, worked and played,
+as best pleased him; and no one in Trafton had looked upon him as worthy
+of suspicion, until Carnes and I did him that honor.</p>
+
+<p>Up to this time we had never once ventured to walk or drive over that
+suspected south road. This was not an accident or an oversight, but a
+part of our "programme."</p>
+
+<p>We had lived and operated so quietly that Carnes began to complain of
+the monotony of our daily lives, and to long, Micawber-like, for
+something to turn up.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span></p><p>We had both fully recovered in health and vigor; and I was beginning to
+fear that we might be compelled to report at the agency, and turn our
+backs upon Trafton without having touched its mystery, when there broke
+upon us the first ripple that was the harbinger of a swift, onrushing
+tide of events, which, sweeping across the monotony of our days, caught
+us and tossed us to and fro, leaving us no moment of rest until the
+storm had passed, and the waves that rolled over Trafton had swept away
+its scourge.</p>
+
+<p>One August day I received a tiny perfumed note bidding me attend a
+garden party, to be given by Miss Manvers one week from date. As I was
+writing my note of acceptance, Carnes suggested that I, as a gentleman
+of means, should honor this occasion by appearing in the latest and most
+stunning of Summer suits; and I, knowing the effect of fine apparel upon
+the ordinary society-loving villager, decided to profit by his
+suggestions. So, having sealed and despatched my missive, I bent my
+steps toward the telegraph office, intent upon sending an order to my
+tailor by the quickest route.</p>
+
+<p>The operator was a sociable young fellow, the son of one of the village
+clergymen, and I sometimes dropped in upon him for a few moments' chat.</p>
+
+<p>I numbered among my varied accomplishments, all of which had been
+acquired for <i>use</i> in my profession, the ability to read, by sound, the
+telegraph instrument.</p>
+
+<p>This knowledge, however, I kept to myself, on principle, and young
+Harris was not aware that my ear was drinking in his messages, as we sat
+smoking socially in his little operating compartment.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span></p><p>After sending my message, I produced my cigar case and, Harris
+accepting a weed, I sat down beside him for a brief chat.</p>
+
+<p>Presently the instrument called Trafton, and Harris turned to receive
+the following message:</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+  <span class="smcap">New Orleans</span>, Aug. &mdash;&mdash;
+</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">
+  <span class="smcap">Arch Brookhouse</span>&mdash;Hurry up the others or we are likely to have a balk.
+</p>
+<p class="right blockquot">
+  F. B.
+</p>
+
+<p>Hastily scratching off these words Harris enclosed, sealed, and
+addressed the message, and tossed it on the table.</p>
+
+<p>The address was directly under my eye; and I said, glancing carelessly
+at it:</p>
+
+<p>"Arch,&mdash;is not that a rather juvenile name for such a long, lean,
+solemn-visaged man as 'Squire Brookhouse?"</p>
+
+<p>Harris laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"That is for the son," he replied; "he is named for his father, and to
+distinguish between them, the elder always signs himself <i>Archibald</i>,
+the younger <i>Arch</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"I see. Is Archibald Junior the eldest son?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; he is the second. Fred is older by four years."</p>
+
+<p>"Fred is the absent one?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fred and Louis are both away now. Fred is in business in New Orleans, I
+think."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! an enterprising rich man's son."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, yes, enterprising and adventurous. Fred used to be a trifle wild.
+He's engaged in some sort of theatrical enterprise, I take it."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p><p>Just then there came the sound of hurrying feet and voices mingling in
+excited converse.</p>
+
+<p>In another moment Mr. Harris, the elder, put his head in at the open
+window.</p>
+
+<p>"Charlie, telegraph to Mr. Beale at Swan Station; tell him to come home
+instantly; his little daughter's grave has been robbed!"</p>
+
+<p>Uttering a startled ejaculation, young Harris turned to his instrument,
+and his father withdrew his head and came around to the office door.</p>
+
+<p>"Good-morning," he said to me, seating himself upon a corner of the
+office desk. "This is a shameful affair, sir; the worst that has
+happened in Trafton, to my mind. Only yesterday I officiated at the
+funeral of the little one; she was only seven years old, and looked like
+a sleeping angel, and now&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>He paused and wiped the perspiration from his forehead.</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Beale will be distracted," said Charlie Harris, turning toward us.
+"It was her only girl."</p>
+
+<p>"Beale is a mechanic, you see," said the elder, addressing me. "He is
+working upon some new buildings at Swan Station."</p>
+
+<p>"How was it discovered?" said his son.</p>
+
+<p>"I hardly know; they sent for me to break the news to Mrs. Beale, and I
+thought it best to send for Beale first. The town is working into a
+terrible commotion over it."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span></p><p>Just here a number of excited Traftonites entered the outer room and
+called out Mr. Harris.</p>
+
+<p>A moment later I saw Carnes pass the window; he moved slowly, and did
+not turn his head, but I knew at once that he wished to see me. I arose
+quietly and went out. Passing through the group of men gathered about
+Mr. Harris, I caught these words: "Cursed resurrectionist," and, "I knew
+he was not the man for us."</p>
+
+<p>Hurrying out I met Carnes at the corner of the building.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you heard&mdash;" he began; but I interrupted him.</p>
+
+<p>"Of the grave robbery? Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said Carnes, laying a hand upon my arm, "they are organizing a
+gang down at Porter's store. They are going to raid Dr. Bethel's cottage
+and search for the body."</p>
+
+<p>"They're a set of confounded fools!" I muttered. "Follow me, Carnes."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span></p><p>And I turned my steps in the direction of "Porter's store."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX.<br />
+<small>MOB LAW.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>Lounging just outside the door at Porter's was Jim Long, hands in
+pockets, eyes fixed on vacancy. He was smoking his favorite pipe, and
+seemed quite oblivious to the stir and excitement going on within. When
+he saw me approach, he lounged a few steps toward me, then getting
+beyond the range of Porter's door and window.</p>
+
+<p>"Give a dough-headed bumpkin a chance to make a fool of himself an'
+he'll never go back on it," began Jim, as I approached. "Have ye come
+ter assist in the body huntin'?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will assist, most assuredly, if assistance is needed," I replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, then, walk right along in. I guess <i>I'll</i> go home."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't be too hasty, Jim," I said, in a lower tone. "I want to see you
+in about two minutes."</p>
+
+<p>Jim gave a grunt of dissatisfaction, but seated himself, nevertheless,
+on one of Porter's empty butter tubs, that stood just beside a window.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span></p><p>I passed in and added myself to the large group of men huddled close
+together near the middle of the long store, and talking earnestly and
+angrily, with excitement, fiercely, or foolishly, as the case might be.</p>
+
+<p>The fire-brand had been dropped in among them, by whom they never could
+have told, had they stopped once to consider; but they did not consider.
+Someone had hinted at the possibility of finding the body of little
+Effie Beale in the possession of the new doctor, and that was enough.
+Guilty or innocent, Dr. Bethel must pay the penalty of his reticence,
+his newness, and his independence. Not being numbered among the
+acceptable institutions of Trafton, he need expect no quarter.</p>
+
+<p>It seemed that the child had been under his care, and looking at the
+matter from a cold-blooded, scientific standpoint, it appeared to me not
+impossible that the doctor <i>had</i> disinterred the body, and I soon
+realized that should he be found guilty, or even be unable to prove his
+innocence, it would go hard with Dr. Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>Among those who cautioned the overheated ones, and urged prudence, and
+calm judgment, was Arch Brookhouse; but, somehow, his words only served
+to add fuel to the flame; while, chief among the turbulent ones, who
+urged extreme measures, was Tom Briggs, and I noted that he was also
+supported by three or four fellows of the same caliber, two of whom I
+had never seen before.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span></p><p>Having satisfied myself that there was not much time to lose if I
+wished to see fair play for Dr. Bethel, I turned away from the crowd,
+unnoticed, and went out to where Jim waited.</p>
+
+<p>"Jim," I said, touching him on the shoulder, "they mean to make it hot
+for Bethel, and he will be one man against fifty&mdash;we must not allow
+anything like that."</p>
+
+<p>"Now ye're talkin'," said Jim, knocking the ashes from his pipe, and
+rising slowly, "an' I'm with ye. What's yer idee?"</p>
+
+<p>"We must not turn the mob against us, by seeming to co-operate," I
+replied. "Do you move with the crowd, Jim; I'll be on the ground as soon
+as you are."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, boss," said Jim.</p>
+
+<p>I turned back toward the telegraph office, that being midway between
+"Porter's" and my hotel.</p>
+
+<p>The men were still there talking excitedly. I looked in at the window
+and beckoned to young Harris. He came to me, and I whispered:</p>
+
+<p>"The men at Porter's mean mischief to Dr. Bethel; your father may be
+able to calm them; he had better go down there."</p>
+
+<p>"He will," replied Harris, in a whisper, "and so will I."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes was lounging outside the office. I approached him, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Go along with the crowd, Carnes, and stand in with Briggs."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes winked and nodded, and I went on toward the hotel.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span></p><p>On reaching my room, I took from their case a brace of five-shooters,
+and put the weapons in my pockets. Then I went below and seated myself
+on the hotel piazza.</p>
+
+<p>In order to reach Dr. Bethel's house, the crowd must pass the hotel; so
+I had only to wait.</p>
+
+<p>I did not wait long, however. Soon they came down the street, quieter
+than they had been at Porter's, but resolute to defy law and order, and
+take justice into their own hands. As they hurried past the hotel in
+groups of twos, threes, and sometimes half a dozen, I noted them man by
+man. Jim Long was loping silently on by the side of an honest-faced
+farmer; Carnes and Briggs were in the midst of a swaggering, loud
+talking knot of loafers; the Harrises, father and son, followed in the
+rear of the crowd and on the opposite side of the street.</p>
+
+<p>As the last group passed, I went across the road and joined the younger
+Harris, who was some paces in advance of his father, looking, as I did
+so, up and down the street. Arch Brookhouse came cantering up on a fine
+bay; he held in his hand the yellow envelope, which, doubtless, he had
+just received from Harris.</p>
+
+<p>"Charlie," he called, reining in his horse. "Stop a moment; you must
+send a message for me."</p>
+
+<p>We halted, Harris looking somewhat annoyed.</p>
+
+<p>Brookhouse tore off half of the yellow envelope, and sitting on his
+horse, wrote a few words, resting his scrap of paper on the horn of his
+saddle.</p>
+
+<p>"Sorry to trouble you, Charlie," he said, "but I want this to go at
+once. Were you following the mob?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span></p><p>"Yes," replied Charlie, "weren't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," said Brookhouse, shortly, "I'm going home; I don't believe in mob
+law."</p>
+
+<p>So saying, he handed the paper to Harris, who, taking it with some
+difficulty, having to lean far out because of a ditch between himself
+and Brookhouse, lost his hold upon it, and a light puff of wind sent it
+directly into my face.</p>
+
+<p>I caught it quickly, and before Harris could recover his balance, I had
+scanned its contents. It ran thus:</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+No. &mdash;&mdash; <span class="smcap">New Orleans</span>.
+</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot"><span class="smcap">Fred Brookhouse</span>:&mdash;Next week L&mdash;&mdash; will be on hand.</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+  A. B.
+</p>
+
+<p>Harris took the scrap of paper and turned back toward the office. And I,
+joining the elder Harris, walked on silently, watching young Brookhouse
+as he galloped swiftly past the crowd; past the house of Dr. Bethel, and
+on up the hill, toward the Brookhouse homestead. I wondered inwardly why
+Frederick Brookhouse, if he were prominently connected with a Southern
+theater, should receive his telegrams at a private address.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span></p><p>Dr. Bethel occupied two pleasant rooms of a small house owned by
+'Squire Brookhouse. He had chosen these, so he afterwards informed me,
+because he wished a quiet place for study, and this he could scarcely
+hope to find either in the village hotel or the average private boarding
+houses. He took his meals at the hotel, and shared the office of Dr.
+Barnard, the eldest of the Trafton physicians, who was quite willing to
+retire from the practice of his profession, and was liberal enough to
+welcome a young and enterprising stranger.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Bethel was absent; this the mob soon ascertained, and some of them,
+after paying a visit to the stable, reported that his horse was gone.</p>
+
+<p>"Gone to visit some country patient, I dare say," said Mr. Harris, as we
+heard this announcement.</p>
+
+<p>"Gone ter be out of the way till he sees is he found out," yelled Tom
+Briggs. "Let's go through the house, boys."</p>
+
+<p>There was a brief consultation among the leaders of the raid, and then,
+to my surprise and to Mr. Harris's disgust, they burst in the front door
+and poured into the house, Carnes among the rest. Jim Long drew back as
+they crowded in, and took up his position near the gate, and not far
+from the place where we had halted.</p>
+
+<p>Their search was rapid and fruitless; they were beginning to come out
+and scatter about the grounds, when a horse came thundering up to the
+gate, and Dr. Bethel flung himself from the saddle.</p>
+
+<p>He had seen the raiding party while yet some rods away, and he turned a
+perplexed and angry face upon us.</p>
+
+<p>"I should like to know the meaning of this," he said, in quick, ringing
+tones, at the same moment throwing open the little gate so forcibly as
+to make those nearest it start and draw back. "Who has presumed to open
+my door?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span></p><p>Mr. Harris approached him and said, in a low tone:</p>
+
+<p>"Bethel, restrain yourself. Little Effie Beale has been stolen from her
+grave, and these men have turned out to search for the body."</p>
+
+<p>"Stolen from her grave!" the doctor's hand fell to his side and the
+anger died out of his eyes, and he seemed to comprehend the situation in
+a moment. "And they accuse me&mdash;of course."</p>
+
+<p>The last words were touched with a shade of irony. Then he strode in
+among the searchers.</p>
+
+<p>"My friends," he said, in a tone of lofty contempt, "so you have accused
+me of grave robbing. Very well; go on with your search, and when it is
+over, and you find that you have brought a false charge against me, go
+home, with the assurance that every man of you shall be made to answer
+for this uncalled-for outlawry."</p>
+
+<p>The raiders who had gathered together to listen to this speech, fell
+back just a little, in momentary consternation. He had put the matter
+before them in a new light, and each man felt himself for the moment
+responsible for his own acts. But the voice of Tom Briggs rallied them.</p>
+
+<p>"He's bluffin' us!" cried this worthy. "He's tryin' to make us drop the
+hunt. Boys, we're gittin' hot. Let's go for the barn and garden."</p>
+
+<p>And he turned away, followed by the more reckless ones.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span></p><p>Without paying the slightest heed to them or their movements, Dr.
+Bethel turned again to Mr. Harris and asked when the body was
+disinterred.</p>
+
+<p>While a part of the men, who had not followed Briggs, drew closer to our
+group, and the rest whispered together, a little apart, Mr. Harris told
+him all that was known concerning the affair.</p>
+
+<p>As he listened a cynical half smile covered the doctor's face; he lifted
+his head and seemed about to speak, then, closing his lips firmly, he
+again bent his head and listened as at first.</p>
+
+<p>"There's something strange about this resurrection," said he, when Mr.
+Harris had finished. "Mr. Beale's little daughter was my patient. It was
+a simple case of diphtheria. There were no unusual symptoms, nothing in
+the case to rouse the curiosity of any physician. The Trafton doctors
+<i>know</i> this. Drs. Hess and Barnard counselled with me. Either the body
+has been stolen by some one outside of Trafton, or&mdash;there is another
+motive."</p>
+
+<p>He spoke these last words slowly, as if still deliberating, and,
+turning, took his horse by the bridle and led him stableward.</p>
+
+<p>In another moment there came a shout from Briggs' party, their loud
+voices mingling in angry denunciations.</p>
+
+<p>With one impulse the irresolute ones, forgetting self, swarmed in the
+direction whence the voices came.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span></p><p>We saw Dr. Bethel, who was just at the rear corner of the house, start,
+stop, then suddenly let fall the bridle and stride after the hurrying
+men, and at once, Mr. Harris, Jim Long and myself followed.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span></p><p>Just outside the stable stood Briggs, surrounded by his crew, talking
+loudly, and holding up to the view of all, a bright new spade, and an
+earth-stained pick ax. As we came nearer we could see that the spade too
+had clots of moist black earth clinging to its surface.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X.<br />
+<small>TWO FAIR CHAMPIONS.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>"Look, all of ye," shouted Briggs. "So much fer his big words; them's
+the things he did the job with."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus010.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus010.jpg" width="400" height="555" alt="&quot;Look, all of ye,&quot; shouted Briggs. &quot;So much fer his big
+words; them&#39;s the things he did the job with.&quot;&mdash;page 97." title="&quot;Look, all of ye,&quot; shouted Briggs. &quot;So much fer his big
+words; them&#39;s the things he did the job with.&quot;&mdash;page 97." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Look, all of ye,&quot; shouted Briggs. &quot;So much fer his big
+words; them&#39;s the things he did the job with.&quot;&mdash;page 97.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>The doctor stopped short at sight of these implements; stopped and stood
+motionless so long that his attitude might well have been mistaken for
+that of unmasked guilt. But his face told another story; blank amazement
+was all it expressed for a moment, then a gleam of comprehension; next a
+sneer of intensest scorn, and last, strong but suppressed anger. He
+strode in among the men gathered about Tom Briggs.</p>
+
+<p>"Where did you get those tools, fellow?" he demanded, sternly.</p>
+
+<p>"From the place where ye hid 'em, I reckon," retorted Briggs.</p>
+
+<p>"Answer me, sir," thundered the doctor. "<i>Where</i> were they?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, ye needn't try any airs on me; ye know well enough where we got
+'em."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span></p><p>Dr. Bethel's hand shot out swiftly, and straight from the shoulder, and
+Briggs went down like a log.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, sir," turning to the man nearest Briggs, "where were these things
+hidden?"</p>
+
+<p>It chanced that this next man was Carnes, who answered quickly, and with
+well feigned self-concern.</p>
+
+<p>"In the sthable, yer honor, foreninst the windy, behind the shay."</p>
+
+<p>I heard a suppressed laugh behind me, and looking over my shoulder saw
+Charlie Harris.</p>
+
+<p>"Things are getting interesting," he said, coming up beside me. "Will
+there be a scrimmage, think you?"</p>
+
+<p>I made him no answer, my attention being fixed upon Bethel, who was
+entering the stable and dragging Carnes with him. When he had
+ascertained the exact spot where the tools were found, he came out and
+turned upon the raiders.</p>
+
+<p>"Go on with your farce," he said, with a sarcastic curl of the lip. "I
+am curious to see what you will find next."</p>
+
+<p>Then turning upon Briggs, who had scrambled to his feet, and who
+caressed a very red and swollen eye, while he began a tirade of abuse&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Fellow, hold your tongue, if you don't want a worse hit. If you'll walk
+into my house I'll give you a plaster for that eye&mdash;after I have cared
+for your better."</p>
+
+<p>And he turned toward his horse, whistling a musical call. The
+well-trained animal came straight to its master and was led by him into
+its accustomed place.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span></p><p>And now the search became more active. Those who at first had been held
+in check by the doctor's manner were once more spurred to action by the
+sight of those earth-stained tools, and the general verdict was that
+"Bethel was bluffing, sure." When he emerged again from the stable, they
+were scattering about the garden, looking in impossible places of
+concealment, under everything, over everything, into everything.</p>
+
+<p>Briggs, who seemed not at all inclined to accept the doctor's proffered
+surgical aid, still grasping in his hand the pick, and followed by
+Carnes, to whom he had resigned the spade, went prowling about the
+garden.</p>
+
+<p>Bethel, who appeared to have sufficient mental employment of some sort,
+passed our group with a smile and the remark:</p>
+
+<p>"I can't ask you in, gentlemen, until I have set my house in order.
+Those vandals have made it a place of confusion."</p>
+
+<p>He entered the house through a rear door, which had been thrown open by
+the invaders, and a moment later, as I passed by a side window, I
+glanced in and saw him, not engaged in "setting his house in order," but
+sitting in a low, broad-backed chair, his elbows resting on his knees,
+his hands loosely clasped, his head bent forward, his eyes "fixed on
+vacancy," the whole attitude that of profound meditation.</p>
+
+<p>The finding of the tools, the manner of Bethel, both puzzled me. I went
+over to Jim Long, who had seated himself on the well platform, and
+asked:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span></p><p>"How is this going to terminate, Jim?"</p>
+
+<p>"Umph!" responded Jim, somewhat gruffly. "'Twon't be long a comin' to a
+focus."</p>
+
+<p>And he spoke truly. In a few moments we heard a shout from the rear of
+the garden. Tom Briggs and his party had found a spot where the soil had
+been newly turned. In another moment a dozen hands were digging
+fiercely.</p>
+
+<p>Just then, and unnoticed by the exploring ones, a new element of
+excitement came upon the scene.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Beale, the father of the missing child, accompanied by two or three
+friends, came in from the street. They paused a moment, in seeming
+irresolution, then the father, seeing the work going on in the garden,
+uttered a sharp exclamation, and started hastily toward the spot, where,
+at that moment, half a dozen men were bending over the small excavation
+they had made, and twice as many more were crowding close about them.</p>
+
+<p>"They have found something," said Harris, the elder, and he hastily
+followed Mr. Beale, leaving his son and myself standing together near
+the rear door of the house, and Jim still sitting aloof, the only ones
+now, save Dr. Bethel, who were not grouping closer and closer about the
+diggers, in eager anxiety to see what had been unearthed.</p>
+
+<p>In another moment, there came a tumult of exclamations, imprecations,
+oaths; and above all the rest, a cry of mingled anguish and rage from
+the lips of the bereaved and tortured father.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span></p><p>The crowd about the spot fell back, and the diggers arose, one of them
+holding something up to the view of the rest. Instinctively, young
+Harris and myself started toward them.</p>
+
+<p>But Jim Long still sat stolidly smoking beside the well.</p>
+
+<p>As we moved forward, I heard a sound from the house, and looked back.
+Dr. Bethel had flung wide open the shutters of a rear window, and was
+looking out upon the scene.</p>
+
+<p>Approaching the group, we saw what had caused the father's cry, and the
+growing excitement of the searchers. They had found a tiny pair of
+shoes, and a little white dress; the shoes and dress in which little
+Effie Beale had been buried.</p>
+
+<p>And now the wildest excitement prevailed. Maddened with grief, rage, and
+sickening horror, the father called upon them to find the body, and to
+aid him in wreaking vengeance upon the man who had desecrated his
+darling's grave.</p>
+
+<p>It was as fire to flax. Those who have witnessed the workings of a mob,
+know how swiftly, mysteriously, unreasonably, it kindles under certain
+influences.</p>
+
+<p>How many men, with different, often opposing interests, make the cause
+of one their common cause, and forgetting personality, become a unit for
+vengeance, a single, dreadful, unreasoning force!</p>
+
+<p>The air resounded with threats, imprecations, exclamations, oaths.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span></p><p>Some of the better class of Traftonites had followed after the first
+party, joining them by threes and fours. These made some effort to
+obtain a hearing for themselves and Mr. Harris, but it was futile.</p>
+
+<p>"Hang the rascally doctor!"</p>
+
+<p>"String him up!"</p>
+
+<p>"Run him out of town!"</p>
+
+<p>"Hanging's too good!"</p>
+
+<p>"Let's tar and feather him!"</p>
+
+<p>"Bring him out; bring him out!"</p>
+
+<p>"Give us a hold of him!"</p>
+
+<p>"We ain't found the body yet," cried one of the most earnest searchers.
+"Let's keep looking."</p>
+
+<p>As some of the party turned toward the house I looked back to the open
+window.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Bethel still stood in full view, but Jim Long had disappeared from
+the pump platform.</p>
+
+<p>The search now became fierce and eager, and while some started to go
+once again through the house and cellar, a number of Briggs' cronies
+began a furious onslaught upon a stack of hay, piled against the stable.</p>
+
+<p>But those who approached the house met with an unlooked-for obstacle to
+their search,&mdash;the rear door was closed and barred against them. Failing
+in this quarter they hastened around to the front.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span></p><p>Here the door was open, just as they had left it, swinging on one
+broken hinge; but the doctor's tall form and stalwart shoulders barred
+the way.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," he said, in low, resolute tones, "you can not enter my
+house, at least at present. You have done sufficient damage to my
+property already."</p>
+
+<p>The men halted for a moment, and then the foremost of them began to
+mount the steps.</p>
+
+<p>"Stand back," said Bethel. "I shall protect my property. I will allow my
+house to be inspected again by a committee, if you like, but I will
+<i>not</i> admit a mob."</p>
+
+<p>"You'd better not try to stop us," said the leader of the party, "we are
+too many for ye." And he mounted the upper step.</p>
+
+<p>"Stand down, sir," again said Bethel. "Did I not say I should protect my
+property?" and he suddenly presented in the face of the astonished
+searcher a brace of silver-mounted pistols.</p>
+
+<p>The foremost men drew hastily back, but they rallied again, and one of
+them yelled out:</p>
+
+<p>"Ye'd better not tackle <i>us</i> single-handed; an' ye won't get anyone to
+back ye <i>now</i>!"</p>
+
+<p>"Jest allow me ter argy that pint with ye," said Jim Long, as he
+suddenly appeared in the doorway beside Bethel. "I reckon <i>I'm</i>
+somebody."</p>
+
+<p>Jim held in his hand a handsome rifle, the doctor's property, and he ran
+his eye critically along the barrel as he spoke.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span></p><p>"Here's five of us, an' we all say <i>ye can't come in</i>. Three of us can
+<i>repeat</i> the remark if it 'pears necessary."</p>
+
+<p>Then turning his eye upon the last speaker of the party, he said,
+affably:</p>
+
+<p>"I ain't much with the little shooters, Simmons; but I can jest make a
+rifle howl. Never saw me shoot, did ye? Now, jest stand still till I
+shoot that grasshopper off ye'r hat brim."</p>
+
+<p>Simmons, who stood in the midst of the group, and was taller than those
+about him by half a head, began a rapid retrograde movement, and, as Jim
+slowly raised his rifle to his shoulder, the group about the door-steps
+melted away, leaving him in possession of the out-posts.</p>
+
+<p>"That," said Jim, with a grin, as he lowered his rifle, "illyusterates
+the sooperiority of mind over matter. Doctor, did ye know the darned
+thing wasn't loaded?"</p>
+
+<p>While Bethel still smiled at this bit of broad comedy, a sharp cry, and
+then a sudden unnatural stillness, told of some new occurrence, and
+followed by Jim we went back to the rear window and looked out.</p>
+
+<p>They were crowding close about something, as yet half hidden in the
+scattered hay; all silent, and, seemingly, awe-stricken. Thus for a
+moment only, then a low murmur ran through the crowd, growing and
+swelling into a yell of rage and fury.</p>
+
+<p>Hidden in the doctor's hay they had found the body of Effie Beale!</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span></p><p>It was still encoffined, but the little casket had been forced open,
+and it was evident, from the position of the body, that the buried
+clothing had been hurriedly torn from it.</p>
+
+<p>It would be difficult to describe the scene which followed this last
+discovery. While the father, and his more thoughtful friends, took
+instant possession of the little coffin, the wrath of the raiders grew
+hotter and higher; every voice and every hand was raised against Dr.
+Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>Tom Briggs, with his blackened eye, was fiercely active, and his two or
+three allies clamored loudly for vengeance upon "the cursed
+resurrectionist."</p>
+
+<p>"Let's give him a lesson," yelled a burly fellow, who, having neither
+wife, child, nor relative in Trafton was, according to a peculiar law
+governing the average human nature, the loudest to clamor for summary
+vengeance. "Let's set an example, an' teach grave robbers what to look
+for when they come to Trafton!"</p>
+
+<p>"If we don't settle with him nobody will," chimed in another fellow, who
+doubtless had good reason for doubting the ability of Trafton justice to
+deal with law-breakers.</p>
+
+<p>Those who said little were none the less eager to demonstrate their
+ability to deal with offenders when the opportunity afforded itself.
+Over and again, in various ways, Trafton had been helplessly victimized,
+and now, that at last they had traced an outrage to its source, Trafton
+seized the opportunity to vindicate herself.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span></p><p>A few of the fiercest favored extreme measures, but the majority of the
+mob seemed united in their choice of feathers and tar, as a means of
+vengeance.</p>
+
+<p>Seeing how the matter would terminate, I turned to Harris, the younger,
+who had kept his position near me.</p>
+
+<p>"Ask your father to follow us," I said, "and come with me. They are
+about to attack the doctor."</p>
+
+<p>We went quietly around and entered the house from the front. The doctor
+and Jim were still at the open window, and in full view of the mob.</p>
+
+<p>Bethel turned toward us a countenance locked in impenetrable
+self-possession.</p>
+
+<p>"They mean business," he said, nodding his head toward the garden. "Poor
+fools."</p>
+
+<p>Then he took his pistols from a chair by the window, putting one in each
+pocket of his loose sack coat.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," he said, addressing us, "pray don't bring upon yourselves
+the enmity of these people by attempting to defend me. I assure you I am
+in no danger, and can deal with them single-handed. Out of regard for
+what they have left of my furniture, I will meet them, outside."</p>
+
+<p>And he put one hand upon the window sill and leaped lightly out,
+followed instantly by young Harris.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span></p><p>"Here's the inconvenience of being in charge of the artillery," growled
+Jim Long, discontentedly. "I'll stay in the fort till the enemy opens
+fire," and he drew the aforementioned rifle closer to him, as he
+squatted upon the window ledge.</p>
+
+<p>The clergyman and myself, without consultation or comment, made our exit
+as we came, by the open front door, and arrived upon the scene just as
+Bethel, with his two hands in his coat pockets, halted midway between
+the house and rear garden to meet the mob that swarmed toward him,
+yelling, hooting, hissing.</p>
+
+<p>If the doctor had hoped to say anything in his own defense, or even to
+make himself heard, he was speedily convinced of the futility of such an
+undertaking. His voice was drowned by their clamor, and as many eager
+hands were outstretched to seize him in their hard, unfriendly grasp,
+the doctor lost faith in moral suasion and drew back a step, while he
+suddenly presented, for their consideration, a brace of five-shooters.</p>
+
+<p>The foremost men recoiled for a moment, and Mr. Harris seized the
+opportunity. Advancing until he stood almost before Dr. Bethel, he began
+a conciliatory speech, after the most approved manner.</p>
+
+<p>But it came to an abrupt ending, the men rallied almost instantly, and,
+drowning the clergyman's voice under a chorus of denunciations and
+oaths, they once more pressed forward.</p>
+
+<p>"Stand down, parson," cried Jim Long, now leaping from the window, rifle
+in hand, and coming to the rescue. "Your medicine ain't the kind they're
+hankerin' after."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus011.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus011.jpg" width="400" height="565" alt="&quot;Stand down, parson,&quot; cried Jim Long, rifle in hand,
+&quot;Your medicine ain&#39;t the kind they&#39;re hankerin&#39; after.&quot;&mdash;page 107." title="&quot;Stand down, parson,&quot; cried Jim Long, rifle in hand,
+&quot;Your medicine ain&#39;t the kind they&#39;re hankerin&#39; after.&quot;&mdash;page 107." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Stand down, parson,&quot; cried Jim Long, rifle in hand,
+&quot;Your medicine ain&#39;t the kind they&#39;re hankerin&#39; after.&quot;&mdash;page 107.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span></p><p>"You fall back, Tom Briggs," called Charlie Harris, peremptorily, "we
+want fair play here," and he drew a pistol from his pocket and took his
+stand beside Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment I drew my own weapons and fell into line.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," I said, "let's give Dr. Bethel a hearing."</p>
+
+<p>And now occurred what we had hardly anticipated. While some of the
+foremost of the raiders drew back, others advanced, and we saw that
+these comers to the front were armed like ourselves.</p>
+
+<p>While we stood thus, for a moment, there was a breathless silence and
+then Jim Long's deep voice made itself heard.</p>
+
+<p>"Some of you fellers are giving yourselves away," he said, with a sneer.
+"Now, jest look a here; ye mean bluff, we mean business. An' you chaps
+as has been supplied with shooters by Tom Briggs and Simmons and
+Saunders hed better drop the things an' quit."</p>
+
+<p>A moment's silence, then a babel of voices, a clamor and rush.</p>
+
+<p>There was the loud crack of a pistol, accompanied by a fierce oath,&mdash;a
+cry of "stop," uttered in a clear female voice,&mdash;then another moment of
+breathless silence.</p>
+
+<p>Two women were standing in our midst, directly between the doctor and
+his assailants, and Carnes still grasped the pistol hand of Tom Briggs,
+while the smoke of the averted charge yet hovered above their heads.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span></p><p>One of the two ladies, who had so suddenly come to the rescue, was
+Miss Adele Manvers. The other a tall, lithe, beautiful blonde, I had
+never before seen.</p>
+
+<p>"Friends, neighbors," said this fair stranger, in clear, sweet, but
+imperious tones, "you have made a terrible mistake. Dr. Bethel was with
+<i>my father</i> from sunset last night until one hour ago. They were
+together every moment, at the bedside of Mr. James Kelsey, on the
+Willoughby road."</p>
+
+<p>Evidently this fair young lady was an authority not to be questioned.
+The crowd fell back in manifest consternation, even Tom Briggs' tongue
+was silent.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Manvers stood for a moment casting glances of open contempt upon
+the crowd. Then, as the doctor's fair champion ceased speaking and,
+seeing that her words had been effective, drew nearer to Mr. Harris,
+flushing and paling as if suddenly abashed by her own daring, the
+brilliant owner of the treasure-ship riches turned to Dr. Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>"Doctor, you are <i>our</i> prisoner," she said, smiling up at him. "Dr.
+Barnard is half frantic since hearing of this affair, and he
+commissioned us to bring you to him at once."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span></p><p>Miss Manvers had not as yet noted my presence among the doctor's
+handful of allies. Wishing to give my eyes and ears full play, I drew
+back, and, using Jim Long as a screen, kept near the group about the
+doctor; but out of view. I had noted the sudden flash of his eyes, and
+the lighting up of his face, when the fair unknown came among us. And
+now I saw him clasp her hand between his two firm palms and look down
+into her face, for just a moment, as I could have sworn he had never
+looked at any other woman.</p>
+
+<p>I saw her eyes meet his for an instant, then she seemed to have
+withdrawn into herself, and the fearless champion was merged in the
+modest but self-possessed woman.</p>
+
+<p>I saw the haughty Adele Manvers moving about among the raiders,
+bestowing a word here and there, and I saw Mr. Harris now making good
+use of the opportunity these two fair women had made. I noted that Tom
+Briggs and his loud-voiced associates were among the first to slink
+away.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Bethel was reluctant to quit the field, but the advice of Mr.
+Harris, the earnest entreaty of Miss Manvers, and, more than all the
+rest, the one pleading look from the eyes of the lovely unknown,
+prevailed.</p>
+
+<p>"Long," he said, turning to Jim, "here are my keys; will you act as my
+steward until&mdash;my place is restored to quiet?"</p>
+
+<p>Jim nodded comprehensively.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll clear the premises," he said, grimly. "Don't ye have any
+uneasiness; I'll camp right down here."</p>
+
+<p>"Bethel," said Charlie Harris, "for the sake of the ladies, you had
+better go at once; those fellows in the rear there are trying to rally
+their forces."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span></p><p>"Since my going will be a relief to my friends, I consent to retreat,"
+said the besieged doctor, smiling down at the two ladies.</p>
+
+<p>They had driven thither in a dashing little pony ph�ton, owned by Miss
+Manvers; and as they moved toward it the heiress said:</p>
+
+<p>"Doctor, you must drive Miss Barnard home; I intend to walk, and enjoy
+the society of Mr. Harris."</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Bethel and the blonde lady entered the little carriage, and, after a
+few words addressed to Harris and Miss Manvers, drove away.</p>
+
+<p>The heiress looked about the grounds for a moment, addressed a few
+gracious words to Harris, the elder, smiled at Jim Long, and then moved
+away, escorted by the delighted younger Harris.</p>
+
+<p>"Wimmen air&mdash;wimmen," said Jim Long, sententiously, leaning upon the
+rifle, which he still retained, and looking up the road after the
+receding plumes of Miss Manvers' Gainsborough hat. "You can't never tell
+where they're goin' ter appear next. It makes a feller feel sort a
+ornary, though, ter have a couple o' gals sail in an' do more business
+with a few slick words an' searchin' looks, then <i>he</i> could do with a
+first-class rifle ter back him. Makes him feel as tho' his inflouence
+was weakening."</p>
+
+<p>"Jim," I said, ignoring his whimsical complaint, "who was the fair
+haired lady?"</p>
+
+<p>"Doctor Barnard's only darter, Miss Louise."</p>
+
+<p>"I never saw her before."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span></p><p>"'Spose not; she's been away nigh onto two months, visitin' her
+father's folks. Old Barnard must a had one of his bad turns this
+morning, so's he couldn't git out, or he'd never a sent his gal into
+such a crowd on such an errand. Hullo, what's that Mick o' your'n
+doin'?"</p>
+
+<p>Glancing in the direction indicated by Jim, I saw that Carnes was
+engaged in a fisticuff bout with Tom Briggs, and hastened to interpose;
+not through solicitude for Carnes so much as because I wished to prevent
+a serious rupture between the two.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus012.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus012.jpg" width="400" height="560" alt="&quot;Glancing in the direction indicated by Jim, I saw that
+Carnes was engaged in a fisticuff bout with Tom Briggs, and hastened to
+interpose;&quot;&mdash;page 114." title="&quot;Glancing in the direction indicated by Jim, I saw that
+Carnes was engaged in a fisticuff bout with Tom Briggs, and hastened to
+interpose;&quot;&mdash;page 114." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Glancing in the direction indicated by Jim, I saw that
+Carnes was engaged in a fisticuff bout with Tom Briggs, and hastened to
+interpose;&quot;&mdash;page 114.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"Barney," I said, severely, "you have been drinking too much, I am sure.
+Stop this ruffianism at once."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it ruffianism yer callin' it, ter defend yerself aginst the
+murtherin' shnake; and ain't it all bekase I hild up his fist fer fear
+the blundherin' divil ud shoot yees by mishtake! Och, then, didn't I
+make the illigant rhyme though?"</p>
+
+<p>"You have made yourself very offensive to me, sir, by the part you have
+taken in this affair," I retorted, with additional sternness; "and so
+long as you remain in my service you will please to remember that I
+desire you to avoid the society of loafers and brawlers."</p>
+
+<p>"Meanin' me, I suppose?" snarled Tom Briggs.</p>
+
+<p>"Meaning you in <i>this</i> instance," I retorted, turning away from the two,
+with all the dignity I could muster for the occasion.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span></p><p>"Bedad, he's got his blood up," muttered Carnes, ruefully, as I
+walked away. "Old Red Top, shake! Seein' as I'm to be afther howldin'
+myself above yees in future, I won't mind yer airs jist now, an' if iver
+I git twenty dollars ahead I'll discharge yon blood an' be me own bye."</p>
+
+<p>Satisfied that this bit of by-play had had the desired effect, and being
+sure that Carnes would not leave the premises so long as there remained
+anything or any one likely to prove interesting, I turned my steps
+townward, musing as I went.</p>
+
+<p>I had made, or so I believed, three discoveries.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Carl Bethel was the victim of a deep laid plot, of which this affair
+of the morning was but the beginning.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Carl Bethel was in love with the fair Miss Barnard.</p>
+
+<p>And the brilliant owner of the treasure-ship jewels was in love with Dr.
+Carl Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>Whether Bethel was aware of the plot, or suspected his enemies; whether
+he was really what he seemed, or only playing a part like myself;
+whether to warn him and so risk bringing myself under suspicion, or to
+let matters take their natural course and keep a sharp lookout
+meantime;&mdash;were questions which I asked myself again and again, failing
+to find a satisfactory answer.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p><p>On one thing I decided, however. Bethel was a self-reliant man. He was
+keen and courageous, quite capable of being more than he seemed. He was
+not a man to be satisfied with half truth. I must give him my fullest
+confidence or not seek his.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI.<br />
+<small>A CUP OF TEA.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>It was growing dusk before I saw Carnes again that day. I had remained
+in my room since dinner, wishing to avoid as much as possible the gossip
+and natural inquiry that would follow the denouement of the raid against
+Dr. Bethel, lest some suspicious mind should think me too much
+interested, considering the part I had taken in the affair.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes came in softly, and wearing upon his face the peculiar knowing
+grin that we at the office had named his "Fox smile." He held in his
+hand a folded slip of paper, which he dropped upon my knee, and then
+drew back, without uttering a comment, to watch my perusal of the same.</p>
+
+<p>It was very brief, simply a penciled line from Dr. Barnard, asking me to
+tea at seven o'clock. It was almost seven as I read.</p>
+
+<p>"Where did you get this?" I asked, rising with sudden alacrity, and
+beginning a hurried toilet. "Read it Carnes, if you haven't already; I
+should have had it earlier."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span></p><p>Carnes took up the note, perused it, and tossed it on the bed, then,
+seating himself astride a chair, he told his story, watching my
+progressing toilet with seeming interest the while.</p>
+
+<p>"After my tender parting with Briggs, I sherried over and made myself
+agreeable to Jim Long, and as I was uncommon respectful and willin' to
+be harangued, he sort o' took me as handy boy, an' let me stay an help
+him tidy up Bethel's place. He cleared out the multitude, put the yard
+into decent order, and then, while he undertook to rehang the doctor's
+front door, I'm blest if he didn't set <i>me</i> to pilin' up the hay stack.
+Don't wear that beast of a choker, man, it makes you look like a
+laughing hyena."</p>
+
+<p>I discarded the condemned choker, swallowed the doubtful compliment, and
+Carnes continued, lapsing suddenly into broad Irish:</p>
+
+<p>"Prisintly he comes out to the shtack, as I was finishin' the pile,
+tellin' me as he must have some new hinges to the doctor's door, an'
+axin would I shtay an' kape house till he wint up fer the iron works. I
+consinted."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes!" eagerly.</p>
+
+<p>"And I made good use of the opportunity. I wint over that place in a way
+to break the heart of a jenteel crook, an' I'm satisfied."</p>
+
+<p>"Of what, Carnes?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span></p><p>"That there's no irregularity about the doctor. If there was a track as
+big as a fly's foot wouldn't I have hit it? Yes, sir! There ain't no
+trace of the detective-in-ambush about those premises, Tom Briggs to the
+contrary notwithstanding. He's a regular articled medical college
+graduate; there's plenty of correspondence to prove him Dr. Carl Bethel,
+and nothing to prove him anything else."</p>
+
+<p>"Quite likely," I replied, not yet wholly convinced; "Bethel is not the
+man to commit himself; he'd be very sure not to leave a trace of his
+'true inwardness' about the premises, if he <i>were</i> on a still hunt. How
+about the note, Carnes?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, the note! Well, when Jim came back, about fifteen minutes ago, or
+so, he gave me that, saying that he called at Dr. Barnard's to ask for
+instructions from Bethel, and was handed that note to leave for you. Jim
+says that he forgot to stop with the note; but I'm inclined to think
+that he wanted to dispose of me and took this way to avoid hurting my
+feelings."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I shall be late at Dr. Barnard's, owing to Jim's notions of
+delicacy," I said, turning away from the mirror and hurriedly brushing
+my hat. "However, I can explain the tardiness. By-by, Carnes; we will
+talk this day's business over when I have returned."</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Barnard's pleasant dwelling was scarce five minutes' walk from our
+hotel; and I was soon making my bow in the presence of the doctor, his
+wife and daughter, Miss Manvers, and Dr. Bethel.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span></p><p>As I look back upon that evening I remember Louise Barnard as at once
+the loveliest, the simplest and most charmingly cultivated woman I have
+ever met. Graceful without art, self-possessed without ostentation,
+beautiful as a picture, without seeming to have sought by artifices of
+the toilet to heighten the effect of her statuesque loveliness.</p>
+
+<p>Adele Manvers was also beautiful; no, handsome is the more appropriate
+word for her; but in face, form, coloring, dress, and manner, a more
+decided contrast could not have been deliberately planned.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Barnard was the lovely lady; Miss Manvers, the daintily clad, fair
+woman of fashion.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Barnard was tall, slender, dazzlingly beautiful, with soft fair
+hair and the features of a Greek goddess. Miss Manvers was a trifle
+below the medium height, a piquant brunette, plump, shapely, a trifle
+haughty, and inclined to self-assertion.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Barnard wore soft flowing draperies, and her hair as nature
+intended it to be worn. Miss Manvers wore another woman's hair in
+defiance of nature, and her dress was fashion's last conceit,&mdash;a
+"symphony" in silks and ruffles and bewildering draperies.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Barnard was dignified and somewhat reticent. Miss Manvers was
+talkative and vivacious.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span></p><p>They had learned from Jim Long all that he could tell them concerning
+the part I had taken in the affair of the morning. The elder physician
+desired to express his approbation, the younger his gratitude. They had
+sent for me that I might hear what they had to say on the subject of the
+grave robbery, and to ask my opinion and advice as to future movements.</p>
+
+<p>All this was communicated to me by the voluble old doctor, who was
+sitting in an invalid's chair, being as yet but half recovered from his
+neuralgic attack of the morning. We had met on several occasions, but I
+had no previous knowledge of his family.</p>
+
+<p>"There will be no further trouble about this matter," said Dr. Barnard,
+as we sat in the cool, cosy parlor after our late tea. "Our people have
+known me too long to doubt my word, and my simple statement of my
+absolute knowledge concerning all of Bethel's movements will put out the
+last spark of suspicion, so far as <i>he</i> is concerned&mdash;but," bringing the
+palm of his large hand down upon the arm of his chair with slow
+emphasis, "it won't settle the question next in order. <i>Who are the
+guilty ones?</i>"</p>
+
+<p>"That I shall make it my business to find out," said Dr. Bethel,
+seriously, "I confess that at first I was unreasonably angry, at the
+thought of the suspicion cast upon me. On second thought it was but
+natural. I am as yet a stranger among you, and Trafton evidently
+believes it wise to 'consider every man a rogue until he is proved
+honest.'"</p>
+
+<p>"From what I have heard since coming here," I ventured, "I should say
+Trafton has some reason for adopting this motto."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span></p><p>"So she has; so she has," broke in the old doctor. "And some one had a
+reason for attempting to throw suspicion upon Bethel."</p>
+
+<p>"Evidently," said Bethel. "I am puzzled to guess what that reason can
+be, and I dispose of the theory that would naturally come up first,
+namely, that it is a plot to destroy the public confidence in me, set on
+foot by rival doctors, by saying, at the outset, that I don't believe
+there is a medical man in or about Trafton capable of such a deed. I
+have all confidence in my professional brethren."</p>
+
+<p>"Why," interposed Miss Manvers, "the sentiment does you honor, Dr.
+Bethel, but&mdash;I should think the other doctors your most natural enemies.
+Who else could,"&mdash;she broke off abruptly with an appealing glance at
+Louise Barnard.</p>
+
+<p>"I think Dr. Bethel is right," said Miss Barnard, in her low, clear
+contralto. "I cannot think either of our doctors capable of a deed so
+shameful." Then turning to address me, she added, "You, as a stranger
+among us, may see the matter in a more reasonable light. How does it
+look to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Taking the doctor's innocence as a foregone conclusion," I replied, "it
+looks as though he had an enemy in Trafton," here I turned my eyes full
+upon the face of Bethel, "who wished to drive him out of the community
+by making him unpopular in it."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span></p><p>Bethel's face wore the same expression of mystified candor, his eyes
+met mine full and frankly, as he replied:</p>
+
+<p>"Taking <i>that</i> as a foregone conclusion, we arrive at the point of
+starting, Who are the guilty ones? Who are my enemies? I have been
+uniformly successful in my practice; I have had no differences,
+disagreement, or disputes with any man in Trafton. Up to to-day I could
+have sworn I had not an enemy in the town."</p>
+
+<p>"And so could I," said Dr. Barnard. "It's a case for a wiser head than
+mine."</p>
+
+<p>"It's a case for the detectives," said Dr. Bethel, firmly. "If this
+unknown foe thinks to drive me from Trafton, he must try other measures.
+I intend to remain, and to solve this mystery."</p>
+
+<p>A moment's silence followed this decided announcement.</p>
+
+<p>The old doctor nodded his approval, his daughter looked hers.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Manvers sat with eyes fixed upon a spot in the carpet, biting
+nervously at her full red under lip, and tapping the floor with the toe
+of her dainty boot.</p>
+
+<p>I had no desire to take a prominent part in the discussion which
+followed, and became as much as I could a mere observer, but, as after
+events proved, I made very good use of my eyes that night.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span></p><p>Having exhausted the subject of the grave robbery without arriving at
+any new conclusions, the social old doctor proposed a game of whist,
+cards being his chief source of evening pastime. The game was made up,
+Miss Manvers taking a seat opposite Dr. Barnard, and Dr. Bethel playing
+with Mrs. Barnard.</p>
+
+<p>After watching their game for a time, Miss Barnard and myself retired to
+the piano. She sang several songs in a tender contralto, to a soft,
+well-rendered accompaniment, and as I essayed my thanks and ventured to
+praise her singing, she lifted her clear eyes to mine, saying, in an
+undertone:</p>
+
+<p>"Don't think me odd, or too curious&mdash;but&mdash;will you answer a
+question&mdash;frankly?"</p>
+
+<p>I promised, recklessly; and she ran her pretty fingers over the keys,
+drowning our voices, for other ears, under the soft ripple of the notes,
+while she questioned and I replied.</p>
+
+<p>"As a stranger, and an unprejudiced person," she began, "how does this
+shameful charge against Dr. Bethel appear to you? Judging him as men
+judge men, do you think he <i>could</i> be guilty of such a deed?"</p>
+
+<p>"Judging him by my limited knowledge of human nature," I replied, "I
+should say that Dr. Bethel is incapable of baseness in any form. In this
+case, he is certainly innocent."</p>
+
+<p>She looked thoughtfully down at the white, gliding fingers, and said:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span></p><p>"We have seen so much of Dr. Bethel since he came to Trafton, that he
+seems quite like an old friend, and because of his being associated with
+father, it makes his trouble almost a personal matter. I do hope it will
+end without further complications."</p>
+
+<p>She looked up in my face as if hoping that my judgment accorded with her
+wish, but I made no reply, finding silence easier and pleasanter than
+equivocation when dealing with a nature so frank and fearlessly
+truthful.</p>
+
+<p>The game of whist being at an end, Miss Manvers arose almost immediately
+and declared it time to go. She had sent her ph�ton home, her house
+being less than a quarter of a mile from Dr. Barnard's, and according to
+the custom of informal Trafton, I promptly offered myself as escort, and
+was promptly and smilingly accepted.</p>
+
+<p>"What a day this has been," said Miss Manvers, as the doctor's iron gate
+closed behind us. "Such a terrible charge to bring against Dr. Bethel.
+Do you really think," and, spite her evident intention to make the
+question sound common-place, I could detect the genuine anxiety in it,
+"Do you really think that it will&mdash;injure his practice to the extent
+of&mdash;driving him from Trafton?"</p>
+
+<p>"You heard what he said, Miss Manvers."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes&mdash;but if I am rightly informed, Dr. Bethel is, in a measure at
+least, dependent on his practice. Is not this so?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span></p><p>"You are better advised than I, Miss Manvers; I know so little of Dr.
+Bethel."</p>
+
+<p>"And yet you were his warmest champion to-day."</p>
+
+<p>"I assure you I felt quite cool," I laughed. "I should have done as much
+for the merest stranger, under the same circumstances."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you are not prejudiced in his favor?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am not prejudiced at all. I like Bethel."</p>
+
+<p>"And so do I," replied the heiress, heartily, "and I like the spirit he
+shows in this matter. Is not this&mdash;a&mdash;exhuming of a subject, a frequent
+occurrence?"</p>
+
+<p>"Undoubtedly."</p>
+
+<p>"I mean&mdash;is it not often done by medical men?"</p>
+
+<p>"By them, or persons employed by them. I suppose so."</p>
+
+<p>She drew a little nearer, lifting an earnest face to meet my gaze.</p>
+
+<p>"Candidly, now," she said, "as if I were not Miss Manvers, but a man to
+be trusted. Do you think it impossible that Dr. Bethel has done this
+thing? Viewed from a scientific and practical standpoint, does such a
+deed appear to you to be the horrible thing <i>some</i> seem to think it?"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus013.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus013.jpg" width="400" height="580" alt="&quot;Candidly, now,&quot; she said, &quot;as if I were not Miss
+Manvers, but a man to be trusted. Do you think it impossible that Dr.
+Bethel has done this thing?&quot;&mdash;page 129." title="&quot;Candidly, now,&quot; she said, &quot;as if I were not Miss
+Manvers, but a man to be trusted. Do you think it impossible that Dr.
+Bethel has done this thing?&quot;&mdash;page 129." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Candidly, now,&quot; she said, &quot;as if I were not Miss
+Manvers, but a man to be trusted. Do you think it impossible that Dr.
+Bethel has done this thing?&quot;&mdash;page 129.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>What spirit prompted my answer? I never knew just what impelled me, but
+I looked down into the pretty, upturned face, looked straight into the
+dark, liquid eyes, and answered:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span></p><p>"Candidly, Miss Manvers&mdash;as you are certainly as much to be trusted as
+if you were a man&mdash;when I went to Bethel's defense, I went supposing
+that, for the benefit of science and the possible good of his
+fellow-beings, he <i>had</i> exhumed the body."</p>
+
+<p>She drew a short, quick breath.</p>
+
+<p>"And you have changed your opinion?" she half asserted, half inquired.</p>
+
+<p>I laid the fingers of my gloved left hand lightly upon hers, as it
+rested on my arm, and bent lower toward the glowing brunette face as I
+answered:</p>
+
+<p>"I have not said so."</p>
+
+<p>She dropped her eyes and mused for a moment, then&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think he will <i>actually</i> call in a detective&mdash;to&mdash;to make his
+innocence seem more probable?"</p>
+
+<p>"I hope he will not," I replied, sincerely this time, but with a hidden
+meaning.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think that Mr. Beale will desire further investigation. The
+matter will die out, undoubtedly. Mr. Barnard is a man of powerful
+influence in the community, and 'Squire Brookhouse will use <i>his</i>
+influence in behalf of Dr. Bethel, I am sure." Then, looking up again,
+quickly: "Do you not admire Miss Barnard?"</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Barnard is 'a thing of beauty,'" I rejoined, sententiously; then,
+with a downward glance that pointed my sentence, "I admire all lovely
+women."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span></p><p>She laughed lightly, but said no more of Miss Barnard, or Dr. Bethel,
+and we parted with some careless badinage, supplemented by her cordial
+hope that I would prolong my stay in Trafton, and that she should see me
+often at The Hill.</p>
+
+<p>Going slowly homeward, through the August darkness, I mentally voted the
+treasure-ship heiress a clever, agreeable, and charming young lady, and
+spent some time in trying to decide whether her delightful cordiality
+was a token that I had pleased, or only amused her. Such is the vanity
+of man!</p>
+
+<p>I found Carnes wide awake, smoking and waiting.</p>
+
+<p>"Have ye done wid yer gallivantin'?" queried he, the instant I made my
+appearance. "Now, thin, be shquare; which is the purtyest gurl?"</p>
+
+<p>"How do you know there were two, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Inshtinct," he retorted, shamelessly. "I knew by the peculiar feelin'
+av the cords av me arums. I say, what a thunderin' lot o' snarly bushes
+old Barnyard kapes about his windys!"</p>
+
+<p>"What! you were up there?" I cried, in astonishment.</p>
+
+<p>"Worrunt I," he retorted, complacently. "<i>An' I wasn't the only one!</i>"</p>
+
+<p>"Carnes!"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span></p><p>"Och, take off yer mittens an' sit down," he said, grinning offensively
+at my mighty efforts to draw off a pair of tight and moist kid gloves.
+"Warn't I up there, an' I could ave told ye all about the purty gals
+mysilf, an' what sort av blarney ye gave till em both, if it had not
+been fer the murtherin' baste of a shnake as got inter the scrubbery
+ahead av me."</p>
+
+<p>I threw aside the damp gloves, and seated myself directly in front of
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, talk business," I said, impatiently. "It's getting late, and
+there's a good deal to be said."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes reached out for the pipe which he had laid aside at my entrance,
+lighted it with due deliberation, and then said, with no trace of his
+former absurdity:</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know what sent me strolling and smoking up toward Dr. Barnard's
+place, but I did go. My pipe went out, and I stopped to light it,
+stepping off the sidewalk just where the late lilacs hang over the fence
+at the foot of the garden. While I stood there, entirely hidden by the
+darkness and the shade, a man came walking stealthily down the middle of
+the road. His very gait betrayed the sneak, and I followed him,
+forgetting my pipe and keeping to the soft grass. He seemed to know just
+where to go for, although he moved cautiously, there was no hesitation.
+Well, he passed the gate, climbed the fence, sneaked up to the front of
+the house, skulking between the trees and rose bushes directly
+underneath the parlor window. I took the bearings as well as I could
+from a distance, and I made up my mind that the fellow, if he heard
+anything, could hardly catch the thread of the discourse, and I reckon I
+was right in my conclusions for, after a good deal of prospecting
+around, he sneaked away as he came, and I followed him back to Porter's
+store."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus014.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus014.jpg" width="400" height="560" alt="&quot;Well he passed the gate, climbed the fence, sneaked up
+to the front of the house, skulking between the trees and rose bushes
+directly underneath the parlor window.&quot;&mdash;page 132." title="&quot;Well he passed the gate, climbed the fence, sneaked up
+to the front of the house, skulking between the trees and rose bushes
+directly underneath the parlor window.&quot;&mdash;page 132." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Well he passed the gate, climbed the fence, sneaked up
+to the front of the house, skulking between the trees and rose bushes
+directly underneath the parlor window.&quot;&mdash;page 132.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span></p><p>"And you knew him?" I questioned, hastily.</p>
+
+<p>"I used to know him," said Carnes, with a comical wink, "but recently
+I've cut his acquaintance."</p>
+
+<p>For a moment we stared at each other silently, then I asked, abruptly:</p>
+
+<p>"Old man, do you think it worth our while to go into this resurrection
+business?"</p>
+
+<p>"What for?"</p>
+
+<p>"To satisfy ourselves as regards Bethel's part in it."</p>
+
+<p>"You needn't go into it on my account," replied Carnes, crossing his
+legs and clasping his two hands behind his head; "I'm satisfied."</p>
+
+<p>"As how?"</p>
+
+<p>"He never did it."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! how do you reason the case?"</p>
+
+<p>"First, he isn't a fool; second, if he had taken the body he would have
+made use of it that night; it was fast decomposing, and before to-night
+would be past pleasant handling. Then he, being called away, if he had
+instructed others to disinter the body, would never have instructed them
+to hide it on his own premises, much less to disrobe it for no purpose
+whatever. Then, last and most conclusive, there's the pick and spade."</p>
+
+<p>"And what of them?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span></p><p>"This of them," unclasping his hands, setting his two feet squarely on
+the floor, and bringing his palms down upon his knees. "You know old
+Harding, the hardware dealer?"</p>
+
+<p>I nodded. Old Harding was the elder brother of the Trafton farmer who
+had excited my eagerness to see Trafton by discussing its peculiarities
+on the railway train.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," leaning toward me and dropping out his words in stiff staccato.
+"After the crowd had left Jim Long and myself in possession of the
+doctor's premises, old Harding came back. I saw that he wanted to talk
+with Jim, and I went out into the yard. Presently the two went into the
+barn, and I skulked around till I got directly behind the window where
+those tools were found. And here's what I heard, stripped of old
+Harding's profanity, and Jim's cranky comments. Last year Harding's
+store was visited by burglars, and those identical tools were taken out
+of it along with many other things. You observed that they were quite
+new. Harding said he could swear to the tools. Now, if others had
+exhumed the body <i>for</i> the doctor, they would not have left their tools
+in his stable and in so conspicuous a place. If the doctor exhumed it,
+how did he obtain those tools? <i>They were stolen before he came to
+Trafton.</i>"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span></p><p>"Then here is another thing," I began, as Carnes paused. "A man of
+Bethel's sense would not take such a step without a sufficient reason.
+Now, Dr. Barnard, who certainly is authority in the matter, says
+positively that there were no peculiar symptoms about the child's
+sickness; that it was a <i>very</i> ordinary case; therefore, Dr. Bethel, who
+can buy all his skeletons without incurring disagreeable labor and risk,
+could have had no motive for taking the body."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you think&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"I think this," I interrupted, being now warm with my subject. "Dr.
+Bethel, who is certainly <i>not</i> a detective, is suspected of being one,
+or feared as one. And this is the way his enemies open the war upon him.
+I think if we can find out who robbed that little girl's grave and
+secreted the body so as to throw suspicion upon Bethel, we shall be in a
+fair way to find out what we came here to learn, viz., what, and where,
+and who, are the daring, long existing successful robbers that infest
+Trafton. This is their first failure, and why?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's easy to guess <i>why</i>," said Carnes, gravely. "The old head was out
+of this business; for some reason it has been entrusted to underlings,
+and bunglers."</p>
+
+<p>"But won't old Harding give these rascals warning by claiming his stolen
+property?" I asked, dubiously.</p>
+
+<p>"Not he," replied Carnes. "Harding's too cute and too stingy for that.
+He reasons that the thieves, having begun to display their booty, may
+grow more reckless. He is one of the few who think that the body was not
+placed in the hay by the doctor's hirelings; he intends to keep silent
+for the present and look sharp for any more of his stolen merchandize."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, Carnes, we have no bars to our present progress. To-morrow we get
+down to actual business."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span></p><p>Again we sat late into the night discussing and re-arranging our
+plans, only separating when we had mapped out a course which we, in our
+egotistical blindness, felt assured was the true route toward success;
+and seeking our slumbers as blissfully unconscious of what really was to
+transpire as the veriest dullard in all Trafton.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII.<br />
+<small>A BIG HAUL.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>When I awoke next morning, I was surprised to find my erratic
+body-servant not in attendance.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes, for convenience, and because of lack of modern hotel
+accommodations, occupied a cot in my room, which was the largest in the
+house, and sufficiently airy to serve for two. Usually, he was anything
+but a model serving man in the matter of rising and attending to duty,
+for, invariably, I was out of bed an hour before him, and had made my
+toilet to the music of his nasal organ, long before he broke his morning
+nap.</p>
+
+<p>This morning, however, Carnes was not snoring peacefully on his cot
+underneath the open north window, and I arose and made a hasty toilet,
+feeling sure that something unusual had called him from his bed this
+early.</p>
+
+<p>Wondering much, I descended to the office, where an animated buzz warned
+me that something new and startling was under discussion.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span></p><p>Usually at that hour this sanctum was untenanted, save for the youth
+who served as a combination of porter and clerk, and perhaps a stray
+boarder or two, but this morning a motley crowd filled the room. Not a
+noisy, blustering crowd, but a gathering of startled, perplexed, angry
+looking men, each seeming hopeful of hearing something, rather than
+desirous of saying much.</p>
+
+<p>Jim Long, the idle, every-where-present Jim, stood near the outer door,
+looking as stolid and imperturbable as usual, and smoking, as a matter
+of course.</p>
+
+<p>I made my way to him at once.</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, Long," I asked, in a low tone; "something new, or&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothin' <i>new</i>, by any means," interrupted Jim, sublimely indifferent to
+the misfortune of his neighbors. "Nothin' new at all, Cap'n; the Trafton
+Bandits have been at it again, that's all."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus015.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus015.jpg" width="400" height="580" alt="&quot;Nothin&#39; new at all, Cap&#39;n; the Trafton Bandits have been
+at it again that&#39;s all.&quot;&mdash;page 140." title="&quot;Nothin&#39; new at all, Cap&#39;n; the Trafton Bandits have been
+at it again that&#39;s all.&quot;&mdash;page 140." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Nothin&#39; new at all, Cap&#39;n; the Trafton Bandits have been
+at it again that&#39;s all.&quot;&mdash;page 140.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"Trafton Bandits! you mean&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Thieves! Robbers! Ku Klux! They've made another big haul."</p>
+
+<p>"Last night?"</p>
+
+<p>"Last night, Cap'n."</p>
+
+<p>"Of what sort?"</p>
+
+<p>Jim chuckled wickedly.</p>
+
+<p>"The right sort to git money out of. Hopper's two-forty's, that was in
+trainin' for the races. Meacham's matched sorrels. 'Squire Brookhouse's
+bay Morgans."</p>
+
+<p>"What! six blooded horses at one haul!"</p>
+
+<p>"Eggszactly."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span></p><p>Jim's coolness was aggravating; I turned away from him, and mingled
+with the group about the clerk's desk.</p>
+
+<p>"Meacham'll suicide; he refused a fancy price for them sorrels not two
+weeks ago."</p>
+
+<p>"Wonder what old Brookhouse will do about it?"</p>
+
+<p>"There'll be some tall rewards offered."</p>
+
+<p>"Much good that'll do. We don't get back stolen horses so easy in this
+county."</p>
+
+<p>"It'll break Hopper up; he had bet his pile on the two-forty's, and bid
+fair to win."</p>
+
+<p>"One of 'em was goin' to trot against Arch Brookhouse's mare, Polly, an'
+they had big bets up. Shouldn't wonder if Arch was glad to be let out so
+easy. Polly never could outgo that gray four-year-old."</p>
+
+<p>"Think not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Brookhouse has telegraphed to his lawyers already, to send on a couple
+of detectives."</p>
+
+<p>"Bully for Brookhouse."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't yell till yer out of the woods. Detectives ain't so much more'n
+common folks. I don't go much on 'em myself. What we want is vigilants."</p>
+
+<p>"Pooh! neither detectives nor vigilants can't cure Trafton."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span></p><p>These and like remarks greeted my ears in quick succession, and
+furnished me mental occupation. I lingered for half an hour among the
+eager, excited gossippers, and then betook myself to the dining-room and
+partook of my morning meal in solitude. With my food for the body, I had
+also food for thought.</p>
+
+<p>Here, indeed, was work for the detective. I longed for the instant
+presence of Carnes, that we might discuss the situation, and I felt no
+little annoyance at the thought of the two detectives who might come in
+upon us at the bidding of 'Squire Brookhouse.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes was in the office when I again entered it, and giving him a sign
+to follow me, I went up to my room. It was situated in a wing of the
+building most remote from the office, and the hum of many voices did not
+penetrate so far.</p>
+
+<p>The stillness seemed more marked by contrast with the din I had just
+left, as I sat waiting.</p>
+
+<p>Presently Carnes came in, alert, quick of movement, and having merged
+the talkative Irishman in the active, cautious detective.</p>
+
+<p>"This looks like business;" he began, dragging a chair forward, and
+seating himself close to me. "I chanced to wake up a little after
+sunrise, and heard some men talking outside, near my window. They were
+going through the lane, and I only caught the words: "Yes, sir; stolen
+last night; six of them." Somehow the tone, quite as much as the words,
+convinced me that something was wrong. I got up and hurried out,
+thinking it hardly worth while to disturb you until I had learned more
+of the fellow's meaning. Well, sir, it's a fact; six valuable pieces of
+horseflesh have been taken from under our very noses."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span></p><p>"Have you got any particulars?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, yes, as much as is known, I think. Hopper, as you remember, lives
+on the hill just at the edge of the town. His man sleeps in the little
+office adjoining the stable. It seems the fellow, having no valuables to
+lose, let the window swing open and slept near it. He was chloroformed,
+and is under the doctor's care this morning. Meacham's stable is very
+near the house, but no one was disturbed by the robbers; they threw his
+dog a huge piece of meat that kept his jaws occupied. I heard Arch
+Brookhouse talking with a lot of men; he says the Morgans were in a
+loose box near the rear door of the stable, and that two men were
+sleeping in the room above the front wing. He says they have telegraphed
+to the city for detectives."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I'm sorry for that, but it's to be expected."</p>
+
+<p>"What shall we do about it?"</p>
+
+<p>"As we are working for our own satisfaction and have little at stake, I
+am in favor of keeping quiet until we see who they bring down. If it's
+some of our own fellows, or <i>any one</i> that we know to be skillful, we
+can then turn in and help them, or retire from the field without making
+ourselves known, as we think best. If the fellows are strangers&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Then we will try the merits of the case with them," broke in Carnes. "I
+tell you, old man, I hate to quit the field now."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span></p><p>"So do I," I acknowledged. "We must manage to know when these new
+experts arrive, and until we have found them out, can do little but keep
+our eyes and ears open. It won't do to betray too much interest just
+yet."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes wheeled about in his chair and turned his eyes toward the street.</p>
+
+<p>"I wish this thing had not happened just yet," he said, moodily. "Last
+night our plans were laid so smoothly. I don't see how we can even
+follow up this grave-robbing business, until these confounded detectives
+have shown their hand."</p>
+
+<p>"Carnes," I replied, solemnly, "do be a philosopher. If ever two
+conceited detectives got themselves into a charming muddle, we're those
+two, at present. If we don't come out of this escapade covered with
+confusion, we shall have cause to be thankful."</p>
+
+<p>My homily had its intended effect. Carnes wheeled upon me with scorn
+upon his countenance.</p>
+
+<p>"The mischief fly away wid yer croakin'," he cried. "An' it's lyin' ye
+know ye are. Is it covered wid confusion ye'd be afther havin' us, bad
+cess to ye? Av we quit this nest we'd be drappin' the natest job two
+lads ever tackled. Ye can quit av ye like, but I'm shtayin', avan if the
+ould boy himself comes down to look intil the bizness."</p>
+
+<p>By "the ould boy," Carnes meant our Chief, and not, as might be
+supposed, his Satanic majesty.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span></p><p>I smiled at the notion of our Chief in the midst of these Trafton
+perplexities, and, letting Carnes' tirade remain unanswered, took from
+my pocket the before mentioned note book and began a new mental
+calculation.</p>
+
+<p>"There goes the ould identical Mephistophiles I used to see in my fairy
+book," broke out Carnes from his station by the window, where he had
+stood for some moments silently contemplating whatever might present
+itself to view in the street below. "Look at 'im now! Av I were an
+artist, wouldn't I ax 'im to sit for 'Satan'."</p>
+
+<p>I looked out and saw 'Squire Brookhouse passing on the opposite side of
+the street, and looking closer, I decided that Carnes' comparison was
+not inapt.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span></p><p>In the days of his youth 'Squire Brookhouse might have been a handsome
+man, when his regular features were rounded and colored by twenty-two
+Summers, or perhaps more; but he must have grown old while yet young,
+for his cadaverous cheeks were the color of most ancient parchment; his
+black eyes were set in hollow, dusky caverns; his mouth was sunken, the
+thin lips being drawn and colorless. His upper lip was smooth shaven,
+but the chin was decorated by a beard, long but thin, and of a peculiar
+lifeless black. His eyebrows were long and drooped above the cavernous
+eyes. His hair was straight and thin, matching the beard in color, and
+he wore it so long that it touched the collar of his coat, the ends
+fluttering dismally in the least gust of wind. He was tall, and angular
+to emaciation, with narrow, stooping shoulders, and the slow, gliding
+gait of an Indian. He was uniformly solemn, it would be a mistake to say
+dignified; preternaturally silent, going and coming like a shadow among
+his loquacious neighbors; always intent upon his own business and
+showing not the least interest in anything that did not in some way
+concern himself. Living plainly, dressing shabbily, hoarding his riches,
+grinding his tenants, superintending the business of his large
+stock-farm, he held himself aloof from society, and had never been seen
+within the walls of a church.</p>
+
+<p>And yet this silent, unsocial man was a power in Trafton; his word of
+commendation was eagerly sought for; his frown was a thing to be
+dreaded; his displeasure to be feared. Whom he would be elected to
+office, and whom he would not, came somehow to be disapproved by all
+Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>"He has certainly an uncommon <i>ensemble</i>," I said, looking out over
+Carnes' shoulder, "not a handsome man, to be sure, but one toward whom
+you would turn in a crowd to take the second look at. I wonder where Jim
+Long would place him in the scale of Trafton weights and measures?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span></p><p>"Not under the head of the model Traftonite," replied Carnes, still
+gazing after the receding figure. "He's guiltless of the small hands and
+feet, perfumed locks and 'more frill to the square yard of shirt front'
+required by Jim for the making of his model. By-the-by, what the 'Squire
+lacks is amply made up by the son. When Jim pictured the model
+Traftonite, I think he must have had Arch Brookhouse in his eye."</p>
+
+<p>"I think so, too; a nature such as Jim's would be naturally antagonistic
+to any form of dandyism. Young Brookhouse is a fastidious dresser, and,
+I should say, a thoroughly good fellow."</p>
+
+<p>"As good fellows go," said Carnes, sententiously. "But dropping the
+dandy, tell me what are we going to do with Jim Long?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's a question I've been asking myself," responded I, turning away
+from the window, "Jim is not an easy conundrum to solve."</p>
+
+<p>"About as easy as a Chinese puzzle," grumbled Carnes, discontentedly.
+"Nevertheless, I tell you, old man, before we get much further on our
+way we've got to take his measure."</p>
+
+<p>"I quite agree with you, and the moment the way seems clear, we must do
+something more."</p>
+
+<p>"What's that?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span></p><p>"We must explore that south road, every foot of it, for twenty miles at
+least."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII.<br />
+<small>'SQUIRE BROOKHOUSE MAKES A CALL.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>The first train due from the city, by which, supposing 'Squire
+Brookhouse's message to be promptly received, and his commission
+promptly executed, it would be possible for the looked-for detectives to
+arrive, would be due at midnight. It was a fast, through express, and
+arriving so late, when the busy village gossips were, or should be,
+peacefully sleeping, it seemed to us quite probable that they would come
+openly by that train.</p>
+
+<p>Of course we expected them to assume disguise, or to have some plausible
+business in the town, quite foreign to their real errand thither; but,
+equally, of course we expected to be able to penetrate any disguise that
+might be assumed by parties known to us, or to see beneath any business
+subterfuge adopted by strangers.</p>
+
+<p>Until midnight then we had only to wait, and employ our time profitably,
+if we could, which seemed hardly probable.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span></p><p>I remained in my room for the remainder of the morning, and Carnes went
+out among the gossipers, in search of any scrap that he might seize upon
+and manipulate into a thing of meaning.</p>
+
+<p>At the dinner table I met Dr. Bethel. He was his usual calm, courteous
+self, seeming in no wise ruffled or discomposed by the events of the
+previous day.</p>
+
+<p>We chatted together over our dinner, and together left the table. In the
+hall the doctor turned to face me, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"If you have nothing better to occupy your time, come down to my house
+with me. I shall enjoy your company."</p>
+
+<p>I could scarcely have found a way of passing the afternoon more to my
+taste, just then, and I accepted his invitation promptly.</p>
+
+<p>Outside the doctor's dwelling, quiet and order reigned, thanks to Jim
+Long's officious friendliness, but within was still the confusion of
+yesterday; Jim, seemingly, having exhausted himself in the hanging of
+the doctor's front door.</p>
+
+<p>Bethel looked about the disordered rooms, and laughed the laugh of the
+philosopher.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span></p><p>"After all, a man can not be thoroughly angry at the doings of a mob,"
+he said, stooping to gather up some scattered papers. "It's like
+scattering shot; the charge loses its force; there is no center to turn
+upon. I was in a rage yesterday, but it was rather with the author of
+the mischief credited to me, than these fanatical would-be avengers, and
+then&mdash;after due reflection&mdash;it was quite natural that these village
+simpletons should suspect me, was it not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Candidly, yes," I replied; "and that only proves the cunning of the
+enemy who planned this business for your injury."</p>
+
+<p>Bethel, who was stooping to restore a chair to its proper position,
+lifted his head to favor me with one sharp glance. Then he brought the
+chair up with a jerk; and, taking another with the unoccupied hand,
+said:</p>
+
+<p>"This is hardly a picture of comfort. Fortunately, there is a condensed
+lawn and excellent shade outside. Let's smoke a cigar under the trees,
+and discuss this matter comfortably."</p>
+
+<p>In another moment we were sitting cosily, <i>vis-�-vis</i>, on the tiny grass
+plot, styled by the doctor a "condensed lawn," with a huge clump of
+lilacs at our backs, and the quivering leaves of a young maple above our
+heads.</p>
+
+<p>The doctor produced some excellent cigars, which we lighted, and smoked
+for a time in silence. Then he said:</p>
+
+<p>"I scarcely flatter myself that I have seen the end of this business. I
+quite expected the raid of yesterday to be followed by a formal
+accusation and a warrant to-day, in which case&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"In which case," I interrupted, "I will be responsible for your future
+good behavior, and go your bail."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span></p><p>"Thank you," he said, quite seriously. "I appreciate your championship,
+but confess it surprises me. Why have you voted me guiltless, in
+opposition to the expressed opinions of two-thirds of Trafton?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps," I replied, "it is because I am not a Traftonite, and am
+therefore without prejudice. To be perfectly frank, I <i>did</i> suppose you
+to be implicated in the business when I came here yesterday; when I
+witnessed your surprise, and heard your denial, I wavered; when I saw
+the buried clothing, I doubted; when the body was discovered, I was
+convinced that a less clever head and more bungling hand than yours, had
+planned and executed the resurrection; it was a blunder which I could
+not credit you with making. If I had a doubt, Barnard's testimony would
+have laid it."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you," said Bethel, with real warmth. "But&mdash;&mdash;I might have had
+confederates."</p>
+
+<p>"No. Doctor Barnard's statement as to the manner of the child's death
+deprives you of a motive for the deed; then the too-easily found tools,
+and the stripped-off clothing could hardly be work of your planning or
+ordering. Depend upon it, when Trafton has done a little calm thinking,
+it will see this matter as I see it."</p>
+
+<p>"Possibly," with a shade of skepticism in his voice. "At least, when I
+have unearthed these plotters against me, they will see the matter as it
+is, and that day I intend to bring to pass."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span></p><p>The fire was nearly extinct on the tip of his cigar, he replaced it in
+his mouth and seemingly only intent upon rekindling the spark; this
+done, he smoked in silence a moment and then said:</p>
+
+<p>"As to the author of the mischief, or his motive, I am utterly at a
+loss. I have given up trying to think out the mystery. I shall call in
+the help of the best detective I can find, and see what he makes of the
+matter."</p>
+
+<p>Gracious heavens! here was another lion coming down upon myself and my
+luckless partner! Trafton was about to be inundated with detectives. My
+brain worked hard and fast. Something must be done, and that speedily,
+or Carnes and I must retreat mutely, ingloriously.</p>
+
+<p>While I smoked in a seemingly careless reverie, I was weighing the
+<i>pros</i> and <i>cons</i> of a somewhat uncertain venture. Should I let this
+third detective come and risk a collision, or should I make a clean
+breast of it, avow my identity, explain the motive of my sojourn in
+Trafton, and ask Bethel to trust his case to Carnes and myself? Almost
+resolved upon this latter course, I began to feel my way.</p>
+
+<p>"A good detective ought to sift the matter, I should think," I said. "I
+suppose you have your man in view?"</p>
+
+<p>"Candidly, no," he replied, with a dubious shake of the head. "I'm
+afraid I am not well posted as regards the police, never expecting to
+have much use for the gentry. I must go to the city and hunt up the
+right man."</p>
+
+<p>I drew a breath of relief.</p>
+
+<p>"That will consume some valuable time," I said, musingly.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span></p><p>"Yes, a day to go; another, perhaps, before I find my man. I shall go
+in person, because I fancy that I shall be able to give something like a
+correct guess as to the man's ability, if I can have a square look at
+his face."</p>
+
+<p>I blew a cloud of smoke before my own face to conceal a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"You are a physiognomist, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not a radical one; but I believe there is much to be learned by the
+careful study of the human countenance."</p>
+
+<p>"Give me a test of your ability," I said, jestingly, and drawing my
+chair nearer to him. "Have I the material in me for a passable
+detective?"</p>
+
+<p>"My dear sir," he replied, gravely, "if I had not given you credit for
+some shrewdness, I should hardly have made you, even in a slight degree,
+my confidante; if you were a detective I think you might be expected to
+succeed."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, doctor; being what I am I can, perhaps, give you the key to
+this mystery."</p>
+
+<p>"You?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I," tossing away my cigar and now fully resolved to confide in the
+doctor. "I think I have stumbled upon the clue you require. I will tell
+you how."</p>
+
+<p>There was a sharp click at the gate; I closed my lips hurriedly, and we
+both turned to look.</p>
+
+<p>'Squire Brookhouse, if possible a shade more solemn of countenance than
+usual, was entering the doctor's door-yard.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span></p><p>My host arose instantly to receive, but did not advance to meet, his
+latest guest.</p>
+
+<p>'Squire Brookhouse accepted the chair proffered him, having first given
+me a nod of recognition, and, while Bethel entered the house for another
+chair, sat stiffly, letting his small, restless black eyes rove about,
+taking in his surroundings with quick, furtive glances, and I fancied
+that he felt a trifle annoyed at my presence.</p>
+
+<p>"You seem quite serene here, in spite of yesterday's fracas," he said to
+me, in what he no doubt intended for the ordinary affable conversational
+tone.</p>
+
+<p>He possessed a naturally harsh, rasping voice, not loud, but, none the
+less, not pleasant to the ear, and this, coupled with his staccato
+manner of jerking out the beginnings of his sentences, and biting off
+the ends of them, would have given, even to gentle words, the sound of
+severity.</p>
+
+<p>While I replied, I was inwardly wondering what had called out this
+unusual visit, for I saw at once, by the look on Bethel's face, that it
+was unusual, and, just then, a trifle unwelcome.</p>
+
+<p>We were not left long in the dark. Scarcely had the doctor rejoined us
+and been seated before the 'squire gave us an insight into the nature of
+his business.</p>
+
+<p>"I am sorry our people gave you so much trouble yesterday, doctor," he
+began, in his stiff staccato. "Their conduct was as discreditable to the
+town as it was uncomplimentary to you."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span></p><p>"One should always take into consideration the character of the
+elements that assails him," replied Bethel, coolly. "I was comforted to
+know that my assailants of yesterday were notably of the <i>canaille</i> of
+the town; the majority, of the rough, vulgar excitables, who, while not
+being, or meaning to be, absolutely vicious, are, because of their
+inherent ignorance, easily played upon and easily led, especially toward
+mischief. The leaders most certainly were not of the <i>lower</i> classes,
+but of the <i>lowest</i>. On the whole, I have experienced no serious
+discomfort, 'Squire Brookhouse, nor do I anticipate any lasting injury
+to my practice by this attempt to shake the public faith in me."</p>
+
+<p>This reply surprised me somewhat, and I saw that the 'squire was, for
+the moment, nonplussed. He sat quite silent, biting his thin under lip,
+and with his restless eyes seemed trying to pierce to the doctor's
+innermost thought.</p>
+
+<p>The silence became to me almost oppressive before he said, shifting his
+position so as to bring me more prominently within his range of vision:</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you are right; I suppose you are. Arch displeased me very much
+by not coming to your aid; he might, perhaps, have had some influence
+upon a portion of the mob. I regret to learn that one or two of my men
+were among them. I believe Arch tried to argue against the movement
+before they came down upon you; he came home thoroughly disgusted and
+angry. For myself, I was too much indisposed to venture out yesterday."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span></p><p>He drew himself a trifle more erect; this long speech seeming to be
+something well off his mind.</p>
+
+<p>"I was well supported, I assure you," replied Bethel, courteously. "But
+I appreciate your interest in my welfare. Your influence in Trafton is
+considerable, I know."</p>
+
+<p>"Hardly that; hardly that, sir. However, such as it is, it is yours, if
+you need it. My call was merely to ask if you anticipated any further
+trouble, or if I could serve you in any way, in case you desired to make
+an investigation."</p>
+
+<p>Bethel hesitated a moment, seemingly at a loss for a reply.</p>
+
+<p>In that moment, while the 'squire's sharp eyes were fixed upon him, I
+lifted my hand, removed my cigar from my mouth with a careless gesture,
+and, catching the doctor's eye, laid a finger on my lip. In another
+instant I was puffing away at my weed, and the keen, quick eyes of
+'Squire Brookhouse were boring me clean through.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you," said Bethel, after this pause, and without again glancing
+at me. "You are very good."</p>
+
+<p>"We seem to be especially honored by rogues of various sorts," went on
+the 'squire. "Of course you have heard of last night's work, and of my
+loss."</p>
+
+<p>The doctor bowed his head.</p>
+
+<p>"This thing is becoming intolerable," went on the usually silent man,
+"and I intend to make a stanch fight. If it's in the power of the
+detectives, I mean to have my horses back."</p>
+
+<p>"You will bestow a blessing upon the community if you succeed in
+capturing the thieves," said Bethel.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span></p><p>Then the 'squire turned toward me, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"We are a victimized community, sir. I suppose you have found that out?"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus016.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus016.jpg" width="400" height="540" alt="&quot;We are a victimized community, sir. I suppose you have
+found that out?&quot;&mdash;page 161." title="&quot;We are a victimized community, sir. I suppose you have
+found that out?&quot;&mdash;page 161." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;We are a victimized community, sir. I suppose you have
+found that out?&quot;&mdash;page 161.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"Judging from the events of yesterday and last night, I should think
+so," I replied, with an air of indifferent interest. "From the
+conversation I heard at the hotel to-day, I infer that this thieving
+business is no new thing."</p>
+
+<p>"No new thing, sir."</p>
+
+<p>I had no desire to participate in the conversation, so made no further
+comment, and the 'squire turned again to Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you intend to investigate this matter?"</p>
+
+<p>Bethel looked up to the maple, and down at the grass.</p>
+
+<p>"I have scarcely decided," he replied, slowly. "I have hardly had time
+to consider."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! I supposed, from what I heard in the town, that you had made a
+decided stand."</p>
+
+<p>"So far as this, I have," replied Bethel, gravely. "I am determined not
+to let these underminers succeed in their purpose."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you have fathomed their purpose?"</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose it is to drive me from Trafton?"</p>
+
+<p>"You intend to remain?"</p>
+
+<p>"Most assuredly. I shall reside and practice in Trafton so long as I
+have one patient left who has faith in me."</p>
+
+<p>"That would be an unprofitable game&mdash;financially."</p>
+
+<p>"I think not, in the end."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p><p>Again the 'squire seemed at a loss for words.</p>
+
+<p>I hugged myself with delight. The dialogue pleased me.</p>
+
+<p>"I like your spirit," he said, at length. "I should also like to see
+this matter cleared up." He rose slowly, pulling his hat low down over
+his cavernous eyes. "I have sent for detectives," he said, slightly
+lowering his tone. "Of course I wish their identity and whereabouts to
+remain a secret among us. If you desire to investigate and wish any
+information or advice from them, or if I can aid you <i>in any way</i>, don't
+hesitate to let me know."</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Bethel thanked him warmly, assuring him that if he had need of a
+friend he would not forget his very generously proffered service, and,
+with his solemn face almost funereal in its expression, 'Squire
+Brookhouse bowed to me, and, this time escorted by Bethel, walked slowly
+toward the gate.</p>
+
+<p>A carriage came swiftly down the road from the direction of the village.
+It halted just as they had reached the gate.</p>
+
+<p>I saw a pale face look out, and then 'Squire Brookhouse approached and
+listened to something said by this pale-faced occupant. Meantime Bethel,
+without waiting for further words with 'Squire Brookhouse, came back to
+his seat under the trees.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span></p><p>In a moment the carriage moved on, going rapidly as before, and the
+'squire came back through the little gate and approached the doctor,
+wearing now upon his face a look of unmistakable sourness.</p>
+
+<p>"Doctor," he said, in his sharpest staccato, "my youngest scapegrace has
+met with an accident, and is going home with a crippled leg. I don't
+know how bad the injury is, but you had better come at once; he seems in
+great distress."</p>
+
+<p>The doctor turned to me with a hesitating movement which I readily
+understood. He was loth to leave our interrupted conversation unfinished
+for an indefinite time.</p>
+
+<p>I arose at once.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't let my presence interfere with your duties," I said. "You and I
+can finish our smoke to-morrow, doctor."</p>
+
+<p>He shot me a glance which assured me that he comprehended my meaning.</p>
+
+<p>Five minutes later, Dr. Bethel and 'Squire Brookhouse were going up the
+hill toward the house of the latter, while I, still smoking, sauntered
+in the opposite direction, lazily, as beseemed an idle man.</p>
+
+<p>I felt very well satisfied just then, and was rather glad that my
+disclosure to the doctor had been interrupted. A new thought had lodged
+in my brain, and I wished to consult Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>Just at sunset, while I sat on the piazza of the hotel, making a
+pretence of reading the <i>Trafton Weekly News</i>, I saw Charlie Harris, the
+operator, coming down the street with a yellow envelope in his hand.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span></p><p>He came up the steps of the hotel, straight to me, and I noted a
+mischievous smile on his face as he proffered the envelope, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to find you so easily. I should have felt it my duty to
+ransack the town in order to deliver that."</p>
+
+<p>I opened the telegram in silence, and read these words:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">The widow B. is in town and anxious to see you. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; T. C.</p>
+
+<p>Then I looked up into the face of young Harris, and smiled in my turn.</p>
+
+<p>"Harris," I said, "this is a very welcome piece of news, and I am much
+obliged to you."</p>
+
+<p>"I knew you would be," laughed the jolly fellow. "I love to serve the
+ladies. And what shall I say in return?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing, Harris," I responded. "I shall go by the first train; the
+widow here referred to, is a particular friend of mine."</p>
+
+<p>Harris elevated his eyebrows.</p>
+
+<p>"In dead earnest, aren't you? Tell me&mdash;I'll never, never give you away,
+is she pretty?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pretty!" I retorted; "Harris, I've a mind to knock you down, for
+applying such a weak word to <i>her</i>. She's <i>magnificent</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"Whew," he exclaimed, "It's a bad case, then. When shall we see you
+again in Trafton?"</p>
+
+<p>"That depends upon the lady. I'll never leave the city while she desires
+me to stay."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span></p><p>After a little more banter of this sort, Harris returned to his duties,
+and I went up-stairs, well pleased with the manner in which he had
+interpreted my Chief's telegram, and wondering not a little what had
+brought the widow Ballou to the city.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes and I had another long talk that night, while waiting the time
+for the arrival of the city express.</p>
+
+<p>I told him that I was called to the city in the interest of the case I
+had abandoned after getting my wound, and that unless my continued
+presence there was absolutely indispensable, I would return in three
+days, at the farthest.</p>
+
+<p>I gave him a detailed account of my visit to Bethel, with its attendant
+circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>"Bethel will hardly make a decided move in the matter for a day or two,
+I think," I said, after we had discussed the propriety of taking the
+doctor into our counsel. "I will write him a note which you shall
+deliver, and the rest must wait."</p>
+
+<p>I wrote as follows:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">
+<span class="smcap">Dr. Carl Bethel</span>,
+</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot"><i>Dear Sir</i>&mdash;Am just in receipt of a telegram which calls me to
+the city. I go by the early train, as there is a lady in the
+case. Shall return in a few days, I trust, and then hope to
+finish our interrupted conversation. I <i>think</i> your success
+will be more probable and speedy if you delay all action for
+the present.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">This is in confidence.</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+Yours fraternally, etc., etc.
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span></p><p>"There," I said, folding the note, "That is making the truth tell a
+falsehood." And I smiled as I pictured the "lady in the case," likely to
+be conjured up by the imaginations of Harris and Dr. Bethel, and
+contrasted her charms with the sharp features, work-hardened hands, and
+matter-of-fact head, of Mrs. Ballou.</p>
+
+<p>Just ten minutes before twelve o'clock Carnes and myself dropped
+noiselessly out of our chamber window, leaving a dangling rope to
+facilitate our return, and took our way to the depot to watch for the
+expected experts.</p>
+
+<p>Ten minutes later the great fiery eye of the iron horse shone upon us
+from a distance, disappeared behind a curve, reappeared again, and came
+beaming down to the little platform.</p>
+
+<p>The train halted for just an instant, then swept on its way.</p>
+
+<p>But no passengers were left upon the platform; our errand had been
+fruitless; the detectives were still among the things to be looked for.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span></p><p>The next morning, before daybreak, I was <i>en route</i> for the city.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV.<br />
+<small>MRS. BALLOU'S PISTOL PRACTICE.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>Half an hour after my arrival in the city, I was seated in the private
+office of our Chief, with Mrs. Ballou opposite me.</p>
+
+<p>I had telegraphed from a way station, so that no time might be lost. I
+found the Chief and the lady awaiting me; and, at the first, he had
+signified his wish that I should listen to her story, and then give him
+my version of it.</p>
+
+<p>"She seems ill at ease with me," he said, "and frankly told me that she
+preferred to make her statement to you. Go ahead, Bathurst; above all we
+must retain her confidence."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Ballou looked careworn, and seemed more nervous than I had supposed
+it in her nature to be.</p>
+
+<p>She looked relieved at sight of me, and, as soon as we were alone,
+plunged at once into her story, as if anxious to get it over, and hear
+what I might have to say.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span></p><p>This is what she told me in her own plain, concise, and very sensible
+language, interrupted now and then by my brief questions, and her
+occasional moments of silence, while I transferred something to my
+note-book.</p>
+
+<p>"I presume you have wanted to know what I did with that letter I took,"
+she began, smiling a little, probably in recollection of her adroit
+theft. "I will tell you why I took it. When you first showed it to me,
+the printed letters had a sort of familiar look, but I could not think
+where I had seen them. During the night it seemed to come to me, and I
+got up and went into the parlor." Here she hesitated for a moment, and
+then went on hurriedly: "Grace&mdash;my girl, you know&mdash;has a large autograph
+album; she brought it home when she came from the seminary, and
+everybody she meets that can scratch with a pen, must write in it. I
+found this precious album, and in it I found&mdash;this."</p>
+
+<p>She took from her pocket-book a folded paper and put it in my hand. It
+was a leaf torn from an album, and it contained a sentimental couplet,
+<i>printed</i> in large, bold letters.</p>
+
+<p>I looked at the bit of paper, and then muttering an excuse, went
+hurriedly to the outer office. In a moment I was back; holding in my
+hand the printed letter of warning, which I had confided to the care of
+my Chief.</p>
+
+<p>I sat down opposite Mrs. Ballou with the two documents before me, and
+scrutinized them carefully.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span></p><p>They were the same. The letter of warning was penciled, and bore
+evidence of having been hastily done; the album lines were in ink
+carefully executed and elaborately finished, but the lettering was the
+same. Making allowances for the shading, the flourishes, and the extra
+precision of the one, and looking simply at the formation of the
+letters, the height, width, curves, and spacing of both, and the
+resemblance was too strong to pass for a mere coincidence.</p>
+
+<p>I studied the two papers thoughtfully for a few moments, then looked at
+Mrs. Ballou.</p>
+
+<p>"You should have told me of this at once," I began; but she threw up her
+hand impatiently.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait," she said, with almost her ordinary brusqueness, seeming to lose
+her nervousness as she became absorbed in the task of convincing me that
+she thoroughly understood <i>herself</i>. "There was no time to compare the
+writing that night. I had not decided what to do, and I was not sure
+then that they were the same. I left the album, just as I found it, and
+went out and harnessed the horses. While I was helping you with your
+coat, I managed to get the letter."</p>
+
+<p>"You were certainly very adroit," I said. "Even now I can recall no
+suspicious movements of yours."</p>
+
+<p>"I made none," she retorted. "I saw where you put the letter, and it was
+easy to get it while helping you."</p>
+
+<p>She paused a moment, then went on:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span></p><p>"When I went home, after driving you to the station, everybody was
+asleep. I knew they would be; I always have to wake them all, from Fred
+to the hired girl. I waked them as usual that morning, told them that I
+had discharged you for impertinence, and for abusing the horses, and
+that settled the matter. In the afternoon the girls went over to
+Morton's; it's only a mile across the fields, and a clear path. I made
+up my mind that I'd have them safe back again before dark, and I know
+where I could get a good man to take your place; he was high-priced, but
+I knew he was to be trusted, and I had made up my mind to keep a close
+eye on the girls, and to send some one with them wherever they went.
+After they were gone, I took the album to my room, locked Fred out, and
+compared the letter with the album verse. I thought the writing was the
+same."</p>
+
+<p>She hesitated a moment, brushed her handkerchief across her lips, and
+then went on.</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't know what to do, nor what to think&mdash;my first thought was to
+send for you, then I became frightened. I did not know what you might
+trace out, with this clue, and I did not know how it might affect my
+daughter. Grace is lively, fond of all kinds of gayety, especially of
+dancing. She is always surrounded with beaux, always has half a dozen
+intimate girl friends on hand, and is constantly on the go. There are so
+many young people about Groveland that picnics, neighborhood dances,
+croquet parties, buggy rides, etc., are plenty; and then, Grace often
+has visitors from Amora."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span></p><p>"Where is Amora?" I interrupted.</p>
+
+<p>"It is about twenty-five miles from Groveland. Grace went to school at
+Amora."</p>
+
+<p>I made an entry in my note-book, and then asked:</p>
+
+<p>"Is there a seminary in Amora?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"How long since your daughter left Amora, Mrs. Ballou?"</p>
+
+<p>"She was there during the Winter term."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. Did Nellie Ewing ever attend school at Amora?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"When?"</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Ballou moved uneasily.</p>
+
+<p>"Nellie and Grace were room-mates last Winter," she replied.</p>
+
+<p>"And Mamie Rutger? Was she there, too?"</p>
+
+<p>"She began the Winter term, but was expelled."</p>
+
+<p>"Expelled! For what?"</p>
+
+<p>"For sauciness and disobedience. Mamie was a spoiled child, and not fond
+of study."</p>
+
+<p>I wrote rapidly in my note-book, and mentally anathematized myself, and
+my employers in the Ewing-Rutger case. Why had I not learned before that
+Nellie Ewing and Mamie Rutger were together at Amora? Why had their two
+fathers neglected to give me so important a piece of information?</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span></p><p>Evidently they had not thought of this fact in connection with the
+disappearance of the two girls, or the fact that Mamie was expelled from
+the school may have kept Farmer Rutger silent.</p>
+
+<p>I closed my note-book and asked:</p>
+
+<p>"Did any other young people from Groveland attend the Amora school? Try
+and be accurate, Mrs. Ballou."</p>
+
+<p>"Not last Winter," she replied; "at least, no other girls. Johnny La
+Porte was there."</p>
+
+<p>"Who is Johnny La Porte?"</p>
+
+<p>"His father is one of our wealthiest farmers. Johnny is an only son. He
+is a good-looking boy, and a great favorite among the young people."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know his age?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not precisely; he is not more than twenty or twenty-one."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is Johnny La Porte at present?"</p>
+
+<p>"At home, on his father's farm."</p>
+
+<p>"Now, Mrs. Ballou, tell me who is Miss Amy Holmes?"</p>
+
+<p>She started and flushed.</p>
+
+<p>"Another school friend," she replied, in a tone which said plainly, "the
+bottom is reached at last."</p>
+
+<p>Evidently she expected some comment, but I only said:</p>
+
+<p>"One more, Mrs. Ballou, why have you held back this bit of paper until
+now?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am coming to that," she retorted, "when you have done with your
+questions."</p>
+
+<p>"I have finished. Proceed now."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span></p><p>Once more she began:</p>
+
+<p>"I was worried and anxious about the papers, but, on second thought, I
+determined to know something more before I saw or wrote you. I did not
+think it best to ask Grace any questions; she is an odd child, and very
+quick to suspect anything unusual, and it would be an unusual thing for
+me to seem interested in the autographs. It was two days before I found
+out who wrote the lines in the album. I complained of headache that day,
+and Grace took my share of the work herself. Amy was in the parlor
+reading a novel. I went in and talked with her a while, then I began to
+turn over the leaves of the album. When I came to the printed lines, I
+praised their smoothness, and then I carelessly asked Amy if she knew
+what the initials A. B. stood for. She looked up at me quickly, glanced
+at the album, hesitated a moment as if thinking, and then said: 'Oh,
+that's Professor Bartlett's printing, I think, his first name is <i>Asa</i>.
+He is an admirable penman.'</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think Amy remembered the lines, or she would not have said
+that. I don't think Professor Bartlett would begin an album verse: 'I
+drink to the eyes of my schoolmate, Grace.' I knew that Amy had told a
+falsehood, and I watched her. She took the first opportunity, when she
+thought I did not see her, to whisper something to Grace. I saw that
+Grace looked annoyed, but Amy laughed, and the two seemed to agree upon
+something.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span></p><p>"I thought I would come to the city the next day, but in the morning my
+boy was very sick; he was sick for more than two weeks, and I had no
+time to think of anything else. Amy helped Grace, and was so kind and
+useful that I almost forgave her for telling me a fib. I had sent your
+letter back during Fred's illness, and, when he began to mend, I thought
+the matter over and over. I knew it would be useless to question Grace,
+and I did not know what harm or scandal I might bring upon my own
+daughter by bringing the matter to your notice. I tried to convince
+myself that the similarity of the printing was accidental, and, as I had
+not the letter to compare with the album, it was easier to believe so. I
+concluded to wait, but became very watchful.</p>
+
+<p>"One night Fred brought in the mail; there was a letter for Amy; she
+opened it and began to read, then she uttered a quick word, and looked
+much pleased. I saw an anxious look on my girl's face and caught a
+glance that passed between them. By-and-by they both went up-stairs, and
+in a few minutes I followed, and listened at the door of their room.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span></p><p>"Amy was reading her letter to Grace. I could tell that by the hum of
+her voice, but I could not catch a word, until Grace exclaimed, sharply,
+'What! the 17th?' 'Yes, the 17th, hush,' Amy answered, and then went on
+with her reading. I could not catch a single word more, so I went back
+down-stairs. It was then about the ninth of the month, and I thought it
+might be as well to keep my eyes open on the 17th, though it might have
+meant last month, or any other month, for all I could guess. After that
+Amy seemed in better spirits than usual, and Grace was gay and nervous
+by turns. On the 17th the girls stayed in their room, as usual&mdash;that was
+four days ago."</p>
+
+<p>She paused a moment, during which my eyes never left her face; she
+sighed heavily, and resumed:</p>
+
+<p>"I felt fidgety all day, as if something was going to happen. I expected
+to see the girls preparing for company, or to go somewhere, but they did
+no such thing. When evening came, they went to their room earlier than
+usual, but I sat up later than I often do. It was almost eleven o'clock
+when I went up-stairs, and then I could not sleep. I stopped and
+listened again at the door of the girls' room, but could hear nothing.
+They might both have been asleep.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span></p><p>"It was very warm, and I threw open my shutters, and sat down by the
+window, thinking that I was not sleepy, and, of course, I fell asleep.
+All at once something awoke me. I started and listened; in a moment I
+heard it again; it was the snort of a horse. There was no moon, and the
+shrubbery and trees made the front yard, from the gate to the house,
+very dark. As I heard no wheels nor hoofs, of course I knew that the
+horse was standing still, and the sound came from the front. I sat quite
+still and listened hard. By-and-by I heard something else. This time it
+was a faint rustling among the bushes below&mdash;it was not enough to have
+aroused even a light sleeper, but I was wide awake, and all ears.
+'Somebody is creeping through my rose bushes,' I said to myself, then
+tip-toed to my bureau, got out the pistol you gave me, and slipped out,
+and down-stairs, as still as a mouse.</p>
+
+<p>"The girls slept in a room over the parlor, and their windows faced west
+and south; mine faced north and west, so you see I had no view, from my
+bed-room, of the south windows of their room. The croquet ground was on
+the south side of the house, and there was a bit of vacant lawn in front
+of the parlor, also. The windows below were all closed and so I could
+not hear the rustling any more.</p>
+
+<p>"I sat down by one of the parlor windows and peeped out. Presently I saw
+something come out from among the bushes; it was a man; and he came into
+the open space <i>carrying a ladder</i>. Then I knew what the rustling meant.
+He had taken the ladder from the big harvest-apple tree in front, where
+the girls had put it that afternoon, and was bringing it toward the
+house.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span></p><p>"The man stopped opposite the south windows of the girls' room, and
+began to raise the ladder. Then I knew what to do. I slipped the pistol
+into my pocket, went out through the dining-room, unbolted the back door
+as quietly as I could, crept softly to the south corner of the house,
+and peeped around. The ladder was already up, and somebody was climbing
+out of the window, while the man steadied the ladder. It was one of the
+girls, but I could not tell which, so I waited. When she stood upon the
+ground not ten feet away from me, I knew by her height that it was
+Grace, and Amy had started down before Grace was off the ladder. Just
+then the man stepped back, so that I had a fair chance at him. I took
+aim as well as I could, and fired.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus017.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus017.jpg" width="400" height="588" alt="&quot;Just then the man stepped back, so that I had a fair
+chance at him. I took aim as well as I could, and fired.&quot;&mdash;page 177." title="&quot;Just then the man stepped back, so that I had a fair
+chance at him. I took aim as well as I could, and fired.&quot;&mdash;page 177." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Just then the man stepped back, so that I had a fair
+chance at him. I took aim as well as I could, and fired.&quot;&mdash;page 177.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"The man yelled. Grace screamed and tumbled over on the grass, just as I
+expected her to. Amy Holmes jumped from the ladder, ran to the man, and
+said, "quick! come!" I fired again, and Grace raised herself suddenly
+with such a moan that I thought in my haste I had hit her.</p>
+
+<p>"I threw down the pistol, ran and picked her up as if she were a baby,
+and took her around to the back door. By the time I found out that she
+was not hurt, and had got back to the ladder, the man and Amy were gone,
+and I heard a buggy going down the road at a furious rate."</p>
+
+<p>She paused and sighed deeply, looked at me for a moment, and then, as I
+made no effort to break the silence, she resumed:</p>
+
+<p>"It's not a pleasant story for a mother to tell concerning her own
+daughter, but when I think of Nellie Ewing I know that it might
+accidentally have been worse.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span></p><p>"I commanded Grace to tell me the whole truth. She cried, and declared
+that she was under oath not to tell. After a little she grew calmer, and
+then told me that she meant no harm. Amy had a lover who was not a
+favorite with her guardian, who lives somewhere South. Amy was about to
+run away and be married, and Grace was to accompany her as a witness.
+They both expected to be safely back before daylight. Of course I did
+not believe this, and I told her so. Her actions after that made me wish
+that I had not disputed her story. I have used every argument, and I am
+convinced that nothing more can be got out of Grace. She is terribly
+frightened and nervous, but she is stubborn as death. Whatever the truth
+is, she is afraid to tell it."</p>
+
+<p>"And Miss Holmes; what more of her?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing more; she went away in the buggy with the others."</p>
+
+<p>"The others?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I am sure there were two, for I found the place where the buggy
+stood waiting. It was not at the gate, but further south. There was a
+ditch between the wheel marks and the fence, and nothing to tie to. Some
+one must have been holding the horses."</p>
+
+<p>"And this is all you know about the business?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, everything."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is your daughter now?"</p>
+
+<p>"At home, under lock and key, with a trusty hired man to stand guard
+over her and the house until I get back, and with Freddy and the hired
+girl for company."</p>
+
+<p>"Does she know why you came to the city?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span></p><p>"Not she. I told her I was coming to make arrangements for putting
+her to school at a convent, and I intend to do it, too."</p>
+
+<p>Making no comment on this bit of maternal discipline, I again had
+recourse to my note-book.</p>
+
+<p>"You are fixed in your desire not to have your daughter further
+interviewed?" I asked, presently.</p>
+
+<p>"I am," she replied. "I don't think it would do any good, and she is not
+fit to endure any more excitement. I expect to find her sick in bed when
+I get home."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think your shot injured the man?"</p>
+
+<p>"I <i>know</i> it did," emphatically. "I aimed at his legs, intending to hit
+them, and I did it. He never gave such a screech as that from sheer
+fright; there was <i>pain</i> in it. Amy must have helped him to the
+carriage."</p>
+
+<p>"Is this escapade known among your neighbors?"</p>
+
+<p>"No. I hushed it up at home, giving my girl and hired man a different
+story to believe. I could not get away by the morning train from Sharon,
+and so started the next evening. I left them all at home with Grace, and
+drove alone to Sharon, leaving my horse at the stable there."</p>
+
+<p>"You certainly acted very wisely, although I regret the delay. Miss
+Holmes and her two cavaliers have now nearly four days the start of us.
+Did you notice the size of the man at the ladder?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he was not a large man, if anything a trifle below the medium
+height."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span></p><p>"You think, then, that Miss Holmes made a willful effort to deceive
+you, when she told you that the album verse was written by Professor
+Bartlett? By-the-by, <i>is</i> there a Professor Asa Bartlett at Amora?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he is the Principal. If you could see him, you would never accuse
+him of having written a silly verse like that. I am sure Amy meant to
+deceive me, and I am sure that she posted Grace about it, in case I
+should ask her."</p>
+
+<p>"But you did not ask her?"</p>
+
+<p>"No. One does not care to make one's own child tell an unnecessary lie.
+Grace would have stood by Amy, no doubt."</p>
+
+<p>It was growing late in the afternoon. There was much to do, much to
+think over, and no time to lose. I was not yet prepared to give Mrs.
+Ballou the benefit of my opinion, as regarded her daughter's escapade,
+so I arranged for a meeting in the evening, promising to have my plans
+decided upon and ready to lay before her at that time.</p>
+
+<p>She wished, if possible, to return home on the following day, and I told
+her that I thought it not only possible, but advisable that she should
+do so.</p>
+
+<p>Then I called a carriage, saw her safely ensconced therein, <i>en route</i>
+for her hotel, and returned to my Chief.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span></p><p>I had now two interests. I much desired to arrive at the bottom of the
+Groveland mystery, and thought, with the information now in hand, that
+this was quite possible; and I also desired to remain at my post among
+the Traftonites. I at once decided upon my course. I would tell my Chief
+Mrs. Ballou's story, and then I would give him a brief history of our
+sojourn in Trafton and its motive. After that, we would decide how to
+act.</p>
+
+<p>There was no pause for rest or food, or thought, until I had given my
+Chief a history of Mrs. Ballou's vigil and excellent pistol exploit, and
+followed this up by the story of my Trafton experience.</p>
+
+<p>His first comment, after he had listened for an hour most attentively,
+brought from my lips a sigh of relief; it was just what I longed to
+hear.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span></p><p>"Well, you need have no fear so far as this office is concerned.
+'Squire Brookhouse has not called for its services."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV.<br />
+<small>PREPARATIONS OF WAR.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>"Bathurst," my Chief said, settling back in his chair, and eyeing me
+with great good humor, "I don't see but that you are getting on
+swimmingly, and I don't feel inclined to dictate much. Your Groveland
+affair is looking up. You may have as many men as you need to look after
+that business. As for Trafton, I think you and Carnes have made good use
+of your holiday. I think you have struck something rich, and that you
+had better remain there, and work it up; or, if you prefer to go to
+Groveland yourself, return there as soon as possible."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to hear you talk as I think," I replied. "I believe that
+Trafton is ripe for an explosion, and I confess that, just at present, I
+am more interested in Trafton than in Groveland, besides&mdash;&mdash;. In my
+report from Groveland, you may remember that I mentioned going to the
+station to fetch Miss Amy Holmes?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"And that this young lady was accompanied on that day by a handsome
+young gentleman?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span></p><p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I have since made the acquaintance of this young man."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!"</p>
+
+<p>"At first I thought it only a coincidence, and dismissed the matter from
+my mind. Since I have heard Mrs. Ballou's story, a queer thought has
+entered my head."</p>
+
+<p>"Explain."</p>
+
+<p>"This young gallant, whom I first saw in the company of the runaway Miss
+Holmes, is Mr. Arch, or Archibald Brookhouse, of Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>"I see," thoughtfully.</p>
+
+<p>"And the initials following that album verse are A. B."</p>
+
+<p>"A. B.! Archibald Brookhouse! There <i>may</i> be something in it, but should
+you feel justified in suspecting this young man as the possible author
+of <i>your</i> anonymous letter?"</p>
+
+<p>"If he is the writer of the album lines, yes."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you propose to do?"</p>
+
+<p>"First," said I, "we must call in the dummy."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I want a good man to go to Groveland in search of information. I
+want him to find out all that he can concerning the character of this
+Johnny La Porte, who attended school at Amora, and was a fellow-student
+with Nellie Ewing, Mamie Rutger, and Grace Ballou."</p>
+
+<p>"Good."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span></p><p>"Then he must learn if any of the Groveland youths have become <i>lame</i>
+since last Sunday, and if any of these same gentry was missing, or
+absent from home, during the night of the 17th, for, of course, Miss Amy
+Holmes being on his hands, the driver of the carriage which Mrs. Ballou
+routed that night must have been absent sometime, <i>if</i> he belonged in
+the community. He surely had to dispose of Miss Holmes in some way."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think it probable that some Groveland Lothario was mixed up in
+this elopement business?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think it not improbable. The first search was made, seemingly, upon
+the supposition that all Groveland was above suspicion, and that search
+failed. I intend to hold all Groveland Lotharios upon my list of
+suspected criminals until they are individually and collectively proven
+innocent."</p>
+
+<p>"Quite right."</p>
+
+<p>"On second thought we had better let the dummy remain until we have put
+a new man in the field; by this time he must know something about the
+people he is among. Who can you send to Groveland?"</p>
+
+<p>"Wyman, I think."</p>
+
+<p>"Capital; Wyman is good at this sort of thing. He had better present
+himself in person to our dummy, hear all that he can tell, and then
+deliver your letter of recall, and see him safely on his way to the city
+before he has time to open his mouth for the benefit of any one else."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span></p><p>"Very good; Wyman is at your disposal."</p>
+
+<p>I drew toward me a large portfolio containing State and county maps. It
+lay at all times upon the office table, convenient for reference.</p>
+
+<p>While I was tracing the eccentric course of a certain railroad, I could
+feel my Chief's eyes searching my countenance.</p>
+
+<p>"Bathurst," he said, after some moments of silence, and leaning toward
+me as he spoke, "I believe you have a theory, or a suspicion, that is
+not entirely based upon Mrs. Ballou's revelation."</p>
+
+<p>"You are right," I replied, "and it is a suspicion of so strange a sort
+that I almost hesitate to give it utterance, and yet I think it worthy
+of attention. I want to shadow this cavalier, Arch Brookhouse."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"I find by this map that the town of Amora is situated twenty-five miles
+from Groveland, and thirty miles from Trafton. Sharon, the nearest
+railroad communication with Groveland, is thirty miles from Amora, so
+that the distance from Trafton to Sharon is sixty miles, and the
+seminary town is midway between."</p>
+
+<p>My Chief made a sign which meant "I comprehend; go on."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span></p><p>"Now, it is possible that accident or business brought Mr. Arch
+Brookhouse to Sharon, and that his meeting with Miss Holmes was quite
+accidental, and his attendance upon Miss Holmes and Grace Ballou merely
+a chance bit of gallantry. But when you consider that he seemed equally
+well known to both young ladies, that Sharon is a small town, and a dull
+one, and that Miss Holmes came from Amora that morning, is it not just
+as probable that Mr. Brookhouse traveled from Trafton to Amora for the
+purpose of escorting Miss Holmes to Sharon? Now, young men of our day
+are not much given to acts of courtesy extending over sixty miles of
+railroad; therefore, if Arch Brookhouse visited Sharon for the sole
+purpose of meeting these two young ladies, and basking in their society
+for a brief half hour, it is fair to presume that he is more than
+ordinarily interested in one of them."</p>
+
+<p>"You are right, Bathurst; at least it would seem so."</p>
+
+<p>"Now let me tell you all that I know concerning the Brookhouses."</p>
+
+<p>Once more I gave a minute description of my first meeting with Arch
+Brookhouse, and of the second, when I recognized him at Trafton. Then I
+told him of my interview with the telegraph operator, of the telegram
+sent by Fred Brookhouse from New Orleans, and of the reply sent by Arch,
+and last I told him how Louis Brookhouse had come home, accompanied by
+another young man, <i>on the day after the attempted flight of Grace
+Ballou</i>, and how Dr. Bethel had been called upon to attend him, he
+having met with an accident.</p>
+
+<p>My Chief stroked his chin thoughtfully.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span></p><p>"I see," he said, slowly, "you have some nice points of circumstantial
+evidence against these young gentlemen. How do you propose to use them?"</p>
+
+<p>"First, I must know what motive took Arch Brookhouse to Sharon, and find
+out if either of the Brookhouse brothers have been students at Amora. I
+want therefore to send a second man to Amora."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good."</p>
+
+<p>"If I find that either, or both, of the younger brothers have been
+fellow-students with Grace Ballou, and the missing girls, then I shall
+wish to extend my search."</p>
+
+<p>"To New Orleans?"</p>
+
+<p>"To New Orleans."</p>
+
+<p>"Is there anything more?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; one thing. If Carnes goes to New Orleans I shall want a telegraph
+operator in Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you wish to remain in Trafton?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and this takes me back to the other matter. I quite expected that
+a man like 'Squire Brookhouse would have called upon you for help. If he
+has employed men from either of the other offices, we can easily find
+out who they are."</p>
+
+<p>"Easily."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall wish to inform myself on this point, and if possible, return to
+Trafton to-morrow night. I am to see Mrs. Ballou again to-night; now I
+think I will have some supper."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span></p><p>I arose, but stood, for a moment, waiting for any word of command or
+suggestion my Chief might have to offer.</p>
+
+<p>He sat for many seconds, seemingly oblivious of my presence. Then he
+looked up.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall make no suggestions," he said, waving his hand as if to dismiss
+both the subject and myself. "I will instruct Wyman and Earle at once.
+When you come in after seeing Mrs. Ballou, you will find them at your
+disposal, and give yourself no trouble about those other detectives. I
+will attend to that."</p>
+
+<p>I thanked him and withdrew. This curt sentence from the lips of my Chief
+was worth more to me than volumes of praise from any other source, for
+it convinced me that he not only trusted me, but that he approved my
+course and could see none better.</p>
+
+<p>I saw Mrs. Ballou again that evening, and put to her some questions that
+not only amazed her, but seemed to her most irrelevant, but while she
+answered without fully comprehending my meaning or purpose, some of her
+replies were, to me, most satisfactory.</p>
+
+<p>After I had heard all that she could tell me concerning Mr. Johnny La
+Porte, I gave her a minute description of Arch Brookhouse, and ended by
+asking if she had ever seen any one who answered to that description.</p>
+
+<p>I was puzzled, but scarcely surprised, at her answer, which came slowly
+and after considerable reflection.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span></p><p>Yes, she had seen such a young man; I had described him exactly. She
+had seen him twice. He came to her house in company with Ed. Dwight.
+Dwight was an agent for various sewing machines; he was a jolly,
+good-natured fellow, very much liked by all the young Grovelanders; he
+had traveled the Groveland route for two years, perhaps three. He was
+quite at home at Mrs. Ballou's, and, in fact, anywhere where he had made
+one or two visits. The young man I had described had been over the
+Groveland route twice with Ed. Dwight, each time stopping for dinner at
+Mrs. Ballou's. His name, she believed, was <i>Brooks</i>, and he had talked
+of setting up as an agent on his own responsibility.</p>
+
+<p>Did she know Mr. Dwight's place of residence?</p>
+
+<p>He lived on the C. &amp; L. road, somewhere between Sharon and Amora. Mrs.
+Ballou could not recall the name of the town.</p>
+
+<p>I did not need that she should; a sewing machine agent whose name I
+knew, and who lived somewhere between Amora and Sharon, would not be
+difficult to find.</p>
+
+<p>"How did Mr. Dwight travel?"</p>
+
+<p>"In a very nice covered wagon, and with a splendid team."</p>
+
+<p>"How long since Mr. Brooks and Mr. Dwight paid a visit to Groveland?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span></p><p>Mrs. Ballou thought it was fully six months since their last visit.</p>
+
+<p>"That would be nearly two months before Mamie Rutger and Nellie Ewing
+disappeared?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you seen Dwight since?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes; he comes at stated times, as usual."</p>
+
+<p>It was growing late, and I was more than satisfied with my interview
+with Mrs. Ballou. I advised her to keep Grace for the present under her
+own eye and, promising that she should see or hear from me soon, took my
+leave.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Ballou had announced her intention to return by the morning train.</p>
+
+<p>We could not be traveling companions, as I was not to leave the city
+until afternoon.</p>
+
+<p>Reaching my room I sat into the small hours looking over my notes,
+jotting down new ones, smoking and thinking.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning I saw Wyman and Earle, gave them full instructions, and
+arranged to receive their reports at the earliest possible moment, by
+express, at Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>At noon I was in possession of all that could be learned concerning the
+identity of the detectives employed by 'Squire Brookhouse. No officer of
+any of the regular forces had been employed. Mr. Brookhouse had probably
+obtained the services of private detectives.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span></p><p>Private detectives, of more or less ability, are numerous in the city,
+and I was personally known to but few of these independent experts. Most
+of those could be satisfactorily accounted for, and I turned my face
+toward Trafton, feeling that there was little danger of being "spotted"
+by a too knowing brother officer.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI.<br />
+<small>FLY CROOKS IN TRAFTON.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>My train, which left the city early in the afternoon, would arrive in
+Trafton at midnight. Foreseeing a long and, in my then state of mind,
+tedious ride, I had armed myself with a well-filled cigar case, and
+several copies of the latest editions of the city papers, and we had not
+been long on the wing before I turned my steps toward the smoking car,
+biting off the end of a weed as I went.</p>
+
+<p>A group of four, evidently countrymen, were just beginning a game of
+cards. I took a seat opposite them and idly watched their progress,
+while I enjoyed my cigar.</p>
+
+<p>Presently a gentleman from the front, seemingly attracted by their
+hilarity, arose and sauntered down the aisle, taking up his station
+behind the players, and quietly overlooking the game.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span></p><p>He did not glance at me, as he passed, but, from my lounging position,
+I could watch his face and study it at my leisure. At the first glance
+it struck me as being familiar; I had seen the man before, but where?
+Slowly, as I looked, the familiarity resolved itself into identity, and
+then I watched him with growing interest, and some wonder.</p>
+
+<p>Seven months ago, while working upon a criminal case, I had made the
+acquaintance of this gentleman at a thieves' tavern, down in the slums.
+I was, of course, safely disguised at the time, and in an assumed
+character; hence I had no fear of being recognized now.</p>
+
+<p>"Dimber<a name="FNanchor_A" id="FNanchor_A"></a><a href="#Footnote_A" class="fnanchor" title="Handsome.">[A]</a> Joe" had been doing Government service, in consequence of his
+connection with a garroting escapade, and had but just been released
+from "durance vile." His hair was then somewhat shorter than was
+becoming; his face was unshaven, and his general appearance that of a
+seedy, hard-up rascal. The person before me wore his hair a little
+longer than the ordinary cut; his face was clean shaven, his linen
+immaculate, and his dress a well-made business suit, such as a merchant
+or banker abroad might wear. But it was Dimber Joe.</p>
+
+<p>Evidently fortune had dropped a few, at least, of her favors at Dimber
+Joe's feet, but it was quite safe to conjecture that some one was so
+much the worse off for his present prosperity.</p>
+
+<p>What new mischief was on foot? for it was hardly likely that Dimber Joe,
+late the associate of river thieves, was now undertaking an honest
+journey.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span></p><p>I resolved to watch him closely while our way was the same, and to give
+my Chief an account of our meeting, together with a description of Joe's
+"get up," at the first opportunity.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, I remained in the smoking car during the entire journey,
+but no suspicious or peculiar movement, on the part of Dimber Joe,
+rewarded my vigilance, until the brakeman called Trafton, and we pulled
+into that station.</p>
+
+<p>Then Dimber Joe arose, stretched himself, flung a linen duster across
+his arm, and, swinging in his hand a small valise, quitted the car,
+stepped down upon the shadowy platform just ahead of me; and, while I
+was looking about for Carnes, vanished in the darkness.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus018.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus018.jpg" width="400" height="584" alt="&quot;Then Dimber Joe arose, stretched himself, flung a linen
+duster across his arm, and, swinging in his hand a small valise, quitted
+the car.&quot;&mdash;page 196." title="&quot;Then Dimber Joe arose, stretched himself, flung a linen
+duster across his arm, and, swinging in his hand a small valise, quitted
+the car.&quot;&mdash;page 196." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Then Dimber Joe arose, stretched himself, flung a linen
+duster across his arm, and, swinging in his hand a small valise, quitted
+the car.&quot;&mdash;page 196.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"Well, Carnes," I said, when we were once more alone in our room at the
+hotel, "what has happened? Have you seen anything that looks like a
+detective?"</p>
+
+<p>"Niver a wan," he replied. "I've kept an open eye on every train from
+both ways, but the only arrival in this city, worth making mintion of,
+has been&mdash;who d'ye think?"</p>
+
+<p>"Myself, I suppose."</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir! Not a bit of it. It's a cove that means no good to Trafton,
+you may depend. It's Blake Simpson, and he's rooming in this very
+house."</p>
+
+<p>"Blake Simpson! are you <i>sure</i>?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span></p><p>"Av coorse I'm sure! Did ye ever know me to miss a face? I never saw
+the fellow before he came here, but I've made the acquaintance of his
+phiz in the rogue's gallery. He came yesterday; he wears good togs, and
+is playing the gentleman; you know he is not half a bad looking fellow,
+and his manner is above suspicion. He is figuring as a patent-right man,
+but he'll figure as something else before we see the last of him in
+Trafton, depend upon it."</p>
+
+<p>Blake Simpson was known, at least by name, to every man on the force. He
+was a mixture of burglar, street robber, and panel-worker; and was a
+most dangerous character.</p>
+
+<p>"Carnes," I said, slowly, "I am afraid some new misfortune menaces
+Trafton, if, as you say, Blake Simpson is already here, for Dimber Joe
+came down on the train to-night, and is in Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes uttered a long, low whistle.</p>
+
+<p>"Blake and Dimber Joe!" he said. "A fine pair, sure enough; and in what
+shape does the Dimber come?"</p>
+
+<p>"He comes well-dressed, and looking like a respectable member of
+society."</p>
+
+<p>"Well," with a prodigious yawn, "we got here first, and we will try and
+sleep with one eye open while they stay in Trafton. What did you learn
+about the Brookhouse investigation, Bathurst?"</p>
+
+<p>I told him the result of our search among the city detectives, and
+finished by saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Probably the new debutants will be strangers, and will not interfere
+with our movements. I wish I knew whether Bethel will eventually decide
+to employ a detective. I don't think he is the man to let such a matter
+drop."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span></p><p>"He won't take it up for the present, I fancy. Dr. Barnard is
+dangerously ill; was taken yesterday, very suddenly. They depend
+entirely upon Bethel; he is in constant attendance. I heard Porter say
+that the old gentleman's case was a desperate one, and that a change for
+the worse might be expected at any moment."</p>
+
+<p>I was sorry to hear such news of the jovial old doctor. His was a life
+worth something to the community; but I was not sorry to learn that an
+immediate interview with Dr. Bethel could be staved off, without
+exciting wonder or suspicion in his mind; for, since my visit to the
+city, I had reconsidered my intention to confide in the doctor, and
+resolved to keep my own counsel, at least for the present.</p>
+
+<p>Previous to my visit to the city, we had decided that it was time to
+explore the south road, and also that it was desirable to "get the
+measure" of Jim Long at the earliest opportunity.</p>
+
+<p>We settled upon the best method by which to accomplish the former, and
+undertake the latter, object. And then Carnes, who had been very alert
+and active during my absence, and who was now very sleepy, flung himself
+upon his bed to pass the few hours that remained of darkness in slumber.</p>
+
+<p>I had not yet opened up to him the subject of the Groveland operations,
+thinking it as well to defer the telling until I had received reports
+from Wyman and Earle.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span></p><p>We had now upon our hands a superabundance of raw material from which
+to work out some star cases. But, just now, the Groveland affair seemed
+crowding itself to the front, while the Trafton scourges, and the
+villainous grave-robbers, seemed to grow more and more mysterious,
+intangible, and past finding out.</p>
+
+<p>The presence of Blake Simpson and Dimber Joe gave me some uneasiness;
+but, guessing that their stay in Trafton would be short, I resolved not
+to bring myself into prominence by notifying the authorities of the
+presence of two such dangerous characters, but rather to trust them to
+Carnes' watchfulness while I passed a day, or more if need be, in
+exploring the south road.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span></p><p>As I settled my head upon my pillow after a long meditation, I
+remembered that to-morrow would be Sunday, and that Tuesday was the day
+fixed for Miss Manvers' garden party.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII.<br />
+<small>SOUTHWARD TO CLYDE.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>Early on the following morning I visited Trafton's best livery stable,
+and procuring a good team and light buggy, drove straight to Jim Long's
+cabin, intending to solicit his companionship on my ride. But the cabin
+was deserted; there was no sign of Jim about the premises; and, after
+waiting impatiently for a few moments, and uttering one or two
+resounding halloos, I resumed my journey alone.</p>
+
+<p>I had manufactured a pretext for this journey, which was to be confided
+to Jim by way of setting at rest any wonder or doubt that my maneuvers
+might otherwise give rise to, and I had intended to seize this
+opportunity for sounding him, in order the better to judge whether it
+would be prudent to take him into our confidence, in a less or greater
+degree, as the occasion might warrant.</p>
+
+<p>Such an ally as Jim would be invaluable, I knew; but, spite of the fact
+that we had been much in his society, and that we both considered
+ourselves, and were considered by others, very good judges of human
+nature, neither Carnes nor myself could say truly that we understood Jim
+Long.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span></p><p>His words were a mass of absurd contradictions, betraying no trait of
+his individuality, save his eccentricity; and his face was, at all
+times, as unreadable as the sphinx. When you turned from his
+contradictory words to read his meaning in his looks, you felt as if
+turning from the gambols of Puck to peer into a vacuum.</p>
+
+<p>Regretting the loss of Jim's society, as well as the opportunity it
+might <i>possibly</i> have afforded, I urged my horses swiftly over the
+smooth sun-baked road, noting the aspect of the country as we flew on.</p>
+
+<p>Straight and level it stretched before me, with field, orchard, and
+meadow on either hand; a cultivated prairie. There were well-grown
+orchards, and small artificial groves, rows of tall poplars, clumps of
+low-growing trees, planted as wind breaks, hedges high and branching,
+low and closely trimmed. But no natural timber, no belts of grove, no
+thick undergrowth; nothing that might afford shelter for skulking
+outlaws, or stolen quadrupeds.</p>
+
+<p>The houses were plentiful, and not far apart. There were the pretentious
+new dwellings of the well-to-do farmers, and the humbler abodes of the
+unsuccessful land tiller, and the renter. There were stacks, and barns,
+and granaries, all honest in their fresh paint or their weather-beaten
+dilapidation; no haven for thieves or booty here.</p>
+
+<p>So for ten miles; then there was a stretch of rolling prairie, but still
+no timber, and as thickly settled as before.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span></p><p>Fifteen miles from Trafton I crossed a high bridge that spanned a creek
+almost broad enough and deep enough to be called a river. On either side
+was a fringe of hazel brush and a narrow strip of timber, so much
+thinned by the wood cutter that great gaps were visible among the trees,
+up and down, as far as the eye could see.</p>
+
+<p>I watered my horses here, and drawing forth a powerful field glass,
+which I had made occasional use of along the route, surveyed the
+country. Nothing near or remote seemed worthy of investigation.</p>
+
+<p>Driving beneath some friendly green branches, I allowed my horses to
+rest, and graze upon the tender foliage, while I consulted a little
+pocket map of the country.</p>
+
+<p>I had been driving directly south, and the C. &amp; L. railroad ran from
+Trafton a little to the southwest. At a distance of eighteen miles from
+that town the railroad curved to the south and ran parallel with the
+highway I was now traveling, but at a distance of eight miles. Ten miles
+further south and I would come upon the little inland village of Clyde,
+and running due west from Clyde was a wagon road straight to the
+railroad town of Amora.</p>
+
+<p>I had started early and driven fast; consulting my watch I found that it
+was only half-past ten.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span></p><p>I had intended to push my investigation at least twenty-five miles
+south, and although I was already convinced that no midnight raiders
+would be likely to choose as an avenue of escape a highway so thickly
+dotted with houses, many of them inconveniently near the road, and so
+insufficient in the matter of hills and valleys, forest and sheltering
+underbrush. I decided to go on to Clyde, hoping, if I failed in one
+direction, to increase my knowledge in another.</p>
+
+<p>I put away map and field glass, lit a fresh cigar, turned my horses once
+more into the high road and pursued my journey.</p>
+
+<p>It was a repetition of the first ten miles; broad fields and rich
+meadows, browsing cattle and honest-eyed sheep; thickly scattered farm
+buildings, all upright and honest of aspect; the whole broad face of the
+country seemed laughing my investigations to scorn.</p>
+
+<p>When I found myself within sight of Clyde I stopped my team, having
+first assured myself that no spectator was in sight and selected from
+the roadside a small, round pebble. Looking warily about me a second
+time, I inserted it between the hoof and shoe of the most docile of the
+two horses.</p>
+
+<p>It was an action that would have brought me into disfavor with the great
+Bergh, but in the little game I was about to play, the assistance which
+a lame horse could render seemed necessary.</p>
+
+<p>I promised the martyr a splendid rub down and an extra feed as a
+compensation, and we moved on slowly toward our destination, the near
+horse limping painfully, and his comrade evidently much amazed, and not
+a little disgusted, at this sudden change of gait.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span></p><p>The little village of Clyde was taking its noontide nap when I drove
+down its principal street, and I felt like a wolf in Arcadia; all was so
+peaceful, so clean, so prim and so silent.</p>
+
+<p>A solitary man emerging from a side street roused me to action. I drove
+forward and checked my horses directly before him.</p>
+
+<p>Could I find a livery stable in the town? And was there such a thing as
+a hotel?</p>
+
+<p>Yes, there was a sort of a stable, at least anybody could get a feed at
+Larkins' barn, and he kept two or three horses for hire. As for a hotel,
+there it was straight ahead of me; that biggish house with the new
+blinds on it.</p>
+
+<p>Being directed to Larkins', I thanked my informant, and was soon making
+my wants known to Larkins himself.</p>
+
+<p>Thinking it quite probable that the hired team which I drove might be
+known to some denizen of Clyde, I at once announced myself as from
+Trafton; adding, that I had driven out toward Clyde on business, and,
+being told that I could reach Baysville by a short cut through or near
+Clyde, I had driven on, but one of my horses having suddenly become
+lame, I had decided to rest at Clyde, and then return to Trafton. I had
+been told that Baysville was not more than seven miles from Clyde.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span></p><p>It is scarcely necessary to state that I had really no intention of
+visiting Baysville, and that my map had informed me as to its precise
+location.</p>
+
+<p>The truth was that I had dropped for the moment the Trafton case, and
+had visited Clyde in the interest of Groveland, thinking it not unlikely
+that this little hamlet, being so near Amora, might be within the area
+traversed by Mr. Ed. Dwight, the sewing machine agent.</p>
+
+<p>He was said to live somewhere between Amora and Sharon, perhaps here I
+could learn the precise location of his abiding place.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving my tired horses to the care of Larkins, I next bent my steps
+towards the commodious dwelling which did duty as hotel. There was no
+office, but the sitting-room, with its homely rag carpet, gaudy
+lithographs, old fashioned rocker, and straight-backed "cane seats," was
+clean and cool. There was a small organ in one corner, a sewing machine
+in another, and an old fashioned bureau in a third.</p>
+
+<p>A little girl, of fourteen years or less, entered the room timidly,
+followed by two younger children. She took from the bureau a folded
+cloth, snowy and smooth, and left the room quietly, but the younger
+ones, less timid, and perhaps more curious, remained.</p>
+
+<p>Perching themselves uncomfortably upon the extreme edges of two chairs,
+near together but remote from me, they blinked and stared perseveringly,
+until I broke the silence and set them at their ease by commencing a
+lively conversation.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span></p><p>The organ was first discussed, then the sewing machine furnished a
+fresh topic. After a time my dinner was served: but, during the
+half-hour of waiting, while my hostess concocted yellow soda biscuit,
+and fried monstrous slices of ham, I had gathered, from my seemingly
+careless chatter with the children, some valuable information. While I
+ate my dinner, I had leisure to consider what I had heard.</p>
+
+<p>My hostess had not purchased her sewing machine of Ed. Dwight, but he
+had been there to repair it; besides, he always stopped there when
+making his regular journeys through Clyde. They all liked Dwight, the
+children had declared; he could play the organ, and he sang such funny
+songs. He could dance, too, "like anything." He lived at <i>Amora</i>, but he
+had told their mother, when he had paid his last visit, that he intended
+to sell out his route soon, and go away. He was going into another
+business.</p>
+
+<p>If Mr. Dwight lived at Amora, then Mrs. Ballou had misunderstood or been
+misinformed. She was the reverse of stupid, and not likely to err in
+understanding. If she had been misinformed, had it not been for some
+purpose?</p>
+
+<p>The machine agent had talked of abandoning his present business, and
+leaving the country shortly.</p>
+
+<p>If this was true, then it would be well to know where he was going, and
+what his new occupation was to be.</p>
+
+<p>Before I had finished doing justice to my country dinner, I had decided
+how to act.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span></p><p>Returning to Larkins' stable I found that he had discovered the cause
+of my horse's lameness, and listened to his rather patronizing discourse
+upon the subject of "halts and sprains," with due meekness, as well as a
+profound consciousness that he had mentally set me down as a city
+blockhead, shockingly ignorant of "horse lore," and wholly unfit to draw
+the ribbons over a decent beast.</p>
+
+<p>He had been assisted to this conclusion by a neighboring Clydeite, who,
+much to my annoyance, had sauntered in, and, recognizing not only the
+team, but myself, had volunteered the information that:</p>
+
+<p>"Them was Dykeman's bays," and that I was "a rich city fellow that was
+stayin' at Trafton;" he had "seen me at the hotel the last time he
+hauled over market stuff."</p>
+
+<p>Having ascertained my position in the mind of Mr. Larkins, I consulted
+him as to the propriety of driving the bays over to Amora and back that
+afternoon.</p>
+
+<p>Larkins eyed me inquisitively.</p>
+
+<p>"I s'pose then you'll want to get back to Trafton to-night?" he queried.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span></p><p>Yes, I wanted to get back as soon as possible, but if Larkins thought
+it imprudent to drive so far with the team, I would take fresh horses,
+if he had them to place at my disposal. And then, having learned from
+experience that ungratified curiosity, especially the curiosity of the
+country bumpkin with a taste for gossip, is often the detective's worst
+enemy, I explained that I had learned that the distance to Baysville was
+greater than I had supposed, and I had decided to drive over to Amora to
+make a call upon an acquaintance who was in business there.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Larkins manifested a desire to know the name of my Amora
+acquaintance, and was promptly enlightened.</p>
+
+<p>I wanted to call on Mr. Ed. Dwight, of sewing machine fame.</p>
+
+<p>And now I was the helpless victim in the hands of the ruthless and
+inquisitive Larkins.</p>
+
+<p>He knew Ed. Dwight "like a book." Ed. always "put up" with him, and he
+was a "right good fellow, any way you could fix it." In short, Larkins
+was ready and willing to act as my pilot to Amora; he had "got a flyin'
+span of roans," and would drive me over to Amora in "less than no time";
+he "didn't mind seeing Ed. himself," etc., etc.</p>
+
+<p>There was no help for it. Larkins evidently did not intend to trust his
+roans to my unskilled hands, so I accepted the situation, and was soon
+bowling over the road to Amora, <i>t�te-�-t�te</i> with the veriest
+interrogation point in human guise that it was ever my lot to meet.</p>
+
+<p>Larkins did not converse; he simply asked questions. His interest in
+myself, my social and financial standing, my occupation, my business or
+pleasure in Trafton, my past and my future, was something surprising
+considering the length, or more properly the <i>brevity</i> of our
+acquaintance.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span></p><p>Even my (supposed) relatives, near and remote, came in for a share of
+his generous consideration.</p>
+
+<p>To have given unsatisfactory answers would have been to provoke outside
+investigation.</p>
+
+<p>A detective's first care should be to clear up all doubt or uncertainty
+concerning himself. Let an inquisitive person think that he knows a
+little more of your private history than do his neighbors, and you
+disarm him; he has now no incentive to inquiry. He may ventilate his
+knowledge very freely, but by so doing he simply plays into your hands.</p>
+
+<p>If the scraps of family history, which I dealt out to Larkins during
+that drive, astonished and edified that worthy, they would have
+astonished and edified my most intimate friend none the less.</p>
+
+<p>By the time we had reached our destination, I was bursting with
+merriment, and he, with newly acquired knowledge.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span></p><p>I had made no attempt to extract information concerning Ed. Dwight, on
+the route. I hoped soon to interview that gentleman in <i>propri�
+person�</i>, and any knowledge not to be gained from the interview I could
+"sound" for on the return drive.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.<br />
+<small>A SEWING MACHINE AGENT.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>On arriving within sight of Amora, I had reason to congratulate myself
+that I had brought Larkins along as convoy.</p>
+
+<p>Amora was by no means a city, but it was large enough to make a search
+after Mr. Dwight a proceeding possibly lengthy, and perhaps difficult.</p>
+
+<p>Larkins knew all about it. We drove past the Seminary, quite a large and
+imposing structure, surrounded by neat and tastefully laid out grounds,
+through a cheery-looking business street, and across a bridge, over a
+hill, and thence down a street which, while it was clean, well built,
+and thrifty of aspect, was evidently not the abode of Amora's <i>la beau
+monde</i>.</p>
+
+<p>In another moment Larkins was pulling in his reins before a large,
+unpainted dwelling, in front of which stood a pole embellished with the
+legend, "Boarding House."</p>
+
+<p>Several inquiring faces could be seen through the open windows, and the
+squeak of an untuneful violin smote our ears, as we approached the door.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span></p><p>Larkins, who seemed very much at home, threw open the street door; we
+turned to the right, and were almost instantly standing in a large,
+shabbily-furnished parlor.</p>
+
+<p>Two of the aforementioned faces, carried on the shoulders of two
+blowzy-looking young women, were vanishing through a rear door, through
+which the tones of the violin sounded louder and shriller than before.
+Three occupants still remained in the room, and to one of these,
+evidently the "landlady," Larkins addressed himself.</p>
+
+<p>"Good evening, Mrs. Cole. We want to see Ed. I hear his fiddle, so I
+s'pose he can be seen?"</p>
+
+<p>Proffering us two hard, uninviting chairs, Mrs. Cole vanished, and,
+through the half-closed door, we could hear her voice, evidently
+announcing our presence, but the violin and "Lannigan's Ball" went on to
+the end. Like another musical genius known to fame, Mr. Dwight evidently
+considered "music before all else."</p>
+
+<p>With the last note of the violin came the single syllable, "Eh?" in a
+voice not unpleasant, but unnecessarily loud.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Cole repeated her former sentence; there was the sound of some one
+rising, quick steps crossed the floor and, as the door swung inward to
+admit Mr. Dwight, I advanced quickly and with extended hand.</p>
+
+<p>When he halted before me, however, I stepped back in feigned surprise
+and confusion.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus019.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus019.jpg" width="400" height="598" alt="&quot;When he halted before me, however, I stepped back in
+feigned surprise and confusion.&quot;&mdash;page 213." title="&quot;When he halted before me, however, I stepped back in
+feigned surprise and confusion.&quot;&mdash;page 213." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;When he halted before me, however, I stepped back in
+feigned surprise and confusion.&quot;&mdash;page 213.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span></p><p>But Dwight was equal to the occasion. Before I could drop or withdraw
+my hand, he seized it in his own large palm, and shook it heartily, the
+most jovial of smiles lighting his face meanwhile.</p>
+
+<p>"You've got the advantage of me, just now," he said, in the same loud,
+cheery tone we had heard from the kitchen, "but I'm glad to see you, all
+the same. Larkins! hallo, Larkins, how are you," and, dropping my hand
+as suddenly as he had grasped it, Dwight turned to salute Larkins.</p>
+
+<p>When their greeting was over, I stammered forth my explanation.</p>
+
+<p>I had made a mistake. Mr. DeWhyte must pardon it. Hearing at Clyde that
+a Mr. DeWhyte was living in Amora, and that he was engaged in the sale
+of sewing machines, I had supposed it to be none other than an old
+school friend of that name, who, when last I heard of him, was general
+agent for a city machine manufactory. It was a mistake which I trusted
+Mr. DeWhyte would pardon. I then presented my card and retired within
+myself.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span></p><p>But the genial Dwight was once more "happy to know me." Shifting his
+violin, which he had brought into the room, from underneath his left
+elbow, he rested it upon his knee, and launched into a series of
+questions concerning my suppositious friend, which resulted in the
+discovery that their names, though similar, were not the same, and that
+the existence of a Mr. Edward DeWhyte and of Ed. Dwight, both following
+the same occupation, was not after all a very remarkable coincidence,
+although one liable to cause mistakes like the one just made by me.</p>
+
+<p>After this we were more at our ease. I proffered my cigar case, and both
+Larkins and Dwight accepted weeds, Dwight remarking, as he arose to take
+some matches from a card-board match safe under the chimney, that,
+"smoking was permitted in the parlor," adding, as he struck a match on
+the sole of his boot, that he "believed in comfort, and would not board
+where they were too high-toned to allow smoking."</p>
+
+<p>Conversation now became general; rather Larkins, Dwight, and the two
+hitherto silent "boarders" talked, and I listened, venturing only an
+occasional remark, and studying my "subject" with secret interest.</p>
+
+<p>"When are you comin' our way again, Dwight?" asked Larkins, as, after an
+hour's chat, we rose to take our leave.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know, Lark.; I don't know," said Dwight, inserting his hands in
+his pockets and jingling some loose coin or keys as he replied. "I don't
+think I'll make many more trips."</p>
+
+<p>"Sho! Ye ain't goin' to take a new route, I hope?"</p>
+
+<p>"N-no; I think I'll try a new deal. I've got a little down on the S. M.
+biz., and talk of taking up my old trade."</p>
+
+<p>"What! the show business?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span></p><p>"Yes; I've got a pretty good chance for salary, and guess I'll go down
+south and do a little of the heel and toe business this Winter,"
+rattling his heels by way of emphasis.</p>
+
+<p>This fragment of conversation was a mine which I worked faithfully
+during our Clydeward drive, manifesting an interest in Mr. Ed. Dwight
+which quite met with the approval of Larkins, and which he was very
+ready to build up and gratify.</p>
+
+<p>I remained in Clyde that night, and before retiring to rest in the tiny
+room assigned me in the "hotel," I made the following entry in my
+note-book:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Ed. Dwight, sewing machine agent, living at Amora, is taller
+than the medium, but slender, and of light weight, being narrow
+of chest, with slim and slightly bowed legs, and long arms that
+are continually in motion; large, nervous hands; small head,
+with close-cropped curly black hair; fine regular features,
+that would be handsome but for the unhealthy, sallow
+complexion, and the look of dissipation about the eyes; said
+eyes very black, restless and bold of expression; mouth
+sensual, and shaded by a small, black mustache; teeth, white
+and rather prominent.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span></p><p class="blockquot">He is full of life and animation; an inveterate joker, his
+"chaff" being his principal conversational stock in trade. He
+is loud of speech, somewhat coarse in manner, rakish in dress,
+and possesses wonderful self-confidence. He is considered a
+dangerous fellow among the country girls, and gets credit for
+making many conquests. Is fickle in his fancies, and, like the
+sailor, seems to have a sweetheart in every port.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">He is a singer of comic songs, a scraper upon the violin, and a
+some time song and dance man.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Has sold sewing machines for nearly three years in Amora and
+vicinity, and is now preparing to return to the stage and to go
+South.</p>
+
+<p>Early the next morning I bade Larkins a friendly farewell, and turned my
+face toward Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing noteworthy had occurred during my absence. Blake and Dimber Joe
+had observed Sunday in the most decorous fashion, attending divine
+worship, but not together, and remained in and about the hotel all the
+rest of the day and evening, treating each other as entire strangers,
+and, so far as Carnes could discover, never once exchanging word or
+glance.</p>
+
+<p>One thing Carnes had noted as peculiar: Jim Long had haunted the hotel
+all day, manifesting a lively interest in our city birds, watching them
+furtively, entering into conversation with one or the other as
+opportunity offered, and contriving, while seeming to lounge as
+carelessly as usual, to keep within sight of them almost constantly
+during the day and evening.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Barnard was still in a critical condition; Carnes had not seen
+Bethel since Saturday.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span></p><p>"And what elephant's tracks did ye's find till the south av us?"
+queried Carnes, after he had given me the foregoing information. "Any
+'nish' lairs, quiet fences, or cosy jungles, eh?"</p>
+
+<p>Whereupon I gave him a full description of the journey over the south
+road, reserving only the portion of my yesterday's experience that
+concerned, for the present, only Mr. Ed. Dwight and myself.</p>
+
+<p>"So there's nothing to get out of that," said Carnes, after listening to
+my recital with a serious countenance. "What do you think <i>now</i>, old
+man? If they don't run their booty over that road, where the mischief
+<i>do</i> they take it?"</p>
+
+<p>"That we must find out," I replied. "And in order to do that we must
+investigate in a new direction."</p>
+
+<p>"How?"</p>
+
+<p>"Think a moment. We decided at the first that these systematic thieves
+had, <i>must have</i>, a rendezvous within half a night's ride from Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; an' I stick to that theory."</p>
+
+<p>"So do I. All these robberies have been committed at distances never
+more than twenty-five miles from Trafton; often less, but <i>never more</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"Just so."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span></p><p>"Within a radius of twenty-five miles around Trafton, east, north, and
+west, and at all intermediate points, it has not been safe to own a good
+horse. There is but one break in this unsafe circle and that is to the
+south. Now, that south road, one day, or <i>two</i> days, after a robbery,
+would be anything but safe for a midnight traveler, who rode a swift
+going horse or drove with a light buggy. Carnes, get your map and study
+out my new theory thereon."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes produced his map and spread it out upon his knee, and I followed
+his example with my own.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, observe," I began, "the south road runs straight and smooth for
+twenty miles, intersected regularly by the mile sections."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Until a little north of Clyde, two miles, I believe they call it, a
+more curving irregular road runs southeast. Now, follow that road."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm after it."</p>
+
+<p>"It continues southeast for nearly ten miles, then the road forks."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"One fork, running directly south, takes you straight to some coal beds
+at Norristown&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Aye, aye!"</p>
+
+<p>"The other runs beyond the county line and it is not on our maps; it
+takes an easterly course for nearly twenty miles, terminating at the
+river."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! I begin to see!"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span></p><p>"From Trafton to the river, then, is a little more than forty miles.
+You cross the river and are in another State. Up and down the river, for
+many miles, you have heavy timber; not far inland you find several
+competing railroads. Now, my belief is, that after the excitement
+following these robberies has had time to die out, the horses are
+hurried over this fifty miles of country, and across the river, and kept
+in the timber until it is quite safe to ship them to a distant market."</p>
+
+<p>"But meantime, before they are taken to the river, where are they
+ambushed, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Under our very noses; here in Trafton!"</p>
+
+<p>Carnes stared at me in consternation.</p>
+
+<p>"Old man," he said, at last, drawing a long, deep breath, "you are
+either insane&mdash;or inspired."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe I have caught an inspiration. But time will test my idea,
+'whether it be from the gods or no.' These outlaws have proven
+themselves cunning, and fertile of brain. Who would think of overhauling
+Trafton for these stolen horses? The very boldness of the proceeding
+insures its safety."</p>
+
+<p>"I should think so. And how do you propose to carry out your search?"</p>
+
+<p>"We must begin at once, trusting to our wits for ways and means. In some
+way we must see or know the contents of every barn, stable, granary,
+store-house, outbuilding, and abandoned dwelling, in and about Trafton.
+No man's property, be he what he may, must be held exempt."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think, then, that the stolen horses, the last haul of course,
+are still in Trafton?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span></p><p>"It is not quite a week since the horses were taken; the 'nine days'
+wonder' is still alive. If my theory is correct, they are still in
+Trafton!"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX.<br />
+<small>HAUNTED BY A FACE.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>It was the day of Miss Manvers' garden party, and a brighter or more
+auspicious one could not have dropped from the hand of the Maker of
+days.</p>
+
+<p>Never did the earth seem fairer, and seldom did the sun shine upon a
+lovelier scene than that presented to my gaze as I turned aside from the
+dusty highway, and paced slowly up the avenue leading to the Hill House.</p>
+
+<p>Even now the picture and the scenes and incidents of the day, rise
+before my mental vision, a graceful, sunlit, yet fateful panorama.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span></p><p>I see the heiress, as she glides across the lawn to greet me, her
+brunette cheeks glowing, her lips wreathed in smiles. She wears a
+costume that is a marvel of diaphanous creamy material, lighted up here
+and there with dashes of vivid crimson. Crimson roses adorn the loops
+and rippling waves of her glossy hair, and nestle in the rich lace at
+her throat. And, as I clasp her little hand, and utter the commonplaces
+of greeting, I note that the eye is even more brilliant than usual, the
+cheek and lip tinged with the vivid hue left by excitement, and,
+underneath the gay badinage and vivacious hospitality, a suppressed
+something:&mdash;anxiety, expectation, displeasure, disappointment; which, I
+can not guess. I only see that something has ruffled my fair hostess,
+and given to her thoughts, even on this bright day, an under current
+that is the reverse of pleasant.</p>
+
+<p>The grounds are beautiful and commodious, tastefully arranged and
+decorated for the occasion, and the <i>�lite</i> of Trafton is there; all,
+save Louise Barnard and Dr. Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you heard from Dr. Barnard since noon?" queries my hostess, as we
+cross the lawn to join a group gathered about an archery target. "I have
+almost regretted giving this party. It seems unfeeling to be enjoying
+ourselves here, and poor Louise bowed down with grief and anxiety beside
+a father who is, perhaps, dying."</p>
+
+<p>"Not dying, I hope."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, we all shall hope until hope is denied us. I suppose his chance for
+life is one in a thousand. I am so sorry, and we shall miss Louise and
+Dr. Bethel so much."</p>
+
+<p>"Bethel is in close attendance?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Dr. Barnard has all confidence in him; and then&mdash;you know the
+nature of his relation with the family?"</p>
+
+<p>"His relation; that of family physician, I suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>Miss Manvers draws back her creamy skirts as we brush past a thorny rose
+tree.</p>
+
+<p>"That of family physician; yes, and prospective son-in-law."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span></p><p>"Ah! I suspected an attachment there."</p>
+
+<p>"It appears they have been privately engaged for some time, with the
+consent of the Barnards, of course. It has only just been publicly
+announced; rather it will be; I had it from Mrs. Barnard this morning.
+Dr. Barnard desires that it should be made known. He believes himself
+dying, and wishes Trafton to know that he sanctions the marriage."</p>
+
+<p>Her voice has an undertone of constraint which accords with her manner,
+and I, remembering the scene of a week before, comprehend and pity. In
+announcing her friend's betrothal she proclaims the death of her own
+hope.</p>
+
+<p>I do not resume the subject, and soon we are in the midst of a gay
+group, chattering with a bevy of fair girls, and receiving from one or
+two Trafton gallants, glances of envious disfavor, which I, desiring to
+mortify vanity, attributed to my new Summer suit rather than to my own
+personal self.</p>
+
+<p>Arch Brookhouse is the next arrival, and almost the last. He comes in
+among us perfumed and smiling, and is received with marked favor. My new
+costume has now a rival, for Arch is as correct a gentleman of fashion
+as ever existed outside of a tailor's window.</p>
+
+<p>He is in wonderful spirits, too, adding zest to the merriment of the gay
+group of which he soon becomes the center.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span></p><p>After a time bows and quivers come more prominently into use. Archery
+is having its first season in Trafton. Some of the young ladies have yet
+to be initiated into the use of the bow, and presently I find myself
+instructing the pretty sixteen-year-old sister of my friend, Charlie
+Harris.</p>
+
+<p>She manages her bow gracefully, but with a weak hand; her aim is far
+from accurate, and I find ample occupation in following the erratic
+movements of her arrows.</p>
+
+<p>Brookhouse and Miss Manvers are both experts with the bow. They send a
+few arrows flying home to the very center of the target, and then
+withdraw from the sport, and finally saunter away together, the hand of
+the lady resting confidingly upon her escort's arm.</p>
+
+<p>"Arn't they a pretty couple?" exclaims my little pupil, twanging her
+bow-string as she turns to look after them. "I do wonder if they are
+engaged."</p>
+
+<p>"So do I," I answer, with much fervor.</p>
+
+<p>She favors me with a quick roguish glance, and laughs blithely.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know," turning back to her momentarily forgotten pastime. "Mr.
+Brookhouse has been very attentive, and for a long time we all thought
+him the favored one, until Dr. Bethel came, and since <i>you</i> appeared in
+Trafton. Ah! I'm afraid Adele is a bit of a flirt."</p>
+
+<p>And astute Miss sixteen shoots me another mischievous glance, and poises
+her arrow with all the <i>nonchalance</i> of a veteran.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span></p><p>Again I glance in the direction taken by my hostess and her cavalier,
+but they have disappeared among the plentiful shrubbery.</p>
+
+<p>I turn back to my roguish little pupil, now provokingly intent upon her
+archery practice.</p>
+
+<p>Once more the arrow is fixed; she takes aim with much deliberation, and
+puts forth all her strength to the bending of the bow. Twang! whizz! the
+arrow speeds fast and far&mdash;and foul. It finds lodgment in a thicket of
+roses, that go clambering over a graceful trellis, full ten feet to the
+right of the target.</p>
+
+<p>There is a shout of merriment. Mademoiselle throws down the bow with a
+little gesture of despair, and I hasten toward the trellis intent upon
+recapturing the missent arrow.</p>
+
+<p>As I am about to thrust my hand in among the roses, I am startled by a
+voice from the opposite side; startled because the voice is that of my
+hostess, thrilling with intensest anger, and very near me.</p>
+
+<p>"It has gone far enough! It has gone <i>too</i> far. It must stop now, or&mdash;"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus020.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus020.jpg" width="400" height="580" alt="&quot;It has gone far enough! It has gone too far. It must
+stop now, or&mdash;&quot; page 227." title="&quot;It has gone far enough! It has gone too far. It must
+stop now, or&mdash;&quot; page 227." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;It has gone far enough! It has gone too far. It must
+stop now, or&mdash;&quot; page 227.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"Or you will make a confounded fool of yourself."</p>
+
+<p>The voice is that of Arch Brookhouse, disagreeably contemptuous,
+provokingly calm.</p>
+
+<p>"No matter. What will it make of you?"</p>
+
+<p>The words begin wrathful and sibilant, and end with a hiss. Can that be
+the voice of my hostess?</p>
+
+<p>Making a pretense of search I press my face closer to the trellis and
+peer through.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></p><p>I see Adele Manvers, her face livid with passion, her eyes ablaze, her
+lips twitching convulsively. There is no undercurrent of feeling now.
+Rage, defiance, desperation, are stamped upon her every feature.</p>
+
+<p>Opposite her stands Arch Brookhouse, his attitude that of careless
+indifference, an insolent smile upon his countenance.</p>
+
+<p>"If I were you, I would drop that nonsense," he says, coolly. "You might
+make an inning with this new city sprig, perhaps. He looks like an easy
+fish to catch; more money than brains, I should say."</p>
+
+<p>"I think his brains will compare favorably with yours; he is nothing to
+me&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>Brookhouse suddenly shifts his position.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you see the arrow?" calls a voice behind me, and so near that I
+know Miss Harris is coming to assist my search.</p>
+
+<p>I catch up the arrow and turn to meet her.</p>
+
+<p>No rustle of the leaves has betrayed my presence; the sound of our
+voices, and their nearness, is drowned by the general hilarity.</p>
+
+<p>We return to our archery, and the two behind the screen finish their
+strange interview. How, I am unable to guess from their faces, when,
+after a time, they are once more among us, Brookhouse as unruffled as
+ever, Miss Manvers flushed, nervous, and feverishly gay.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span></p><p>Throughout the remainder of the <i>f�te</i>, the face of my hostess is
+continually before me; not as her guests see it, fair, smiling, and
+serene, but pallid, passionate, vengeful, as I saw it from behind the
+rose thicket. And I am haunted by the thought that somewhere, sometime,
+I have seen just such a face; just such dusky, gleaming, angry eyes;
+just such a scornful, quivering mouth; just such drawn and desperate
+features.</p>
+
+<p>Now and then I find time to chuckle over the words, uncomplimentary in
+intent, but quite satisfactory to me&mdash;"a city sprig with more money than
+brains."</p>
+
+<p>So this is the ultimatum of Mr. Brookhouse? Some day, perhaps, he may
+cherish another opinion, at least so far as the money is concerned.</p>
+
+<p>Then, while the gayety goes on, I think of Groveland and its mystery; of
+the anonymous warning, the album verse, the initials A. B. Again I take
+my wild John Gilpin ride, with one arm limp and bleeding.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah," I say to myself, thinking wrathfully of his taunting words and
+insolent bearing, which my hostess had seemed powerless to resent, "Ah,
+my gentleman, if I <i>should</i> trace that unlucky bullet to you, then shall
+Miss Manvers rejoice at your downfall!"</p>
+
+<p>What was the occasion of their quarrel? What was the meaning of their
+strange words?</p>
+
+<p>Again and again I ask myself the question as I go home through the
+August darkness, having first seen pretty Nettie Harris safely inside
+her father's cottage gate.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span></p><p>But I find no satisfactory answer to my questions. I might have
+dismissed the matter from my thoughts as only a lover's quarrel, save
+for the last words uttered by Brookhouse. But lovers are not apt to
+advise their sweethearts to "make an inning" with another fellow. If
+jealousy existed, it was assuredly all on the side of the lady.</p>
+
+<p>Having watched them narrowly after their interview behind the rose
+trellis, I am inclined to think it was not a lover's quarrel; and if not
+that, what <i>was</i> it?</p>
+
+<p>I give up the riddle at last, but I can not dismiss the scene from my
+mental vision, still less can I banish the remembrance of the white,
+angry face, and the tormenting fancy that I have not seen it to-day for
+the first time.</p>
+
+<p>I am perplexed and annoyed.</p>
+
+<p>I stop at the office desk to light a cigar and exchange a word with
+"mine host." Dimber Joe is writing ostentatiously at a small table, and
+Blake Simpson is smoking on the piazza.</p>
+
+<p>The sight of the two rogues, so inert and mysterious, gives me an added
+twinge of annoyance. I cut short my converse with the landlord and go up
+to my room.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes is sitting before a small table, upon which his two elbows are
+planted; his fingers are twisted in his thick hair, and his head is bent
+so low over an open book that his nose seems quite ready to plow up the
+page.</p>
+
+<p>Coming closer, I see that he is glowering over a pictured face in his
+treasured "rogues' gallery."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span></p><p>"If you want to study Blake Simpson's cranium," I say, testily, "why
+don't you take the living subject? He's down-stairs at this moment."</p>
+
+<p>"I've been studying the original till my head got dizzy," replies
+Carnes, pushing back the book and tilting back in his chair. "The fact
+is, the fellow conducts himself so confoundedly like a decent mortal,
+that I have to appeal to the gallery occasionally to convince myself
+that it <i>is</i> Blake himself, and not his twin brother."</p>
+
+<p>I laugh at this characteristic whim, and, drawing the book toward me,
+carelessly glance from page to page.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes prides himself upon his "gallery." He has a large and motley
+collection of rogues of all denominations: thieves, murderers, burglars,
+counterfeiters, swindlers, fly crooks of every sort, and of both sexes.</p>
+
+<p>"They've been here four days now," Carnes goes on, plaintively, "and
+nothing has happened yet. It's enough to make a man lose faith in 'Bene
+Coves.' I wonder&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" The exclamation falls sharply from my lips, the "gallery" almost
+falls from my hands.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus021.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus021.jpg" width="400" height="580" alt="&quot;Ah!&quot; The exclamation falls sharply from my lips, the
+&quot;gallery&quot; almost falls from my hands.&mdash;page 233." title="&quot;Ah!&quot; The exclamation falls sharply from my lips, the
+&quot;gallery&quot; almost falls from my hands.&mdash;page 233." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Ah!&quot; The exclamation falls sharply from my lips, the
+&quot;gallery&quot; almost falls from my hands.&mdash;page 233.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Carnes leaves his speech unfinished and gazes anxiously at me, while I
+sit long and silently studying a pictured face.</p>
+
+<p>By-and-by I close the book and replace it upon the table.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span></p><p>One vexed question is answered; I know now why the white, angry face of
+Adele Manvers has haunted me as a shadow from the past.</p>
+
+<p>I arise and pace the floor restlessly; like Theseus, I have grasped the
+clue that shall lead me from the maze.</p>
+
+<p>After a time, Carnes goes out to inform himself as to the movements of
+Blake and Dimber Joe.</p>
+
+<p>Midnight comes, but no Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>The house is hushed in sleep. I lock the door, extinguish my light, and,
+lowering myself noiselessly from the window to the ground, turn my steps
+toward the scene of the afternoon revel.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span></p><p>In the darkness and silence I reach my destination, and scaling a
+high paling, stand once more in the grounds of The Hill.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX.<br />
+<small>SOME BITS OF PERSONAL HISTORY.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>While Miss Manvers was bidding farewell to the latest of her guests, and
+the "average Traftonite" was making his first voyage into dreamland, Dr.
+Barnard closed his eyes upon Trafton forever, and slept that long,
+sound, last, best sleep that comes once to all of us, and I, as well as
+numerous other restless sleepers, was awakened in the early morning by
+the sound of the tolling bell.</p>
+
+<p>It was sad news to many, for Dr. Barnard was an old and well-beloved
+citizen.</p>
+
+<p>It afforded a new subject for gossip to many more, who now learned for
+the first time that Louise Barnard was affianced to Dr. Carl Bethel, and
+that Dr. Barnard, with almost his latest breath, had proclaimed his
+entire faith in the young man's honor, by formally sanctioning his
+engagement with Louise.</p>
+
+<p>I had not seen Bethel since my return from the city, until we met that
+day, and exchanged a few words across the dinner table.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span></p><p>He looked worn and weary, and seemed to have forgotten his own
+annoyances and interests in the absorption of his regret for the loss of
+his old friend and associate, and sympathy with the sorrow of his
+beloved.</p>
+
+<p>I had spent the entire morning in writing a long letter to my Chief,
+giving a detailed account of my acquaintance with Miss Manvers, and a
+description of the lady, her style of living, and, above all, more
+graphic than all, my experience of the previous day, up to the moment
+when I closed the "rogues' gallery" and opened my eyes to a new and
+startling possibility.</p>
+
+<p>This document I addressed to a city post-office box, and, having sealed
+it carefully, registered and dispatched it through the Trafton
+post-office.</p>
+
+<p>In the afternoon I received an express package from Baysville. It was a
+<i>book</i>, so the agent said. Innocent enough, no doubt, nevertheless I did
+not open it until I had closed and locked my door upon all intruders.</p>
+
+<p>It <i>was</i> a book. A cheap volume of trashy poems, but the middle leaves
+were cut away, and in their place I found a bulky letter.</p>
+
+<p>It was Earle's report from Amora.</p>
+
+<p>It was very statistical, very long, and dry because of its minuteness of
+detail, and the constant recurrence of dates and figures. But it was
+most interesting to me.</p>
+
+<p>Arch Brookhouse and his brother, Louis, had both been students at Amora.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span></p><p>Grace Ballou and Nellie Ewing had been fellow-students with them one
+year ago. Last term, however, Arch had not been a student, but Louis
+Brookhouse, Grace Ballou, Nellie Ewing, Mamie Rutger, Amy Holmes, and
+Johnny La Porte, had all been in attendance.</p>
+
+<p>For the last three named this was their first term.</p>
+
+<p>Mamie Rutger had been expelled for misconduct, during the last half of
+the term.</p>
+
+<p>Johnny La Porte and Louis Brookhouse had been "chums" and were,
+accordingly, pretty wild.</p>
+
+<p>Very little could be learned concerning Amy Holmes, previous to her
+coming to Amora. She was said to be an orphan, and came from the South.
+Nothing more definite could be learned concerning her abiding place. She
+was lively, dashing and stylish, not particularly fond of study; in fact
+was considered one of the "loudest" girls in the school. Her escapades
+had been numerous and she had, on more than one occasion, narrowly
+escaped expulsion. She was particularly intimate with Nellie Ewing,
+Mamie Rutger, and Grace Ballou; and had been seen, on several occasions,
+in the company of Arch Brookhouse, who was very often at Amora.</p>
+
+<p>Concerning Ed. Dwight, Earle could say very little.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span></p><p>Dwight had left town with his team early on Monday morning, and had not
+yet returned. Earle had managed, however, to obtain lodgings at Dwight's
+boarding-house, and had made the acquaintance of one of the "girls," who
+had contributed the information that Arch Brookhouse had several times
+dined there with Dwight.</p>
+
+<p>This is an abbreviated account of what Earle's report contained.
+Accompanying said report was an autograph obtained from Professor Asa
+Bartlett, and it bore not the slightest resemblance to the printed album
+lines.</p>
+
+<p>Considering the time consumed in the investigation, Earle had done
+remarkably well. He had done well, too, in going to Baysville to send
+the letter.</p>
+
+<p>How many threads were now in my hands, and yet how powerless I was for
+the time!</p>
+
+<p>Only yesterday I had made, or so I believed, two most important
+discoveries, and yet I could turn them to no account for the present.</p>
+
+<p>Upon the first, it would be unwise to act until further information had
+been forwarded me by my Chief.</p>
+
+<p>As for the second, there was nothing to do but watch. I could not take
+the initiative step. Action depended solely upon others, and as to the
+identity of these others I scarce could give a guess.</p>
+
+<p>Louis Brookhouse had not been seen outside his home since his arrival,
+in a crippled condition, the day after Grace Ballou's escapade. I must
+see Louis Brookhouse. I must know the nature of that "injury" which Dr.
+Bethel had been called upon to attend.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span></p><p>For the first, I must bide my time until the youth was sufficiently
+recovered to appear in public. For the second, I must rely on Bethel,
+and, until the last sorrowful tribute of respect and affection had been
+paid the dead, I could scarcely hope for an interview with him.</p>
+
+<p>A crisis must come soon, but it was not in our power to hasten it.</p>
+
+<p>So long as Dimber Joe and Blake Simpson continued inert and seemingly
+aimless, so long as the days brought no new event and the nights brought
+neither discovery on our part nor movement on the part of the
+horse-thieves, Carnes and I had only to wait and watch&mdash;watch&mdash;watch.</p>
+
+<p>Our days, to the onlooker, must have seemed only idle indeed, but still
+they were busy days.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes roamed about the town, inspecting the barns and buildings
+closely, when he could venture a near approach without arousing
+suspicion or objection; at a distance, when intrusion would be unsafe or
+unwelcome.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Barnard was buried on Thursday, and on the afternoon of that day, as
+I was returning from the funeral in fact, I received a report from
+Wyman.</p>
+
+<p>Stripped of its details, and reduced to bare facts, it amounted to this:</p>
+
+<p>The "dummy" had proven of actual service. Wyman had found him with very
+little trouble, and in just the right place. He was domiciled with the
+La Porte family, and had been since the first week of his advent among
+the Grovelanders, and Wyman was indebted to him for much of the
+information contained in his report.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span></p><p>Acting according to our instructions, or, rather, as we had expected
+and desired, overacting them, the "dummy" had soon contrived to let the
+Grovelanders know that he was a detective, sent out from the city to
+occupy the premises and keep his eyes open. He talked freely of the
+missing girls, always frankly avowing that it was his opinion, as well
+as the opinion of his superiors, that the two girls had been murdered.
+Indeed, he darkly hinted that certain facts corroborative of this theory
+had been discovered, and then he lapsed into vagueness and silence. When
+questioned as to his system or intentions regarding the investigation he
+became profoundly mysterious, oracular, and unsatisfactory.</p>
+
+<p>The result was all that we could have wished. The less intelligent among
+his critics looked upon him as a fountain of wisdom and cunning and
+skill. The more acute and observant fathomed his shallowness, but
+immediately set it down as a bit of clever acting, and, joining with
+their less penetrating neighbors, voted our "dummy" "wise as a serpent"
+underneath his "harmless as a dove" exterior, and looked confidently
+forward to something startling when he should finally arouse to action.</p>
+
+<p>To which class of critics Johnny La Porte belonged, Wyman had been
+unable to discover, for during his stay in Groveland he had not seen
+young La Porte.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span></p><p>Whatever his opinion may have been, the young man had been among the
+first to seek our "dummy's" acquaintance, which he had cultivated so
+persistently that within less than a fortnight the two had become most
+friendly, and apparently appreciative of each other's society, and the
+"dummy" had found an abiding place underneath the hospitable roof of La
+Porte <i>pere</i>.</p>
+
+<p>Johnny La Porte was a spoiled son. He seemed to have had his own way
+always, and it had not been a way to wisdom. He was not dissipated; had
+none of the larger and more masculine vices, but he was idle, a shirk at
+school and at home. He had no business tact, and seemed as little
+inclined to make of himself a decent farmer as he was incapable of
+becoming a good financier, merchant, or mechanic.</p>
+
+<p>He was short of stature, and girlishly pretty, having small oval
+features, languid black eyes, black curly hair, and a rich complexion of
+olive and red.</p>
+
+<p>He drove a fine span of blacks before a jaunty light carriage, and was
+seldom seen with his turnout except when accompanied by some one of the
+many pretty girls about Groveland.</p>
+
+<p>In fact, he was that most obnoxious creature, a male flirt. He had roved
+from one bright Groveland flower to another, ever since his graduation
+from jackets to tail coats. During the previous Autumn and Winter, he
+had been very devoted to Nellie Ewing; but, since their return from
+school, in the Spring, his attentions had not been quite so marked,
+although Nellie had several times been seen behind the blacks and in
+company with the fickle Johnny.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span></p><p>In short, after reading all that Wyman could say of him, I summed
+Johnny La Porte up, and catalogued him as follows:</p>
+
+<p>Vain, weak, idle, handsome, fickle, selfish, good-natured when not
+interfered with, over fond of pleasure, easily influenced, and a
+spendthrift.</p>
+
+<p>What might or might not be expected of such a character?</p>
+
+<p>He was, as Mrs. Ballou had said, popular among the young people,
+especially the young ladies; and where do you find a young man that
+drives a fine turnout, carries a well-filled purse, dances a little,
+sings a fair tenor and plays his own accompaniment, is handsome, and
+always ready for a frolic, who is <i>not</i> popular with the ladies?</p>
+
+<p>Wyman had not seen La Porte, and for this reason:</p>
+
+<p>On the evening of the 17th, young La Porte had driven away from home
+with his black horses, telling our "dummy," in confidence, that he was
+"going to take a pretty girl out riding."</p>
+
+<p>La Porte and the "dummy" "roomed together," in true country fashion;
+and, at midnight, or later, the "dummy" could not be precise as to the
+lateness of the hour, he returned. Entering the room with evident
+caution, he nevertheless awoke the "dummy," who, turning lazily on his
+pillow, saw La Porte taking from a drawer something white, which our
+"dummy" supposed to be a handful of handkerchiefs, and from a shelf a
+bottle of brandy.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus022.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus022.jpg" width="400" height="590" alt="&quot;Entering the room with evident caution, he nevertheless
+awoke the &quot;dummy,&quot; who, turning lazily on his pillow, saw La Porte
+taking from a drawer something white,&quot;&mdash;page 244." title="&quot;Entering the room with evident caution, he nevertheless
+awoke the &quot;dummy,&quot; who, turning lazily on his pillow, saw La Porte
+taking from a drawer something white,&quot;&mdash;page 244." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Entering the room with evident caution, he nevertheless
+awoke the &quot;dummy,&quot; who, turning lazily on his pillow, saw La Porte
+taking from a drawer something white,&quot;&mdash;page 244.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>On seeing the open eyes of our "dummy," La Porte had explained as
+follows:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span></p><p>One of his horses went lame a bit, and he intended to give him a
+little treatment. The "dummy" must not disturb himself, as the hired man
+was on hand to render all the necessary help.</p>
+
+<p>Then, as he was leaving the room, La Porte had added:</p>
+
+<p>"By-the-by, if the horse comes out all right, and I am gone when you
+turn out in the morning, tell the old man that I am off for Baysville to
+see about the club excursion."</p>
+
+<p>Wondering vaguely what species of lameness it was that must be treated
+with brandy and bandaged with linen handkerchiefs, the "dummy" fell
+asleep, and finding the young man absent on the following morning,
+delivered his message as directed.</p>
+
+<p>It was received without comment, as such excursions were of frequent
+occurrence, and as no one presumed to question the movements of the
+spoiled young pleasure seeker.</p>
+
+<p>He did not return on the next day, but the morning of the 19th brought
+him home, not, however, as he went, but in company with a sewing-machine
+agent whom he called Ed., and whose full name was Edward S. Dwight.</p>
+
+<p>La Porte stated that his horse was lame again, and that he had left his
+team at Amora, and returned with Dwight in the machine wagon.</p>
+
+<p>During that day La Porte accompanied Dwight on his rounds among the
+farmers, and early the following morning the two returned together to
+Amora.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span></p><p>That was a week ago. The following Sunday, La Porte and Dwight had
+again visited Groveland, this time with La Porte's own turnout. During
+the day they had made several calls upon young ladies, and this time our
+"dummy," being cordially invited, accompanied them on their rounds.</p>
+
+<p>On Monday morning, as before, they returned to Amora, and since then had
+not reappeared in Groveland.</p>
+
+<p>Wyman, according to instructions, had visited Mrs. Ballou. She had
+nothing new to communicate, but she gave into his hands a small package,
+which Wyman had inclosed with his report.</p>
+
+<p>It contained three photographs; one of Miss Amy Holmes, one of Johnny La
+Porte, and a third of the same gentleman and Mr. Ed. Dwight, a rather
+rakish-looking duo.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span></p><p>I read and re-read Wyman's long, complete descriptive report. I studied
+the photographed faces again and again, and that evening, before the
+sunset had fairly faded from the west, I told Carnes the whole story,
+and placed before him the printed letter and the autographs, photographs
+and reports.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI.<br />
+<small>"EVOLVING A THEORY."</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>"And you want me to go to New Orleans?" says Carnes, as he rises slowly,
+and stretches himself up to his fullest height, following up his words
+with an immense yawn. "What for, now?"</p>
+
+<p>He has listened so attentively, so silently, with such moveless,
+intelligent eagerness, that I forgive him the yawn, and treat myself to
+a long breath of restfulness and relief, at being at last unburdened of
+this great secret, and he crosses the room and drops into his favorite
+attitude beside the window that overlooks the fast darkening street.</p>
+
+<p>"I hardly know just what I expect you to unearth in New Orleans," I
+answer, after a pause of some moments. "But I have a notion that the
+links we have failed to find here may be in hiding down there."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span></p><p>Carnes plunges his hands deep down into his pockets. I know, from the
+intentness of his face, and the unwinking fixedness of the eyes that
+stare yet see nothing beyond the panorama conjured by his own
+imagination, that he is studying diligently at the Groveland problem;
+and I sit silently, waiting his first movement, that I feel sure will be
+speedily followed by something in the way of an opinion.</p>
+
+<p>"It's a queer muddle," he says at last, coming back to his chair and
+dropping into his former attitude of interested attention. "It's a queer
+muddle; and, it seems to me, you have got hold of the wrong end of the
+business."</p>
+
+<p>"How the wrong end?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why, you have your supposed principals and accessories, and, perhaps,
+the outline of a plot; but where is your <i>motive</i>?"</p>
+
+<p>"Where, indeed! I have not even found a theory that suits me, although I
+have pondered over various suppositions. You are good at this sort of
+analysis, Carnes. Can't you help me to some sort of a theory that won't
+break of its own weight?"</p>
+
+<p>Carnes bit his under lip and pondered.</p>
+
+<p>"How far have you got?" he asked, presently.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span></p><p>"I will tell you how I have reasoned thus far. Experience and
+statistics have proved that, of all the missing people, male and female,
+whose dead bodies are never found, or whose deaths are never
+satisfactorily proven, more than three-fourths have eventually turned up
+alive, or it is found they <i>have</i> lived many years after they were
+numbered among the missing. In the majority of cases, say four to one,
+where missing persons, supposed to have been dead, are proved to be
+alive, it is also proved that they have 'disappeared' of their own free
+will. In the list of missing young girls, the police records show that
+two-thirds of those supposed to have been murdered or abducted, have
+eloped or forsaken their friends of their own free will. Let us keep in
+mind these statistics and begin with Nellie Ewing. Was she murdered? Was
+she forcibly abducted? Did she run away?"</p>
+
+<p>"Umph! If <i>she</i> were a man I might venture an opinion," broke in Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us see. She left her house at sunset, riding a brown pony, and
+intent, or seeming so, upon visiting her friend, Grace Ballou."</p>
+
+<p>"Grace Ballou&mdash;oh!" Carnes lifts his head, then drops it again, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>I note the gesture and the ejaculation, and smile as I proceed.</p>
+
+<p>"She had announced her intention of spending the night with her friend
+Grace, but instead of so doing, she is suddenly afflicted with a
+headache, and, at dusk, or perhaps even later, she sets out, on her
+brown pony, for home, a distance of about four miles."</p>
+
+<p>"Um&mdash;ah!" from Carnes.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span></p><p>"She is not seen after that. Neither is the brown pony. Was she
+murdered? If so, no trace of her body, no clue to her murderer, no
+motive for the deed, has been discovered. And the horse; if she was
+murdered, was the horse slaughtered also? And were they both buried in
+one grave? She was riding alone, after nightfall, over a country road.
+She might have been assailed by tramps or stragglers of some sort, but
+the first investigation proved that nothing in the form of tramp, or
+stranger of any sort, had been seen about Groveland, neither on that day
+nor for many days previous. And again, a tramp who might have killed her
+to secure the horse, would hardly have tarried to conceal the body so
+effectually that the most thorough search could not bring it to light.
+Nor would he have carried it with him beyond the reach of search. Was
+she murdered for revenge, or from motives of jealousy? Then, in all
+probability, the brown horse would have been found wandering somewhere
+at large."</p>
+
+<p>"It won't do," mutters Carnes, half to himself, and with a slow wag of
+the head; "it won't do."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span></p><p>"That's what I said to myself, after reviewing the pros and cons of the
+'murder theory.' Now, was Nellie Ewing abducted? She <i>may</i> have been,
+but, again, there's the missing horse. If a tramp or a horse-thief would
+take the horse, and leave the girl, a desperate lover would just as
+surely take the girl and leave the horse. Again, an avaricious lover
+<i>might</i>, with some difficulty, secure both horse and rider, but he could
+hardly travel far with an unwilling girl and a stolen horse, without
+becoming uncomfortably conspicuous. Did the young lady elope? If so,
+then it is my belief that she and her horse parted company very soon
+after she left the widow Ballou's. And here ends my theorizing. How, and
+why, and whither, the horse was spirited away, I can not guess."</p>
+
+<p>"If the thing had occurred in Trafton," says Carnes, thoughtfully, "one
+might account for the horse."</p>
+
+<p>"True; but as it did not occur within the limit of the Trafton
+operations, I naturally concluded that, if the young lady really did
+abscond, her lover must have had a confederate who took charge of the
+horse. But, at first, this seemed to me improbable."</p>
+
+<p>"Why improbable?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because I did not view the matter, as you do now, in the light of after
+discoveries and developments."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you think now that Miss Ewing eloped?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think she was not murdered; and the elopement theory is much more
+plausible, more reasonable, all things considered, than that of
+abduction. First of all, there are the movements of the girl herself.
+Supposing her quartered for the night with her friend Grace, 'Squire
+Ewing felt no uneasiness at her absence, even when it was prolonged into
+the second day. Might she not have considered all this when she planned
+her flight? When she was actually missed, she had two days the start of
+her inquiring friends."</p>
+
+<p>"True."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span></p><p>"Then, not long after, Mamie Rutger, a friend and schoolmate of the
+missing Nellie, also disappears. While it is yet daylight, or at least
+hardly dark, she vanishes from her father's very door-step, and is seen
+no more. Now, let me call your attention to some facts. Farmer Rutger's
+house stands on a bit of rising ground; the road runs east and west. To
+the east of the house is a thick grove of young trees planted as a
+wind-break for the cattle. This belt of trees begins at the front of the
+house and extends northward, the house being on the north side of the
+highway, past the barns, cow stables, and sheep pens. So while a person
+in the front portion of the house, on the porch or in the door-yard, can
+obtain a clear view of the road to the west, those farther back, in the
+kitchen, the stables, or the milking sheds, are shut off from a view of
+the road by the wind-break on the one hand, by a high orchard hedge on
+the other, and by the house and thick door-yard shrubbery in front. For
+over an hour, on the night of her disappearance, Mamie Rutger was the
+only person within view of this highway. The hired girl was in the
+kitchen washing up the supper things. Mrs. Rutger, who, by-the-by, is
+Miss Mamie's step-mother, was skimming milk in the cellar, and Mr.
+Rutger, with the two hired men, were watering and feeding the stock and
+milking the cows. When the work for the night was done and the lamps
+were lighted, if they thought of Mamie at all it was as sitting alone on
+the front piazza, or perched in her chamber window up-stairs, enjoying
+the quiet of the evening. It was only when their early bed-time came
+that the girl's absence, and more than that, her unusual silence, was
+noted, and that a search proved her missing. Was <i>she</i> murdered? That
+theory in this case is so unreasonable that I discard it at once."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span></p><p>Carnes nodded his head approvingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Was she abducted? Possibly; but to my mind, it is not probable. Mamie
+Rutger was a gypsyish lassie, pretty as a May blossom, skittish as a
+colt, hard to govern and prone to adventurous escapades. Her father was
+kind and her step-mother meant to be so, but the latter perpetually
+frowned down the girl's innocent hilarity, and curbed her gayety, when
+she could, with a stern hand. They sent her to school to tame her, and
+the faculty, after bearing with her, and forgiving her many mischievous
+pranks because of her youth, at last sent her home in disgrace,
+expelled. If this girl, wearied of a humdrum farmhouse existence and
+thirsting for a broader glimpse of the gay outer world, had planned an
+elopement or runaway escapade, she could have chosen no better time.
+While all the others are busy at their evening task, she, from the
+front, watches for a swift horse and a covered buggy, which comes from
+the west. Sure that no eyes are looking, she awaits it at the gate,
+springs in, with a backward glance, and when she is missed, is miles
+away."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I see," comments Carnes, dryly; "it's a pity your second sight
+couldn't keep 'em in view till ye see where they land."</p>
+
+<p>I curb my imagination. That useful quality is deficient in the cranium
+of my comrade; he can neither follow nor sympathize.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span></p><p>"Well, here is the condensed truth for you," I reply, amiably: "for
+this much we have ocular and oral testimony: Four young ladies attend
+school at Amora; all are pretty, under the age of discretion, and, with
+perhaps one exception, little versed in the ways of the world and its
+wickedness. During their sojourn at school, where they are not under
+constant discipline owing to the fact that they all board outside of the
+Seminary, and all together, they are much in the society of four young
+men, two of whom are students of the Seminary. This quartette of youths
+are more or less good looking, and all of them notably 'gay and
+festive,' after the manner of the stereotyped young man of the period."</p>
+
+<p>"Right you are now," ejaculated Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>"Just how these gentlemen divided their affections or attentions," I
+continue, "it is difficult to say, in regard to all. We know that Mr.
+Johnny La Porte was the chosen cavalier of Miss Ewing, and that Arch
+Brookhouse and Amy Holmes were frequently seen in each other's society.
+We are told that the eight young people formed frequent pleasure
+parties; riding, picnicking, passing social evenings together.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span></p><p>"They leave school; their jolly companionship is over. By-and-by,
+Nellie Ewing disappears; a little later, Mamie Rutger is also missing;
+after a little time the other two young ladies are caught in the act of
+escaping from home, by the means of a ladder placed at their chamber
+window by an unknown man, while a second, it is supposed, awaits their
+coming with horses and vehicle. This much for the ladies of this
+octette. Now, upon inquiring after the whereabouts of the gentlemen, we
+find that upon the night of this last named escapade, Johnny La Porte,
+with his buggy and horses, was absent from home from sunset until after
+midnight. That he returned when all the household was asleep, and
+securing some clean handkerchiefs and a flask of brandy, ostensibly to
+doctor a sick horse, he again goes, and returns after an absence of two
+days, accompanied by another member of the octette, Mr. Ed. Dwight."</p>
+
+<p>"That's a point," assented Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, we have previously learned," I resume, "that said Dwight is about
+to abandon his old trade and quit the country. We also remember that
+Mrs. Ballou shot at, and believes she hit, the man who was assisting her
+daughter and guest to escape from the house. Very good. During the time
+that Johnny La Porte is absent from his home, Mr. Louis Brookhouse is
+brought home to Trafton, in a covered buggy, by some unknown friend,
+with a crippled limb!"</p>
+
+<p>"I see; that's a clincher," muttered Carnes.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span></p><p>"This much for three of the gay Lotharios," I continue. "Now for Arch
+Brookhouse. In Grace Ballou's autograph album is a couplet, very neatly
+printed and signed A. B. It bears date one year back, and one year ago
+Grace Ballou and Arch Brookhouse were both students at Amora. Not long
+since I received an interesting letter of warning, and I believe it was
+written by the same hand that indited the lines beginning 'I drink to
+the eyes of my schoolmate, Grace.'"</p>
+
+<p>Carnes opened his lips, but I hurried on.</p>
+
+<p>"I have noted one other thing, which, if you like, you may call
+coincidence of latitude. The eldest of the Brookhouse brothers is a
+resident of New Orleans. At about the time of Nellie Ewing's
+disappearance, Louis Brookhouse went to New Orleans, returning less than
+two weeks ago. Amy Holmes is vaguely described as being 'somewhere
+South,' and Ed. Dwight meditates a Southern journey soon."</p>
+
+<p>"It looks like a league," says Carnes, scratching his head, and
+wrinkling his brows in perplexity. "Are they going to form a colony of
+some new sort? What's your notion?"</p>
+
+<p>"My notion is that we had better not waste our time trying to guess out
+a motive. Consider the language of the telegram sent by Fred Brookhouse
+to his brother, and the reply to it, and then reflect upon the possible
+meaning of both. The New Orleans brother says:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Hurry up the others, or we are likely to have a balk.</p>
+
+<p>"Arch answers:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Next week L&mdash;&mdash; will be on hand.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span></p><p>"Hurry up the others! What others? Why are they likely to have a
+'balk?' Are the two missing girls <i>there</i>, in charge of Fred Brookhouse,
+and are they becoming restive at the non-appearance of the others? If
+they had succeeded in escaping, would Grace Ballou and Amy Holmes have
+gone to New Orleans in company with Louis Brookhouse?"</p>
+
+<p>"By Saint Patrick, I begin to see!" cried Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>"The telegram sent by Arch," I resume, "implies that Louis was already
+here, or near here. Yet he made his first appearance at his father's
+house two days later. Is Ed. Dwight going to New Orleans to embrace the
+'heel and toe business,' under the patronage of Fred Brookhouse, who, it
+is said, is connected with a theater? Is Johnny La Porte in hiding at
+Amora? or has he already 'gone to join the circus?'"</p>
+
+<p>Carnes springs suddenly to his feet.</p>
+
+<p>"By the powers, old man, I see how it looks to you;" he cries, "an'
+ye've got the thing by the right end at last. I'll go to New Orleans;
+only say when. But," here his face lengthens a little, "ye must get
+Wyman, or some one else, here in my place. I wish we had got that horse
+rendezvous hunted down."</p>
+
+<p>"As to that," I respond, "give yourself no uneasiness; I believe that I
+have found the right place, and to-night I mean to confirm my
+suspicion."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes stares astonished.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span></p><p>"How did you manage it?" he asks, "and when?"</p>
+
+<p>"Two days ago, and by accident. You will be surprised, Carnes. It is a
+barn."</p>
+
+<p>"It is?"</p>
+
+<p>"A lead-colored barn, finished in brown."</p>
+
+<p>"<i>What?</i>"</p>
+
+<p>"It is large, and nearly square," I hasten to say, enjoying his marked
+amazement. "A large stack of hay is pitched against the rear end,
+running the length of it. It has a cupola and a flagstaff."</p>
+
+<p>Carnes simply stares.</p>
+
+<p>"I will send for Wyman if I need his help. What I am studying upon now
+is a sufficient pretext for sending you away suddenly."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll furnish that," Carnes says, with a droll roll of his eye.
+"To-morrow I'll get drunk&mdash;beastly drunk. You shall inquire after me
+about the hotel and at Porter's. By-and-by I will come into the office
+too drunk to be endurable. You must be there to reprimand me. I grow
+insolent; you discharge me. I go away somewhere and sleep off the
+effects of my spree. You pay me my wages in the presence of the clerk,
+and at midnight I board the train <i>en route</i> for the Sunny South. You
+shall hear from me&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"By telegraph," I interrupt. "We shall have a new night operator here
+within the week. I arranged for that when I was in the city, and wrote
+the old man, yesterday, to send him on at once."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span></p><p>"All right; that's a good move," approved Carnes.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span></p><p>"And now," I said, rising hastily, and consulting my watch, "I must go.
+To-night, or perhaps in the 'small hours,' we will talk over matters
+again, and I will explain myself further. For the present, good-by; I am
+expected to-night at the Hill; I shall pass the evening in the society
+of Miss Manvers."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>CHAPTER XXII.<br />
+<small>TWO DEPARTURES.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>On the ensuing morning, Carnes and I enacted the "quarrel scene," as
+planned by him the previous night.</p>
+
+<p>A more aggravated case of drunkenness than that presented by Carnes, a
+little before noon, could not well be imagined. He was a marvel of
+reeling stupidity, offensive hiccoughs, and maudlin insolence.</p>
+
+<p>Quite a number of people were lounging about the office when Carnes
+staggered in, thus giving me my cue to commence. Among the rest were
+Dimber Joe and Blake Simpson. Our scene went off with considerable
+<i>eclat</i>; and, having paid Carnes at the office desk, with a magnificent
+disregard for expense, I turned to leave the room, looking back over my
+shoulder, to say with my grandest air:</p>
+
+<p>"If you think yourself sufficiently sober, you may come up-stairs and
+pack your things. The sooner you, and all that belongs to you, are out
+of my sight, the better I shall be pleased."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus023.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus023.jpg" width="400" height="585" alt="&quot;If you think yourself sufficiently sober, you may come
+up-stairs and pack your things.&quot;&mdash;page 262." title="&quot;If you think yourself sufficiently sober, you may come
+up-stairs and pack your things.&quot;&mdash;page 262." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;If you think yourself sufficiently sober, you may come
+up-stairs and pack your things.&quot;&mdash;page 262.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>I had been in my room less than half an hour, when I heard Carnes come
+stumbling noisily through the passage.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span></p><p>When he was fairly within the room, he straightened himself suddenly,
+and uttered a sound midway between a laugh and a chuckle.</p>
+
+<p>"Old man," he said, coming slowly toward me, "I don't think I'll take
+the down train."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because," winking absurdly, and then staring up at the ceiling while he
+finished his sentence, "the snakes are beginning to crawl. Blake Simpson
+has just paid his bill, and ordered his baggage to be sent to the 4:30
+train."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! And you will take the same train?"</p>
+
+<p>"Exactly; I'm curious to see where he is going, and to find out why. We
+must not remain together long, old man. Do you go down-stairs and tell
+them that I am sleeping off my booze up here. I shan't be very sober by
+4:30, but I'll manage to navigate to the depot."</p>
+
+<p>I went down to the office, after a few more words with Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>Simpson and Dimber Joe had both disappeared. Two or three men were
+smoking outside, and a man by the window was falling asleep over a
+newspaper three days old. Mine host, in person, was lounging over the
+desk. He was idle, and inclined to be talkative.</p>
+
+<p>"You weren't trying to give Barney a scare, I suppose?" he said, as I
+approached the desk. "Do you really mean to let him go?"</p>
+
+<p>"I certainly do," I replied, as I lounged upon the desk.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span></p><p>Then, coming nearer mine host, and increasing the distance between
+myself and the old man by the window; "I have been tolerably patient
+with the fellow. He has his good points, but he has tired me out.
+Patience has ceased to be a virtue. I can do very well without him now.
+He never was much of a valet. But I thought him quite necessary as a
+companion on my fishing, hunting, and pedestrian excursions. However, I
+have become pretty well acquainted with places and people, and I find
+there are plenty of guides and companions to be picked up. I can do very
+well without Barney, especially as of late he is drunk oftener than he
+is sober."</p>
+
+<p>Mine host smiled fraternally. It was not my custom to be so
+communicative. Always, in my character of the wealthy aristocrat, I had
+maintained, for the benefit of those about me, an almost haughty
+reserve, only unbending when, because of my supposed financial
+importance, I "was made much of" in the social circles of the Trafton
+<i>�lite</i>. To-day, however, I had an object to gain, and I did not bestow
+my condescending confidence without the expectation of "value received."</p>
+
+<p>"You'll have no trouble about finding company," said mine host, with a
+benign smile. "As you say, Barney has been a good many times off. He
+hasn't kept the best of company. He's been too much with that Briggs."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," I assented, carelessly; "I have repeatedly warned him to let the
+fellow alone. Has he no occupation?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span></p><p>"Briggs? he's a sort of extra hand for 'Squire Brookhouse; but, he
+plays more than he works," trifling with the leaves of his register, and
+then casting his eye slowly down the page before him. "Here's an odd
+thing, you might say," laughing, as he lifted his eye from the book,
+"I'm losing my most boisterous boarder and my quietest one at the same
+time."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed; who else is going?"</p>
+
+<p>My entertainer cast a quick glance towards the occupant of the window,
+and lowered his voice as he replied:</p>
+
+<p>"The gentleman in gray."</p>
+
+<p>"In gray?" absently. "Oh! to be sure, a&mdash;a patent-right agent, is he
+not?"</p>
+
+<p>Another glance toward the window, then lowering his voice an additional
+half tone, and favoring me with a knowing wink, he said:</p>
+
+<p>"Have you heard anything concerning him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Concerning the gentleman in gray?"</p>
+
+<p>My entertainer nodded.</p>
+
+<p>"Assuredly not," said I, affecting languid surprise. "Nothing wrong
+about the gentleman, I hope?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing wrong, oh, no," leaning over the desk, and speaking slowly.
+"They say he is a <i>detective</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"A detective!" This time my surprise was not entirely feigned. "Oh&mdash;is
+not that a sensationalism?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a></span></p><p>"Well," said my host, reflectively, "I might think so if I had heard it
+from any of the ordinary loungers;&mdash;the fact is, I had no right to
+mention the matter. I don't think it is guessed at by many."</p>
+
+<p>He was beginning to retire within himself. I felt that I must not lose
+my ground, and became at once more interested, more affable.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I assure you, Mr. Holtz, I am quite interested. Do you really think
+the man a detective? Pray, rely on my discretion."</p>
+
+<p>There were two hard, unpainted chairs behind the office desk, and some
+boxes containing cheap cigars, upon a shelf against the wall. I
+insinuated myself into one of the chairs, and presently, Mr. Holtz was
+seated near me in the other, smoking one of his own cigars, at my
+expense, while I, with a similar weed between my lips, drew from him, as
+best I could, all that he had heard and thought concerning Mr. Blake
+Simpson, the gentleman in gray.</p>
+
+<p>It was not much when all told, but Mr. Holtz consumed a full hour in
+telling it.</p>
+
+<p>Jim Long had been so frequently at the hotel since the advent of Blake
+and Dimber Joe, that mine host had remarked upon the circumstance, and,
+only two days ago, had rallied Jim upon his growing social propensities.</p>
+
+<p>Whereupon, Jim had taken him aside, "quite privately and mysteriously,"
+and confided to him the fact that he, Jim, had very good reason for
+believing Blake and Dimber, or, as my informer put it, "The gent in gray
+and the other stranger," to be detectives, who were secretly working in
+the interest of 'Squire Brookhouse.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span></p><p>What these very good reasons were, Jim had declined to state. But he
+had conjured Mr. Holtz to keep silent about the matter, as to bring the
+"detectives" into notice would be to impair their chances of ultimate
+success.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Holtz had promised to keep the secret, and he had kept it&mdash;two days.
+He should never think of mentioning the matter to any of his neighbors,
+he assured me fervently, as they, for the most part, being already much
+excited over the recent thefts, could hardly be expected to keep a
+discreet silence; but I, "being a stranger, and a different person
+altogether," might, in Mr. Holtz's opinion, be safely trusted.</p>
+
+<p>I assured Mr. Holtz that he might rely upon me as he would upon himself,
+and he seemed quite satisfied with this rather equivocal statement.</p>
+
+<p>Having heard all that mine host could tell, I remained in further
+conversation with him long enough to avoid any appearance of abruptness,
+and then, offering the stereotyped excuse, "letters to write," I took a
+second cigar, pressed another upon my companion, and nodding to him with
+friendly familiarity, sauntered away to meditate in solitude upon what I
+had just learned.</p>
+
+<p>And so, if Mr. Holtz had not exaggerated, and Jim Long was not mistaken,
+Blake Simpson and Dimber Joe, two notorious prison birds, were
+vegetating in Trafton in the character of detectives!</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a></span></p><p>What a satire on my profession! And yet, absurd and improbable as it
+seemed, it was not impossible. Indeed, did not this theory account for
+their seemingly aimless sojourn here?</p>
+
+<p>Jim Long was not the man to perpetrate a causeless jest. Neither was he
+one to form a hasty conclusion, or to make an assertion without a
+motive.</p>
+
+<p>Whether his statement were true or false, what had been his reason for
+confiding it to Mr. Holtz? It was not because of any especial friendship
+for, or attachment to, that gentleman. Jim had no intimates, and had he
+chosen such, Mr. Holtz, gossipping, idle, stingy, and shallow of brain,
+would scarcely have been the man.</p>
+
+<p>Why, then, had he confided in the man?</p>
+
+<p>Did he wish the report to circulate, and himself remain unknown as its
+author? Was there some individual whose ears he wished it to reach
+through the talkative landlord?</p>
+
+<p>I paused in my reflections, half startled by a sudden thought.</p>
+
+<p>Had this shrewd, incomprehensible Yankee guessed my secret? And was Mr.
+Holtz's story intended for <i>me</i>?</p>
+
+<p>I arose to my feet, having formed a sudden resolution.</p>
+
+<p>I <i>would</i> know the truth concerning Jim Long. I <i>would</i> prove him my
+friend or my enemy, and the story told by Mr. Holtz should be my weapon
+of attack.</p>
+
+<p>As for Blake and Dimber, if they <i>were</i> figuring as dummy detectives,
+who had instigated their masquerade?</p>
+
+<p>Again I started, confronted by a strange new thought.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span></p><p>'Squire Brookhouse had telegraphed to an agent to employ for him two
+detectives. My Chief had been unable to discover what officers had been
+employed. Carnes and myself, although we had kept a faithful lookout,
+had been able to discover no traces of a detective in Trafton. Indeed,
+except for ourselves and the two crooks, there were no strangers in the
+village, nor had there been since the robbery.</p>
+
+<p>If Blake and Dimber were playing at detectives, why was it? Had the
+agent employed by 'Squire Brookhouse played him a trick, or had he been
+himself duped?</p>
+
+<p>'Squire Brookhouse had telegraphed to his <i>lawyer</i>, it was said. A
+lawyer could have no motive for duping a wealthy client, nor would he be
+likely to be imposed upon or approached by such men as Blake and Dimber.</p>
+
+<p>Had 'Squire Brookhouse procured the services of these men? And if so,
+why?</p>
+
+<p>Carnes was endeavoring to sustain his <i>r�le</i> by taking a much needed nap
+upon his cot, but I now roused him with eager haste, and regaled his
+sleepy ears with the story I had just listened to below stairs.</p>
+
+<p>At first he seemed only to see the absurdity of the idea, and he buried
+his face in the pillow, to stifle the merriment which rose to his lips
+at the thought of the protection such detectives would be likely to
+afford the innocent Traftonites.</p>
+
+<p>Then he became wide awake and sufficiently serious, and we hastily
+discussed the possibilities of the case.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a></span></p><p>There was not much to be done in the way of investigation just then;
+Carnes would follow after Blake so long as it seemed necessary, or until
+he could inform me how to guard against any evil the crook might be
+intent upon.</p>
+
+<p>Meantime I must redouble my vigilance, and let no movement of Dimber's
+escape my notice.</p>
+
+<p>To this end I abandoned, for the present, my hastily formed resolution,
+to go at once in search of Jim Long, and bring about a better
+understanding between us. That errand, being of less importance than the
+surveillance of the rascal Dimber, could be left to a more convenient
+season, or so I reasoned in my pitiful blindness.</p>
+
+<p>Where was my professional wisdom then? Where the unerring foresight, the
+fine instinct, that should have warned me of danger ahead?</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span></p><p>Had these been in action, one man might have been saved a shameful
+stigma, and another, from the verge of the grave.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXIII.<br />
+<small>A SHOT IN THE DARK.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>That afternoon dragged itself slowly away.</p>
+
+<p>I left Carnes in our room, and went below to note the movements of the
+two crooks.</p>
+
+<p>They were both upon the piazza; Blake smoking a well-colored meerschaum
+and seemingly half asleep, and the Dimber, with his well-polished boot
+heels elevated to the piazza railing, reading from a brown volume, with
+a countenance expressive of absorbed interest.</p>
+
+<p>I seated myself where I could observe both without seeming to do so, and
+tilting my hat over my nose, dropped into a lounging attitude. I suppose
+that I looked the personification of careless indolence. I know that I
+felt perplexed, annoyed, uncomfortable.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a></span></p><p>Perplexed, because of the many mysteries that surrounded me. Annoyed,
+because while I longed to be actively at work upon the solution of these
+mysteries, I could only sit like a sleepy idiot, and furtively watch two
+rascals engaged in killing time, the one with a pipe, the other with a
+French novel. Uncomfortable, because the day was sultry, and the piazza
+chairs were hard, and constructed with little regard for the ease of the
+forms that would occupy them.</p>
+
+<p>But there comes an end to all things, or so it is said. At last there
+came an end to my loitering on the warm piazza.</p>
+
+<p>At the proper time Carnes came lumbering down-stairs seeming not yet
+sobered, but fully equipped for his journey. He took an affectionate
+leave of the landlord, receiving some excellent advice in return. And,
+after favoring me with a farewell speech, half maudlin, half
+impertinent, wholly absurd, and intended for the benefit of the
+lookers-on, who certainly enjoyed the scene, he departed noisily, and,
+as Barney Cooley, was seen no more in Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>A few moments later, "the gentleman in gray" also took his leave,
+bestowing a polite nod upon one or two of the more social ones, but
+without so much as glancing toward Dimber Joe or myself. He walked
+sedately away, followed by the hotel factotum, who carried his natty
+traveling bag.</p>
+
+<p>Still Dimber read on at his seemingly endless novel, and still I lounged
+about the porch, sometimes smoking, sometimes feigning sleep.</p>
+
+<p>At last came supper time. I hailed it as a pleasant respite, and
+followed Dimber Joe to the dining room with considerable alacrity.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span></p><p>Dr. Bethel came in soon, looking grave and weary. We saluted each
+other, but Bethel seemed little inclined to talk, and I was glad not to
+be engaged in a conversation which might detain me at the table after
+Joe had left it.</p>
+
+<p>Bethel, I knew, was much at the house of the Barnards. The shock caused
+by the loss of her husband, together with the fatigue occasioned by his
+illness, had prostrated Mrs. Barnard, who, it was said, was threatened
+with a fever, and Bethel was in constant attendance.</p>
+
+<p>As yet there had been no opportunity for the renewal of the
+conversation, concerning the grave robbery, which had been interrupted
+more than a week since by Mr. Brookhouse, and afterwards effectually cut
+off by my flying visit to the city.</p>
+
+<p>When the Dimber left the table I followed him almost immediately, only
+to again find him poring over that absorbing novel, and seemingly
+oblivious to all else.</p>
+
+<p>Sundown came, and then twilight. As darkness gathered, Dimber Joe laid
+down his book with evident reluctance and carefully lighted a cigar.</p>
+
+<p>Would he sit thus all the evening? I was chafing inwardly. Would the man
+do <i>nothing</i> to break this monotony?</p>
+
+<p>Presently a merry whistle broke upon the stillness, and quick steps came
+down the street.</p>
+
+<p>It was Charlie Harris and, as on a former occasion, he held a telegram
+in his hand.</p>
+
+<p>"For you," he said, having peered hard at me through the gloom. "It came
+half an hour ago, but I could not get down until now."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a></span></p><p>I took the envelope from his hand and slowly arose.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't suppose you will want my help to read it," he said, with an odd
+laugh, as I turned toward the lighted office to peruse my message.</p>
+
+<p>I gave him a quick glance, and then said:</p>
+
+<p>"Come in, Harris, there may be an answer wanted."</p>
+
+<p>He followed me to the office desk, and I was conscious that he was
+watching my face as I perused its contents.</p>
+
+<p>This is what I read by the office lamp.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">4&mdash;. H, c, n, c, e, o, g, k, i, m, b&mdash;s, i, a&mdash;.</p>
+
+<p>A cipher message. I turned, half smiling, to meet the eye of Harris and
+kept my own eyes upon his face while I said:</p>
+
+<p>"I'm obliged to you, Harris, your writing is capital, and very easily
+read. No answer is required."</p>
+
+<p>The shrewd twinkle of his eye assured me that he comprehended my meaning
+as well as my words.</p>
+
+<p>I offered him a cigar, and lighted another for myself. Then we went out
+upon the piazza together.</p>
+
+<p>We had been in the office less than four minutes, but in that time
+Dimber Joe had disappeared, French novel and all. Much annoyed I peered
+up and down the street.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span></p><p>To the left was the town proper, the stores, the depot, and other
+business places. To the right were dwellings and churches; a hill, the
+summit and sides adorned with the best residences of the village; then a
+hollow, where nestled Dr. Bethel's small cottage; and farther on, and
+back from the highway, Jim Long's cabin. Beyond these another hill,
+crowned by the capacious dwelling of the Brookhouse family.</p>
+
+<p>Which way had Dimber gone?</p>
+
+<p>It was early in the evening, too early to set out on an expedition
+requiring stealth. Then I remembered that Joe had not left the hotel
+since dinner; probably he had gone to the post office.</p>
+
+<p>Harris was returning in that direction. I ran down the steps and
+strolled townward in his company.</p>
+
+<p>"It's deuced hot," said Harris, with characteristic emphasis, as he
+lifted his hat to wipe a perspiring brow. "My office is the warmest hole
+in town after the breeze goes down, and I've got to stay there until
+midnight."</p>
+
+<p>"Extra business?" I inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"Not exactly; we are going to have a night operator."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" The darkness hid the smile on my face. "That will relieve you a
+little?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, a little; but I'm blessed if I understand it. Business is
+unusually light just now. I needed an assistant more in the Fall and
+Winter."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed," I said, aloud. Then to myself, "But Carnes and I did not need
+one so much."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a></span></p><p>Our agency had done some splendid work for the telegraph company whose
+wires ran through Trafton; and I knew, before requesting a new operator
+in the town, that they stood ready to oblige my Chief to any extent
+compatible with their own business. And my Chief had been expeditious
+indeed.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you look for your night operator by the down express?" I
+questioned, carelessly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; they wired me that he would come to-night. I hope he'll be an
+obliging fellow, who won't mind taking a day turn now and then."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so," I replied, "for your sake, Harris."</p>
+
+<p>We had reached the post-office, and bidding him good night, I entered.</p>
+
+<p>A few tardy Traftonites were there, asking for and receiving their mail,
+but Dimber Joe was not among them.</p>
+
+<p>I went slowly back to Porter's store, glancing in at various windows as
+I passed, but saw not the missing man.</p>
+
+<p>How had he eluded me? Where should I look for him?</p>
+
+<p>Returning to the hotel, I sat down in the seat lately occupied by the
+vanished crook, and pondered.</p>
+
+<p>Was Dimber about to strike? Had he strolled out thus early to
+reconnoiter his territory? If so, he would return anon to equip himself
+for the work; he could not well carry a burglar's kit in the light suit
+he wore.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly I arose and hurried up the stairs, resolved upon a bold
+measure.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span></p><p>Hastily unlocking my trunk, I removed a tray, and from a skillfully
+concealed compartment, took a pair of nippers, some skeleton keys, and a
+small tin case, shaped like the candle it contained. Next, I removed my
+hat, coat, and boots; and, in another moment, was standing before the
+door of the room occupied by Dimber Joe. I knocked lightly and the
+silence within convinced me that the room was unoccupied.</p>
+
+<p>The Trafton House was not plentifully supplied with bolts, as I knew;
+and my nippers assured me that there was no key in the lock.</p>
+
+<p>Thus emboldened, I fitted one of the skeleton keys, and was soon within
+the room, making a hasty survey of Dimber Joe's effects.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus024.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus024.jpg" width="400" height="590" alt="&quot;Thus assured, I fitted one of the skeleton keys.&quot;&mdash;page 279."
+ title="&quot;Thus assured, I fitted one of the skeleton keys.&quot;&mdash;page 279." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Thus assured, I fitted one of the skeleton keys.&quot;&mdash;page
+279.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Aided again by my skeleton keys, I hurriedly opened and searched the two
+valises. They were as honest as they looked.</p>
+
+<p>The first contained a liberal supply of polished linen, a water-proof
+coat and traveling-cap, together with other articles of clothing, and
+two or three novels. The second held the clerical black suit worn by
+Dimber on the evening of his arrival in Trafton; a brace of linen
+dusters, a few articles of the toilet, and a small six-shooter.</p>
+
+<p>There was nothing else; no concealed jimmy, no "tools" of any
+description.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a></span></p><p>It might have been the outfit of a country parson, but for the novels
+and the revolver. This latter was loaded, and, without any actual motive
+for so doing, I extracted the cartridges and put them in my pocket.</p>
+
+<p>In another moment I was back in my own room, baffled, disappointed, and
+puzzled more than before.</p>
+
+<p>Sitting there alone, I drew from my pocket the lately received telegram,
+and surveyed it once more.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">4&mdash;. H, c, n, c, e, o, g, k, i, m, b&mdash;s, i, a&mdash;.</p>
+
+<p>Well might Harris have been puzzled. Arrant nonsense it must have seemed
+to him, but to me it was simplicity itself. The dispatch was from
+Carnes, and it said:</p>
+
+<p>"He is coming back."</p>
+
+<p>Simplicity itself, as the reader will see, by comparing the letters and
+the words.</p>
+
+<p>"He is coming back." This being interpreted, meant, "Blake Simpson is
+now returning to Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>Was I growing imbecile?</p>
+
+<p>Blake Simpson had departed in the daylight, doubtless taking the "tools
+of his trade" with him, hence the innocent appearance of his partner's
+room, for partners, I felt assured, they were.</p>
+
+<p>He was returning under cover of the darkness; Dimber had gone out to
+meet him, and before morning, Trafton would be supplied with a fresh
+sensation.</p>
+
+<p>How was I to act? How discover their point of attack?</p>
+
+<p>It yet lacked more than two hours of midnight. Trafton had not yet gone
+to sleep.</p>
+
+<p>Blake was coming back, but how?</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span></p><p>My telegram came from a village fifteen miles distant. Blake then
+must have left the train at that point, and Carnes had followed him. He
+had followed him until assured that he was actually returning to
+Trafton, and then he had sent the message.</p>
+
+<p>Blake might return in two ways. He might hire a conveyance and drive
+back to Trafton, or he might walk back as far as the next station, a
+distance of five miles, and there wait for the night express.</p>
+
+<p>It seemed hardly probable that he would care to court notice by
+presenting himself at an inn or livery stable. He would be more apt to
+walk away from the village, assume some light disguise, and return by
+the train. It would be a child's trick for him to drop from the moving
+train as it entered the town, and disappear unnoticed in the darkness.</p>
+
+<p>Carnes might return by that train, also, but we had agreed that, unless
+he was fully convinced that Blake meant serious mischief, and that I
+would need his assistance, he was to continue on his journey, as it
+seemed important that he should be in New Orleans as soon as possible.</p>
+
+<p>After some consideration, I decided that I would attach myself to
+Dimber, should he return, as it seemed likely that he would, it being so
+early. And if he failed to appear, I would lie in wait for the night
+express, and endeavor to spot Blake, should he come that way.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a></span></p><p>Having thus decided, I resumed my hat, coat and boots, extinguished my
+light, locked my door and went down-stairs.</p>
+
+<p>The office lamp was burning its brightest, and there underneath it,
+tilted back in the only arm-chair the room could boast, sat Dimber Joe;
+his hat hung on a rack beside the door, a fresh cigar was stuck between
+his lips, and he was reading again that brown-covered French novel!</p>
+
+<p>I began to feel like a man in a nightmare. Could that indolent-looking
+novel reader be meditating a crime, and only waiting for time to bring
+the hour?</p>
+
+<p>I went out upon the piazza and fanned myself with my hat. I felt
+discomposed, and almost nervous. At that moment I wished devoutly that I
+could see Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>By-and-by my absurd self-distrust passed away, and I began to feel once
+more equal to the occasion.</p>
+
+<p>Dimber's room was not, like mine, at the end of the building. It was a
+"front room," and its two windows opened directly over the porch upon
+which I stood.</p>
+
+<p>I had the side door of the office in full view. He could not leave the
+house unseen by me.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span></p><p>Mr. Holtz came out to talk with me. I complained of a headache and
+declared my intention to remain outside until it should have passed
+away. We conversed for half an hour, and then, as the hands of the
+office clock pointed to half-past ten he left me to make his nightly
+round through kitchen, pantries, and dining-room, locking and barring
+the side door of the office before going. And still Dimber Joe read on,
+to all appearances oblivious of time and all things else.</p>
+
+<p>A wooden bench, hard and narrow, ran along the wall just under the
+office window, affording a seat for loungers when the office should be
+overfull, and the chairs all occupied. Upon this I stretched myself, and
+feigned sleep, for a time that seemed interminable.</p>
+
+<p>Eleven o'clock; eleven loud metalic strokes from the office time keeper.</p>
+
+<p>Dimber Joe lowered the leg that had been elevated, elevated the leg that
+had been lowered, turned a page of his novel and read on. The man's
+coolness was tantalizing. I longed to forget my identity as a detective,
+and his as a criminal, and to spring through the window, strike the book
+from his hand, and challenge him to mortal combat, with dirks at close
+quarters, or pistols at ten paces.</p>
+
+<p>Half-past eleven. Dimber Joe stretched his limbs, closed his book,
+yawned and arose. Whistling softly, as if not to disturb my repose, he
+took a small lamp from a shelf behind the office desk, lighted it
+leisurely and went up-stairs.</p>
+
+<p>As he entered the room above, a ray of light, from his window gleamed
+out across the road. It rested there for, perhaps, five minutes and then
+disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>Had Dimber Joe closed his novel to retire like an honest man?</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a></span></p><p>Ten more long minutes of quiet and silence, and then the stillness was
+broken by a long, shrill shriek, sounding half a mile distant. It was
+the night express nearing Trafton station.</p>
+
+<p>As this sound died upon the air, another greeted my ears; the sound of
+swift feet running heedlessly, hurriedly; coming directly toward me from
+the southward.</p>
+
+<p>As I rose from my lounging place and stepped to the end of the piazza
+the runner came abreast of me, and the light streaming through the
+office window revealed to me Jim Long, hatless, coatless, almost
+breathless.</p>
+
+<p>The lamp light fell upon me also, and even as he ran he recognized me.</p>
+
+<p>Halting suddenly, he turned back with a quick ejaculation, which I did
+not understand.</p>
+
+<p>"Long, what has happened?"</p>
+
+<p>The answer came between short, sharp breaths.</p>
+
+<p>"Carl Bethel has been shot down at his own door! For God's sake go to
+him! He is there alone. I must find a doctor."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus025.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus025.jpg" width="400" height="585" alt="&quot;Carl Bethel has been shot down at his own door! For
+God&#39;s sake go to him! He is there alone. I must find a doctor.&quot;&mdash;page 286." title="&quot;Carl Bethel has been shot down at his own door! For
+God&#39;s sake go to him! He is there alone. I must find a doctor.&quot;&mdash;page 286" /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Carl Bethel has been shot down at his own door! For
+God&#39;s sake go to him! He is there alone. I must find a doctor.&quot;&mdash;page 286.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span></p><p>In another instant he was running townward at full speed, and I was
+flying at an equal pace through the dark and silent street toward Dr.
+Bethel's cottage.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXIV.<br />
+<small>JIM LONG SHOWS HIS HAND.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>As I ran through the silent, dusky street, keeping to the road in
+preference to risking myself, at that pace, over some most uncertain
+"sidewalks," for pavements were unknown in Trafton, my thoughts were
+keeping pace with my heels.</p>
+
+<p>First they dwelt upon the fact that Jim Long, in making his brief, hasty
+exhortation to me, had forgotten, or chosen to ignore, his nasal twang
+and rustic dialect, and that his earnestness and agitation had betrayed
+a more than ordinary interest in Carl Bethel, and a much more than
+ordinary dismay at the calamity which had befallen him.</p>
+
+<p>Carl Bethel had been shot down at his own door!</p>
+
+<p>How came it that Jim Long was near the scene and ready for the rescue,
+at eleven o'clock at night? Who had committed the deed? And why?</p>
+
+<p>Some thoughts come to us like inspirations. Suddenly there flashed upon
+my mind a possible man and a probable motive.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a></span></p><p>Blake Simpson was coming back. Contrary to my expectations, he had
+probably entered Trafton on foot, having made the journey by means of
+some sort of conveyance which was now, perhaps, carrying him away from
+the scene of his crime.</p>
+
+<p>This would explain the singular apathy of Dimber Joe. He had walked out
+earlier in the evening to ascertain that the way was clear and the game
+within reach, or, in other words, at home and alone. Then perhaps he had
+made these facts known to his confederate, and after that, his part in
+the plot being accomplished, he had returned to the hotel, where he had
+kept himself conspicuously in sight until after the deed was done. Here
+was a theory for the murder ready to hand, and a motive was not wanting.</p>
+
+<p>Only a week since, some party or parties had committed a shameful
+outrage, and the attempt had been made to fasten the crime upon Carl
+Bethel. Fortunately the counter evidence had been sufficient to clear
+him in the eyes of impartial judges. The doctor's courage and popularity
+had carried him safely through the danger. His enemies had done him
+little hurt, and had not succeeded in driving him from Trafton.
+Obviously he was in somebody's way, and the first attempt having failed,
+they had made a second and more desperate one.</p>
+
+<p>Here my mental diagnosis of the case came to an end. I had reached the
+gate of the doctor's cottage.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span></p><p>All was silent as I opened the door and entered the sitting-room. A
+shaded lamp burned softly on the center-table, and beside it stood the
+doctor's easy-chair and footrest. An open book lay upon the table, as if
+lately laid down by the occupant of the chair, who had put a half-filled
+pipe between the pages, to mark the place where he had stopped reading
+when interrupted by&mdash;what?</p>
+
+<p>Thus much I observed at a glance, and then turned toward the inner room
+where, upon the bed, lay Carl Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>Was he living or dead?</p>
+
+<p>Taking the lamp from the table I carried it to the bedside, and bent to
+look at the still form lying thereon. The loose coat of white linen, and
+also the vest, had been drawn back from the right shoulder; both were
+blood-stained, and the entire shirt front was saturated with blood.</p>
+
+<p>I put the lamp upon a stand beside the bed, and examined closer. The
+hands were not yet cold with the chill of death, the breath came feebly
+from between the parted lips.</p>
+
+<p>What should I do?</p>
+
+<p>As I glanced about the room while asking myself this helpless question,
+there came a step upon the gravel outside, quick, light, firm. Then the
+door opened, and Louise Barnard stood before me.</p>
+
+<p>Shall I ever forget that woful face, white as the face of death, rigid
+with the calmness of despair? Shall I ever banish from my memory those
+great dark eyes, too full of anguish for tears? It was another mental
+picture of Louise Barnard never to be forgotten.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a></span></p><p>"Carl, Carl!"</p>
+
+<p>She was on her knees at the bedside clasping the limp hand between her
+own, bowing her white face until it rested upon his.</p>
+
+<p>"Carl, Carl! speak to me!"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus026.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus026.jpg" width="400" height="588" alt="&quot;Carl, Carl! speak to me!&quot;&mdash;page 292." title="&quot;Carl, Carl! speak to me!&quot;&mdash;page 292." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Carl, Carl! speak to me!&quot;&mdash;page 292.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>But there was no word of tenderness in answer to her pitiful appeal, no
+returning pressure from the still hand, and she buried her head in the
+pillows, uttering a low moan of despair.</p>
+
+<p>In the presence of one weaker than myself, my own helplessness forsook
+me. I approached the girl who knelt there believing her lover dead, and
+touched her shoulder lightly.</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Barnard, we have no time now for grief. He is not dead."</p>
+
+<p>She was on her feet in an instant.</p>
+
+<p>"Not dead! Then he must not die!"</p>
+
+<p>A red flush mounted to her cheek, a new light leaped to her eye. She
+waited to ask or give no explanation, but turned once more and laid her
+hand upon the blood-ensanguined garments.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, we must waste no more time. Can you cut away this clothing?"</p>
+
+<p>I nodded and she sprang from the room. I heard a clicking of steel and
+the sound of opening drawers, then she was back with a pair of sharp
+scissors in her hand.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span></p><p>"Use these," she said, taking command as a matter of course, and
+flitting out again, leaving me to do my work, and as I worked, I
+marveled at and admired her wonderful presence of mind&mdash;her splendid
+self-control.</p>
+
+<p>In a moment I knew, by the crack of a parlor match and a responsive
+flash of steady light, that she had found a lamp and lighted it.</p>
+
+<p>There were the sounds of another search, and then she was back again
+with restoratives and some pieces of linen.</p>
+
+<p>Glancing down at the bed she uttered a sharp exclamation, and all the
+blood fled out of her face. I had just laid bare a ghastly wound in the
+right shoulder, and dangerously near the lung.</p>
+
+<p>It was with a mighty effort that she regained her self-control. Then she
+put down the things she held, and said, quite gently:</p>
+
+<p>"Please chafe his hands and temples, and afterward try the restoratives.
+There is a fluid heater out there. I must have warm water before&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Long has gone for a doctor," I interrupted, thinking her possibly
+ignorant of this fact.</p>
+
+<p>"I know; we must have everything ready for him."</p>
+
+<p>She went out and I began my work of restoration.</p>
+
+<p>After some time passed in the outer room, she came back to the bedside
+and assisted me in my task.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a></span></p><p>After a little, a faint sigh and a feeble fluttering of the eyelids
+assured us that we were not thus active in vain. The girl caught her
+breath, and while she renewed her efforts at restoration I saw that she
+was fast losing her self-control.</p>
+
+<p>And now we heard low voices and hurrying footsteps.</p>
+
+<p>It was the doctor at last.</p>
+
+<p>Excepting Bethel, Dr. Hess was the youngest practitioner in Trafton. He
+was a bachelor, and slept at his office, a fact which Jim took into
+account in calling for him, instead of waking up old Dr. Baumbach, who
+lived at the extreme north of the village.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Hess looked very grave, and Jim exceedingly anxious, as the two bent
+together over the patient.</p>
+
+<p>After a brief examination, Dr. Hess said:</p>
+
+<p>"I must get at Bethel's instruments. I know he keeps them here, so did
+not stop to fetch mine."</p>
+
+<p>"They are all ready."</p>
+
+<p>He turned in surprise. Miss Barnard had drawn back at his entrance, and
+he was now, for the first time, aware of her presence.</p>
+
+<p>"I knew what was required," she said, in answer to his look of surprise.
+"They are ready for you."</p>
+
+<p>The doctor moved toward the outer room.</p>
+
+<p>"I must have some tepid water," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"That, too, is ready. I shall assist you, Dr. Hess."</p>
+
+<p>"You!"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I. I know something about the instruments. I have helped my father
+more than once."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span></p><p>"But&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"There need be no objection. I am better qualified than either of these
+gentlemen."</p>
+
+<p>He looked at me, still hesitating.</p>
+
+<p>"I think you can trust the lady," I said; "she has proved her
+capability."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, Miss Barnard," said the doctor, more graciously; "it may try
+your nerves;" and, taking up some instruments, he turned toward the
+inner room.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be equal to it," she replied, as, gathering up some lint, and
+going across the room for a part of the water, fast heating over the
+fluid lamp, she followed him.</p>
+
+<p>"Doctor, can't <i>we</i> do something?" asked Jim Long.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing at present."</p>
+
+<p>How still it was! Jim Long stood near the center of the room, panting
+heavily, and looking down at a dark stain in the carpet,&mdash;a splash of
+human blood that marked the place where Bethel had fallen under the fire
+of the assassin. His face was flushed, and its expression fiercely
+gloomy. His hands were clenched nervously, his eye riveted to that spot
+upon the carpet, his lips moved from time to time, as if framing
+anathemas against the would-be destroyer.</p>
+
+<p>After a time, I ventured, in a low tone:</p>
+
+<p>"Long, you are breathing like a spent racer. Sit down. You may need your
+breath before long."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a></span></p><p>He turned, silently opened the outer door, making scarcely a sound, and
+went out into the night.</p>
+
+<p>That was a long half hour which I passed, sitting beside the little
+table with that splash of blood directly before my eyes, hearing no
+sound save an occasional rustle from the inner room, and now and then a
+low word spoken by Dr. Hess.</p>
+
+<p>To think to the purpose seemed impossible, in that stillness where life
+and death stood face to face. I could only wait; anxiously, impatiently,
+fearing the worst.</p>
+
+<p>At last it was over; and Jim, who evidently, though out of sight, had
+not been out of hearing, came in to listen to the verdict of Dr. Hess.</p>
+
+<p>"It was a dangerous wound," he said, "and the patient was in a critical
+condition. He might recover, with good nursing, but the chances were
+much against him."</p>
+
+<p>A spasm of pain crossed Louise Barnard's face, and I saw her clench her
+small hand in a fierce effort to maintain her self-control. Then she
+said, quite calmly:</p>
+
+<p>"In his present condition, will he not require the constant attention of
+a surgeon?"</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Hess bowed his head.</p>
+
+<p>"Hemorrhage is likely to occur," he said. "He <i>might</i> need surgical aid
+at a moment's notice."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, Dr. Hess, would you object to our calling for counsel&mdash;for an
+assistant?"</p>
+
+<p>He elevated his eyebrows, more in surprise at the pronoun, I thought,
+than at the suggestion, or request.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span></p><p>"I think it might be well to have Dr. Baumbach in to-morrow," he
+replied.</p>
+
+<p>"I was not thinking of Dr. Baumbach," she said. "I wish to send to New
+York for a doctor who is a relative of Mr. Bethel's. I know&mdash;it is what
+he would wish."</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Hess glanced from her face to mine and remained silent.</p>
+
+<p>"When my father was sick," she went on, now looking appealingly from the
+doctor's face to mine, and then over my shoulder at Jim, who had
+remained near the door, "Dr. Bethel said that if he had any doubts as to
+his case, he should telegraph at once for Dr. Denham, and he added that
+he knew of no surgeon more skillful."</p>
+
+<p>Still no answer from Dr. Hess.</p>
+
+<p>Jim Long came forward with a touch of his old impatience and accustomed
+quaintness in his words and manner.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>I'm</i> in favor of the city doctor," he said, looking, not at Dr. Hess,
+but straight into my face. "And I'm entitled to a voice in the matter.
+The patient's mine by right of discovery."</p>
+
+<p>Miss Barnard gave him a quick glance of gratitude, and I rallied from
+the surprise occasioned by the mention of "our old woman," to say:</p>
+
+<p>"I think you said that this gentleman is a <i>relative</i> of Dr. Bethel's;
+if so, he should be sent for by all means."</p>
+
+<p>"He is Dr. Bethel's uncle," said Miss Barnard.</p>
+
+<p>"Then," I repeated, with decision, "as a relative he should be sent for
+at once."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a></span></p><p>"Most certainly," acquiesced Dr. Hess, who now saw the matter in, to
+him, a more favorable light. "Send for him; the sooner the better."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh," breathed the anxious girl, "I wish it could be done at once."</p>
+
+<p>"It can," I said, taking my hat from the table as I spoke. "Fortunately
+there is a new night operator at the station; he came to-night, or was
+expected. If he is there, we shall save time, if not, we must get Harris
+up."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, thank you."</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Hess went to take a look at his patient, and came back, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"I will remain here until morning, I think."</p>
+
+<p>"And I will come back as soon as possible," I responded, turning to go.</p>
+
+<p>Jim Long caught up his hat from the floor, where he had flung it on
+entering.</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon I had better go along with you," he said, suddenly assuming
+his habitual drawl; "you may have to rout Harris up, and I know right
+where to find him."</p>
+
+<p>I was anxious to go, for a reason of my own, and I was not sorry to have
+Jim's company. "Now, if ever," I thought, "is the time to fathom 'the
+true inwardness' of this strange man."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span></p><p>We waited for no more words, but set out at once, walking briskly
+through the night that seemed doubly dark, doubly silent and mysterious,
+at the witch's hour of one o'clock.</p>
+
+<p>We had walked half the distance to the station; in perfect silence, and
+I was studying the best way to approach Jim and overcome his reticence,
+when suddenly he opened his lips, to give me a glimpse of his "true
+inwardness," that nearly took me, figuratively, off my feet.</p>
+
+<p>"Men are only men, after all," he began, sententiously, "and
+<i>detectives</i> are only common men sharpened up a bit. I wonder, now, how
+you are going to get the address of this Dr. Denham?"</p>
+
+<p>I started so violently, that he must have perceived it, dark though it
+was.</p>
+
+<p>What a blunder! I had walked away from the cottage forgetting to ask for
+Dr. Denham's address.</p>
+
+<p>Uttering an exclamation of impatience, I turned sharply about.</p>
+
+<p>"What are you going to do?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm going back after the address, of course."</p>
+
+<p>"I wouldn't do that; time's precious. Do you go ahead and send the
+message. I'll run back and ask after the address."</p>
+
+<p>"Long," I said, sharply, "what do you mean?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a></span></p><p>"I mean this," he replied, his tone changing suddenly. "I mean that
+it's time for you and I to understand each other!"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>CHAPTER XXV.<br />
+<small>IN WHICH I TAKE JIM ON TRUST.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>"It is time for you and I to understand each other. Don't stop there
+looking moon-struck! Go ahead, and don't waste time. I'll run back and
+ask for the address. Miss Barnard, if she scented a secret, might be
+trusted with it. But, Dr. Hess&mdash;his brain has not kept pace with the
+steps of the universe."</p>
+
+<p>With these remarkable words, Jim Long lowered his head, compressed his
+elbows after the fashion of a professional prize-runner, and was off
+like a flying shadow, while I stood staring after him through the
+darkness, divided betwixt wonder at his strange words and manner, and
+disgust at my own stupidity.</p>
+
+<p>What did he mean? Had he actually discovered my identity? And, if so,
+how?</p>
+
+<p>While waiting for a solution to these riddles, it would be well to
+profit by Jim's advice. So I turned my face toward the village, and
+hurried forward.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span></p><p>As I approached the station, a bright light from the operator's window
+assured me that I should not find the office empty, and coming
+stealthily toward it, I peered in, to see, seated in the most commodious
+office chair, Gerald Brown, of our agency, the expected "night
+operator."</p>
+
+<p>On a lounge opposite the window, lay Charlie Harris asleep.</p>
+
+<p>I tapped softly on the open casement, and keeping myself in the shadow
+whispered:</p>
+
+<p>"Come outside, Gerry, and don't wake Harris."</p>
+
+<p>The night-operator, who knew the nature of the services required of him
+in Trafton, and who doubtless had been expecting a visit, arose quietly
+and came out on the platform with the stealthy tread of a bushman.</p>
+
+<p>After a cordial hand-clasp, and a very few words of mutual inquiry, I
+told Brown what had happened at the doctor's cottage, and of my
+suspicions regarding Blake Simpson; and, then, using a leaf from my
+note-book, and writing by the light from the window, I wrote two
+messages, to be sent before Harris should awake.</p>
+
+<p>The first was as follows:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">
+<span class="smcap">Doctor Charles Denham</span>,</p>
+<p class="center blockquot">No. 300 &mdash;&mdash; street, N. Y.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Carl Bethel is in extreme danger; requires your professional services.
+Come at once.</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+<span class="smcap">Bathurst.</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>The second was addressed to our office, and was much longer. It ran
+thus:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">
+<span class="smcap">Capt. B., A&mdash;&mdash;, N. Y.</span><br />
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a></span></p>
+<p class="blockquot">Murder was attempted last night; Bethel the victim. See that Denham
+comes by the first train to attend to him. Give him some hints before
+starting. Look out for B. S. If he returns to the city in the morning,
+keep him shadowed. Will write particulars.</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+<span class="smcap">Bathurst.</span><br />
+</p>
+
+<p>"There," I said, as I passed them to Brown, "send them as soon as you
+can, Gerry. The doctor will hardly receive his before morning, but the
+other will be delivered at once, and then they can hurry up the "old
+woman." As for Blake, he will probably take the morning train, if he
+returns to the city, so they have ample time to prepare for him. Did you
+see Carnes on the express?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but only had a moment's speech with him. He told me to tell you
+that Blake left the train at Ireton, and that he went straight to a sort
+of feed stable, kept by a man named Briggs&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Briggs!" I exclaimed, involuntarily.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, that was the name. At this stable he was furnished with a good
+team and light buggy, and he drove straight south."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! he did. But my time is not at my disposal just now, Gerry; I have a
+companion somewhere on the road. I suppose you got the bearings of this
+Trafton business at the Agency?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I think I am pretty well posted. I have read all your reports."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span></p><p>"So much the better. Gerry, you had better take up your quarters at the
+Trafton House. I am stopping there. It will be convenient, for more than
+one reason."</p>
+
+<p>Gerry agreed with me in this, and, as at that moment we heard footsteps
+approaching, which I rightly guessed to be those of Jim Long, we
+separated at once, and I went forward to meet Jim.</p>
+
+<p>Before, I had deemed it necessary to press the siege, and lead Jim to
+talk by beginning the attack in a voluble manner. Now, I was equally
+intent upon holding my own forces in reserve, and letting him open the
+engagement, which, after a few moments' silence, he did.</p>
+
+<p>A few rods away from the depot stood a church, with broad, high steps
+leading up from the street, and a deep, old-fashioned portico.</p>
+
+<p>Here Jim came to an abrupt halt, for we had turned our steps southward,
+and said, with more of courtesy in his voice than might have been
+expected, considering his recent abruptness:</p>
+
+<p>"Let us go up there, and sit under the porch. It's safer than to talk
+while walking, and I fancy you would like me to explain myself."</p>
+
+<p>I followed him in silence up the steps, and sat down beside him on the
+portico.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder," began Jim, lowering his voice to insure himself against
+possible eavesdroppers, "I wonder why you have not asked me, before this
+time, how it happened that I was the first to discover Bethel's
+condition, or, at any rate, the first to give the alarm."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a></span></p><p>"There has scarcely been time," I replied, guardedly. "Besides I, being
+so nearly a stranger, thought that a question to be more properly asked
+by Miss Barnard or the doctor."</p>
+
+<p>"You are modest," said Jim, with a short laugh. "Probably it will not
+occur to Miss Barnard to ask that question, until her mind is more at
+ease concerning Bethel's condition. As for Dr. Hess, he had asked it
+before he took off his nightcap."</p>
+
+<p>"And did you answer it," asked I, maliciously, "in the same good English
+you are addressing to me?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span></p><p>"I hope not," he replied, laughing again. "I told him the truth,
+however, in a very few words, and now I will tell it to you. Last
+night&mdash;I suppose it is morning now by the clock&mdash;I spent the evening in
+the village, principally about the Trafton House. I presume you are
+wondering how it came that you did not see me there, for I happen to
+know that you spent the entire evening in the office or on the porch.
+Well, the fact is, I was there on a little private business, and did not
+make myself very conspicuous for that reason. It was late when I came
+home, and, on looking about the cabin, I discovered that my gun was
+missing. My door, for various reasons, I always leave unlocked <i>when
+absent</i>, so I did not waste any time in wondering how the thief got in.
+I missed nothing else, and, after a little, I went outside to smoke, and
+think the matter over. I had not been out many minutes before I heard
+the report of a gun,&mdash;<i>my</i> gun, I could have sworn. It sounded in the
+direction of Bethel's cottage, and I was not many minutes in getting
+there. I found the door open, and Bethel lying across the threshold,
+wounded, as you have seen. He was almost unconscious then, but as I bent
+above him he whispered one word, 'Louise.' I could not leave him lying
+there in the doorway, so I lifted him and carried him to the bed, and
+then, seeing that it was a shoulder wound, and that he still breathed, I
+rushed off, stopping to tell Louise Barnard that her lover was wounded
+and, maybe, dying, and then on again until I saw you, the very man whose
+help I wanted."</p>
+
+<p>"And why my help rather than that of another?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because, next to that of a physician, the presence of a <i>detective</i>
+seemed most necessary."</p>
+
+<p>"Long," I said, turning upon him sharply, "this is the second time you
+have referred to me as 'a detective.' Will you be good enough to
+explain?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a></span></p><p>"I have spoken of you as a detective," he replied, gravely, "because I
+believe you to be one, and have so believed since the day you came to
+Trafton. To explain in full would be to occupy more time than you or I
+can well spare to story telling. I have watched you since you first came
+to this place, curiously at first, then earnestly, then anxiously. I
+believe you are here to ferret out the authors of the many robberies
+that have happened in and about Trafton. If this is so, then there is no
+one more anxious to help you, or who could have a stronger motive for so
+doing, than Jim Long."</p>
+
+<p>He paused for a moment, but I remained silent, and he began anew.</p>
+
+<p>"I think you are interested in Bethel and his misfortunes. I think you
+know him for the victim of those who believe him to be what you really
+are."</p>
+
+<p>"You think there are those who fear Bethel because they believe him to
+be a detective? Is that your meaning?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is my meaning."</p>
+
+<p>"Long," I said, seriously, "you tell me that your gun was stolen last
+night; that you recognized the sound of the report coming from the
+direction of Bethel's house."</p>
+
+<p>He moved closer to me and laid a hand on my shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>"It was my gun that shot Bethel," he said, solemnly. "To-morrow that gun
+will be found and <i>I</i> shall be accused of the crime. If the devils had
+possessed my knowledge, it would have been you, instead of Carl Bethel,
+lying somewhere now, dying or dead. I say these things to you to-night
+because, if my gun is found, as I anticipate, and I am accused of the
+shooting, I may not be able to serve Carl Bethel, and he is not yet out
+of danger. If he lives he will still be a target for his enemies."</p>
+
+<p>He spoke with suppressed emotion, and my own feelings were stirred as I
+replied:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span></p><p>"Long, you have been a mystery to me from the first, and I do not read
+your riddle even now, but I believe you are a man to be trusted. Give me
+your hand, and depend upon it you shall not rest long under a false
+accusation. Carl Bethel, living, shall not want a friend; Carl Bethel,
+dead, shall have an avenger. As for you, and myself&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"We shall understand each other better," he broke in, "when the time
+comes for me to tell you my own story in my own way."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," I said, "let us go back to Bethel. I want to take a look about
+the premises by the first streak of daylight."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a></span></p><p>"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, "that is what I wanted to hear you say."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXVI.<br />
+<small>THE TRAIL OF THE ASSASSIN.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>During the night there was little change in Bethel's condition, and in
+the gray of dawn Miss Barnard went reluctantly home, having been assured
+by the doctor that the patient was in no immediate danger, and, by Jim
+and myself, converted to the belief that he might be safely trusted for
+a short time to our care.</p>
+
+<p>A little later, with the first clear light of the dawn, I left Jim on
+guard at the bedside, and went to take a survey of the premises.</p>
+
+<p>I was not long in convincing myself that there was little to be
+discovered outside, and returning to the house seated myself in Bethel's
+easy-chair.</p>
+
+<p>"Long," I called softly,&mdash;somehow since last night I could not bring
+myself to use the familiar "Jim," as of old.</p>
+
+<p>He came from the inner room looking a mute inquiry.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span></p><p>"Long, you had ought to know something about your own gun; was that
+wound of Bethel's made at long or short range?"</p>
+
+<p>He looked surprised at first, then a gleam of intelligence leaped to his
+eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean by short range?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose Bethel to have stood on the steps outside, was the gun fired
+from behind that evergreen just beyond, and close to the gravel walk, or
+from some other point equally distant?"</p>
+
+<p>He opened the door and glanced out at the tree, seeming to measure the
+distance with his eye.</p>
+
+<p>"It was further away," he said, after a moment's reflection. "If the
+scoundrel had stood as you suggest, the muzzle of the gun would have
+been almost at Bethel's breast. The powder would have scorched his
+clothing and his flesh."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think it may have been fired from the gate, or a few feet beyond
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Judging by the appearance of the wound, I should say it must have been
+from a little beyond the gate."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a></span></p><p>"I think so too," I said. "I think some one drove to the gate last
+night with a light buggy, and two small horses. He or they drove quite
+close to the fence and stopped the horses, so that they were hidden from
+the view of any one who was nearer the house. The buggy was directly
+before the gate and so close that it could not have been opened, as it
+swings outward. The horses were not tied, but they were doubtless well
+trained animals. A man jumped out of the buggy, and, standing beside it,
+on the side farthest from the gate, of course, leveled your gun across
+the vehicle and called aloud for the doctor. Bethel was alone, sitting
+in this chair by this table. His feet were on this footstool," touching
+each article as I named it. "He was smoking this pipe, and reading this
+book. The window was open, and the blinds only half closed. The man, who
+probably drove close to the fence for that purpose, could see him quite
+distinctly, and from his attitude and occupation knew him to be alone.</p>
+
+<p>"When Bethel heard the call, he put down the book and pipe with cool
+deliberation, pushed back the footstool and opened the door, coming from
+the light to the darkness. At that moment he could see nothing, and
+leaving the door open he stepped outside, standing clearly outlined in
+the light from within. <i>Then</i> the assassin fired."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus027.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus027.jpg" width="400" height="535" alt="&quot;When Bethel heard the call, he put down the book and
+pipe with cool deliberation, pushed back the footstool and opened the
+door,&quot;&mdash;page 312." title="&quot;When Bethel heard the call, he put down the book and
+pipe with cool deliberation, pushed back the footstool and opened the
+door,&quot;&mdash;page 312." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;When Bethel heard the call, he put down the book and
+pipe with cool deliberation, pushed back the footstool and opened the
+door,&quot;&mdash;page 312.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Jim Long came toward me, his eyes earnestly searching my face.</p>
+
+<p>"In Heaven's name, what foundation have you for such a theory," he
+asked, slowly.</p>
+
+<p>"Excellent foundation," I replied. "Let us demonstrate my theory."</p>
+
+<p>Long glanced at his charge in the inner room, and then said, "go on."</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose me to be Bethel," I said, leaning back in the big chair. "That
+window is now just as it was last night, I take it?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span></p><p>"Just the same."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, if you choose to go outside and walk beside the fence, you will
+be able to decide whether I could be seen as I have stated."</p>
+
+<p>He hesitated a moment, and then said:</p>
+
+<p>"Wait; I'll try it;" and opened the door.</p>
+
+<p>"Long," I whispered, as he passed out, "keep <i>this side</i> of the fence."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>He was back in a moment.</p>
+
+<p>"I can see you plainly," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"And, of course, with a light within and darkness outside you could see
+me still more plainly."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose so," he assented.</p>
+
+<p>"Now for the second test. I hear my name called, I lay aside my book and
+meerschaum, push back my footrest, and go to the door. I can see nothing
+as I open it," I was suiting the action to the word, "so I fling it wide
+open, and step outside. Now, Long, that spot of blood tells me just
+about the location of Bethel's head when you discovered him. Will you
+point out the spot where his feet rested?"</p>
+
+<p>Long considered a moment and then laid two fingers on the step.</p>
+
+<p>"There, as nearly as I can remember," he said.</p>
+
+<p>I planted my own feet on the spot indicated by him.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a></span></p><p>"Now, please go to the gate. Go outside of it. There are some bits of
+paper scattered about; do not step where you see any of these."</p>
+
+<p>He obeyed my directions, striding over and around the marked places.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," I called, retaining my position on the door-step, "step about
+four feet from the gate, and from that distance how must you stand to
+take aim at me, on this spot?"</p>
+
+<p>He shifted his position a trifle, went through the motion of taking aim,
+looking down at his feet, then dropped his arms, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"I can't do it; to aim at you there, I would have to stand just where
+you have left some bits of paper. In any other position the bushes
+obstruct the sight."</p>
+
+<p>I came down to the gate and swung it open.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span></p><p>"Just what I wanted to establish. Now for the next test," I said. "Mark
+me, Long; do you see those bits of paper along the fence? Go and look at
+the ground, where they lie, and you will see the faint impression of a
+wheel. Just before the gate where the vehicle stood for a moment, the
+print is deeper, and more easily noticed. I said that the gun was fired
+across the buggy; you have convinced yourself that aim could be taken
+from only one position, at this distance. The man must stand where those
+bits of paper are scattered. Now, look;" I bent down and gathered up the
+fragments of paper; "look close. Here is a fine, free imprint from the
+heel of a heavy boot. As there is but one, and that so marked, it is
+reasonable to suppose that the assassin rested one foot upon the buggy
+wheel, thus throwing his weight upon this heel."</p>
+
+<p>Long bent to examine the print and then lifted his head to ejaculate:</p>
+
+<p>"It is wonderful!"</p>
+
+<p>"It is simplicity itself," I replied; "the a, b, c of the detective's
+alphabet. I said there were two horses; look, here is where one of them
+scraped the fence with his teeth, and here the other has snatched a
+mouthful of leaves from the doctor's young shade tree. Here, too, are
+some faint, imperfect hoof-prints, but they are enough to tell us, from
+their position, that there were two horses, and from their size, that
+the animals were pretty small."</p>
+
+<p>Long examined the different marks with eager attention, and then stood
+gazing fixedly at me, while I gathered up my bits of paper.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not try to preserve these as evidence in the case," I said. "I
+think we shall do very well without them. They were marked for your
+benefit, solely. Are you convinced?"</p>
+
+<p>"Convinced! Yes, convinced and satisfied that you are the man for this
+business."</p>
+
+<p>We returned to the house, each intent on his own thoughts.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a></span></p><p>The sun was rising in a cloudless sky. It would not be long before
+curious visitors would be thronging the cottage. After a time I went to
+the door of the room where Jim had resumed his watch.</p>
+
+<p>"Long," I asked, in a low tone, "do you know any person in Ireton?"</p>
+
+<p>He shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know whether this fellow Tom Briggs has any relatives about
+Trafton?"</p>
+
+<p>He pondered a moment.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," he said, finally. "He has a brother somewhere in the
+neighborhood. I don't know just where. He comes to Trafton
+occasionally."</p>
+
+<p>"What is he like?"</p>
+
+<p>"He is not unlike Tom, but goes rather better dressed."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know his occupation?"</p>
+
+<p>"A sort of horse-trading character, I think."</p>
+
+<p>I considered for a time, and then resumed my catechism.</p>
+
+<p>"Among the farmers whose horses have been stolen, do you know one who is
+thoroughly shrewd, cautious and reliable?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think so," after a moment's reflection. "I think Mr. Warren is such a
+man."</p>
+
+<p>"Where can he be found?"</p>
+
+<p>"He lives five miles northwest of Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>"If you wished to organize a small band of regulators, say six or eight,
+where could you find the right men, and how soon?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span></p><p>"I should look for them among the farmers. I think they could be
+organized, <i>for the right purpose</i>, in half a day's ride about the
+country."</p>
+
+<p>As my lips parted to launch another question, the outer door opened
+slowly and almost noiselessly, and Louise Barnard brushed past me and
+hurried to the bedside.</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Barnard&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Don't lecture me, please," she said, hurriedly. "Mamma is better and
+could spare me, and I <i>could</i> not sleep. I have taken a cordial, and
+some food. You must let me stay on guard until Dr. Denham arrives. I
+will resign my post to him."</p>
+
+<p>"Which means that you will not trust to us. You are a 'willful woman,'
+Miss Barnard, and your word is our law, of course. There is actually
+nothing to do here just now but to sit at the bedside and watch our
+patient. And so, if you <i>will</i> occupy that post, Long and myself will
+take a look at things out of doors."</p>
+
+<p>She took her seat by the bedside, and, beckoning Jim to follow me, I
+went out, and, turning to see that he was close behind me, walked to the
+rear of the house.</p>
+
+<p>Here we seated ourselves upon the well platform, where Jim had once
+before stationed himself to watch the proceedings of the raiding party,
+and for a full half-hour remained in earnest consultation.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a></span></p><p>At the end of that time, Jim Long saddled and bridled the doctor's
+horse, led him softly from the yard, mounted, and rode swiftly away to
+the northwest.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXVII.<br />
+<small>AN ANGRY HEIRESS.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>Very soon after Jim's departure, the first visitors arrived at the
+cottage, and most welcome ones they were.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Barnard, who seemed capable of wise thought in the midst of her
+grief and anxiety, had dispatched her own servant with a message to Mr.
+Harris, and, early as was the hour, that good man had hastened to the
+cottage, with his wife at his side. Their presence was comforting to
+Miss Barnard and myself. Mr. Harris was the right man to assume
+responsibilities, which I, for various reasons, had no desire to take
+upon myself, and Mrs. Harris was the very companion and assistant needed
+by the anxious girl. They were soon in possession of all the facts, as
+we knew them, concerning the previous night, and its calamity.</p>
+
+<p>I say, as we knew them; Miss Barnard had heard nothing concerning the
+part Jim's gun was believed to have played in the sad affair, and I did
+not think it necessary to enlighten either her or Mr. Harris on that
+subject, at that time.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span></p><p>Leaving Bethel in such good hands, I went back to the hotel. But before
+I could breakfast or rest, I was called upon to repeat again and again
+all that I could or would tell concerning this new calamity that had
+befallen Dr. Bethel, for the news of the night was there before me.</p>
+
+<p>As I re-entered the office, after quitting the breakfast table, I found
+a considerable crowd assembled, and was again called upon to rehearse my
+story.</p>
+
+<p>"It looks sorter queerish to me," commented a hook-nosed old Traftonite,
+who had listened very intently to my words. "It's sorter <i>queerish</i>! Why
+warn't folks told of this sooner? Why warn't the alarm given, so'at
+citizens could agone and seen for theirselves how things was?"</p>
+
+<p>I recognized the speaker as one who had been boisterously and
+vindictively active on the day of the raid upon Bethel's cottage, and I
+fixed my eye upon his face with a look which he seemed to comprehend, as
+I retorted:</p>
+
+<p>"Dr. Bethel has received one visit from a delegation of 'citizens who
+were desirous to see for theirselves how things was,' and if he suffered
+no harm from it, it was not owing to the tender mercies of the
+'citizens' aforesaid. The attendance of a mob last night would not have
+benefited Bethel. What he needed was a doctor and good nursing. These he
+had and will have," and I turned upon my heel to leave the room.</p>
+
+<p>"I should say," spoke up another voice, "that there was a detective
+needed around there, too."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a></span></p><p>"Nothing shall be lacking that is needed," I retorted, over my
+shoulder, and then ascended the stairs, wishing heartily, as I entered
+my room, that Trafton and a large majority of its inhabitants were
+safely buried under an Alpine avalanche.</p>
+
+<p>Two hours later I awoke, and being in a more amiable mood, felt less
+inclined to consign all Trafton to annihilation.</p>
+
+<p>Going below I found the office comparatively quiet, and Dimber Joe and
+the new operator socially conversing on the porch.</p>
+
+<p>Gerald's presence was a relief to me. I felt sure that he would keep a
+sharp eye upon the movements of Dimber, and, being anxious about the
+situation of Bethel I returned to the cottage.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Hess stood in the doorway, in conversation with Mr. Harris.</p>
+
+<p>"How is the patient?" asked I, approaching them.</p>
+
+<p>"Much the same," replied the doctor. "But there will be a change soon."</p>
+
+<p>"Has he spoken?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; he will hardly do that yet, and should not be allowed to talk even
+if he could. When the change comes there will be fever, and perhaps
+delirium."</p>
+
+<p>I passed them and entered the sick-room.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Harris sat by the bed. Louise Barnard was not there.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span></p><p>"We have sent Louise home," Mrs. Harris whispered, seeing me glance
+about inquiringly. "The doctor told her that if she insisted upon
+remaining she would soon be sick herself, and unable to help us at all.
+That frightened her a little. The poor child is really worn out, with
+her father's sickness and death, her mother's poor health, and now
+this," nodding toward the bed.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you had any visitors?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes. But we knew that the house must be kept quiet, and Mr. Harris
+has received the most of them out in the yard. Dr. Hess says it will be
+best to admit none but personal friends."</p>
+
+<p>"Dr. Hess is very sensible."</p>
+
+<p>Going back to join the two gentlemen, I saw that Dr. Hess was hastening
+toward the gate with considerable alacrity, and that a pony ph�ton had
+just halted there.</p>
+
+<p>Swinging the gate wide open, the doctor assisted the occupant to alight.</p>
+
+<p>It was Miss Manvers.</p>
+
+<p>There was an anxious look upon her face, and in her eyes a shadow of
+what I had once discovered there, when, myself unseen, I had witnessed
+her interview with Arch Brookhouse on the day of the garden party. She
+was pale, and exceedingly nervous.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a></span></p><p>She said very little. Indeed her strongest effort to preserve her
+self-control seemed almost a failure, and was very evident to each of
+us. She listened with set lips to the doctor's description and opinion
+of the case, and then entered the inner room, and stood looking down at
+the figure lying there, so stalwart, yet so helpless. For a moment her
+features were convulsed, and her hands clenched each other fiercely. Her
+form was shaken with emotion so strong as to almost overmaster her. It
+was a splendid picture of fierce passion held in check by an iron will.</p>
+
+<p>She came out presently, and approached me.</p>
+
+<p>"You were one of the first to know this, I am told," she said, in a low,
+constrained tone. "Please tell me about it."</p>
+
+<p>I told her how I was called to the rescue by Jim, and gave a brief
+outline of after events.</p>
+
+<p>"And has all been done that can be?" she asked, after a moment of
+silence.</p>
+
+<p>"Not quite all, Miss Manvers. We have yet to find this would-be murderer
+and bring him to justice." I spoke with my eyes fixed on her face.</p>
+
+<p>She started, flushed, and a new excited eagerness leaped to her eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"Will you do that? <i>Can</i> you?"</p>
+
+<p>"It shall be done," I replied, still watching her face.</p>
+
+<p>She gave a little fluttering sigh, drew her veil across her arm, and
+turned to go.</p>
+
+<p>"If I can be of service, in any way," she began, hesitatingly.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span></p><p>"We shall not hesitate to ask for your services," I interrupted,
+walking beside her to the door, and from thence to the gate, a little to
+the annoyance of Dr. Hess, I fancied.</p>
+
+<p>As I assisted her to her seat in the ph�ton, and put the reins in her
+hands, I saw Arch Brookhouse galloping rapidly from the direction of
+town. And, just as she had turned her ponies homeward, and I paused at
+the gate to nod a final good-bye, he reined his horse up sharply beside
+her vehicle.</p>
+
+<p>"How is the doctor, Adele?" he asked, in a tone evidently meant for my
+ears.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't speak to me," she replied, vehemently, and utterly regardless of
+my proximity. "Don't speak to me. I wish it were <i>you</i> in his place."</p>
+
+<p>She snatched up her whip, as though her first instinct was to draw the
+lash across his face, but she struck the ponies instead, and they flew
+up the hill at a reckless gait.</p>
+
+<p>As Brookhouse turned in the saddle to look after the flying ph�ton, I
+saw a dark frown cross his face.</p>
+
+<p>But the next instant his brow cleared, and he turned again to bestow on
+me a look of sharp scrutiny.</p>
+
+<p>Springing from his horse, and throwing the bridle across his arm, he
+approached the gate.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you hear her?" he exclaimed. "That is what I get for being an
+amiable fellow. My friend is not amiable to-day."</p>
+
+<p>"Evidently not," I responded, carelessly. "Lovers' quarrels are fierce
+affairs, but very fleeting."</p>
+
+<p>He smiled and shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a></span></p><p>"I have been so unfortunate as to offend her," he said. "By to-morrow
+she will have forgotten the circumstances."</p>
+
+<p>"Will she, indeed?" thought I. "We shall see, my friend."</p>
+
+<p>But I made no audible comment, and he dismissed the subject to ask the
+stereotyped questions, "How was Dr. Bethel? Could he be of any service?
+How did it happen?"</p>
+
+<p>While I was answering these questions with the best grace I could
+muster, there came the patter of horse's hoofs, and Jim Long rode up to
+the side gate, dismounted with a careless swing, nodded to me, and,
+opening the gate, led the doctor's horse stableward.</p>
+
+<p>The look of surprise on my companion's face was instantly followed by a
+malicious smile, which, in its turn, was banished to give place to a
+more proper expression.</p>
+
+<p>"Long has been giving the doctor's horse some exercise," he said, half
+inquiringly.</p>
+
+<p>"I believe he has been executing some commission for Miss Barnard," I
+fabricated, unblushingly. "Long has been very useful here."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed," carelessly; then glancing at his watch, "nearly noon, I see."</p>
+
+<p>He turned, vaulted into his saddle, and touched his hat. "Good-morning.
+In case of necessity, command me;" and with a second application of his
+finger-tip to the brim of his hat, he shook the reins and cantered away.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span></p><p>As soon as he was out of sight I went straight to the stable where Jim
+was bountifully feeding the tired horse.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Long?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's all right, captain. I've had a hard ride, but it's <i>done</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"And the men?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[Pg 328]</a></span></p><p>"Will be at the cabin to-night."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII.<br />
+<small>JIM GIVES BAIL.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>Upon Jim's reappearance in the cottage, Mrs. Harris installed him as
+nurse, and, herself, set about improvising a kitchen in the rear room.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Harris had been despatched to town for sundry articles, and, at
+noon, we were served with a plentiful lunch, of which we partook in
+rather primitive fashion.</p>
+
+<p>Not long after, while Jim and I were conversing out under the trees, and
+Mr. Harris was discoursing to two Trafton ladies who had called to
+proffer service and sympathy, I saw Gerald Brown coming toward the
+cottage, and guessing that his real business was with me, whatever
+pretext he might present, I advanced to the gate and met him there.</p>
+
+<p>He carried in his hand a telegraph envelope, which he proffered me
+ostentatiously over the gate.</p>
+
+<p>I opened it and read:</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+  N. Y., etc., etc.
+</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Will come to-night.</p>
+
+<p class="right blockquot">
+<span class="smcap right">Denham.</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Underneath this was written:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot"><i>They are wild in town; are about to arrest Jim Long for the
+shooting of Bethel.</i></p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Two pair of eyes, at least, were looking out from the cottage door and
+window.</p>
+
+<p>I turned the message over, and resting it upon the gate post, wrote the
+following:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot"><i>Don't lose sight of Dimber; telegraph to the Agency to ask if Blake
+has arrived. Tell them not to let him get out of reach. We may want
+him at any moment.</i></p>
+
+<p>While I was writing this Gerry shifted his position, so that his face
+could not be seen by the observers in the house, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Dimber is in it. He claims to have seen Long with his gun near Bethel's
+house last night. The gun has been found."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course," I returned. "We will put a muzzle on friend Dimber very
+shortly."</p>
+
+<p>I refolded the message and returned it to Gerry, who touched his hat and
+turned back toward the village.</p>
+
+<p>Going to the door of the cottage, I informed Mr. Harris and the ladies
+that the new operator had just brought the news we so much wished for,
+viz.: the coming of Bethel's uncle from New York by that night's
+express. Then, sauntering back to my old place under the trees, I
+communicated to Jim the purport of the postscript written by Gerry.</p>
+
+<p>He listened attentively, but with no sign of discomposure visible upon
+his countenance.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a></span></p><p>"I've had time to think the matter over," he said, after a moment's
+silence, "and I think I shall pull through, but," with a waggish twinkle
+in his eye, "I am puzzled to know why that young man going up the hill
+should take so much interest in me, or was it Harris?"</p>
+
+<p>"It was not Harris," returning his look with interest. "That young man
+going up the hill is Gerald Brown, of New York. He's the new night
+operator, and he will not fail to do his <i>duty</i>, in the office and out
+of it."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, turning his eyes once more toward the receding
+form of Gerry.</p>
+
+<p>I let my own gaze follow his and there, just coming into sight on the
+brow of the hill, was a party of men.</p>
+
+<p>It consisted of the constable, supported by several able-bodied
+citizens, and followed, of course, by a promiscuous rabble.</p>
+
+<p>Jim gave vent to a low chuckle.</p>
+
+<p>"See the idiots," he said, "coming like mountain bandits. No doubt they
+look for fierce resistance. Don't let them think you are too much
+interested in the case."</p>
+
+<p>"I won't," I said, briefly, for the men were hurrying down the hill. "It
+would not be politic, but I'll have you out of their clutches, Long,
+without a scratch, sure and soon."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span></p><p>I turned toward the house as I finished the sentence, and Jim arose and
+went toward the gate; not the man of easy movements and courteous speech
+who had been my companion for the past twenty-four hours, not Long, the
+gentleman, but "Long Jim," the loafer, awkward, slouching, uncouth of
+manner and speech.</p>
+
+<p>As the crowd made a somewhat noisy approach, Jim leaned over the gate
+and motioned them to silence.</p>
+
+<p>"Gentlemen," he said, seriously, "ye can't be any too still about this
+place, an' ye'd a' showed better gumption if ye hadn't paid yer respects
+in a squad, as if ye was comin' to a hangin'. Somehow ye seem mighty
+fond o' waitin' on Dr. Bethel in a gang."</p>
+
+<p>Acting upon a hint from me, Mr. Harris now went out, and in milder
+words, but with much the same meaning, exhorted the visitors to quiet.</p>
+
+<p>And then, casting a quick glance behind him, and a somewhat apprehensive
+one toward Jim, the constable read his warrant. The two men inside the
+gate listened with astonished faces. Indeed, Jim's assumption of
+amazement, viewed in the light of my knowledge concerning its
+genuineness, was ludicrous beyond description.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Harris began an earnest expostulation, and turned to beckon me to
+his assistance, but Jim checked him by a gesture.</p>
+
+<p>"We can't have any disputing here," he said, sharply. "Don't argy,
+parson; tain't wuth while."</p>
+
+<p>Then he opened the gate and stepped suddenly out among them.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[Pg 332]</a></span></p><p>"I'll go with ye," he said, "for the sake of peace. But," glaring about
+him fiercely, "if it wan't fer makin' a disturbance, again the doctor's
+orders, I'd take ye one at a time and thrash a little sense into ye.
+Come along, Mr. Constable; I'm goin' to 'pear' afore Jestice Summers,
+an' I'm goin' to walk right to the head o' this mob o' your'n, an' don't
+ye try to come none o' yer jailer dodges over me. Ye kin all walk
+behind, an' welcome, but the first man as undertakes to lay a finger on
+me, or step along-side&mdash;somethin'll happen to him."</p>
+
+<p>And Jim thrust his hands deep down in his pockets, walked coolly through
+the group, which divided to let him pass, and strode off up the hill.</p>
+
+<p>"Goodness!" ejaculated the valorous officer of the law, "is&mdash;is there a
+man here that's got a pistol?"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 399px;">
+<a href="images/illus028.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus028.jpg" width="399" height="585" alt="&quot;Goodness!&quot; ejaculated the valorous officer of the law,
+&quot;is&mdash;is there a man here that&#39;s got a pistol?&quot;&mdash;page 332." title="&quot;Goodness!&quot; ejaculated the valorous officer of the law,
+&quot;is&mdash;is there a man here that&#39;s got a pistol?&quot;&mdash;page 332." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Goodness!&quot; ejaculated the valorous officer of the law,
+&quot;is&mdash;is there a man here that&#39;s got a pistol?&quot;&mdash;page 332.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>No reply from his supporters.</p>
+
+<p>I put my hand behind me and produced a small revolver.</p>
+
+<p>"Take this," I said, proffering the weapon over the gate. "You had
+better humor his whim, but if he attempts to escape, you know how to
+stop him."</p>
+
+<p>He seized the protecting weapon, nodded his thanks, and hastened after
+his prisoner, followed by the entire body guard.</p>
+
+<p>"My dear sir," said Mr. Harris, gravely, "I was sorry to see you do
+that. You surely don't think Long guilty?"</p>
+
+<p>I turned toward him, no longer trying to conceal my amusement.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span></p><p>"He is as innocent as you or I," I replied, "and the pistol is not
+loaded. One may as well retain the good will of the magnates of the law,
+Mr. Harris."</p>
+
+<p>He smiled in his turn, and, wishing to avoid a discussion, in which I
+must of necessity play a very hypocritical part, I turned back and
+entered the cottage to explain the situation to the ladies.</p>
+
+<p>During that long, still afternoon, visitors came and went. Louise
+Barnard, a little refreshed and very anxious returned and resumed her
+post at the bedside. She was shocked and indignant at the news of Jim
+Long's arrest; and she breathed a sigh of relief and gratification upon
+being told of the expected coming Dr. Denham. Late in the afternoon, Dr.
+Hess made a second visit, and when he returned to town Mr. Harris
+accompanied him, the two driving back in the doctor's gig.</p>
+
+<p>It was very quiet. Mrs. Harris dozed in the easy-chair; Louise sat mute
+and statue-like by the bedside of her lover, and I, oppressed by the
+stillness, was leaning over the open window sill, wondering how it was
+faring with Jim Long, when the gate gave the faintest creak, and I
+lifted my eyes to see the object of my mental inquiry coming toward me.</p>
+
+<p>Uttering an exclamation which roused good Mrs. Harris and caused the
+watcher in the inner room to turn her head, I hastened to meet him.</p>
+
+<p>"Long," I exclaimed, "what lucky fate has brought you back?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a></span></p><p>He glanced from me to the doorway, where Mrs. Harris was now standing,
+with an expectant look on her benevolent countenance, and replied,
+laconically:</p>
+
+<p>"Bail."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! I was thinking of that."</p>
+
+<p>"Jim," broke in Mrs. Harris, eagerly, "who did it? We'll all bless his
+kindness."</p>
+
+<p>He advanced to the door, planted his right foot upon the lower step,
+rested his elbow on his knee, pushed his hat off his forehead, and
+grinned benignly on us both.</p>
+
+<p>"Then I'm the feller that'll walk off with the blessin'," he said, with
+a chuckle. "I went my own bail to the tune of five thousand dollars!"</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Harris gave a gasp of surprise. I seated myself on the corner of
+the step farthest from Jim, and, seeing that he was about to volunteer a
+further explanation, remained silent.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment I observed what was unnoticed by the other two; Miss
+Barnard had left her post and was standing behind Mrs. Harris.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span></p><p>"Ye see," continued Jim, giving me a sidelong glance, and then fixing
+his eyes upon the hem of Mrs. Harris's apron, "Ye see, I had ter appear
+afore Jestice Summers. Now, the Jestice," with another sidelong glance,
+and an almost imperceptible gesture, "is a man an' a brother. I ain't
+agoin' ter say anythin' agin' him. I s'pose he had to do his duty. There
+was some in that office that wanted ter see me put where I couldn't be
+so sassy, but I didn't mind them. The minit I got in my oar, I jest
+talked right straight at the Jestice, an' I told him in short order that
+ef I was sure of bein' treated on the square, I'd jest waive an
+examination. An' then I kind o' sighed, an' appealed to their feelin's,
+tellin' them that I hadn't no friends nor relations, but that may be, ef
+they gave me half a show, an' didn't set my bail too high, may be some
+one would go my security, an' give me a chance ter try ter clear myself.
+Wal! ef you could a looked around that office, ye'd a thought my chance
+o' gittin security was slim. The Jestice called the time on me, an'
+allowed 'twould be fair ter give me bail. An' then 'Squire Brookhouse,
+an' one or two more, piped in with objections, until the Jestice put the
+bail up ter five thousand. Of course that wilted me right down.
+Everybody grinned or giggled, an' nobody didn't offer any more
+objections, an' the bizness was finished up. Then, when they had got ter
+a place where there was no backin' out, I jest unbuttoned my coat an'
+vest, whipped off a belt I'd got fixed handy for the 'casion, an' counted
+five thousand dollars right down under their noses!"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a></span></p><p>Here he paused to lift his eyes to the face of Mrs. Harris, and to see,
+for the first time, his third auditor, who now came forward to grasp his
+hand, and utter rejoicings at his present liberty, and indignant
+disapproval of the parties who had brought against him a charge which
+she unhesitatingly pronounced absurd and without reasonable foundation.</p>
+
+<p>Next Jim's hand came into the cordial grasp of good Mrs. Harris, who was
+more voluble than Louise Barnard, and none the less sincere.</p>
+
+<p>When, after a time, Jim and I found ourselves <i>t�te-�-t�te</i> for a
+moment, I said:</p>
+
+<p>"Long, I look on it as a fortunate thing that you were taken before
+Justice Summers."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span></p><p>"Well," said Jim, dryly, "all things considered, so do I."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX"></a>CHAPTER XXIX.<br />
+<small>VIGILANTS.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>The long day is ended at last; the sun has set in a bank of dim clouds.
+There is no moon as yet, and that orb, which is due above the horizon in
+exactly eight minutes, by an authentic almanac, will scarcely appear at
+her best to-night, for the leaden clouds that swallowed up the sun have
+spread themselves across all the sky, leaving scarce a rent through
+which the moon may peep at the world.</p>
+
+<p>The darkness is sufficient to cover my journey, and the hour is yet
+early&mdash;too early for birds of the night to begin to prowl, one might
+think; yet, as I approach Jim Long's cabin, I encounter a sentinel,
+dimly outlined but upright before me, barring the way.</p>
+
+<p>"Hold on, my&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Jim."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! it's you, Cap'n; all right. Come along; we're waitin'."</p>
+
+<p>I follow him into his own cabin, and stand beside the door, which some
+one has closed as we enter, while Jim strikes a light. Then I see that
+the cabin is occupied by half a dozen men.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus029.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus029.jpg" width="400" height="590" alt="&quot;I follow him into his own cabin, and stand beside the
+door, which some one has closed as we enter, while Jim strikes a
+light.&quot;&mdash;page 339." title="&quot;I follow him into his own cabin, and stand beside the
+door, which some one has closed as we enter, while Jim strikes a
+light.&quot;&mdash;page 339." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;I follow him into his own cabin, and stand beside the
+door, which some one has closed as we enter, while Jim strikes a
+light.&quot;&mdash;page 339.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a></span></p><p>"Pardner," says Jim, setting down the candle, and indicating the
+various individuals, by a gesture, as he names them, "this 'er's Mr.
+Warren, the captain o' the Trafton vigilants."</p>
+
+<p>I turn upon Jim a look of surprise, but he goes placidly on.</p>
+
+<p>"This is young Mr. Warren."</p>
+
+<p>I return the nod of a bright-looking young farmer.</p>
+
+<p>"This is Mr. Booth, Mr. Benner, and Mr. Jaeger."</p>
+
+<p>The three men who stand together near the window bow gravely.</p>
+
+<p>"And this," finishes Jim, "is Mr. Harding."</p>
+
+<p>As Mr. Harding moves forward out of the shadow, I recognize him. It is
+the man whose recital of the misfortunes of Trafton, overheard by me on
+the day of my departure from Groveland, had induced me to come to the
+thief-ridden village.</p>
+
+<p>"I have met Mr. Harding before," I say, as I proffer my hand to him.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't remember," with a look of abashed surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps not, Mr. Harding; nevertheless, if it had not been for you I
+should, probably, never have visited Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>The look of surprise broadens into amazement. But it is not the time for
+explanations. I turn back to Mr. Warren.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span></p><p>"Am I to understand that you have a vigilance committee already
+organized here?"</p>
+
+<p>"We have an organized party, sir." Here Jim interposes.</p>
+
+<p>"Ye see, I happen ter belong ter the vigilants. An' when ye asked me ter
+name a reliable man, why, I jest thought I'd bring you an' Mr. Warren
+together an' 'twould simplify matters. 'Twant my business to explain
+jest then."</p>
+
+<p>"Charlie," says Mr. Warren, addressing the young man near the door, "go
+outside and see that no one comes within seeing or hearing distance. We
+want Long here."</p>
+
+<p>The young vigilant mounts guard and I turn again to Mr. Warren.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Long has explained the nature of my business?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, you may be sure it was a surprise to me."</p>
+
+<p>"How many men have you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fifteen in all."</p>
+
+<p>"And you have all failed to find a clue to the identity of the
+horse-thieves?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir, we have failed. We have organized in secret and worked in
+secret. We hoped and expected to sift this matter to the bottom, and we
+have failed utterly. But Jim tells me that you have succeeded where we
+have failed."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[Pg 344]</a></span></p><p>"Not quite that. Listen, gentlemen. I know where to put my hands, now,
+to-night, upon the six horses that were stolen one week ago. If it were
+merely a question of the recovery of these, I should not need your aid.
+It might be worth something to me if I recovered the horses, but it will
+be worth much more to us, and to all Trafton, if we capture the thieves,
+and they cannot be taken to-night, perhaps not for many nights. We are
+surrounded with spies; the man we might least suspect, may be the very
+one to betray us. Our only safe course is to work in harmony, and, for
+the present, at least, trust none outside of this room. I have trusted
+this organization to Jim Long, believing in his discretion. He assures
+me that I can rely upon every man of you."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Warren bares his head, and comes forward.</p>
+
+<p>"We have all been losers at the hands of these rascally thieves," he
+says, earnestly. "And we all want to see the town free from them. We are
+not poor men; the vigilants are all farmers who have something at stake.
+Show us how to clean out these horse-thieves, and if you want reliable
+men, they will be on hand. If you want money, that can be had in
+plenty."</p>
+
+<p>"All we want, is here; half a dozen men with ordinary courage and
+shrewdness, and a little patience. The moon is now at its full; before a
+new moon rises, we will have broken up the gang of Trafton outlaws!"</p>
+
+<p>"And why," asks Mr. Warren, eagerly, "must our time be regulated by the
+moon?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because," I say, significantly, "horse-thieves are seldom abroad on
+moonlight nights."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_345" id="Page_345">[Pg 345]</a></span></p><p>An hour passes; an hour during which Mr. Warren, Mr. Harding, and
+myself, talk much, and the others listen attentively, making, now and
+then, a brief comment, or uttering an approving ejaculation. All except
+Jim. He has forced young Warren to join the conference within, and has
+stood on picket-duty outside, to all appearances, the least interested
+of any gathered there for counsel.</p>
+
+<p>It is ten o'clock when we separate; the vigilants going their way
+silently, and one at a time, and Jim and myself returning to the cottage
+together.</p>
+
+<p>"Ye couldn't have found six better men," says Jim, who has chosen to
+sustain his <i>r�le</i> of illiterate rustic throughout the evening. "Ye can
+trust 'em."</p>
+
+<p>"I have given them no unnecessary information, Long. Not half so much as
+you have scented out for yourself. They know enough to enable them to do
+what will be required of them and nothing more."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," with a dry laugh, "they know more than I do."</p>
+
+<p>"If they know that you are actually capable of drawing the reins over
+the 'nine parts of speech,'" I retort, "they did not learn it from me."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," with another chuckling laugh, "I fancy they don't know it."</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>Dr. Denham came at midnight, and Miss Barnard greeted him with a smile
+that ended in a sob.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_346" id="Page_346">[Pg 346]</a></span></p><p>Evidently "our old woman" had been enlightened concerning her, for he
+took her in his arms and kissed her with grave tenderness, before going
+to the bedside of his patient.</p>
+
+<p>He took absolute command of the cottage, and no one, not even Louise,
+ventured to oppose him or raise the voice of argument. He took all
+responsibility out of my hands, and dismissed me with his usual formula.</p>
+
+<p>"Go about your business, you young rascal. I might have known you'd be
+at some new deviltry shortly. Go about your business, and by the time I
+get Bethel on his feet, you'll have me another patient, I'll be bound."</p>
+
+<p>But Jim found favor in the eyes of "our old woman," who straightway
+elected him general assistant, and he soon discovered that to be
+assistant to Dr. Denham was no sinecure. Indeed, a more abject bond
+slave than Jim, during that first week of Bethel's illness, could not
+well be imagined.</p>
+
+<p>"Our old woman's" scepter extended, too, over poor Louise. He was as
+tender as possible, allowing her to assist him when she could, and
+permitting her to watch by the bedside four or five hours each day. But
+beyond that she could not trespass. There must be no exhausting effort,
+no more night vigils.</p>
+
+<p>Louise rebelled at first; tried coaxing, then pouting, then submitted to
+the power that would wield the scepter.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_347" id="Page_347">[Pg 347]</a></span></p><p>The good doctor brought from the city a package sent me by my Chief,
+which he put into my hands at the first opportunity.</p>
+
+<p>It contained papers, old and yellow; some copied memoranda, and two
+photographs. When I had examined all these, I breathed a sigh of
+relieved surprise.</p>
+
+<p>Another link was added to my chain of evidence, another thread to the
+web I was weaving.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_348" id="Page_348">[Pg 348]</a></span></p><p>Without that packet I had cherished a suspicion. With it, I grasped a
+certainty.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX"></a>CHAPTER XXX.<br />
+<small>A CHAPTER OF TELEGRAMS.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>The following week was to me one of busy idleness. Now at the cottage,
+where Bethel, pain-racked and delirious, buffeted between life and
+death. Now closeted for a half-hour with the new night operator. Keeping
+an eye upon Dimber Joe, who continued his lounging and novel reading,
+and who was, to all appearances, the idlest and most care-free man in
+Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>I saw less of Jim Long than pleased me, for, when he was not bound to
+the chariot wheel of "our old woman," he contrived somehow to elude me,
+or to avoid all <i>t�te-�-t�tes</i>. I scarcely saw him except in the
+presence of a third party.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Warren, or one or two other members of the party who had met me at
+Jim Long's cabin, were constantly to be seen about Trafton. During the
+day they were carelessly conspicuous; during the night their
+carelessness gave place to caution; but they were none the less present,
+as would have been proven by an emergency.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_349" id="Page_349">[Pg 349]</a></span></p><p>The new telegraph operator was a host in himself. He was social,
+talkative, and something of a lounger. He found it easy to touch the
+pulse of Trafton gossip, and knew what they thought at Porter's
+concerning Bethel's calamity, Long's arrest and subsequent release under
+bail, etc., without seeming to have made an effort in search of
+information.</p>
+
+<p>The two questions now agitating the minds of the Trafton gossips were:
+"Who shot Dr. Bethel, if Jim Long did not?" and "Where did Jim Long, who
+had always been considered but one remove from a pauper, get the money
+to pay so heavy a bail?"</p>
+
+<p>The theories in regard to these two questions were as various as the
+persons who advocated them, and were as astounding and absurd as the
+most diligent sensation-hunter could have desired.</p>
+
+<p>Jim's gun had been found in a field less than half a mile from Bethel's
+cottage, by some workmen who had been sent by 'Squire Brookhouse to
+repair one of his farm fences, and I learned, with peculiar interest,
+that <i>Tom Briggs</i> was one of these workmen.</p>
+
+<p>Upon hearing that the gun had been found, Dimber Joe had made his
+statement. He had seen Jim Long, between the hours of nine and ten
+<span class="smcap">p. m.</span>, going in the direction of the cottage, with a gun upon his
+shoulder.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_350" id="Page_350">[Pg 350]</a></span></p><p>Of course, when making this assertion, he had no idea of the use to
+which it would be put; and equally, of course, he much regretted that he
+had mentioned the fact when he found himself likely to be used as a
+witness against Long, whom he declared to be an inoffensive fellow, so
+far as he had known him, and toward whom he could have no ill-will.</p>
+
+<p>In due time, sooner, in fact, than I had dared hope, there came a
+message from Carnes.</p>
+
+<p>It came through the hands of young Harris. Carnes, having sent it early
+in the day, and knowing into whose hands it would probably fall, had
+used our cipher alphabet:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">4. F d, t, t, o w n&mdash;u h e&mdash;n a x&mdash;&mdash;, &mdash;, &mdash;. C&mdash;&mdash;.
+</p>
+
+<p>This is the cipher which, using the figure at the head as the key, will
+easily be interpreted:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Found. What next?&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <span class="smcap">Carnes.</span><br />
+</p>
+
+<p>Found! That meant much. It meant that the end of the Groveland mystery
+was near at hand!</p>
+
+<p>But there was much to learn before we could decide and reply to the
+query, "What next?"</p>
+
+<p>While Harris was absent for a few moments, during the afternoon, the
+night operator sent the following to Carnes:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Where found? In what condition? What do you advise?</p>
+
+<p>Before midnight, this answer came:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">In a fourth-rate theater. One well, the other sick. Their
+friends had better come for them at once. Can you get your
+hands on Johnny La Porte?</p>
+
+<p>To this I promptly replied:</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_351" id="Page_351">[Pg 351]</a></span></p>
+<p class="blockquot">Telegraph particulars to the Agency. We can get La Porte, but
+must not alarm the others too soon. State what you want with
+him. Wyman will come to you, if needed.</p>
+
+<p>This message dispatched, I dictated another to my Chief.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Let Wyman act with Carnes. Can not quit this case at present.
+Carnes will wire you particulars.</p>
+
+<p>This being sent, I went back to my hotel and waited.</p>
+
+<p>The next day the night operator offered to relieve Harris, an offer
+which was gladly accepted.</p>
+
+<p>A little before noon the following message came:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Instructions received. Wyman, Ewing, Rutger, and La Porte start
+for New Orleans to-morrow. Do you need any help?</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_352" id="Page_352">[Pg 352]</a></span></p><p>I heaved a sigh of relief and gratification, and sped back the answer,
+"<i>No.</i>"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXI" id="CHAPTER_XXXI"></a>CHAPTER XXXI.<br />
+<small>CARNES TELLS HIS STORY.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>The time came when Carnes told me the story of his New Orleans search.
+As he related it to me then, let him relate it now:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>Arrived in New Orleans without trouble or delay, at three o'clock in the
+afternoon. Registered at the "Hotel Honore," a small house near the
+levees; giving my name as George Adams, sugar dealer, from St. Louis.</p>
+
+<p>Then began a hunt among the theaters, and, before seven o'clock I had
+found the place I wanted,&mdash;"The Little Adelphi," owned and managed by
+"Storms &amp; Brookhouse." It is a small theater, but new and neatly fitted
+up, has a bar attached, and beer tables on the floor of the auditorium.
+I made no effort to see Brookhouse, but went back to the "Honore," after
+learning that money would open the door of the green room to any patron
+of the theater.</p>
+
+<p>After supper I refreshed my memory by a look at the pictures of the
+missing young ladies, including that of Miss Amy Holmes, and then I set
+out for the little Adelphi.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_353" id="Page_353">[Pg 353]</a></span></p><p>There was never an easier bit of work than this New Orleans business.
+The curtain went up on a "Minstrel first part," and there, sitting next
+to one of the "end men," was Mamie Rutger!</p>
+
+<p>Her curly hair was stuck full of roses. She wore a very short pink satin
+dress, and her little feet were conspicuous in white kid slippers. If
+Miss Mamie was forcibly abducted, she has wasted no time in grieving
+over it. If she has been in any manner deceived or deluded, she bears it
+wonderfully well. She sang her ballad with evident enjoyment, and her
+voice rang out in the choruses, clear and sweet. Her lips were wreathed
+in smiles, her cheeks glowed, and her eyes sparkled. Occasionally she
+turned her head to whisper to the blacked-up scamp who sat at her right
+hand. Altogether she deported herself with the confidence of an old
+<i>habitu�</i> of the stage. Evidently she had made herself popular with the
+Little Adelphi audiences, and certainly she enjoyed her popularity.</p>
+
+<p>After the first part, I watched the stage impatiently, it being too
+early to venture into the green-room.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_354" id="Page_354">[Pg 354]</a></span></p><p>Mamie Rutger did not re-appear, but, after an hour, occupied
+principally by "burnt cork artists," Miss Lotta Le Clair, "the song and
+dance Queen," came tripping from the wings; and Miss Lotta Le Clair, in
+a blue velvet coat and yellow satin nether garments, was none other than
+Amy Holmes! She danced very well, and sang very ill; and I fancied that
+she had tasted too often of the cheap wine dealt out behind the bar.
+Very soon after her exit I made my way to the green-room, piloted by the
+head waiter. I had, of course, gotten myself up for the occasion, and I
+looked like a cross between a last year's fashionplate and a Bowery
+blackleg.</p>
+
+<p>It is always easy to make a variety actress talk, and those at the
+Little Adelphi proved no exception. Two or three bottles of wine opened
+the way to some knowledge.</p>
+
+<p>By chatting promiscuously with several of the Adelphi belles, I learned
+that Amy Holmes and Mamie Rutger, who, by the way, was "Rose
+Deschappelles" on the bills, lived together. That Amy, who was not known
+at the theater by that name, was "a hard one," and "old in the
+business;" while "Rose" was a soft little prig who "wore her lover's
+picture in a locket," and was "as true to him as steel." The girls all
+united in voting Amy disagreeable, in spite of her superior wisdom; and
+Mamie, "a real nice, jolly little thing," spite of her verdancy.</p>
+
+<p>The fair Amy was then approached, and my real work began. I ordered, in
+her honor, an extra brand of wine. I flattered her, I talked freely of
+my wealth, and displayed my money recklessly. I became half intoxicated
+in her society, and, through it all, bemoaned the fact that I could not
+offer, for her quaffing, the sparkling champagne that was the only
+fitting drink for such a goddess.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_355" id="Page_355">[Pg 355]</a></span></p><p>The Adelphi champagne <i>was</i> detestable stuff, and Miss Amy was
+<i>connoisseur</i> enough to know it. She frankly confessed her fondness for
+good champagne, and could tell me just where it was to be found.</p>
+
+<p>The rest came as a matter of course. I proposed to give her a champagne
+banquet; she accepted, and the programme was speedily arranged.</p>
+
+<p>At eleven o'clock the next day, she would meet me at a convenient little
+restaurant near the theater. I must come with a carriage. We would have
+a drive, and, just outside the city, would come upon Louis Meniu's
+Summer <i>caf�</i>. There we would find fine luscious fruits, rare wines,
+everything choice and dainty.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Amy, who seemed to possess all the luxurious tastes of a native
+creole, arranged the programme, and we parted at the green-room door,
+mutually satisfied, she anticipating a gala day, and I seeing before me
+the disagreeable necessity of spoiling her frolic and depriving the
+Little Adelphi, for a time at least, of one of its fairest attractions.</p>
+
+<p>The course which I had resolved to pursue was not the one most to my
+taste; but it was the simplest, shortest, and would accord best with the
+instructions given me, viz., that no arrests must be made, nor anything
+done to arouse the suspicions of Fred Brookhouse, and cause him to give
+the alarm to his confederates in the North.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_356" id="Page_356">[Pg 356]</a></span></p><p>I had purposely held aloof from Mamie Rutger, feeling convinced that it
+were best not to approach <i>her</i> until a definite course of action had
+been decided upon. Nor was I entirely certain that my scheme would
+succeed. If Amy Holmes should prove a shade wiser, shrewder, and more
+courageous, and a trifle less selfish and avaricious than I had judged
+her to be, my plans might fail and, in that case, the girl might work me
+much mischief.</p>
+
+<p>I weighed the possibilities thoughtfully, and resolved to risk the
+chances.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, on the morning after my visit to the Little Adelphi, I sent
+my first telegram, and made arrangements for putting my scheme into
+execution.</p>
+
+<p>The beginning of the programme was carried out, as planned by the young
+lady.</p>
+
+<p>We drove to the <i>caf�</i>, kept by Louis Meniu, and tested his champagne,
+after which I began to execute my plans.</p>
+
+<p>"Louis Meniu might be all very well," I said, "but there was no man in
+New Orleans, so I had often been told by Northern travelers, who could
+serve such a dinner as did the <i>chef</i> at the P&mdash;&mdash; Hotel. Should we
+drive to this house and there eat the best dinner to be served in the
+city?"</p>
+
+<p>The prospect of dining at a swell hotel pleased the young lady. She gave
+instant consent to the plan, and we turned back to the city and the
+P&mdash;&mdash; Hotel.</p>
+
+<p>Here we were soon installed in a handsome private parlor, and, after I
+had paused a few moments in the office, to register, "Geo. Adams and
+sister, St. Louis, Mo.," I closed the door upon servants and intruders,
+and the engagement commenced.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_357" id="Page_357">[Pg 357]</a></span></p><p>Having first locked the door and put the key in my pocket, I approached
+Miss Amy, who stood before a mirror, carelessly arranging a yellow rose
+in her black frisettes. Dropping my swaggering, half-maudlin,
+wholly-admiring tone and manner, I said, quietly:</p>
+
+<p>"Now, Miss Amy Holmes, if you will sit down opposite me, we will talk
+things over."</p>
+
+<p>She started violently, and turned toward me with a stare of surprise, in
+which, however, I could observe no fear. The name had caused her
+astonishment. I had been careful to address her by her stage name, or
+rather the one she chose to use at the theater. I hardly suppose her
+real name to be Holmes,&mdash;probably it is Smith or Jones instead.</p>
+
+<p>She let the hand holding the rose drop at her side, but did not loosen
+her grasp of the flower.</p>
+
+<p>"Look here," she exclaimed, sharply. "Where did you pick up that name?
+and what kind of a game are you giving me, anyhow?"</p>
+
+<p>After the surprise occasioned by the utterance of her discarded name, my
+altered tone and manner had next impressed her.</p>
+
+<p>"I got that name where I got several others, Miss Amy, and the game I am
+playing is one that is bound to win."</p>
+
+<p>She sat down upon the nearest chair, and stared mutely.</p>
+
+<p>"How would you like to go back to Amora, Miss Holmes? Or to Groveland
+and the widow Ballou's?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_358" id="Page_358">[Pg 358]</a></span></p><p>She sprang up with her eyes flashing, and made a sudden dash for the
+door. Of course it resisted her effort to open it.</p>
+
+<p>"Open that door," she said, turning upon me a look of angry defiance.
+"You are either a fool or a meddler. Open the door!"</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus030.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus030.jpg" width="400" height="595" alt="&quot;Open that door,&quot; she said, turning upon me a look of
+angry defiance.&mdash;page 358." title="&quot;Open that door,&quot; she said, turning upon me a look of
+angry defiance.&mdash;page 358." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Open that door,&quot; she said, turning upon me a look of
+angry defiance.&mdash;page 358.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>I laid one hand somewhat heavily upon her shoulder, and led her back to
+the seat she had just vacated.</p>
+
+<p>"Possibly I may be both fool and meddler," I replied, in a tone so stern
+that it seemed to arrest her attention, and impress her with the fact
+that I was neither trifling nor to be trifled with. "But I am something
+else, and I know more of you, my young lady, and of your past career,
+than you would care to have me know. Perhaps you may never have heard of
+Michael Carnes, the detective, but there are others who have made his
+acquaintance."</p>
+
+<p>Now, all this was random firing, but I acted on the knowledge that
+nine-tenths of the women who are professional adventuresses have, in
+their past, something either criminal or disgraceful to conceal, and on
+the possibility that Miss Amy Holmes might not belong to the exceptional
+few.</p>
+
+<p>The shot told. I saw it in the sudden blanching of her cheek, in the
+startled look that met mine for just an instant. If there were nothing
+else to conceal, I think she would have defied me and flouted at my
+efforts to extract information on the subject of the Groveland mystery.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_361" id="Page_361">[Pg 361]</a></span></p><p>But I had touched at a more vulnerable point. If I could now convince
+her that I knew her past career, the rest would be easy.</p>
+
+<p>It was a delicate undertaking. I might say too much, or too little, but
+I must press the advantage I had gained. Her attention was secured. Her
+curiosity was aroused. There was a shade of anxiety on her face.</p>
+
+<p>Drawing a chair opposite her, and seating myself therein, I fixed my
+eyes upon her face, and addressed her in a tone half stern, half
+confidential:</p>
+
+<p>"You are a plucky girl," I began, "and I admire you for that; and when I
+tell you that I have followed you, or tracked you, from the North,
+through Amora, through Groveland, down to the Little Adelphi, you will
+perhaps conjecture that I do not intend to be balked or evaded, even by
+so smart a little lady as you have proved yourself. I bear you no
+personal ill-will, and I much dislike to persecute a woman even when she
+has been guilty of"&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>I paused; she made a restless movement, and a look of pain flitted
+across her face.</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps we may be able to avoid details," I said, slowly. "I will let
+you decide that."</p>
+
+<p>"How?" with a gasp of relief or surprise, I could hardly guess which.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_362" id="Page_362">[Pg 362]</a></span></p><p>"Listen. Some time ago two girls disappeared from a little northern
+community, and I was one of the detectives employed to find them. I need
+not go into details, since you know so much about the case. In the
+course of the investigation, we inquired pretty closely into the
+character of the company kept by those two young ladies, and learned
+that a Miss Amy Holmes had been a schoolmate of the missing girls.
+Afterward, this same Amy Holmes and a Miss Grace Ballou made an attempt
+to escape from the Ballou farm house. The scheme was in part frustrated,
+but Amy Holmes escaped. Mrs. Ballou furnished us with a photo of Miss
+Amy Holmes, and when I saw it <i>I knew it</i>!"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!"</p>
+
+<p>This time it was an interjection of unmistakable terror. It gave me my
+cue.</p>
+
+<p>"I knew it for the picture of a young woman who had&mdash;committed&mdash;a crime;
+a young woman who would be well received at police headquarters, and I
+said to myself I will <i>now</i> find this young person who calls herself Amy
+Holmes."</p>
+
+<p>A look of sullen resolution was settling upon her face. She sat before
+me with her eyes fixed upon the carpet and her lips tightly closed.</p>
+
+<p>"I have found her," I continued, mercilessly. "And now&mdash;shall I take you
+back with me, a prisoner, and hand you over to the officers of the law,
+or will you answer truthfully such questions as I shall put to you, and
+go away from this house a free woman?"</p>
+
+<p>She was so absorbed by her own terror, or so overshadowed by some ghost
+of the past, that she seemed to take no note of my interest in the
+Groveland business, except as it had been an incidental aid in hunting
+her down.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_363" id="Page_363">[Pg 363]</a></span></p><p>"Do you think I would trust you?" she said, with a last effort at
+defiance. "You want to make me testify against myself."</p>
+
+<p>"You mistake, or you do not understand. I am at present working in the
+interest of the Groveland case. My discovery of you was an accident, and
+my knowledge concerning you I am using as a means toward the elucidation
+of the mystery surrounding the movements of Mamie Rutger and Nellie
+Ewing. Mamie Rutger I saw last night at the Little Adelphi. Nellie Ewing
+is no doubt within reach. I might find them both without your
+assistance. It would only require a little more time and a little more
+trouble; but time just now is precious. I have other business which
+demands my attention at the North. Therefore, I say, tell me all that
+you know concerning these two girls&mdash;<i>all</i>, mind. If you omit one
+necessary detail, if you fabricate in one particular, I shall know it.
+Answer all my questions truthfully. I shall only ask such as concern
+your knowledge or connection with this Groveland affair. If you do this,
+you have nothing to fear from me. If you refuse&mdash;you are my <i>prisoner</i>.
+You comprehend me?"</p>
+
+<p>She eyed me skeptically.</p>
+
+<p>"How do I know that you will let me go, after all?" she said.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_364" id="Page_364">[Pg 364]</a></span></p><p>"You have my promise, and I am a man of my word. You are a woman, and I
+don't want to arrest you. If you were a man, I should not offer you a
+chance for escape. Do as I wish and you are free, and if you need
+assistance you shall have it. You must choose at once; time presses."</p>
+
+<p>She hesitated a moment, and then said:</p>
+
+<p>"I may as well tell you about the girls, as you seem to know so much,
+and&mdash;I can't be arrested for that."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_365" id="Page_365">[Pg 365]</a></span></p><p>"Very well! Tell your story, then, truly and without omissions."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXII" id="CHAPTER_XXXII"></a>CHAPTER XXXII.<br />
+<small>AMY HOLMES CONFESSES.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>"You say that you have seen Mamie Rutger at the theater," began the
+unwilling narrator, rather ungraciously, "and so I should think you
+wouldn't need to be told why she ran away from home. She wanted to go on
+the stage, and so did Nellie Ewing. Every country girl in christendom
+wants to be an actress, and if she has a pretty face and a decent voice
+she feels sure that she can succeed. The girls had both been told that
+they were pretty, and they could both sing, so they ran away to come out
+at the Little Adelphi.</p>
+
+<p>"Mamie took to the business like a duck to water. Nellie got sick and
+blue and whimsical, and has not appeared at the theater for several
+weeks. They live at 349 B&mdash;&mdash; place."</p>
+
+<p>I made a careful note of the address, and then said:</p>
+
+<p>"Well, proceed."</p>
+
+<p>"Proceed! what more do you want to know? I have told you why they ran
+away and where to find them."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_366" id="Page_366">[Pg 366]</a></span></p><p>This was too much. My wrath must have manifested itself in face and
+voice, for she winced under my gaze and made no further attempt to
+baffle or evade me.</p>
+
+<p>"I want to know who devised the villainous plot to allure two innocent
+country girls away from home and friends! Who set you on as decoy and
+temptress, and what reward did you receive? There are men or scoundrels
+connected with this affair; who are they; and what means have they used
+to bring about such a misfortune to the girls and their friends? Tell
+the <i>whole</i> truth, and remember what I have said. If you evade, omit,
+equivocate, <i>I shall know it</i>!"</p>
+
+<p>"Will you give me time?" she faltered.</p>
+
+<p>"Not ten minutes. Do you want time to telegraph to Arch Brookhouse? It
+will be useless; he is in the hands of the detectives, and no message
+can reach him."</p>
+
+<p>"What has Arch done?" she cried, excitedly. "He is not the one to be
+blamed."</p>
+
+<p>"He has done enough to put him out of the way of mischief. You have seen
+the last of Arch Brookhouse."</p>
+
+<p>"But Fred is the man who set this thing going!"</p>
+
+<p>"Very likely. And Arch and Louis Brookhouse were the brothers to help
+him. What about Johnny La Porte and Ed. Dwight? You see I know too much.
+There are two officers down-stairs. If you have not finished your story,
+and told it to my satisfaction, before half-past four, I will call them
+up and hand you over to them. It is <i>now</i> ten minutes to four."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_367" id="Page_367">[Pg 367]</a></span></p><p>She favored me with a glance full of impotent hatred, sat quite silent
+for a long moment, during which I sat before her with a careless glance
+fixed on my watch.</p>
+
+<p>Then she began:</p>
+
+<p>"I worked at the Little Adelphi over a year ago. There was a hot rivalry
+between us, the Gayety, and the 'Frolique.' Fred Brookhouse was managing
+alone then; <i>Storms</i>&mdash;only came into partnership in the Spring.</p>
+
+<p>"During the winter the Gayety brought out some new attractions,&mdash;I mean
+new to the profession; no old names that had been billed and billed, but
+young girls with fresh faces and pretty voices. They were new in the
+business, and the 'old stagers,' especially the faded and cracked-voiced
+ones, said that they would fail, they would hurt the business. But the
+managers knew better. They knew that pretty, youthful faces were the
+things most thought of in the varieties. And the 'freshness' of the new
+performers was only another attraction to green-room visitors. Nobody
+knew where these new girls came from, and nobody could find out; but
+they <i>drew</i>, and the Little Adelphi lost customers, who went over to the
+'Gayety.'</p>
+
+<p>"Fred Brookhouse was angry, and he began to study how he should outdo
+the 'Gayety,' and 'put out' the new attractions.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_368" id="Page_368">[Pg 368]</a></span></p><p>"At the carnival season, Arch and Louis Brookhouse came down; and we
+got to be very good friends. Do you mean to use anything that I say to
+make me trouble?" she broke off, abruptly.</p>
+
+<p>"Not if you tell the entire truth and spare nobody."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I will tell it just as it happened. Arch and Fred and I were
+together one day after rehearsal. I was a favorite at the theater, and
+Fred consulted me sometimes. Fred wanted some fresh attractions, and
+wondered how they got the new girls at the 'Gayety.' And I told him that
+I thought they might have been 'recruited.' He did not seem to
+understand, and I explained that there were managers who paid a
+commission to persons who would get them young, pretty, bright girls,
+who could sing a little, for the first part, and for green-room talent.</p>
+
+<p>"I told him that I knew of an old variety actress who went into the
+country for a few weeks in the Summer, and picked up girls for the
+variety business. They were sometimes poor girls who 'worked out,' and
+were glad of a chance to earn an easier living, and sometimes daughters
+of well-to-do people; girls who were romantic or ambitious,
+stage-struck, and easily flattered.</p>
+
+<p>"Fred asked me how I knew all this, and I told him that I was roped into
+the business in just that way."</p>
+
+<p>"Was that true?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_369" id="Page_369">[Pg 369]</a></span></p><p>"Yes; it was true," a dark shade crossing her face. "But never mind me.
+Fred asked me if I knew where to go to find three or four pretty girls.
+He said he did not want '<i>biddies</i>;' they must be young and pretty; must
+be fair singers, and have nice manners. He could get gawks in plenty. He
+wanted lively young girls who would be interesting and attractive. Some
+new idea seemed to strike Arch Brookhouse. He took Fred aside, and
+by-and-by they called Louis, and the three talked a long time.</p>
+
+<p>"The next day, Arch and Louis came to me. They knew where to find just
+the girls that would suit Fred, but it would be some trouble to get
+them. Then they told me all about the Groveland girls; Nellie and her
+sister, Mamie, Grace Ballou and one or two others. Arch knew Nellie and
+Grace. Louis seemed particularly interested in Mamie.</p>
+
+<p>"Fred is a reckless fellow, and he would spend any amount to outdo the
+'Gayety,' and he seemed infatuated with the new scheme for getting
+talent. Besides, he knew that he could pay them what he liked; they
+would not be clamoring for high salaries. He agreed to pay my expenses
+North if I would get the girls for him.</p>
+
+<p>"Arch and Louis went home, and we corresponded about the business.
+Finally, Arch wrote that three of the girls would attend school at
+Amora, the Spring term, and it was settled that I should attend also.</p>
+
+<p>"I rather liked the prospect. Fred fitted me out in good style, and I
+went.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I soon found how to manage the girls. Mamie Rutger was ripe
+for anything new, and she did not like her step-mother. She was easy to
+handle.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_370" id="Page_370">[Pg 370]</a></span></p><p>"Grace was vain and easily influenced. She thought she could run away
+and create a sensation at home, and come back after a while to astonish
+the natives with her success as an actress.</p>
+
+<p>"Nellie Ewing was more difficult to manage, but I found out that she was
+desperately in love with Johnny La Porte. Johnny had begun by being in
+love with Nellie, but her silly devotion had tired him, and besides, he
+is fickle by nature.</p>
+
+<p>"I told Arch that if we got Nellie, it would have to be through La
+Porte. Arch knew how to manage La Porte, who was vain, and prided
+himself upon being a 'masher.' He thought to be mixed up in a
+sensational love affair, would add to his fame as a dangerous fellow. He
+sang a good tenor, and often sang duets with Nellie.</p>
+
+<p>"Louis Brookhouse had a chum named Ed. Dwight; Ed. had been, or claimed
+to have been, a song and dance man. <i>I</i> don't think he was ever anything
+more than an amateur, but he was perpetually dancing jigs, and singing
+comic songs, and went crazy over a minstrel show.</p>
+
+<p>"Louis used to take Grace out for an occasional drive, and one day he
+introduced Ed. to Mamie.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_371" id="Page_371">[Pg 371]</a></span></p><p>"After a time, Arch and Louis thought they could better their original
+plan. Arch is a shrewd fellow, with a strong will, and he could just
+wind Johnny La Porte around his finger. Johnny took him for a model, for
+Arch was a stylish fellow, who knew all the ropes, and had seen a deal
+of the world; and Johnny, while he had been a sort of prince among the
+Grovelanders, had never had a taste of town life.</p>
+
+<p>"Arch managed Johnny, and <i>he</i> managed Nellie Ewing."</p>
+
+<p>She paused, and something in her face made me say, sternly:</p>
+
+<p>"How did Johnny La Porte manage Nellie Ewing?" and then I glanced
+ominously at my watch, which I still held in my hand.</p>
+
+<p>She moved uneasily, and averted her eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"Nellie was conscientious," she resumed, reluctantly. "She had all sorts
+of scruples. But Johnny told her that he was to go South and study law
+with his mother's cousin, who lived in New Orleans. He said that he
+dared not marry until he had finished his studies, but if she would
+marry him privately, and keep the marriage a secret, she could go South
+and they would not be separated.</p>
+
+<p>"She agreed to this, and the ceremony was performed. After it was over,
+he told her that he had just discovered that he would be subject to
+arrest under some new marriage law, and that they would be separated if
+it became known.</p>
+
+<p>"And then he persuaded her to come here before him and work at the
+Little Adelphi; telling her that if her father found her there they
+would not suspect him, and as soon as his studies were over he would
+claim her openly."</p>
+
+<p>Again she hesitated.</p>
+
+<p>"And was this precious programme carried out?" I demanded.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_372" id="Page_372">[Pg 372]</a></span></p><p>"Yes. It was a long time before Nellie consented, but a little cool
+treatment from Johnny brought her to terms. She got away very nicely. I
+presume you know something about that."</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind what I know. How did she get rid of her horse after leaving
+Mrs. Ballou's house?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not far from Mrs. Ballou's there is a small piece of timber. Johnny was
+there with his team and he had a fellow with him who took charge of the
+pony. Johnny drove Nellie ten miles towards Amora, driving at full
+speed. There Ed. Dwight, with his machine wagon, waited, and Nellie was
+taken by Ed. into Amora. On the way she put on some black clothes and a
+big black veil. At Amora, Louis Brookhouse was waiting. They got there
+just in time to catch the midnight express, and were almost at their
+journey's end before Nellie was missed."</p>
+
+<p>"Stop. You have said that Nellie Ewing has not been at the theater of
+late; has been blue, and ill. What has caused all this?"</p>
+
+<p>She colored hotly, and a frightened look crept into her eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"You are not to hold me to blame?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not if you answer me truly."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_373" id="Page_373">[Pg 373]</a></span></p><p>"One night I had come home from the theater with Nellie, and she began
+crying because Johnny did not come as he had promised, and did not write
+often enough. I was tired and cross, and I suppose I had taken too much
+wine. I forgot myself, and told her that Johnny had hired a man to
+personate a parson, and that she was not married at all. She broke down
+entirely after that."</p>
+
+<p>I sprang to my feet, for the moment forgetting that the creature before
+me was a woman. I wanted to take her by the throat and fling her from
+the window.</p>
+
+<p>"Go on!" I almost shouted. "Go on; my patience is nearly exhausted. Is
+Nellie Ewing seriously ill?"</p>
+
+<p>"She is fretting and pining; she thinks she is dying, and she loves
+Johnny La Porte as much as ever."</p>
+
+<p>"And Mamie Rutger?"</p>
+
+<p>"She was glad to run away. One evening when every body about the farm
+was busy, she waited at the front gate for Ed. Dwight. People were used
+to the sight of his covered wagon, and it was the last thing to suspect.
+But Mamie Rutger went from her father's gate in that wagon, and she and
+Dwight drove boldly to Sharon, and both took the midnight train as the
+others did at Amora.</p>
+
+<p>"Ed. only went a short distance with Mamie; he came back the next
+morning. Mamie was plucky enough to come on alone."</p>
+
+<p>"And then you and Grace Ballou tried to elope?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_374" id="Page_374">[Pg 374]</a></span></p><p>"Well, I won't trouble you to tell you that story. I know all about it.
+Now, listen to me. I have registered you here as my sister, and you are
+going to stay here for one week a prisoner. You are to speak to no one,
+write to no one. You will be constantly watched, and if you attempt to
+disobey me you know the consequences. As soon as Mr. Rutger and 'Squire
+Ewing arrive I will set you at liberty, and no one shall harm you; but
+until then you must remain in your own room, and see no one except in my
+presence."</p>
+
+<p>"But you promised&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"I shall keep my promise, but choose my own time."</p>
+
+<p>"But the theater&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"You can write them a note stating that you are going to leave the city
+for a little recreation. You may send a similar note to Mamie and
+Nellie."</p>
+
+<p>"You are not treating me fairly."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_375" id="Page_375">[Pg 375]</a></span></p><p>"I am treating you better than you deserve. Did you deal fairly at
+Amora and Groveland? If I were not morally sure that such crimes as
+yours must be punished sooner or later, I should not dare set you free."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXXIII.<br />
+<small>JOHNNY LA PORTE IS BROUGHT TO BOOK.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>That is how Miss Amy Holmes was brought to judgment. I had managed her
+by stratagem, and extracted the truth from her under false pretenses.
+The weapon that I brandished above her head was a reed of straws, but it
+sufficed. My pretended knowledge of her past history had served my
+purpose.</p>
+
+<p>What her secret really was, and is, I neither know nor care. She is a
+woman, and when a woman has stepped down from her pedestal the world is
+all against her. The law may safely trust such sinners and their
+punishment to Dame Nature, who never errs, and never forgives, and to
+Time, who is the sternest of all avengers.</p>
+
+<p>After hearing her story, I sent my second telegram to you, and then my
+third; and after assuring myself that the girl had told the truth
+concerning Nellie Ewing, I telegraphed to the office, giving the hints
+which Wyman acted on.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_376" id="Page_376">[Pg 376]</a></span></p><p>I should not have liked Wyman's task of going to those two honest
+farmers and telling them the truth concerning their daughters; but I
+should not have been averse to the other work.</p>
+
+<p>I can imagine Johnny La Porte, under the impression that he was
+preparing for a day's lark, oiling his curly locks, scenting his pocket
+handkerchief, and driving Wyman, in whom he thought he had found a boon
+companion, to Sharon, actually flying into the arms of the avengers, at
+the heels of his own roadsters. I should have driven over that ten miles
+of country road, had I been in Wyman's place, bursting with glee,
+growing fat on the stupidity of the sleek idiot at my side.</p>
+
+<p>But Wyman is a modest fellow, and given to seeing only the severe side
+of things, and he says there is no glory in trapping a fool. Possibly he
+is right.</p>
+
+<p>I should like to have seen Johnny La Porte when he was brought,
+unexpectedly, before 'Squire Ewing and Farmer Rutger, to be charged with
+his villainy, and offered one chance for his life. He had heard the
+Grovelanders talk, and he knew that the despoilers of those two
+Groveland homes had been dedicated to Judge Lynch.</p>
+
+<p>Small wonder that he was terror-stricken before these two fathers, and
+that under the lash of Wyman's eloquence he already felt the cord
+tightening about his throat.</p>
+
+<p>I don't wonder that he whined and grovelled and submitted, abjectly, to
+their demands. But I do wonder that those two fathers could let him out
+of their hands alive; and I experienced a thrill of ecstasy when I
+learned that Wyman kicked him three times, with stout boots!</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_377" id="Page_377">[Pg 377]</a></span></p><p>That must have been an unpleasant journey to New Orleans. The two
+farmers, stern, silent, heavy of heart, and filled with anxiety. La
+Porte, who was taken in hand by Wyman, writhing under the torments of
+his own conscience and his own terror, and compelled to submit to his
+guardian's frequent tirades of scorn and contempt, treated, for the
+first time in his life, like the poltroon he was.</p>
+
+<p>I found the two girls at the address given by Amy Holmes; and, more to
+spare the two farmers the sight of her, than for her sake, I did not
+compel her to repeat her story in their presence, but related it myself
+instead.</p>
+
+<p>It's not worth while to attempt a description of the meeting between the
+two girls and their parents. Mamie was, at first, inclined to rebel; but
+Nellie Ewing broke down completely, and begged to be taken home. She was
+pale and emaciated, a sad and pitiful creature. Her father was overcome
+with grief at sight of the change in her. He could not trust himself to
+speak to her of Johnny La Porte; and so&mdash;what a Jack of all trades a
+detective is&mdash;he called me from the room and delegated to me the
+unpleasant task.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_378" id="Page_378">[Pg 378]</a></span></p><p>I did it as well as I could. I told her as gently as possible that
+Johnny La Porte was in New Orleans, and asked if she wanted to see him.
+She cried for joy, poor child, and begged me to send for him at once.
+And then I told her why we had brought him; he was prepared to make what
+reparation he could. Did she wish him to make her his wife? She
+interrupted me with a joyful cry.</p>
+
+<p>"Would he do that? Oh, then she could go home and die happy."</p>
+
+<p>In that moment I made a mental vow that this dying girl, if she could be
+made any happier by it, should have not only the name of the young
+scoundrel she so foolishly loved, but his care and companionship as
+well.</p>
+
+<p>I assured her that he was ready to make her his lawful wife, but could
+not tell her that he did it under compulsion.</p>
+
+<p>After a long talk with 'Squire Ewing, during which I persuaded him to
+think first of his daughter's needs, and to make such use of Johnny La
+Porte as would best serve her, I went back to the hotel, where we had
+left the young scamp in charge of Wyman, and a little later in the day
+the ceremony was performed which made Johnny La Porte the husband of the
+girl he had sought to ruin.</p>
+
+<p>Not long after this I invited the young man to a <i>t�te-�-t�te</i>, and he
+followed me somewhat ungraciously into a room adjoining that in which
+his new wife lay.</p>
+
+<p>"Sit down," I said, curtly, motioning him to a chair opposite the one in
+which I seated myself. "Sit down. I want to give you a little advice
+concerning your future conduct."</p>
+
+<p>He threw back his head defiantly; evidently he believed that he was now
+secure from further annoyance, and no longer within reach of law and
+justice.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_379" id="Page_379">[Pg 379]</a></span></p><p>"I don't need your advice," he said, pettishly. "I have done all that
+you, or any one else, can require of me."</p>
+
+<p>"Mistaken youth, your conformity with my wishes is but now begun."</p>
+
+<p>"You can't bully me, now," he retorted. "I have married the girl, and
+that's enough."</p>
+
+<p>"It is <i>not</i> enough! it is not all that you will do."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a liar."</p>
+
+<p>I took him by the shoulders, and lifting him fairly off his feet shook
+him as a terrier shakes a rat. Then I popped him down upon the chair he
+had refused to occupy, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"There, you impudent little dunce, if you want to call me any more
+names, don't hesitate. Now, hear me; you will do <i>precisely</i> what I bid
+you, now, and hereafter, or you will exchange that smart plaid suit for
+one adorned with horizontal stripes, and I'll have that curly pate of
+yours as bare as a cocoanut."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus031.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus031.jpg" width="400" height="535" alt="&quot;I took him by the shoulders, and lifting him fairly off
+his feet shook him as a terrier shakes a rat.&quot;&mdash;page 379." title="&quot;I took him by the shoulders, and lifting him fairly off
+his feet shook him as a terrier shakes a rat.&quot;&mdash;page 379." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;I took him by the shoulders, and lifting him fairly off
+his feet shook him as a terrier shakes a rat.&quot;&mdash;page 379.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>"The law,"&mdash;he began.</p>
+
+<p>"The <i>law</i> may permit you to break the marriage vow you have just taken,
+but <i>I</i> will not."</p>
+
+<p>"You?" incredulously.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, <i>I</i>," I retorted, firmly. "The law of this mighty country, made by
+very wise men, and enacted by very great fools, is a wondrous vixen. You
+have stolen 'Squire Ewing's daughter, and for that the law permits you
+to go unhung. You have stolen 'Squire Ewing's horse, and for that, the
+law will put you in the State's prison."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_380" id="Page_380">[Pg 380]</a></span></p><p>"His horse&mdash;I!&mdash;" the poor wretch gasped, helplessly.</p>
+
+<p>"Exactly. The horse! and you! You see, the daughter has been found, but
+the horse has <i>not</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"But&mdash;I can prove&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"You can prove nothing. I know all about the affair. <i>You</i> carried
+Nellie Ewing away in your own carriage. <i>You</i> handed her pony over to an
+accomplice. I have, at my finger's ends, testimony enough to condemn you
+before any jury, and the only thing that can save you from the fate of a
+common horse-thief, is&mdash;your own good behavior."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want?" he said, abjectly.</p>
+
+<p>"I <i>want</i> to see you hung as high as Haman. But that poor girl in the
+next room wants something different, and I yield my wishes to hers. She
+is so foolish as to value your miserable existence, and so I give you
+this one chance. Go home with your wife, not to your home, but hers, and
+remain there so long as she needs or wants you. Treat her with
+tenderness, serve her like a slave, and try thus to atone for some of
+your past villainy. Quit your old associates, be as decent and dutiful
+as the evil within will let you. So long as I hear no complaint, so long
+as your wife is made happy, you are safe. Commit one act of cruelty,
+unkindness, or neglect, and your fate is sealed. And, remember this, if
+you attempt to run away, I will bring you back, if I have to bring you
+dead."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_383" id="Page_383">[Pg 383]</a></span></p><p>He whined, he blustered, he writhed like a cur under the lash. But he
+was conquered. 'Squire Ewing behaved most judiciously. Poor Nellie was
+foolishly happy. Mamie Rutger, too, became our ally, and, after a time,
+La Porte, who loved his ease above all things, seemed resigned, or
+resolved to make the best of the situation. I think, too, that he was,
+in his way, fond of his poor little wife. Perhaps his conscience
+troubled him, for when a physician was called in by the anxious father,
+her case was pronounced serious, and the chances for her recovery less
+than three in ten. The physician advised them to take her North at once,
+and they hastened to obey his instructions.</p>
+
+<p>Our next care was to quiet Fred Brookhouse, for the present, and punish
+him, as much as might be, for the future.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, Brookhouse was arrested, on a trumped-up charge, and locked
+up in the city jail, and then Wyman and myself gave to the Chief of
+police and the Mayor of the city, a detailed account of his scheme to
+provide attractions for his theater, and took other measures to insure
+for the Little Adelphi a closer surveillance than would be at all
+comfortable or welcome to the enterprising manager.</p>
+
+<p>Brookhouse was held in jail until we were out of the city, and far on
+our way Northward, thus insuring us against the possibility of his
+telegraphing the alarm to any one who might communicate it to Arch, or
+Ed. Dwight, and then, there being no one to appear against him, at the
+proper time, he was released.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_384" id="Page_384">[Pg 384]</a></span></p><p>Amy Holmes remained a prisoner at the hotel, conducting herself quite
+properly during the time of her compulsory sojourn there; and on the day
+of our departure I paid her a sum equivalent to the week's salary she
+had lost, and bade her go her way, having first obtained her promise
+that she would not communicate with any of her accomplices; a promise
+which I took good care to convince her it would be safest to keep.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_385" id="Page_385">[Pg 385]</a></span></p><p>She was not permitted to see either Mamie or Nellie, and she had no
+desire to see the other members of the homeward-bound party. And thus
+ended our case in New Orleans.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXXIV.<br />
+<small>HOW BETHEL WAS WARNED.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>While Carnes was solving the Groveland problem, in that far-away
+Southern city, we, who were in Trafton, were living through a long, dull
+week of waiting.</p>
+
+<p>There were two dreary days of suspense, during which Carl Bethel and Dr.
+Denham wrestled with the deadly fever fiend, the one unconsciously, the
+other despairingly. But when the combat was over, the doctor stood at
+his post triumphant, and "Death, the Terrible," went away from the
+cottage without a victim.</p>
+
+<p>Then I began to importune the good doctor.</p>
+
+<p>"When would Bethel be able to talk? at least to answer questions? For it
+was important that I should ask, and that he should answer <i>one</i> at
+least."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_386" id="Page_386">[Pg 386]</a></span></p><p>I received the reward I might have expected had I been wise. "Our old
+woman" turned upon me with a tirade of whimsical wrath, that was a
+mixture of sham and real, and literally turned me out of doors, banished
+me three whole days from the sick room; and so great was his ascendancy
+over Jim Long, that even he refused to listen to my plea for admittance,
+and kept me at a distance, with grim good nature.</p>
+
+<p>At last, however, the day came when "our old woman" signified his
+willingness to allow me an interview, stipulating, however, that it must
+be very brief and in his presence.</p>
+
+<p>"Bethel is better," he said, eyeing me severely, "but he can't bear
+excitement. If you think you <i>must</i> interview him, I suppose you must,
+but mind, <i>I</i> think it's all bosh. Detectives are a miserable tribe
+through and through. Is not that so, Long?"</p>
+
+<p>And Jim, who was present on this occasion, solemnly agreed with him.</p>
+
+<p>And so the day came when I sat by Bethel's bedside and held his weak,
+nerveless hand in my own, while I looked regretfully at the pallid face,
+and into the eyes darkened and made hollow by pain.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus032.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus032.jpg" width="400" height="585" alt="&quot;And so the day came when I sat by Bethel&#39;s bedside and
+held his weak, nerveless hand in my own.&quot;&mdash;page 386." title="&quot;And so the day came when I sat by Bethel&#39;s bedside and
+held his weak, nerveless hand in my own.&quot;&mdash;page 386." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;And so the day came when I sat by Bethel&#39;s bedside and
+held his weak, nerveless hand in my own.&quot;&mdash;page 386.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>The weak hand gave mine a friendly but feeble pressure. The pale lips
+smiled with their old cordial friendliness, the eyes brightened, as he
+said:</p>
+
+<p>"Louise has told me how good you have been, you and Long."</p>
+
+<p>"Stuff," interrupted Dr. Denham. "<i>He</i> good, indeed; stuff! stuff! Now,
+look here, young man, you can talk with my patient just five minutes,
+then&mdash;out you go."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_389" id="Page_389">[Pg 389]</a></span></p><p>"Very well," I retorted, "then see that you don't monopolize four
+minutes out of the five. Bethel, you may not be aware of it, but, that
+cross old gentleman and myself are old acquaintances, and, I'll tell you
+a secret, we, that is myself and some friends,&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"A rascally lot," broke in the old doctor, "a <i>rascally</i> lot!"</p>
+
+<p>"We call him," I persisted, "our old woman!"</p>
+
+<p>"Humph!" sniffed the old gentleman, "upstarts! 'old woman,' indeed!"</p>
+
+<p>But it was evident that he was not displeased with his nickname in the
+possessive case.</p>
+
+<p>We had judged it best to withhold the facts concerning our recent
+discoveries, especially those relating to his would-be assassin, from
+Bethel, until he should be better able to bear excitement. And so, after
+I had finished my tilt with the old doctor, and expressed my regret for
+Bethel's calamity, and my joy at his prospective recovery, I said:</p>
+
+<p>"I have been forbidden the house, Bethel, by your two dragons here, and
+now, I am only permitted a few moments' talk with you. So I shall be
+obliged to skip the details; you shall have them all soon, however. But
+I will tell you something. We are having things investigated here, and,
+for the benefit of a certain detective, I want you to answer me a
+question. You possess some professional knowledge which may help to
+solve a riddle."</p>
+
+<p>"What is your question?" he whispers, with a touch of his natural
+decisiveness.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_390" id="Page_390">[Pg 390]</a></span></p><p>"One night, nearly two weeks ago," I began, "you and I were about to
+renew an interview, which had been interrupted, when the second
+interruption came in the shape of a call, from 'Squire Brookhouse, who
+asked you to accompany him home, and attend to his son, who, so he said,
+had received some sort of injury."</p>
+
+<p>"I remember."</p>
+
+<p>"Was your patient Louis Brookhouse?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you dress a wound for him?"</p>
+
+<p>He looked at me wonderingly and was silent.</p>
+
+<p>"Bethel, I am tracing a crime; if your professional scruples will not
+permit you to answer me, I must find out by other means what you can
+easily tell me. But to resort to other measures will consume time that
+is most valuable, and might arouse the suspicions of guilty parties. You
+can tell me all that I wish to learn by answering my question with a
+simple 'Yes,' or 'No.'"</p>
+
+<p>While Bethel continued to gaze wonderingly, my recent antagonist came to
+my assistance.</p>
+
+<p>"You may as well answer him, boy," "our old woman" said. "If you don't,
+some day he'll be accusing you of ingratitude. And then this is one of
+the very <i>rare</i> instances when the scamp may put his knowledge to good
+use."</p>
+
+<p>Bethel looked from the doctor's face to mine, and smiled faintly.</p>
+
+<p>"I am overpowered by numbers," he said; "put your questions, then."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you dress a wound for Louis Brookhouse?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_391" id="Page_391">[Pg 391]</a></span></p><p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"A wound in the leg?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, the right leg."</p>
+
+<p>"Was it a bullet wound?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you extract the ball?"</p>
+
+<p>"I did."</p>
+
+<p>"Who has it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I. Nobody seemed to notice it. I put it in my pocket."</p>
+
+<p>"Brookhouse said that his wound was caused by an accident, I suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, an accidental discharge of his own pistol."</p>
+
+<p>"Some one had tried to dress the wound, had they not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it had been sponged and&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"And bound with a fine cambric handkerchief," I interrupted.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," with a stare of surprise, "so it was."</p>
+
+<p>"How old was the wound, when you saw it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-four hours, at least."</p>
+
+<p>"Was it serious?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; only a flesh wound, but a deep one. He had ought to be out by this
+time."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you show me the bullet, sometime, if I wish to see it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_392" id="Page_392">[Pg 392]</a></span></p><p>My five minutes had already passed, but "our old woman" sat with a look
+of puzzled interest on his face, and as Bethel was quite calm, though
+none the less mystified, I took advantage of the situation, and hurried
+on.</p>
+
+<p>"Bethel, I want to ask you something concerning your own hurt, now. Will
+it disturb or excite you to answer?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; it might relieve me."</p>
+
+<p>"This time I <i>will</i> save you words. On the night when you received your
+wound, you were sitting by your table, reading by the light of the
+student's lamp, and smoking luxuriously; the door was shut, but the
+front window was open."</p>
+
+<p>"True!" with a look of deepening amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"You heard the sound of wheels on the gravel outside, and then some one
+called your name."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" a new look creeping into his eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"When you opened the door and looked out, could you catch a glimpse of
+the man who shot at you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," slowly, as if thinking.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you any reason for suspecting any one? Can you guess at a motive?"</p>
+
+<p>"Wait;" he turned his head restlessly, seemingly in the effort to
+remember something, and then looked toward Dr. Denham.</p>
+
+<p>"In my desk," he said, slowly, "among some loose letters, is a yellow
+envelope, bearing the Trafton post-mark. Will you find it?"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_393" id="Page_393">[Pg 393]</a></span></p><p>Dr. Denham went to the desk, and I sat silently waiting. Bethel was
+evidently thinking.</p>
+
+<p>"I received it," he said, after a moment of silence, disturbed only by
+the rustling of papers, as the old doctor searched the desk, "I received
+it two days after the search for little Effie Beale. I made up my mind
+then that I would have a detective, whom I could rely upon, here in
+Trafton. And then Dr. Barnard was taken ill. After that I waited&mdash;have
+you found it?"</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Denham stood beside me with a letter in his hand, which Bethel, by a
+sign, bade him give to me.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you wish me to read it?" I asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>I glanced at the envelope and almost bounded from my seat. Then,
+withdrawing the letter with nervous haste, I opened it.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot"><i>Dr. Bethel. If that is your name, you are not welcome in
+Trafton. If you stay here three days longer, it will be</i> <span class="smcap">at
+your own risk</span>.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot right">
+<i>No resurrectionists.</i><br />
+</p>
+
+<p>I flushed with excitement; I almost laughed with delight. I got up,
+turned around, and sat down again. I wanted to dance, to shout, to
+embrace the dear old doctor.</p>
+
+<p>I held in my hand a <i>printed warning</i>, every letter the counterpart of
+those used in the anonymous letter sent to "Chris Oleson" at Mrs.
+Ballou's! It was a similar warning, written by the same hand. Was the
+man who had given me that pistol wound really in Trafton? or&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_394" id="Page_394">[Pg 394]</a></span></p><p>I looked up; the patient on the bed, and the old doctor beside me, were
+both gazing at my tell-tale countenance, and looking expectant and
+eager.</p>
+
+<p>"Doctor," I said, turning to "our old woman," "you remember the day I
+came to you with my wounded arm?"</p>
+
+<p>"Umph! Of course."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, shortly before getting that wound I received just such a thing as
+this," striking the letter with my forefinger, "a warning from the same
+hand. And now I am going to find the man who shot <i>me</i>, who shot
+<i>Bethel</i>, and who robbed the grave of little Effie Beale, here, in
+Trafton, and <i>very soon</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it? I don't understand," began Bethel.</p>
+
+<p>But the doctor interposed.</p>
+
+<p>"This must be stopped. Bethel, you shan't hear explanations now, and you
+<i>shall</i> go to sleep. Bathurst, how dare you excite my patient! Get out."</p>
+
+<p>"I will," I said, rising. "I must keep this letter, Bethel, and I will
+tell you all about it soon; have patience."</p>
+
+<p>Bethel turned his eyes toward the doctor, and said, eagerly:</p>
+
+<p>"Why did you call him <i>Bathurst</i>?"</p>
+
+<p>"Did I?" said the old man, testily. "It was a slip of the tongue."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_395" id="Page_395">[Pg 395]</a></span></p><p>The patient turned his head and looked from one to the other, eagerly.
+Then he addressed me:</p>
+
+<p>"If you will answer me one question, I promise not to ask another until
+you are prepared to explain."</p>
+
+<p>"Ask it," I replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Are <i>you</i> a detective?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_396" id="Page_396">[Pg 396]</a></span></p><p>"Thank you," closing his eyes, as if weary. "I am quite content to
+wait. Thank you."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXV" id="CHAPTER_XXXV"></a>CHAPTER XXXV.<br />
+<small>WE PREPARE FOR A "PARTY."</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>My first movement, after having made the discovery chronicled in the
+last chapter, was to go to the telegraph office and send the following
+despatch:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot">Arrest Blake Simpson instantly, on charge of attempted
+assassination. Don't allow him to communicate with any one.</p>
+
+<p>This message was sent to the Agency, and then I turned my attention to
+other matters, satisfied that Blake, at least, would be properly
+attended to.</p>
+
+<p>Early the following morning Gerry Brown presented himself at the door of
+my room, to communicate to me something that instantly roused me to
+action.</p>
+
+<p>At midnight, or a little later, Mr. Arch Brookhouse had dropped in at
+the telegraph office; he was in evening dress, and he managed to convey
+to Gerry in a careless fashion the information that he, Arch, had been
+enjoying himself at a small social gathering, and on starting for home
+had bethought himself of a message to be sent to a friend. Then he had
+dashed off the following:</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot"><span class="smcap">Ed. Dwight</span>, Amora, etc.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_397" id="Page_397">[Pg 397]</a></span></p><p class="blockquot">Be ready for the party at The Corners to-morrow eve. Notify
+Lark. B.&mdash;&mdash; will join you at Amora.</p>
+
+<p class="blockquot right">A. B.</p>
+
+<p>"There," he had said, as he pushed the message toward the seemingly
+sleepy operator, "I hope he will get that in time, as I send it in
+behalf of a lady. Dwight's always in demand for parties."</p>
+
+<p>Then, with a condescending smile as he drew on his right glove, "Know
+anybody at Amora?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," responded Gerry, with a yawn, "nor anywhere else on this blasted
+line; wish they had sent me East."</p>
+
+<p>"You must get acquainted," said the gracious young nabob. "I'll try and
+get you an invitation to the next social party; should be happy to
+introduce you."</p>
+
+<p>And then, as Gerry was too sleepy to properly appreciate his
+condescension, he had taken himself away.</p>
+
+<p>"Gerry," I said, after pondering for some moments over the message he
+had copied for my benefit, "I'm inclined to think that this means
+business. You had better sleep short and sound this morning, and be on
+hand at the office as early as twelve o'clock. I think you will be
+relieved from this sort of duty soon, and as for Mr. Brookhouse, perhaps
+you may be able to attend this 'party' in question, even without his
+valuable patronage."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_398" id="Page_398">[Pg 398]</a></span></p><p>After this I went in search of Jim Long. I found him at Bethel's
+cottage, and in open defiance of "our old woman," led him away where we
+could converse without audience or interruption. Then I put the telegram
+in his hand, telling him how it had been sent, much as Gerry had told
+the same to me.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you make of it?" asked Jim, as he slowly folded the slip of
+paper and put it in my hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I may be amiss in my interpretation, but it seems to me that we
+had better be awake to-night. The moon has waned; it will be very dark
+at ten o'clock. I fancy that <i>we</i> may be wise if we prepare for this
+party. I don't know who B&mdash;&mdash; may stand for, but there is, at Clyde, a
+man, who is a friend of Dwight's, and whose name is <i>Larkins</i>."</p>
+
+<p>"Larkins! To be sure; the man is often in Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>"Exactly. He appears like a good-natured rustic, but he is a good judge
+of a horse. Do you know of a place in this vicinity called The Corners?"</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you are probably aware that the south road forks, just two miles
+north of Clyde, and that the road running east goes to the river, and
+the coal beds. It would not be a long drive from Amora to these corners,
+and Larkins is only two miles off from them. Both Dwight and Larkins own
+good teams."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, in a tone which conveyed a world of meaning. "Ah,
+yes!" Then after a moment's silence, and looking me squarely in the
+face, "what do you want me to do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Our movements must be regulated by theirs. We must see Warren and all
+the others."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_399" id="Page_399">[Pg 399]</a></span></p><p>"All?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, all. It will not be child's play. I think Mr. Warren is the man to
+lead one party, for there must be two. I, myself, will manage the other.
+As for you and Gerry&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Gerry?" inquiringly.</p>
+
+<p>"Gerald Brown, our night operator. You will find him equal to most
+emergencies, I think."</p>
+
+<p>"And what are we to do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Some special business which will depend on circumstances. We must
+capture the gang outside of the town, if possible, and the farther away
+the better."</p>
+
+<p>"But&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Wait. There are others who must not take the alarm too soon."</p>
+
+<p>"They will ride fleet horses; remember that."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_400" id="Page_400">[Pg 400]</a></span></p><p>"Long," I said, earnestly, "we won't let them escape us. If they ride,
+we will pounce upon them at the very outset. But if my theory, which has
+thus far proven itself correct, holds good to the end <i>they will not
+ride</i>."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXXVI.<br />
+<small>SOMETHING THE MOON FAILED TO SEE.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>It has come at last; that night, almost the last in August, which I and
+others, with varying motives and interests, have so anxiously looked
+forward to.</p>
+
+<p>It has come, and the moon, so lately banished from the heavens, had she
+been in a position to overlook the earth, would have witnessed some
+sights unusual to Trafton at the hour of eleven <span class="smcap">P. M.</span></p>
+
+<p>A little more than a mile from Trafton, at a point where the first mile
+section crosses the south road, not far from the Brookhouse dwelling,
+there is a little gathering of mounted men. They are seven in number;
+all silent, all cautious, all stern of feature. They have drawn their
+horses far into the gloom of the hedge that grows tall on either side,
+all save one man, and he stands in the very center of the road, looking
+intently north and skyward.</p>
+
+<p>Farther away, midway between Trafton and Clyde, six other horsemen are
+riding southward at an easy pace.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_401" id="Page_401">[Pg 401]</a></span></p><p>These, too, are very quiet, and a little light would reveal the earnest
+faces of Messrs. Warren, Harding, Benner, Booth, Jaeger and Meacham; the
+last mentioned being the owner of the recently stolen matched sorrels,
+and the others being the most prominent and reliable of the Trafton
+vigilants.</p>
+
+<p>A close inspection would develop the fact that this moving band of men,
+as well as the party whose present mission seems "only to stand and
+wait," is well armed and strongly mounted.</p>
+
+<p>The Hill, Miss Manvers' luxurious residence, stands, as its name
+indicates, on an elevation of ground, at the extreme northern boundary
+of Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>It stands quite alone, this abode of the treasure-ship heiress, having
+no neighbors on either hand for a distance of more than a quarter of a
+mile.</p>
+
+<p>The road leading up the hill from the heart of Trafton, is bordered on
+either side by a row of shade trees, large and leafy. All about the
+house the shrubbery is dense, and the avenue, leading up from the road,
+and past the dwelling, to the barns and outhouses, is transformed, by
+two thickly-set rows of poplars into a vault of inky blackness.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_402" id="Page_402">[Pg 402]</a></span></p><p>To-night, if the moon were abroad, she might note that the fine
+roadster driven by Arch Brookhouse had stood all the evening at the
+roadside gate at the foot of the dark avenue of poplars, and, by peeping
+through the open windows, she would see that Arch Brookhouse himself
+sits in the handsome parlor with the heiress, who is looking pale and
+dissatisfied, and who speaks short and seldom, opposite him.</p>
+
+<p>The lady moon might also note that the new telegraph operator is not at
+his post, in the little office, at eleven o'clock <span class="smcap">P. M.</span> But then, were
+the fair orb of night actually out, and taking observations, these
+singular phenomena might not occur.</p>
+
+<p>At half-past ten, on "this night of nights," three shadows steal through
+the darkness, moving northward toward the Hill.</p>
+
+<p>At a point midway between the town proper and the mansion beyond, is a
+junction of the roads; and here, at the four corners, the three shadows
+pause and separate.</p>
+
+<p>Two continue their silent march northward, and the third vanishes among
+the sheltering, low-bending branches of a gnarled old tree that
+overhangs the road, and marks the northwestern corner.</p>
+
+<p>At twenty minutes to eleven Arch Brookhouse takes leave of the
+treasure-ship heiress, and comes out into the darkness striding down the
+avenue like a man accustomed to the road. He unties the waiting horse
+which paws the ground impatiently, yet stands, obedient to his low
+command, turns the head of the beast southward, seats himself in the
+light buggy, lights a cigar, and then sits silently smoking, and
+waiting,&mdash;for what?</p>
+
+<p>The dull red spark at the end of his cigar shines through the dark; the
+horse turns his head and chafes to be away, but the smoker sits there,
+moveless and silent.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_403" id="Page_403">[Pg 403]</a></span></p><p>Presently there comes a sound, slight but distinct; the crackling of a
+twig beneath a man's boot, and almost at the same instant the last light
+disappears from the windows of the "Hill House."</p>
+
+<p>One, two, three. Three dark forms approach, one after the other, each
+pauses for an instant beside the light buggy, and seems to look up to
+the dull red spark, which is all of Arch Brookhouse that is clearly
+visible through the dark. Then they enter the gate and are swallowed up
+in the blackness of the avenue.</p>
+
+<p>And now, a fourth form moves stealthily down the avenue after the
+others. It does not come from without the grounds, it starts out from
+the shrubbery within, and it is unseen by Arch Brookhouse.</p>
+
+<p>How still the night is! The man who follows after the three first comers
+can almost hear his pulses throb, or so he fancies.</p>
+
+<p>Presently the three men pause before the door of the barn, and one of
+them takes from his pocket a key, with which he unlocks the door, and
+they enter.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as they are inside, a lantern is lighted, and the three men move
+together toward the rear of the barn, the part against which is piled a
+monstrous stack of hay.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile the watcher outside glides close to the wall of the building,
+listening here and there, as he, too, approaches the huge hay pile.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_404" id="Page_404">[Pg 404]</a></span></p><p>And now he does a queer thing. He begins to pull away handfuls of hay
+from the bottom of the stack, where it is piled against the barn. He
+works noiselessly, and very soon has made an opening, into which he
+crawls. Evidently this mine has been worked before, for there is a long
+tunnel through the hay, penetrating to the middle of the stack. Here the
+watcher peeps through two small holes, newly drilled in the thick boards
+of the barn. And then a smile of triumph rests upon his face.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus033.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus033.jpg" width="400" height="580" alt="&quot;He works noiselessly, and very soon has made an opening,
+into which he crawls.&quot;&mdash;page 404." title="&quot;He works noiselessly, and very soon has made an opening,
+into which he crawls.&quot;&mdash;page 404." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;He works noiselessly, and very soon has made an opening,
+into which he crawls.&quot;&mdash;page 404.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>He sees a compartment that, owing to the arrangement of the hay against
+the rear wall, is in the very heart of the barn, shut from the gaze of
+curious eyes. On either side is a division, which our spy knows to
+contain a store of grain piled high, and acting as a complete
+non-conductor of sound. In front is a small room hung about with
+harness, and opening into a carriage room. The place is completely
+hidden from the ordinary gaze, and only a very inquiring mind would have
+fathomed its secret.</p>
+
+<p>The spy, who is peering in from his vantage ground among the hay, <i>has</i>
+fathomed the secret. And he now sees within six horses&mdash;two bay Morgans,
+two roans, and two sorrels.</p>
+
+<p>The three men are there, too, busily harnessing the six horses. They are
+working rapidly and silently.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_407" id="Page_407">[Pg 407]</a></span></p><p>The watcher lingers just long enough to see that the harness looks
+new and that it is of the sort generally used for draft horses, and then
+he executes a retreat, more difficult than his entrance, inasmuch as he
+can not turn in his hay tunnel, but must withdraw by a series of
+retrograde movements more laborious than graceful.</p>
+
+<p>A moment more, and from among the poplars and evergreens a light goes
+shooting up, high and bright against the sky; a long, red ribbon of
+fire, that says to those who can read the sign,</p>
+
+<p>"The Trafton horse-thieves are about to move with their long-concealed
+prey. Meacham's matched sorrels, Hopper's two-forty's, and the bay
+Morgans stolen from 'Squire Brookhouse."</p>
+
+<p>It was seen, this fiery rocket, by the little band waiting by the
+roadside more than a mile away.</p>
+
+<p>"There it is!" exclaims young Warren, who is the leader of this
+party&mdash;"It is the red rocket. They <i>are</i> going with the wagons; it's all
+right, boys, we can't ride too fast now."</p>
+
+<p>The seven men file silently out from the roadside and gallop away
+southward.</p>
+
+<p>At the four corners, not far from the house on the hill, where, a short
+time before, a single individual had stationed himself, as a sentinel in
+the darkness, this signal rocket was also seen, and the watcher uttered
+an exclamation under his breath, and started out from underneath the
+tree that had sheltered him.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_408" id="Page_408">[Pg 408]</a></span></p><p>He could never remember how it happened, but his next sensation was
+that of being borne to the ground, clutched with a tiger-like grip,
+crushed by a heavy weight.</p>
+
+<p>And then a voice, a voice that he had not heard for years, hissed above
+him,</p>
+
+<p>"Lie still, Joe Blaikie! I've waited for this opportunity for eight long
+years, and it won't be worth your while to trifle with Harvey James
+<i>now</i>."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus034.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus034.jpg" width="400" height="585" alt="&quot;Lie still, Joe Blaikie! I&#39;ve waited for this opportunity
+for eight long years, and it won&#39;t be worth your while to trifle with
+Harvey James now.&quot;&mdash;page 408." title="&quot;Lie still, Joe Blaikie! I&#39;ve waited for this opportunity
+for eight long years, and it won&#39;t be worth your while to trifle with
+Harvey James now.&quot;&mdash;page 408." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Lie still, Joe Blaikie! I&#39;ve waited for this opportunity
+for eight long years, and it won&#39;t be worth your while to trifle with
+Harvey James now.&quot;&mdash;page 408.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>And something cold and hard is pressed against the temple of the fallen
+sentinel, who does not need the evidence of the accompanying ominous
+click to convince him that it is a revolver in the hand of his deadliest
+foe.</p>
+
+<p>"You did not use to be a horse-thief, Joe," continues the voice, and the
+speaker's words are emphasized by the pressure of a knee upon his chest,
+and the weapon at his forehead. "They could not trust you to do the fine
+business, it seems, and so you are picketed here to give the alarm if
+anything stirs up or down the road. If it's all right, you are to remain
+silent. If anything occurs to alarm you, you are to give the signal.
+Now, listen; you are to get up and stand from under this tree. I shall
+stand directly behind you with my revolver at your head, and I shall not
+loosen my grip upon your collar. When your friends pass this way, <i>you
+had better remain silent</i>, Joe Blaikie."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_411" id="Page_411">[Pg 411]</a></span></p><p>Arch Brookhouse, waiting at the avenue gate, has not seen the red
+rocket. The tall poplars that overshadow him have shut the shooting
+fiery ribbon from his vision; besides, he has been looking down the
+hill. Neither has he seen the form that is creeping stealthily toward
+him from behind the tree that guards the gate.</p>
+
+<p>Those within the barn have not seen the rocket, of course; and presently
+they come forth and harness the six horses to two huge wagons that stand
+in readiness. Four horses to one wagon, two to the other. The wheels are
+well oiled, and the wagons make no unnecessary rumbling as they go down
+the dark poplar avenue.</p>
+
+<p>At the gate the foremost wagon halts, just long enough to enable the
+driver to catch the low-spoken word that tells him it is safe to
+proceed.</p>
+
+<p>"All right," Arch Brookhouse says, softly, and the two wagons pass out
+and down the hill, straight through the village of Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>At the foot of the hill, where the four roads cross, the drivers peer
+through the darkness. Yes, their sentinel is there. The white
+handkerchief which he holds in his hand, as a sign that all is safe,
+gleams through the dark, and they drive on merrily, and if the sound of
+their wheels wakens any sleeper in Trafton, what then? It is not unusual
+to hear coal wagons passing on their way to the mines.</p>
+
+<p>Should they meet a belated traveler, no matter. He may hear the rumble
+of the wheels, and welcome, so long as the darkness prevents him from
+seeing the horses that draw those innocent vehicles of traffic.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_412" id="Page_412">[Pg 412]</a></span></p><p>Meanwhile, his duty being done, Arch Brookhouse heaves a sigh of
+relief, gathers up his reins, and chirrups to his horse.</p>
+
+<p>But the animal does not obey him. Arch leans forward; is there something
+standing by the horse's head? He gives an impatient word of command, and
+then,&mdash;yes, there is some one there.</p>
+
+<p>Arch utters a sharp exclamation, and his hand goes behind him, only to
+be grasped by an enemy in the rear, who follows up his advantage by
+seizing the other elbow and saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Stop a moment, Mr. Brookhouse; you are my prisoner, sir. Gerry, the
+handcuffs."</p>
+
+<p>The man at the horse's head comes swiftly to my assistance, Arch
+Brookhouse is drawn from his buggy, and his hands secured behind him by
+fetters of steel. Not a captive to be proud of; his teeth chatter, he
+shivers as with an ague.</p>
+
+<p>"Wh&mdash;who are you?" he gasps. "Wh&mdash;what do you want?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm a city sprig," I answer, maliciously, "and I'm an easy fish to
+catch. But not so easy as <i>you</i>, my gay Lothario. By-and-by you may
+decide, if you will, whether I possess most money or brains; now I have
+more important business on hand."</p>
+
+<p>Just then comes a long, low whistle.</p>
+
+<p>"Gerry," I say, "that is Long. Go down to him and see if he needs help."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_413" id="Page_413">[Pg 413]</a></span></p><p>Gerry is off in an instant, and then my prisoner rallies his cowardly
+faculties, and begins to bluster.</p>
+
+<p>"What does this assault mean? I demand an explanation, sir!"</p>
+
+<p>"But I am not in the mood to give it," I retort. "You are my prisoner,
+and likely to remain so, unless you are stolen from me by Judge Lynch,
+which is not improbable."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, y&mdash;you are an impostor!"</p>
+
+<p>"You mistake; I am a detective. You shot at the wrong man when you
+winged Bethel. You did better when you crippled widow Ballou's hired
+man."</p>
+
+<p>"What, are you?&mdash;" he starts violently, then checks his speech.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm the man you shot, behind the hedge, Mr. Brookhouse, and I'll
+trouble you to explain your conduct to-morrow."</p>
+
+<p>My prisoner moves restlessly under my restraining hand, but I cock my
+pistol, and he comprehending the unspoken warning, stands silent beside
+his buggy.</p>
+
+<p>Presently I hear footsteps, and then Gerry comes towards me, lighting
+the way with a pocket lantern, which reveals to my gaze Dimber Joe,
+handcuffed and crest-fallen, marching sedately over the ground at the
+muzzle of a pistol held in the firm clutch of Jim Long, upon whose
+countenance sits a look of grim, triumphant humor.</p>
+
+<p>"Here," says Gerry, with aggravating ceremony, "is Mr. Long, with
+sentinel number two, namely: Mr. Dimber Joe Blaikie, late of Sing Sing."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_414" id="Page_414">[Pg 414]</a></span></p><p>"And very soon to return there," adds Jim Long, emphatically. "What
+shall we do with these fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>"We must keep everything quiet to-night," I say, quickly. "If you and
+Gerry think you won't go to sleep over the precious scamps you might
+take them to the barn and let them pass the night where they have hidden
+so many horses. We will take them there now, and bind them more
+securely. Then one of you can look after them easily, while the other
+stands guard outside. All must be done quietly, so that they may not
+take the alarm in the house. If your prisoners attempt to make a noise,
+gag them without scruple."</p>
+
+<p>"But," gasps Brookhouse, "you can not; you have no power."</p>
+
+<p>"No power," mocks Jim Long. "We'll see about that! It may be
+unparliamentary, gentlemen, but you should not object to that. If you
+give us any trouble, we will convince you that we have inherited a
+little brief authority."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_415" id="Page_415">[Pg 415]</a></span></p><p>Ten minutes later we have carried out our programme. The two prisoners
+are safely housed in the hidden asylum for stolen horses, with Jim Long
+as guard within, and Gerry as sentinel without, and I, seated in the
+light buggy from which I have unceremoniously dragged Arch Brookhouse,
+am driving his impatient roadster southward, in the wake of the honest
+coal wagons.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXXVII.<br />
+<small>CAUGHT IN THE ACT.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>It is long past midnight. A preternatural stillness broods over the four
+corners where the north and south road, two miles north from Clyde,
+intersects the road running east and west, that bears westward toward
+the coal beds and the river.</p>
+
+<p>There are no houses within sight of these corners, and very few trees;
+but the northeastern corner is bounded by what the farmers call a "brush
+fence," an unsightly barricade of rails, interwoven with tall, ragged,
+and brambly brush, the cuttings, probably, from some rank-growing hedge.</p>
+
+<p>The section to the southwest is bordered by a prim hedge, thrifty and
+green, evenly trimmed, and so low that a man could leap across it with
+ease.</p>
+
+<p>And now the silence is broken by the sound of wheels coming from the
+direction of Clyde; swift running wheels that soon bring their burden to
+the four corners, and then come to a sudden halt.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_416" id="Page_416">[Pg 416]</a></span></p><p>It is a light buggy, none other than that owned by Mr. Larkins, of
+Clyde, drawn by his roans that "go in no time," and it contains three
+men.</p>
+
+<p>"There!" says the driver, who is Larkins himself, springing to the
+ground, and thrusting his arm through the reins, "here we are, with
+nothing to do but wait. We always do wait, you know."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I know," assents a second individual, descending to the ground in
+his turn. "We're always on time. Now, if a man only could smoke&mdash;but he
+can't."</p>
+
+<p>And Ed. Dwight shrugs his shoulders and burrows in his pockets, and
+shuffles his feet, as only Ed. Dwight can.</p>
+
+<p>"Might's well get out, Briggs," says Larkins, to the man who still sits
+in the buggy.</p>
+
+<p>"Might's well stay here, too," retorts that individual, gruffly. "I'm
+comfortable."</p>
+
+<p>Larkins sniffs, and pats the haunch of the off roan.</p>
+
+<p>Dwight snaps a leaf from the hedge and chews it nervously.</p>
+
+<p>The man in the buggy sits as still as a mummy.</p>
+
+<p>Presently there comes again the sound of wheels. Not noisy wheels, that
+would break in upon midnight slumbers, nor ghostly wheels, whose honesty
+might be called in question, but well oiled, smooth running wheels, that
+break but do not disturb the stillness.</p>
+
+<p>These also approach the cross roads, and then stop.</p>
+
+<p>The first are those of a coal wagon, drawn by four handsome horses; the
+second, those of a vehicle of the same description, drawn by two fine
+steeds.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_417" id="Page_417">[Pg 417]</a></span></p><p>Two men occupy the first wagon; one the next.</p>
+
+<p>As the foremost wagon pauses, Larkins tosses his reins to the silent man
+in the buggy, and advances, followed by Dwight.</p>
+
+<p>"Anything wrong?" queries Larkins.</p>
+
+<p>"Not if <i>you</i> are all right," replies a harsh voice, a voice that has a
+natural snarl in it.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, Cap'n; give us your orders."</p>
+
+<p>The two men in the wagon spring to the ground, and begin to unharness
+the foremost horses. The other wagon comes closer.</p>
+
+<p>"You and Briggs are to take in these two teams. Tom is to go on with the
+Morgans. Dwight is to take us back to Trafton," says the rasping voice.</p>
+
+<p>Dwight comes closer, and then exclaims:</p>
+
+<p>"By George, Captain, it's <i>you</i> in person."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it's me," shortly. "Simpson failed to come, and I wanted to have a
+few words with you and Larkins. Hark! <i>What's that?</i>"</p>
+
+<p>Wheels again; swift rushing, rattling wheels. Six heads are turned
+toward the north, whence they approach.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly there is a whistle, short and shrill.</p>
+
+<p>Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are rising up from
+the long grass by the roadside!</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus035.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus035.jpg" width="400" height="585" alt="&quot;Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are
+rising up from the long grass by the roadside!&quot;&mdash;page 417." title="&quot;Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are
+rising up from the long grass by the roadside!&quot;&mdash;page 417." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are
+rising up from the long grass by the roadside!&quot;&mdash;page 417.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Oaths, ejaculations, cracking of pistols, plunging of horses&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"The first man who attempts to run will be shot down!"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_418" id="Page_418">[Pg 418]</a></span></p><p>I hear these words, as I drive the Brookhouse roadster, foaming and
+panting, into the midst of the melee.</p>
+
+<p>In spite of the warning one man has made a dart for liberty, has turned
+and rushed directly upon my horse.</p>
+
+<p>In spite of the darkness his sharp eyes recognize the animal. What could
+his son's horse bring save a warning or a rescue?</p>
+
+<p>He regains his balance, which, owing to his sudden contact with the
+horse, he had nearly lost, and springs toward me as my feet touch the
+earth.</p>
+
+<p>"Arch!"</p>
+
+<p>Before he can realize the truth my hands are upon him. Before he can
+recover from his momentary consternation other hands seize him from
+behind.</p>
+
+<p>The captain of the horse-thieves, the head and front and brains of the
+band, is bound and helpless!</p>
+
+<p>It is soon over; the horse-thieves fight well; strive hard to evade
+capture; but the attack is so sudden, so unexpected, and they are
+unprepared, although each man, as a matter of course, is heavily armed.</p>
+
+<p>The vigilants have all the advantage, both of numbers and organization.
+While certain ones give all their attention to the horses, the larger
+number look to the prisoners.</p>
+
+<p>Briggs, the silent man in the buggy, is captured before he knows what
+has happened.</p>
+
+<p>Tom Briggs, his cowardly brother, is speedily reduced to a whimpering
+poltroon.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_421" id="Page_421">[Pg 421]</a></span></p><p>Ed. Dwight takes to his heels in spite of the warning of Captain
+Warren, and is speedily winged with a charge of fine shot. It is not a
+severe wound, but it has routed his courage, and he is brought back,
+meek and pitiful enough, all the jauntiness crushed out of him.</p>
+
+<p>Larkins, my jehu on a former occasion, makes a fierce fight; and Louis
+Brookhouse, who still moves with a limp, resists doggedly.</p>
+
+<p>Our vigilants have received a few bruises and scratches, but no wounds.</p>
+
+<p>The struggle has been short, and the captives, once subdued, are silent
+and sullen.</p>
+
+<p>We bind them securely, and put them in the coal wagons which now, for
+the first time, perhaps, are put to a legitimate use.</p>
+
+<p>We do not care to burden ourselves with Larkins' roans, so they are
+released from the buggy and sent galloping homeward.</p>
+
+<p>The bay Morgans, which have been "stolen" for the sake of effect, are
+again harnessed, as leaders of the four-in-hand. The vigilants bring out
+their horses from behind the brush fence, and the procession starts
+toward Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>No one attempts to converse with the captives. No one deigns to answer a
+question, except by a monosyllable.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_422" id="Page_422">[Pg 422]</a></span></p><p>'Squire Brookhouse is wise enough to see that he can gain nothing by an
+attempt at bluster or bribery. He maintains a dogged silence, and the
+others, with the exception of Dwight, who can not be still under any
+circumstances, and Tom Briggs, who makes an occasional whimpering
+attempt at self-justification, which is heeded by no one, all maintain a
+dogged silence. And we move on at a leisurely pace, out of consideration
+for the tired horses.</p>
+
+<p>As we approach Trafton, the Summer sun is sending up his first streak of
+red, to warn our side of the world of his nearness; and young Warren
+reins his horse out from the orderly file of vigilants, who ride on
+either side of the wagons.</p>
+
+<p>He gallops forward, turns in his saddle to look back at us, waves his
+hat above his head, and then speeds away toward the village.</p>
+
+<p>I am surprised at this, but, as I look from one face to another, I see
+that the vigilants, some of them, at least, understand the movement, and
+so I ask no questions.</p>
+
+<p>I am not left long in suspense as to the meaning of young Warren's
+sudden leave-taking, for, as we approach to within a mile of Trafton,
+our ears are greeted by the clang of bells, all the bells of Trafton,
+ringing out a fiercely jubilant peal.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_423" id="Page_423">[Pg 423]</a></span></p><p>I turn to look at 'Squire Brookhouse. He has grown old in an instant;
+his face looks ashen under the rosy daylight. The caverns of his eyes
+are larger and deeper, and the orbs themselves gleam with a desperate
+fire. His lifeless black locks flutter in the morning breeze. He looks
+forlorn and desperate. Those clanging bells are telling him his doom.</p>
+
+<p>Warren has done his work well. When we come over the hill into Trafton,
+we know that the news is there before us, for a throng has gathered in
+the street, although the hour is so early.</p>
+
+<p>The bells have aroused the people. The news that the Trafton
+horse-thieves are captured at last, in the very act of escaping with
+their booty, has set the town wild.</p>
+
+<p>Not long since these same horse-thieves have led Trafton on to assault,
+to accuse, and to vilify an innocent man. Now, those who were foremost
+at the raiding of Bethel's cottage, are loudest in denouncing those who
+were then their leaders; and the cry goes up,</p>
+
+<p>"Hand over the horse-thieves! Hand them out! Lynch law's good enough for
+them!"</p>
+
+<p>But we are fourteen in number. We have captured the prisoners, and we
+mean to keep them.</p>
+
+<p>Once more my pistols, this time fully loaded, are raised against a
+Trafton mob, and the vigilants follow my example.</p>
+
+<p>We guard our prisoners to the door of the jail, and then the vigilants
+post themselves as a wall of defence about the building, while Captain
+Warren sets about the easy task of raising a trusty relief guard to take
+the places of his weary men.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus036.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus036.jpg" width="400" height="585" alt="&quot;Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of defence
+about the building.&quot;&mdash;page 423." title="&quot;Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of defence
+about the building.&quot;&mdash;page 423." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of defence
+about the building.&quot;&mdash;page 423.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>It is broad day now. The sun glows round and bright above the Eastern
+horizon. I am very weary, but there is work yet to be done.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_424" id="Page_424">[Pg 424]</a></span></p><p>I leave Captain Warren at the door of the jail, and hasten toward the
+Hill.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXXVIII.<br />
+<small>"THE COUNTERFEITER'S DAUGHTER."</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>I am somewhat anxious about this coming bit of work, and a little
+reluctant as well, but it must be done, and that promptly.</p>
+
+<p>Just outside of the avenue gate I encounter a servant from the Hill
+House, and accost him.</p>
+
+<p>"Is Miss Manvers at home, and awake?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, she is at home; she has been disturbed by the bells," and has sent
+him to inquire into the cause of the commotion.</p>
+
+<p>She does not know, then! I heave a sigh of relief and hurry on.</p>
+
+<p>I cross the avenue, and follow the winding foot-path leading up to the
+front entrance. I make no effort to see Jim or Gerry, at the barn; I
+feel sure that they are equal to any emergency that may arise.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Manvers is standing at an open drawing-room window; she sees my
+approach and comes herself to admit me.</p>
+
+<p>Then we look at each other.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_427" id="Page_427">[Pg 427]</a></span></p><p>She, I note, seems anxious and somewhat uneasy, and she sees at a
+glance that I am not the jaunty, faultlessly-dressed young idler of past
+days, but a dusty, dishevelled, travel-stained individual, wearing,
+instead of the usual society smile, a serious and preoccupied look upon
+my face.</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Manvers," I say, at once, "you will pardon my abruptness, I trust;
+I must talk with you alone for a few moments."</p>
+
+<p>She favors me with a glance of keen inquiry, and a look of apprehension
+crosses her face.</p>
+
+<p>Then she turns with a gesture of careless indifference, and leads the
+way to the drawing-room, where she again turns her face toward me.</p>
+
+<p>"I have before me an unpleasant duty," I begin again; "I have to inform
+you that Arch Brookhouse has been arrested."</p>
+
+<p>A fierce light leaps to her eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Is that all?</i>" she questions.</p>
+
+<p>"The charge against him is a grave one," I say, letting her question
+pass unanswered. "He is accused of attempted abduction."</p>
+
+<p>"Abduction!" she exclaims.</p>
+
+<p>"And attempted assassination."</p>
+
+<p>"Assassination! ah, <i>who</i>?"</p>
+
+<p>"Attempt first, upon myself, in June last. Second attempt, upon Dr. Carl
+Bethel."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_428" id="Page_428">[Pg 428]</a></span></p><p>A wrathful look crosses her face.</p>
+
+<p>"I wish they could hang him for it!" she says, vindictively. Then she
+looks me straight in the eyes. "Did you come to tell me this because you
+fancy that I care for Arch Brookhouse?" she questions.</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because I am a detective, and it was my duty to come. There is more to
+tell you. 'Squire Brookhouse and his gang were arrested last night in
+the act of removing stolen horses from your barn."</p>
+
+<p>Her face pales and she draws a long sighing breath, but she does not
+falter nor evince any other sign of fear.</p>
+
+<p>"So it has come," she says. "And now you are here to arrest me. I don't
+think I shall mind it much."</p>
+
+<p>"I have come to make terms with you, Miss Lowenstein, and it will be
+your fault if they are hard terms. I know your past history, or, at
+least&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"At <i>least</i>, that I am a counterfeiter's daughter, and that I have
+served a term as a convict," she finishes, sarcastically.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_429" id="Page_429">[Pg 429]</a></span></p><p>"I know that you are the daughter of Jake Lowenstein, forger and
+counterfeiter. I know that you were arrested with him, as an accomplice;
+that immunity was offered you if you would testify against your father,
+the lawyers being sure that your evidence alone would easily convict
+him. I know that you refused to turn State's evidence; that you scoffed
+at the lawyers, and rather than raise your voice against your father,
+let them send you to prison for two years."</p>
+
+<p>"You know all this?" wonderingly. "How did you find me out here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Before you were taken to prison, they took your picture for&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>I hesitate, but she does not.</p>
+
+<p>"For the rogue's gallery," she says, impatiently. "Well! go on."</p>
+
+<p>"You were fiercely angry, and the scorn on your face was transferred to
+the picture."</p>
+
+<p>"Quite likely."</p>
+
+<p>"I had heard of your case, and your father's, of course. But I was not
+personally concerned in it, and I never saw him. I had never seen you,
+until I came to Trafton."</p>
+
+<p>"I have changed since then," she breaks in, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"True; you were a slender, pretty young girl then. You are a handsome
+woman, now. Your features, however, are not much changed; yet probably,
+if I had never seen you save when your face wore its usual serene smile,
+I should never have found you out. But my comrade, who came to Trafton
+with me&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"As your servant," she interposes.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_430" id="Page_430">[Pg 430]</a></span></p><p>"As my servant; yes. He had your picture in his collection. On the day
+of your lawn party, I chanced to see you behind a certain rose thicket,
+in conversation with Arch Brookhouse. He was insolent; you, angry and
+defiant. I caught the look on your face, and knew that I had seen it
+before, somewhere. I went home puzzled, to find Carnes, better known to
+you as Cooley, looking at a picture in his rogue's gallery. I took the
+book and began turning its leaves, and there under my eye was your
+picture. Then I knew that Miss Manvers, the heiress, was really Miss
+Adele Lowenstein."</p>
+
+<p>"You say that it will be my fault if you make hard terms with me. My
+father is dead. I suppose you understand that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I know that he is dead, but I do not know why you are here, giving
+shelter to stolen property and abbetting horse-thieves. Frankly, Miss
+Lowenstein, so far as your past is concerned, I consider you sinned
+against as much as sinning. Your sacrifice in behalf of your father was,
+in my eyes, a brave act, rather than a criminal one. I am disposed to be
+ever your friend rather than your enemy. Will you tell me how you became
+connected with this gang, and all the truth concerning your relations
+with them, and trust me to aid you to the limit of my power?"</p>
+
+<p>"You do not promise me my freedom if I give you this information," she
+says, more in surprise than in anxiety.</p>
+
+<p>"It is not in my power to do that and still do my duty as an officer;
+but I promise you, upon my honor, that you shall have your freedom if it
+can be brought about."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_431" id="Page_431">[Pg 431]</a></span></p><p>"I like the sound of that," says this odd, self-reliant young woman,
+turning composedly, and seating herself near the open window. "If you
+had vowed to give me my liberty at any cost I should not have believed
+you. Sit down; I shall tell you a longer story than you will care to
+listen to standing."</p>
+
+<p>I seat myself in obedience to her word and gesture, and she begins
+straightway:</p>
+
+<p>"I was seventeen years old when my father was arrested for
+counterfeiting, and I looked even younger.</p>
+
+<p>"He had a number of confederates, but the assistant he most valued was
+the man whom people call 'Squire Brookhouse. He was called simply Brooks
+eight years ago.</p>
+
+<p>"When my father was arrested, 'Squire Brookhouse, who was equally
+guilty, contrived to escape. He was a prudent sharper, and both he and
+father had accumulated considerable money.</p>
+
+<p>"If you know that my father and myself were sentenced to prison, he for
+twenty years, and I for two, you know, I suppose, how he escaped."</p>
+
+<p>"I know that he did escape; just how we need not discuss at present."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he escaped. Brookhouse used his money to bribe bolder men to do
+the necessary dangerous work, for he, Brookhouse, needed my father's
+assistance, and he escaped. I had yet six months to serve.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_432" id="Page_432">[Pg 432]</a></span></p><p>"Well, Brookhouse had recently been down into this country on a
+plundering expedition. He was an avaricious man, always devising some
+new scheme. He knew that without my father's assistance, he could hardly
+run a long career at counterfeiting, and he knew that counterfeiting
+would be dangerous business for my father to follow, in or near the
+city, after his escape.</p>
+
+<p>"They talked and schemed and prospected; and the result was that they
+both came to Trafton, and invested a portion of their gains, the largest
+portion of course, in two pieces of real estate; this and the Brookhouse
+place.</p>
+
+<p>"Before we had been here a year, my father grew venturesome. He went to
+the city, and was recognized by an old policeman, who had known him too
+well. They attempted to arrest him, but only captured his dead body. The
+papers chronicled the fact that Jake Lowenstein, the counterfeiter, was
+dead. And we, at Trafton, announced to the world that Captain Manvers,
+late of the navy, had been drowned while making his farewell voyage.</p>
+
+<p>"After that, I became Miss Manvers, the heiress, and the good
+Traftonites were regaled with marvelous stories concerning a
+treasure-ship dug out from the deep by my father, 'the sea captain.'</p>
+
+<p>"Their main object in settling in Trafton, was to provide for themselves
+homes that might afford them a haven should stormy times come. And,
+also, to furnish them with a place where their coining and engraving
+could be safely carried on.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_433" id="Page_433">[Pg 433]</a></span></p><p>"Then the 'Squire grew more enterprising. He wanted more schemes to
+manage. And so he began to lay his plans for systematic horse-stealing.</p>
+
+<p>"Little by little he matured his scheme, and one by one he introduced
+into Trafton such men as would serve his purpose, for, if you inquire
+into the matter, you will find that every one of his confederates has
+come to this place since the first advent of 'Squire Brookhouse.</p>
+
+<p>"The hidden place in our barn was prepared before my father was killed,
+and after that&mdash;well, 'Squire Brookhouse knew that I could be a great
+help to him, socially.</p>
+
+<p>"I did not know what to do. This home was mine, I felt safe here; I had
+grown up among counterfeiters and law-breakers, and I did not see how I
+was to shake myself free from them&mdash;besides&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>Here a look of scornful self-contempt crosses her face.</p>
+
+<p>"Besides, I was young, and up to that time had seen nothing of society
+of my own age. Arch Brookhouse had lately come home from the South, and
+I had fallen in love with his handsome face."</p>
+
+<p>She lifts her eyes to mine, as if expecting to see her own self-scorn
+reflected back in my face, but I continue to look gravely attentive, and
+she goes on:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_434" id="Page_434">[Pg 434]</a></span></p><p>"So I stayed on, and let them use my property as a hiding-place for
+their stolen horses. I kept servants of their selection, and never knew
+aught of their plans. When I heard that a horse had been stolen, I felt
+very certain that it was concealed on my premises, but I never
+investigated.</p>
+
+<p>"After a time I became as weary of Arch Brookhouse as he, probably, was
+of me. Finally indifference became detestation. He only came to my house
+on matters of business, and to keep up the appearance of friendliness
+between the two families. Mrs. Brookhouse is a long-suffering,
+broken-down woman, who never sees society.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_435" id="Page_435">[Pg 435]</a></span></p><p>"I do not intend to plead for mercy, and I do not want pity. I dare say
+that nine-tenths of the other women in the world would have done as I
+did, under the same circumstances. I have served two years in the
+penitentiary; my face adorns the rogues' gallery. I might go out into
+the world and try a new way of living, but I must always be an impostor.
+Why not be an impostor in Trafton, as well as anywhere else? I have
+always believed that, some day, I should be found out."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXXIX"></a>CHAPTER XXXIX.<br />
+<small>"LOUISE BARNARD'S FRIENDSHIP."</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>When she has finished her story there is a long silence, then she says,
+with a suddenness that would have been surprising in any other woman
+than the one before me:</p>
+
+<p>"You say you have arrested Arch Brookhouse for the shooting of Dr.
+Bethel. Tell me, is it true that Dr. Bethel is out of danger?"</p>
+
+<p>"He is still in a condition to need close attention and careful medical
+aid; with these, we think, he will recover."</p>
+
+<p>"I am very glad to know that," she says, earnestly.</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Lowenstein, I have some reason for thinking that you know who is
+implicated in that grave-robbing business."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_436" id="Page_436">[Pg 436]</a></span></p><p>"I do know," she answers, frankly, "but not from them. The Brookhouses,
+father and sons, believed Dr. Bethel to be a detective, and to be
+candid, so did I. You know 'the wicked flee when no man pursueth.' They
+construed his reticence into mystery. They fancied that his clear,
+searching eye was looking into all their secrets. I knew they were
+plotting against him, but I had told Arch Brookhouse that they should
+not harm him. When I went down to the cottage with Louise Barnard, I
+felt sure that it was <i>their</i> work, the grave-robbing.</p>
+
+<p>"Tom Briggs was there, the fiercest of the rioters. Tom had worked about
+my stable for a year or more, and I thought that I knew how to manage
+him. I contrived to get a word with him. Did you observe it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I observed it."</p>
+
+<p>"I told him to come to The Hill that evening, and he came. Then I made
+him tell me the whole story.</p>
+
+<p>"Arch Brookhouse had planned the thing, and given it to Briggs to
+execute. There were none of the regular members of the gang here to help
+him at that work, so he went, under instructions, of course, to Simmons
+and Saunders, two dissolute, worthless fellows, and told them that Dr.
+Bethel had offered him thirty dollars to get the little girl's body, and
+offered to share with them.</p>
+
+<p>"Those three did the work. Briggs buried the clothing and hid the tools.
+Then, when the raid began, Briggs told his two assistants that, in order
+to avoid suspicion, they must join the hue and cry against Dr. Bethel,
+and so, as you are aware, they did."</p>
+
+<p>This information is valuable to me. I am anxious to be away, to meet
+Simmons and Saunders. I open my lips to make a request, when she again
+asks a sudden question.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_437" id="Page_437">[Pg 437]</a></span></p><p>"Will you tell me where and how you arrested the Brookhouse gang? I am
+anxious to know."</p>
+
+<p>"I will tell you, but first will you please answer one more question?"</p>
+
+<p>She nods and I proceed.</p>
+
+<p>"I have told you that Arch Brookhouse is charged with attempted
+abduction; I might say Louis Brookhouse stands under the same charge. Do
+you know anything about the matter?"</p>
+
+<p>"I? No."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you ever know Miss Amy Holmes?"</p>
+
+<p>"Never," she replies, emphatically. "Whom did they attempt to abduct?"</p>
+
+<p>"Three young girls; three innocent country girls."</p>
+
+<p>"Good heavens!" she exclaims, her eyes flashing fiercely, "that is a
+deed, compared with which horse-thieving is honorable!"</p>
+
+<p>I give her a brief outline of the Groveland affair, or series of
+affairs, so far as I am able, before having heard Carnes' story. And
+then I tell her how the horse-thieves were hunted down.</p>
+
+<p>"So," she says, wearily, "by this time I am known all over Trafton as
+the accomplice of horse-thieves."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_438" id="Page_438">[Pg 438]</a></span></p><p>"Not so, Miss Lowenstein. The entire truth is known to Carnes and
+Brown, the two detectives I have mentioned, to Jim Long, and to Mr.
+Warren. The vigilants knew that the horses had been concealed near
+Trafton, but, owing to the manner in which the arrests were made, they
+do not know where. I suppose you are aware what it now becomes my duty
+to do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Assuredly," with constrained voice and manner. "You came here to arrest
+me. I submit."</p>
+
+<p>"Wait. From first to last it has been my desire to deal with you as
+gently as possible. Now that I have heard your story, I am still more
+inclined to stand your friend. The three men in Trafton who know your
+complicity in this business, are acting under my advice. For the
+present, you may remain here, if you will give me your promise not to
+attempt an escape."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not try to escape; I would be foolish to do so, after learning
+how skillfully you can hunt down criminals."</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks for the compliment, and the promise implied. If you will give
+your testimony against the gang, telling in court the story you have
+told me, you shall not stand before these people without a champion."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't like to do it. It seems cowardly."</p>
+
+<p>"Why? Do you think they would spare you were the positions reversed?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, certainly not; but&mdash;" turning her eyes toward the foliage without,
+and speaking wistfully, "I wish I knew how another woman would view my
+position. I never had the friendship of a woman who knew me as I am. I
+wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would advise me."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/illus037.jpg"><img src="images/th_illus037.jpg" width="400" height="585" alt="&quot;I wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would
+advise me.&quot;&mdash;page 438." title="&quot;I wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would
+advise me.&quot;&mdash;page 438." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;I wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would
+advise me.&quot;&mdash;page 438.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p>Scarcely knowing how to reply to this speech, I pass it by and hasten to
+finish my own.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_441" id="Page_441">[Pg 441]</a></span></p><p>Will she remain in her own house until I see her again, which may not
+be until to-morrow? And will she permit me to leave Gerry Brown here,
+for form's sake?</p>
+
+<p>Jim Long would hardly question my movements and motives, but Mr. Warren,
+who is the fourth party in our confidence, might. So, for his
+gratification, I will leave Gerry Brown at the Hill.</p>
+
+<p>She consents readily enough, and I go out to fetch Gerry.</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Lowenstein, this is my friend, Gerry Brown, who has passed the
+night in your barn and in very bad company. Will you take pity on him
+and give him some breakfast?" I say, as we appear before her.</p>
+
+<p>She examines Gerry's handsome face attentively, and then says:</p>
+
+<p>"If your late companions were bad, Mr. Brown, you will not find your
+present company much better. You do look tired. I will give you some
+breakfast, and then you can lock me up."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll eat the breakfast with relish," replies Gerry, gallantly; "but as
+for locking you up, excuse me. I've been told that you would feed me and
+let me lie down somewhere to sleep; and I've been ordered to stay here
+until to-morrow. It looks to me as if I were your prisoner, and such I
+prefer to consider myself."</p>
+
+<p>I leave them to settle the question of keeper and prisoner as best they
+can, and go out to Jim.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_442" id="Page_442">[Pg 442]</a></span></p><p>He is smoking placidly, with Arch Brookhouse, in a fit of the sulks,
+sitting on an overturned peck measure near by, and Dimber Joe asleep on
+a bundle of hay in a corner.</p>
+
+<p>We arouse Dimber and casting off the fetters from their feet, set them
+marching toward the town jail, where their brethren in iniquity are
+already housed.</p>
+
+<p>Trafton is in a state of feverish excitement. As we approach the jail
+with our prisoners the air is rent with jeers and hisses for them, and
+"three cheers for the detective," presumably for me.</p>
+
+<p>I might feel flattered and gratified at their friendly enthusiasm, but,
+unfortunately for my pride, I have had an opportunity to learn how
+easily Trafton is excited to admiration and to anger, so I bear my
+honors meekly, and hide my blushing face, for a time, behind the walls
+of the jail.</p>
+
+<p>All the vigilants are heroes this morning, and proud and happy is the
+citizen who can adorn his breakfast table with one of the band. The
+hungry fellows, nothing loath, are borne away one by one in triumph, and
+Jim and I, who cling together tenaciously, are wrangled over by Justice
+Summers and Mr. Harris, and, finally, led off by the latter.</p>
+
+<p>We are not bored with questions at the parsonage, but good, motherly
+Mrs. Harris piles up our plates, and looks on, beaming with delight to
+see her good things disappearing down our hungry throats.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_443" id="Page_443">[Pg 443]</a></span></p><p>We have scarcely finished our meal, when a quick, light step crosses
+the hall, and Louise Barnard enters. She has heard the clanging bells
+and witnessed the excitement, but, as yet, scarcely comprehends the
+cause.</p>
+
+<p>"Mamma is so anxious," she says, deprecatingly, to Mr. Harris, "that I
+ran in to ask you about it, before going down to see Carl&mdash;Dr. Bethel."</p>
+
+<p>While she is speaking, a new thought enters my head, and I say to myself
+instantly, "here is a new test for Christianity," thinking the while of
+that friendless girl at this moment a paroled prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>"Miss Barnard," I say, hastily, "it will give me pleasure to tell you
+all about this excitement, or the cause of it."</p>
+
+<p>"If I understand aright, you are the cause, sir," she replies,
+smilingly. "How horribly you have deceived us all!"</p>
+
+<p>"But," interposes Mr. Harris, "this is asking too much, sir. You have
+been vigorously at work all night, and now&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind that," I interrupt. "Men in my profession are bred to these
+things. I am in just the mood for story telling."</p>
+
+<p>They seat themselves near me. Jim, a little less interested than the
+rest, occupying a place in the background. Charlie Harris is away at his
+office. I have just the audience I desire.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_444" id="Page_444">[Pg 444]</a></span></p><p>I begin by describing very briefly my hunt for the Trafton outlaws. I
+relate, as rapidly as possible, the manner in which they were captured,
+skipping details as much as I can, until I arrive at the point where I
+turn from the Trafton jail to go to The Hill.</p>
+
+<p>Then I describe my interview with the counterfeiter's daughter minutely,
+word for word as nearly as I can. I dwell on her look, her tone, her
+manner, I repeat her words: "I wish I knew how another woman would view
+my position. I wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would
+advise me." I omit nothing; I am trying to win a friend for Adele
+Lowenstein, and I tell her story as well as I can.</p>
+
+<p>When I have finished, there is profound silence for a full moment, and
+then Jim Long says:</p>
+
+<p>"I know something concerning this matter. And I am satisfied that the
+girl has told no more and no less than the truth."</p>
+
+<p>I take out a pocket-book containing papers, and select one from among
+them.</p>
+
+<p>"This," I say, as I open it, "is a letter from the Chief of our force.
+He is a stern old criminal-hunter. I will read you what <i>he</i> says in
+regard to the girl we have known as Adele Manvers, the heiress. Here it
+is."</p>
+
+<p>And I read:</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_445" id="Page_445">[Pg 445]</a></span></p>
+<p class="blockquot">In regard to Adele Lowenstein, I send you the papers and copied
+reports, as you request; but let me say to you, deal with her
+as mercifully as possible. There should be much good in a girl
+who would go to prison for two long years, rather than utter
+one word disloyal to her counterfeiter father. Those who knew
+her best, prior to that affair, consider her a victim rather
+than a sinner. Time may have hardened her nature, but, if there
+are any extenuating circumstances, consider how she became what
+she is, and temper justice with mercy.</p>
+
+<p>"There," I say, as I fold away the letter, "that's a whole sermon,
+coming from our usually unsympathetic Chief. Mr. Harris, I wish you
+would preach another of the same sort to the Traftonites."</p>
+
+<p>Still the silence continues. Mr. Harris looks serious and somewhat
+uneasy. Mrs. Harris furtively wipes away a tear with the corner of her
+apron. Louise Barnard sits moveless for a time, then rises, and draws
+her light Summer scarf about her shoulders with a resolute gesture.</p>
+
+<p>"I am going to see Adele," she says, turning toward the door.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Harris rises hastily. He is a model of theological conservatism.</p>
+
+<p>"But, Louise,&mdash;ah, don't be hasty, I beg. Really, it is not wise."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it is," she retorts. "It is wise, and it is right. I have eaten
+her bread; I have called myself her friend; I shall not abandon her
+now."</p>
+
+<p>"Neither shall I!" cries Mrs. Harris, bounding up with sudden energy.
+"I'll go with you, Louise."</p>
+
+<p>"But, my dear," expostulates Mr. Harris, "if you really insist, I will
+go first; then, perhaps&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_446" id="Page_446">[Pg 446]</a></span></p><p>"No, you won't go first," retorts his better half. "You don't know what
+that poor girl needs. You'd begin at once to administer death-bed
+consolation. That will do for 'Squire Brookhouse, but not for a
+friendless, unhappy girl. Take your foot off my dress, Mr. Harris; I'm
+going for my bonnet!"</p>
+
+<p>She conquers, of course, gets her bonnet, and ties it on energetically.</p>
+
+<p>During the process, I turn to Jim.</p>
+
+<p>"Long," I say, "we have yet one task to perform. Dr. Denham is on duty
+at the cottage, and fretting and fuming, no doubt, to know the meaning
+of all this storm in Trafton. Bethel, too, may be anxious&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Now, hear him!" interrupts our hostess, indignantly. "Just hear that
+man! As if you were not both tired to death already. You two are to stay
+right here; one in the parlor bed, and one in Charlie's room; and you're
+to sleep until dinner, which I'll be sure to have late. Mr. Harris can
+run down to the cottage and tell all the news. It will keep him from
+going where he is not wanted."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_447" id="Page_447">[Pg 447]</a></span></p><p>Mr. Harris warmly seconds this plan. Jim and I are indeed weary, and
+Mrs. Harris is an absolute monarch. So we submit, and I lay my tired
+head on her fat pillows, feeling that everything is as it should be.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XL" id="CHAPTER_XL"></a>CHAPTER XL.<br />
+<small>THE STORY OF HARVEY JAMES.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>It is late in the afternoon when I awake, for Mrs. Harris has been
+better than her word.</p>
+
+<p>Jim is already up, and conversing with Mr. Harris on the all-absorbing
+topic, of course.</p>
+
+<p>After a bountiful and well-cooked dinner has received our attention, Jim
+and I go together to the cottage.</p>
+
+<p>Here we are put upon the witness stand by "our old woman," who takes
+ample vengeance for having been kept so long in the dark concerning my
+business in Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>After he has berated us to his entire satisfaction, and after Bethel,
+who, having heard a little, insists upon hearing more, has been
+gratified by an account of the capture, given for the most part by Jim
+Long, we go southward again and come to a halt in Jim's cottage. Here we
+seat ourselves, and, at last, I hear the story of Jim Long, or the man
+who has, for years, borne that name.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_448" id="Page_448">[Pg 448]</a></span></p><p>"My name is Harvey James," he begins, slowly. "My father was a farmer,
+and I was born upon a farm, and lived there until I became of age.</p>
+
+<p>"Except two years passed at a college not far from my home, I had never
+been a week away from my father's farm. But after my twenty-first
+birthday, I paid a visit to the city.</p>
+
+<p>"It was short and uneventful, but it unsettled me. I was never content
+upon the home farm again.</p>
+
+<p>"After my father died and the property came into my possession, I
+resolved to be a farmer no longer, but to go and increase my fortune in
+the city.</p>
+
+<p>"My farm was large and valuable, and there was considerable money in the
+bank. My mother clung to the farm; so, as the house was a large one, I
+reserved for her use, and mine when I should choose to come home, a few
+of the pleasantest rooms, and put a tenant into the remainder of the
+house.</p>
+
+<p>"I was engaged to be married to a dear girl, the daughter of our nearest
+neighbor. She was pretty and ambitious. She heartily approved of my new
+departure, but when I urged our immediate marriage, she put the matter
+off, saying that she preferred to wait a year, as by that time I should
+be a city gentleman; and until I should have become established in
+business, I would have no time to devote to a rustic wife. If she had
+married me then, my fate might have been different, God knows! But I
+went to the city alone, and before the year had elapsed I was in a
+prison cell!</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_449" id="Page_449">[Pg 449]</a></span></p><p>"I took with me a considerable sum of money, and I commenced to enjoy
+city life. I began with the theaters and billiards, and went on down the
+grade. Before I had been in town a mouth I became acquainted with
+Brooks, the name then used by 'Squire Brookhouse. He professed to be a
+lawyer, and this profession, together with his superior age, won my
+confidence, as, perhaps, a younger man could not have done. After a time
+he made me acquainted with Joe Blaikie and Jake Lowenstein, both
+brokers, so he said.</p>
+
+<p>"I was an easy victim; I soon began to consult the 'brokers' as to the
+best investment for a small capital.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course they were ready to help me. I think I need not enter into
+details; you know how such scoundrels work. We soon became almost
+inseparable, and I thought myself in excellent company, and wrote
+glowing letters to my mother and sweetheart, telling them of my fine new
+friends and the promising prospect for a splendid investment, which was
+to double my money speedily, and laying great stress upon the fact that
+my prospective good fortune would be mainly brought about by my
+'friends,' the lawyer and the brokers, who 'knew the ropes.'</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_450" id="Page_450">[Pg 450]</a></span></p><p>"At last the day came when I drew a considerable sum of money from my
+home bankers, to invest in city stock. The 'brokers' strongly advised me
+to put in all I could command, even to the extent of mortgaging my farm,
+but this I would not do. I adhered to my stern old father's principle,
+'never borrow money to plant,' and I would not encumber my land; but I
+drew every dollar of my ready capital for the venture.</p>
+
+<p>"I had established myself in comfortable rooms at a hotel, which,
+by-the-by, was recommended me by Brooks, as a place much frequented by
+'solid men.' And soon the three blacklegs began dropping in upon me
+evenings, sometimes together, sometimes separately. We would then amuse
+ourselves with 'harmless' games of cards. After a little we began to bet
+chips and coppers, to make the game more interesting.</p>
+
+<p>"They worked me with great delicacy. No doubt they could have snared me
+just as easily with half the trouble they took. I was fond of cards, and
+it was not difficult to draw me into gambling. I had learned to drink
+wine, too, and more than once they had left me half intoxicated after
+one of our 'pleasant social games,' and had laughingly assured me, when,
+after sobering up, I ventured a clumsy apology, that 'it was not worth
+mentioning; such things would sometimes happen to gentlemen.'</p>
+
+<p>"On the night of my downfall I had all my money about my person,
+intending to make use of it early on the following morning. I expected
+the three to make an evening in my room, but at about eight o'clock
+Lowenstein came in alone and looking anxious.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_451" id="Page_451">[Pg 451]</a></span></p><p>"He said that he had just received a telegram from a client who had
+entrusted him with the sale of a large block of buildings, and he must
+go to see him that evening. It was a long distance, and he would be out
+late. He had about him a quantity of gold, paid in to him after banking
+hours, and he did not like to take it with him. He wanted to leave it in
+my keeping, as he knew that I intended passing the evening in my rooms,
+and as he was not afraid to trust me with so large a sum.</p>
+
+<p>"I took the bait, and the money, three rouleaux of gold; and then, after
+I had listened to his regrets at his inability to make one at our social
+game that evening, I bowed him out and locked the door.</p>
+
+<p>"As I opened my trunk and secreted the money in the very bottom,
+underneath a pile of clothing and books, I was swelling with gratified
+vanity, blind fool that I was, at the thought of the trust imparted to
+me. Did it not signify the high value placed upon my shrewdness and
+integrity by this discriminating man of business?</p>
+
+<p>"Presently Brooks and Blaikie came, and we sat down to cards and wine.
+Blaikie had brought with him some bottles of a choice brand, and it had
+an unusual effect upon me.</p>
+
+<p>"My recollections of that evening are very indistinct. I won some gold
+pieces from Brooks, and jingled them triumphantly in my pockets, while
+Blaikie refilled my glass. After that my remembrance is blurred and then
+blank.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_452" id="Page_452">[Pg 452]</a></span></p><p>"I do not think that I drank as much wine as usual, for when I awoke it
+was not from the sleep of intoxication. I was languid, and my head
+ached, but my brain was not clouded. My memory served me well. I
+remembered, first of all, my new business enterprise, and then recalled
+the events of the previous evening, up to the time of my drinking a
+second glass of wine.</p>
+
+<p>"I was lying upon my bed, dressed, as I had been when I sat down to play
+cards with Brooks and Blaikie. I strove to remember how I came there on
+the bed, but could not; then I got up and looked about the room.</p>
+
+<p>"Our card table stood there with the cards scattered over it. On the
+floor was an empty wine-bottle&mdash;where was the other, for Blaikie had
+brought two? On a side table sat <i>two</i> wine-glasses, each containing a
+few drops of wine, and a third which was <i>clean</i>, as if it had been
+unused.</p>
+
+<p>"Two chairs stood near the table, as if lately occupied by players.</p>
+
+<p>"What did it mean?</p>
+
+<p>"I stepped to the door and found that it had not been locked. Then I
+thought of my money. It was gone, of course. But I still had in my
+pockets the loose gold won at our first game, and the three rouleaux
+left by Lowenstein were still in my trunk. I had also won from Brooks
+two or three bank notes, and these also I had.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_453" id="Page_453">[Pg 453]</a></span></p><p>"You can easily guess the rest. The three sharpers had planned to
+secure my money, and had succeeded; and to protect themselves, and get
+me comfortably out of the way, they had laid the trap into which I fell.</p>
+
+<p>"Blaikie appeared at the police station, and entered his complaint. He
+had been invited to join in a social game of cards at my rooms. When he
+arrived there, Brooks was there, seemingly on business, but he had
+remained but a short time. Then we had played cards, and Blaikie had
+lost some bank-notes. Next he won, and I had paid him in gold pieces. He
+had then staked his diamond studs, as he had very little money about
+him. These I had won, and next had permitted him to win a few more gold
+pieces. Blaikie did not accuse me of cheating, oh, no; but he had just
+found that I had won his diamonds and his honest money, and had paid him
+in <i>counterfeit coin</i>.</p>
+
+<p>"At that time, Blaikie had not become so prominent a rogue as he now is.
+His story was credited, and, while I was yet frantically searching for
+my lost money, the police swooped down upon me, and I was arrested for
+having circulated counterfeit money. The scattered cards, the two
+wine-glasses, the two chairs, all substantiated Blaikie's story.</p>
+
+<p>"A search through my room brought to light Blaikie's diamonds, and some
+plates for engraving counterfeit ten dollar bills, hidden in the same
+receptacle. In my trunk were the three rouleaux of freshly-coined
+counterfeit gold pieces, and in my pockets were some more loose
+counterfeit coin, together with the bank-notes which Blaikie had
+described to the Captain of police.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_454" id="Page_454">[Pg 454]</a></span></p><p>"It was a cunning plot, and it succeeded. I fought for my liberty as
+only a desperate man will. I told my story. I accused Blaikie and his
+associates of having robbed me. I proved, by my bankers, that a large
+sum of money had actually come into my possession only the day before my
+arrest. But the web held me. Brooks corroborated Blaikie's statements;
+Lowenstein could not be found.</p>
+
+<p>"I was tried, found guilty, and condemned for four years to State's
+prison. A light sentence, the judge pronounced it, but those four years
+put streaks of gray in my hair and changed me wonderfully, physically
+and mentally.</p>
+
+<p>"I had gone in a tall, straight young fellow, with beardless face and
+fresh color; I came out a grave man, with stooping shoulders, sallow
+skin, and hair streaked with gray.</p>
+
+<p>"My mother had died during my imprisonment; my promised wife had married
+another man. I sold my farm and went again to the city; this time with a
+fixed purpose in my heart. I would find my enemies and revenge myself.</p>
+
+<p>"I let my beard grow, I dropped all habits of correct speaking, I became
+a slouching, shabbily-dressed loafer. I had no reason to fear
+recognition,&mdash;the change in me was complete."</p>
+
+<p>He paused, and seemed lost in gloomy meditations, then resumed:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_455" id="Page_455">[Pg 455]</a></span></p><p>"It was more than three months before I struck the trail of the gang,
+and then one day I saw Brooks on the street, followed him, and tracked
+him to Trafton. He had just purchased the 'Brookhouse farm' and I
+learned for the first time that he had a wife and family. I found that
+Lowenstein, too, had settled in Trafton, having been arrested, and
+escaped during my long imprisonment; and I decided to remain also. I had
+learned, during my farm life, something about farriery, and introduced
+myself as a traveling horse doctor, with a fancy for 'settling' in a
+good location. And so I became the Jim Long you have known.</p>
+
+<p>"I knew that the presence of ''Squire Brookhouse' and 'Captain Manvers,
+late of the navy,' boded no good to Trafton; I knew, too, that
+Lowenstein was an escaped convict, and I might have given him up at
+once; but that would have betrayed my identity, and Brooks might then
+escape me. So I waited, but not long.</p>
+
+<p>"One day 'Captain Manvers,' in his seaman's make-up, actually ventured
+to visit the city. He had so changed his appearance that, but for my
+interference, he might have been safe enough. But my time had come. I
+sent a telegram to the chief of police, telling him that Jake Lowenstein
+was coming to the city, describing his make-up, and giving the time and
+train. I walked to the next station to send the message, waited to have
+it verified, and walked back content.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_456" id="Page_456">[Pg 456]</a></span></p><p>"When Jake Lowenstein arrived in the city, he was followed, and in
+attempting to resist the officers, he was killed.</p>
+
+<p>"Since that time, I have tried, and tried vainly, to unravel the mystery
+surrounding these robberies. Of course, I knew Brooks and his gang to be
+the guilty parties, but I was only one man. I could not be everywhere at
+once, and I could never gather sufficient evidence to insure their
+conviction, because, like all the rest of Trafton, I never thought of
+finding the stolen horses in the very midst of the town. I assisted in
+organizing the vigilants, but we all watched the roads leading out from
+the town, and were astounded at our constant failures.</p>
+
+<p>"And now you know why I hailed your advent in Trafton. For four years I
+have hoped for the coming of a detective. I would have employed one on
+my own account, but I shrank from betraying my identity, as I must do in
+order to secure confidence. In every stranger who came to Trafton I have
+hoped to find a detective. At first I thought Bethel to be one, and I
+was not slow in making his acquaintance. I watched him, I weighed his
+words, and, finally, gave him up.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_457" id="Page_457">[Pg 457]</a></span></p><p>"When you came I made your acquaintance, as I did that of every
+stranger who tarried long in Trafton. You were discreetness itself, and
+the man you called Barney was a capital actor, and a rare good fellow
+too. But I studied you as no other man did. When I answered your
+careless questions I calculated your possible meaning. Do you remember a
+conversation of ours when I gave my opinion of Dr. Bethel, and the
+'average Traftonite'?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; and also told us about Miss Manvers and the treasure-ship. Those
+bits of gossip gave us some pointers."</p>
+
+<p>"I meant that they should. And now you know why I preferred to hang on
+the heels of Joe Blaikie rather than go with the vigilants."</p>
+
+<p>"I understand. Has Blaikie been a member of the gang from the first?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think not. Of course when I heard that Brooks intended to employ a
+detective, I was on the alert. And when Joe Blaikie and that other
+fellow, who was a stranger to me, came and established themselves at the
+Trafton House, I understood the game. They were to personate detectives.
+Brooks was too cunning to make their pretended occupations too
+conspicuous; but he confided the secret to a few good citizens who might
+have grown uneasy, and asked troublesome questions, if they had not been
+thus confided in. I think that Blaikie and Brooks went their separate
+ways, when the latter became a country gentleman. Blaikie is too
+cowardly a cur ever to succeed as a horse-thief, and Brooks was the man
+to recognize that fact. I think Blaikie was simply a tool for this
+emergency."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_458" id="Page_458">[Pg 458]</a></span></p><p>"Very probable. When you told my landlord that Blaikie was a detective,
+did you expect the news to reach me through him?"</p>
+
+<p>"I did," with a quizzical glance at me; "and it reached you, I take it."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; it reached me. And now, Long&mdash;it seems most natural to call you
+so&mdash;I will make no comments upon your story now. I think you are assured
+of my friendship and sympathy. I can act better than I can talk. But be
+sure of one thing, from henceforth you stand clear of all charges
+against you. The man who shot Dr. Bethel is now in limbo, and he will
+confess the whole plot on the witness stand; and, as for the old
+trouble, Joe Blaikie shall tell the truth concerning that."</p>
+
+<p>He lifts his head and looks at me steadfastly for a moment.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_459" id="Page_459">[Pg 459]</a></span></p><p>"When that is accomplished," he says, earnestly, "I shall feel myself
+once more a man among men."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XLI" id="CHAPTER_XLI"></a>CHAPTER XLI.<br />
+<small>A GATHERING OF THE FRAGMENTS.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>There was a meeting of the vigilants that night and Gerry Brown, Mr.
+Harris, Justice Summers and myself, were present with them.</p>
+
+<p>I gave them the details of my investigation, and related the cause of
+Doctor Bethel's troubles. When they understood that the outlaws had
+looked upon Bethel as a detective, and their natural enemy, the
+vigilants were ready to anticipate the rest of my story.</p>
+
+<p>When everything concerning the male members of the clique had been
+discussed, I entered a plea for Adele Lowenstein, and my audience was
+not slow to respond.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Harris arose in his place, and gave a concise account of the visit
+paid by his wife and Miss Barnard to the dethroned heiress, as he had
+heard it described by Mrs. Harris.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_460" id="Page_460">[Pg 460]</a></span></p><p>Adele Lowenstein had been sincerely grateful for their kindness, and
+had consented to act precisely as they should advise, let the result be
+what it would. She would give her testimony against the horse-thieves,
+and trust to the mercy of the Traftonites. Her story may as well be
+completed here, for there is little more to tell.</p>
+
+<p>She was not made a prisoner. Mrs. Harris and Louise Barnard were not the
+women to do things by halves. They used all their influence in her
+favor, and they had the vigilants and many of the best citizens to aid
+them. They disarmed public opinion. They appealed to men high in power
+and won their championship. They conducted their campaign wisely and
+they carried the day.</p>
+
+<p>There were found for Adele Lowenstein, the counterfeiter's daughter,
+"extenuating circumstances:" what the jury could not do the governor
+did, and she went out from the place, where justice had been tempered
+with mercy, a free woman.</p>
+
+<p>The Hill was sold, and Miss Lowenstein, who had avowed her intention of
+retaking her father's name, sullied as it was, prepared to find a new
+home in some far away city.</p>
+
+<p>One day while the trial was pending, Gerry Brown came to me with fidgety
+manner and serious countenance.</p>
+
+<p>"Old man," he said, anxiously, "I've been thinking about Miss
+Lowenstein."</p>
+
+<p>"Stop it, Gerry. It's a dangerous occupation for a fellow of your age."</p>
+
+<p>"My, age indeed! Two years, four months and seventeen days younger than
+your ancient highness, I believe."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_461" id="Page_461">[Pg 461]</a></span></p><p>"A man may learn much in two years, four months, and seventeen days&mdash;,
+Gerry. What about Miss Lowenstein?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm sorry for the girl."</p>
+
+<p>"So am I."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't be a bore, old man."</p>
+
+<p>"Then come to the point, youngster."</p>
+
+<p>"Youngster!" indignantly, "well, I'll put that to our private account.
+About Miss Lowenstein, then: She is without friends, and is just the
+sort of woman who needs occupation to keep her out of mischief and
+contented. She's ladylike and clever, and she knows the world; don't you
+think she would be a good hand on the force."</p>
+
+<p>I paused to consider. I knew the kind of woman that we sometimes needed,
+and it seemed to me that Adele Lowenstein would "be a good hand." I
+knew, too, that our Chief was not entirely satisfied with one or two
+women in his employ. So I stopped chaffing Gerry and said soberly:</p>
+
+<p>"Gerry, it's a good idea. We'll consult the lady and if she would like
+the occupation, I will write to our Chief."</p>
+
+<p>Adele Lowenstein was eager to enter upon a career so much to her taste,
+and our Chief was consulted. He manifested a desire to see the lady, and
+she went to the city.</p>
+
+<p>The interview was satisfactory to both. Adele Lowenstein became one of
+our force, and a very valuable and efficient addition she proved.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_462" id="Page_462">[Pg 462]</a></span></p><p>I had assured Jim Long,&mdash;even yet I find it difficult to call him
+Harvey James,&mdash;that his name should be freed from blot or suspicion. And
+it was not so hard a task as he evidently thought it.</p>
+
+<p>Blake Simpson, like most scamps of his class, was only too glad to do
+anything that would lighten his own sentence, and when he found that the
+Brookhouse faction had come to grief, and that his own part in their
+plot had been traced home to him by "the detectives," he weakened at
+once, and lost no time in turning State's evidence. He confessed that he
+had come to Trafton, in company with Dimber Joe, to "play detective," at
+the instigation, and under the pay of Brookhouse senior, who had visited
+the city to procure their services. And that Arch Brookhouse had
+afterward bribed him to make the assault upon Bethel, and planned the
+mode of attack; sending him, Simpson, to Ireton, and giving him a note
+to the elder Briggs, who furnished him with the little team and light
+buggy, which took him back to Trafton, where the shooting was done
+precisely as I had supposed after my investigation.</p>
+
+<p>Dimber Joe made a somewhat stouter resistance, and I offered him two
+alternatives.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_463" id="Page_463">[Pg 463]</a></span></p><p>He might confess the truth concerning the accusations under which
+Harvey James had been tried and wrongfully imprisoned; in which case I
+would not testify against him except so far as he had been connected
+with the horse-thieves in the capacity of sham detective and spy. Or, he
+might refuse to do Harvey James justice, in which case I would put
+Brooks on the witness stand to exonerate James, and I myself would
+lessen his chances for obtaining a light sentence, by showing him up to
+the court as the villain he was; garroter, panel-worker, counterfeiter,
+burglar, and general utility rascal.</p>
+
+<p>Brooks or Brookhouse was certain of a long sentence, I assured Blaikie,
+and he would benefit rather than injure his cause by exposing the plot
+to ruin and fleece James. Would Mr. Blaikie choose, and choose quickly?</p>
+
+<p>And Mr. Blaikie, after a brief consideration, chose to tell the truth,
+and forever remove from Harvey James the brand of counterfeiter.</p>
+
+<p>The testimony against the entire gang was clear and conclusive. The
+elder Brookhouse, knowing this, made very little effort to defend
+himself and his band, and so "The 'Squire" and Arch Brookhouse were
+sentenced for long terms. Louis Brookhouse, the two Briggs, Ed. Dwight,
+the festive, Larkins and the two city scamps, were sentenced for lesser
+periods, but none escaped lightly.</p>
+
+<p>Only one question, and that one of minor importance, yet lacked an
+answer, and one day, before his trial, I visited Arch Brookhouse in his
+cell, my chief purpose being to ask this question.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_464" id="Page_464">[Pg 464]</a></span></p><p>"There is one thing," I said, after a few words had passed between us,
+"there is one thing that I should like you to tell me, merely as a
+matter of self-gratification, as it is now of no special importance; and
+that is, how did you discover my identity, when I went to Mrs. Ballou's
+disguised as a Swede?"</p>
+
+<p>He laughed harshly.</p>
+
+<p>"You detectives do not always cover up your tracks," he said, with a
+sneer. "I don't object to telling you what you seem so curious about.
+'Squire Ewing and Mr. Rutger went to the city to employ you, and no
+doubt you charged them to be secret as the grave concerning your plans.
+Nevertheless, Mr. Rutger, who is a simple-minded confiding soul, told
+the secret in great confidence to Farmer La Porte; and he repeated it,
+again in great confidence in the bosom of his family."</p>
+
+<p>"And in the presence of his son, Johnnie?"</p>
+
+<p>"Just so. When we learned that a disguised detective was coming into the
+community, and that he would appear within a certain time, we began to
+look for him, and <i>you</i> were the only stranger we discovered."</p>
+
+<p>"And you wrote me that letter of warning?"</p>
+
+<p>"Precisely."</p>
+
+<p>"And undoubtedly <i>you</i> are the fellow who shot at me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am happy to say that I am."</p>
+
+<p>"And I am happy to know that I have deprived you of the pleasure of
+handling firearms again for some time to come. Good morning, Mr.
+Brookhouse."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_465" id="Page_465">[Pg 465]</a></span></p><p>That was my final interview with Arch Brookhouse, but I saw him once
+more, for the last time, when I gave my testimony against him at the
+famous trial of the Trafton horse-thieves.</p>
+
+<p>When the whole truth concerning the <i>modus operandi</i> of the
+horse-thieves was made public at the trial, when the Traftonites learned
+that for five years they had harbored stolen horses under the very
+steeples of the town, and that those horses, when the heat of the chase
+was over, were boldly driven away across the country and toward the
+river before a lumbering coal cart, they were astounded at the boldness
+of the scheme, and the hardihood of the men who had planned it.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_466" id="Page_466">[Pg 466]</a></span></p><p>But they no longer marveled at their own inability to fathom so cunning
+a plot.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XLII" id="CHAPTER_XLII"></a>CHAPTER XLII.<br />
+<small>IN CONCLUSION.</small></h2>
+
+
+<p>When Winter closed in, and the first snow mantled the farms of
+Groveland, the poor girl whom Johnny La Porte had reluctantly made his
+wife, closed her eyes upon this earthly panorama.</p>
+
+<p>She never rallied after her return from the South. They said that she
+died of consumption, but her friends knew, whatever medical name might
+be applied to her disease at the end, that it began with a broken heart.</p>
+
+<p>When it was over, and Nellie Ewing had no further need of his presence,
+Johnny La Porte,&mdash;who, held to his duty by the stern and oftentimes
+menacing eye of 'Squire Ewing, as well as by the fear which Carnes had
+implanted in his heart, had been as faithful and as gentle to his poor
+wife as it was in his worthless nature to be,&mdash;now found himself shunned
+in the community where he had once been petted and flattered.</p>
+
+<p>There was no forgiveness in the heart of 'Squire Ewing, and his door was
+closed against his daughter's destroyer; for such the Grovelanders, in
+spite of his tardy reparation, considered Johnny La Porte.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_467" id="Page_467">[Pg 467]</a></span></p><p>He attempted to resume his old life in Groveland; but 'Squire Ewing was
+beloved in the community, and when <i>he</i> turned his back upon Johnny La
+Porte his neighbors followed his example.</p>
+
+<p>Nowhere among those cordial Grovelanders was there a place or a welcome
+for the man who had blighted the life of Nellie Ewing, and so he drifted
+away from Groveland, to sink lower and lower in the scale of
+manhood&mdash;dissolute, brainless, a cumberer of the ground.</p>
+
+<p>Nellie Ewing's sad death had its effect upon thoughtless little Mamie
+Rutger. She was shocked into sobriety, and her grief at the loss of her
+friend brought with it shame for her own folly, and then repentance and
+a sincere effort to be a more dutiful daughter and a better woman.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Ballou put her threat into execution after mature deliberation. She
+put her daughter Grace into a convent school, and then, to make
+assurance doubly sure, she rented her fine farm, and took up her abode
+near that of the good sisters who had charge of her daughter's mental
+and spiritual welfare.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_468" id="Page_468">[Pg 468]</a></span></p><p>As for the Little Adelphi and Fred Brookhouse, they both lost prestige
+after coming under the severe scrutiny of the police. One iniquitous
+discovery concerning the theatre and its manager led to more; and before
+another Spring visited the Sunny South, the Little Adelphi and Fred
+Brookhouse had vanished together, the one transformed into an excellent
+green grocers' establishment, and the other into a strolling disciple of
+chance.</p>
+
+<p>Amy Holmes clung to the Little Adelphi to the last; and, after its final
+fall, she, too, wandered away from New Orleans, carrying with her, her
+secret which had been so serviceable a weapon in the hands of Carnes,
+but which he never knew.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>It is written in the book of Fate that I shall pay one more visit to
+Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>This time there is no gloom, no plotting; there are no wrongs to right.
+The time is the fairest of the year, May time, and the occasion is a
+joyous one.</p>
+
+<p>Doctor Denham, funny, talkative, and lovable as ever; Carnes, bubbling
+over with whimsical Hibernianisms; Gerry Brown, handsome and in high
+spirits; and myself, quite as happy as are the rest; all step down upon
+the platform at the Trafton depot, and one after another grasp the
+outstretched hands of Harvey James, whom we all <i>will</i> call Jim Long in
+spite of ourselves, and then receive the hearty welcome of the Harris's,
+senior and junior, and many other Traftonites.</p>
+
+<p>We have come to witness the end of our Trafton drama, viz., the marriage
+of Louise Barnard and Carl Bethel.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_469" id="Page_469">[Pg 469]</a></span></p><p>Bethel is as happy as mortals are ever permitted to be and as handsome
+as a demigod. There are left no traces of his former suffering; the
+wound inflicted by a hired assassin has healed, leaving him as strong as
+of old, and only the scar upon his breast remains to tell the story of
+the long days when his life hung by a thread.</p>
+
+<p>Of the blow that was aimed at his honor, there remains not even a scar.
+The plot of the grave robbers has recoiled upon their own heads. Dr.
+Carl Bethel is to-day the leading physician, and the most popular man in
+Trafton.</p>
+
+<p>"I have waited for this event," says Harvey James, as we sit chatting
+together an hour before the marriage. "I have waited to see them
+married, and after this is over, I am going West."</p>
+
+<p>"Not out of our reach, I hope!"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I have still the surplus of the price of my farm; enough to buy me
+a ranche and stock it finely. I mean to build a roomy cabin and fit it
+up so as to accomodate guests. Then by-and-by, when you want another
+Summer's vacation, you and Carnes shall come to my ranche. I have talked
+over my plans with Bethel and his bride, and they have already accepted
+my hospitality for next year's vacation. I anticipate some years of
+genuine comfort yet, for I have long wanted to explore the West, and try
+life as a ranchman, but I would not leave Trafton while Brooks continued
+to flourish in it. Do you mean to accept my invitation, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do, indeed; and as for Carnes, you'll get him to come easier than you
+can persuade him to leave."</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing could suit me better."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_470" id="Page_470">[Pg 470]</a></span></p><p>Louise Barnard made a lovely bride, and there never was a merrier or
+more harmonious wedding party.</p>
+
+<p>During the evening, however, the fair bride approached Jim&mdash;or Harvey
+James&mdash;and myself, as we stood a little aloof from the others. There was
+the least bit of a frown upon her face, too, as she said:</p>
+
+<p>"I can't help feeling cross with you, sir detective. Somebody must bear
+the blame of not bringing Adele Lowenstein to my wedding. I wrote her
+that I should take her presence as a sign that she fully believed in the
+sincerity of my friendship, and that Trafton would thus be assured of my
+entire faith in her, and yet, she declined."</p>
+
+<p>I do not know what to say in reply. So I drop my eyes and mentally
+anathematize my own stupidity.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know why she refused to come?" she persists.</p>
+
+<p>While I still hesitate, Jim&mdash;I must say Jim&mdash;touches my arm.</p>
+
+<p>"Your delicacy is commendable," he says in my ear. "But would it not be
+better to tell Mrs. Bethel the truth, than to allow her to think the
+woman she has befriended, ungrateful?"</p>
+
+<p>I feel that he is wise and I am foolish; so I lift my eyes to her face
+and say:</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Bethel, Adele Lowenstein had one secret that you never guessed. If
+you had seen her, as I saw her, at the bedside of your husband, on the
+day after the attempt upon his life, <i>you</i>, of all women in the world,
+would understand best why she is not at your wedding to-day."</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_471" id="Page_471">[Pg 471]</a></span></p><p>She utters a startled exclamation, and her eyes turn involuntarily to
+where Carl Bethel stands, tall and splendid, among his guests; then a
+look of pitying tenderness comes into her face.</p>
+
+<p>"Poor Adele!" she says softly, and turns slowly away.</p>
+
+<p>"Adele Lowenstein is not the woman to forget easily," I say to my
+companion. "But there," and I nod toward Gerry Brown, "is the man who
+would willingly teach her the lesson."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," says Jim, contentedly, "it is only a question of time. Gerry
+Brown is bound to win."</p>
+
+<p>THE END.</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<p><b>Footnote:</b><br /><br /><a name="Footnote_A" id="Footnote_A"></a><a href="#FNanchor_A"><span class="label">[A]</span></a> Handsome.</p></div>
+
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="LAWRENCE_L_LYNCHS_WORKS" id="LAWRENCE_L_LYNCHS_WORKS"></a>LAWRENCE L. LYNCH'S WORKS.</h2>
+
+<p>Madeline Payne, the Expert's Daughter; with 44 Illustrations.
+Price, $1.50.</p>
+
+<p>Shadowed by Three; with 55 Illustrations. Price, $1.50.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_473" id="Page_473">[Pg 473]</a></span></p><p>Sold on all Railway trains, by all Booksellers, and sent
+postpaid, on receipt of price, by the Publishers.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="POPULAR_BOOKS" id="POPULAR_BOOKS"></a>POPULAR BOOKS.</h2>
+
+
+<p><i><b>Dangerous Ground; or, The Rival Detectives.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Lawrence L. Lynch</span>. Illustrated by 45 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.<br />
+Its incidents are splendidly handled. There is not a dull page or line
+in it. Dick Stanhope is a character to be admired for his courage; while
+one's deepest sympathies twine about the noble, tender-hearted Leslie
+Warburton.</span></p>
+
+<p><i><b>Madeline Payne, the Detective's Daughter.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Lawrence L. Lynch</span>. Illustrated by 44 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.<br />
+"One of the most fascinating of modern novels. It combines the
+excitement that ever attends the intricate and hazardous schemes of a
+detective, together with as cunningly elaborated a plot as the best of
+Wilkie Collins' or Charles Reade's."</span></p>
+
+<p><i><b>Out of a Labyrinth.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Lawrence L. Lynch</span>. Illustrated by 36 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.<br />
+"We have so often spoken of Mr. Lynch's superb abilities that further
+praise is scarcely essential. Suffice it to say that this work is in no
+way inferior to those which have preceded it."&mdash;<i>Aurora News.</i></span></p>
+
+<p><i><b>The Gold Hunters' Adventures in Australia.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Wm. H. Thomes</span>. Illustrated by 41 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.<br />
+An exciting story of adventures in Australia, in the early days, when
+the discovery of gold drew thither a motley crowd of reckless, daring
+men.</span></p>
+
+<p><i><b>The Bushrangers; or, Wild Life in Australia.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Wm. H. Thomes</span>. Illustrated. Price, $1.50.<br />
+The record of a second voyage to that land of mystery and
+adventure&mdash;Australia&mdash;by the "Gold Hunters," and replete with exciting
+exploits among lawless men.</span></p>
+
+<p><i><b>The Gold Hunters in Europe; or, the Dead Alive.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Wm. H. Thomes</span>. Illustrated by 34 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.<br />
+The heroes of "The Gold Hunters' Adventures" seek excitement in a trip
+through Europe, and meet with a constant succession of perilous
+adventures.</span></p>
+
+<p><i><b>A Slaver's Adventures on Sea and Land.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Wm. H. Thomes</span>. Illustrated by 40 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.<br />
+A thrilling story of an exciting life on board a slaver, chased by
+British gunboats, and equally interesting adventures in the wilds of
+Africa and on the Island of Cuba.</span></p>
+
+<p><i><b>A Whaleman's Adventures on Sea and Land.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Wm. H. Thomes</span>. Illustrated by 36 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.<br />
+A vivid story of life on a whaler, in the Pacific Ocean, and of
+adventures in the Sandwich Islands, and in California in the early days.</span></p>
+
+<p><i><b>Running the Blockade.</b></i><br />
+<span class="small">By <span class="smcap">Wm. H. Thomes</span>. Profusely illustrated. Price, $1.50.<br />
+A tale of adventures on a Blockade Runner during the rebellion, by a
+Union officer acting in the Secret Service of the United States.</span></p>
+
+<p>Sold on all Railroad Trains, by all Booksellers, or will be sent
+postpaid on receipt of price by The Publishers.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="big">ALEX. T. LOYD &amp; CO.,</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_474" id="Page_474">[Pg 474]</a></span></p><p class="right">133 <span class="smcap">LaSalle Street</span>, CHICAGO.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2><a name="New_Detective_Story" id="New_Detective_Story"></a>A New Detective Story.</h2>
+<p class="center">
+<span class="small"><b>By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH</b>,</span><br />
+<br />
+Author of "<span class="smcap">Shadowed by Three</span>," "<span class="smcap">Madeline Payne</span>," etc. (<i>Ready Dec. 1st, 1884.</i>)</p>
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/ad01.jpg"><img src="images/th_ad01.jpg" width="400" height="470" alt="&quot;Don&#39;t pull, boys; I&#39;ve got the drop on ye!&quot; Page 58." title="&quot;Don&#39;t pull, boys; I&#39;ve got the drop on ye!&quot; Page 58." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Don&#39;t pull, boys; I&#39;ve got the drop on ye!&quot; Page 58.</span>
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">
+<span class="big"><b>DANGEROUS GROUND</b>;</span><br />
+<span class="small">OR THE</span><br />
+<span class="small"><b>RIVAL DETECTIVES</b>.</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="small">The author's latest and greatest work; intensely interesting. 45 Elegant Illustrations.</span><br />
+<span class="small"><span class="smcap">Price</span>, $1.50.</span><br />
+<br />
+<b>Sold on all Railway Trains and by all Booksellers.</b><br />
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_475" id="Page_475">[Pg 475]</a></span></p>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2><a name="Madeline_Payne" id="Madeline_Payne"></a>Madeline Payne</h2>
+<p class="center">
+THE EXPERT'S DAUGHTER.<br />
+
+<span class="big">By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH</span><br />
+
+<span class="small">Author of "Shadowed by Three." "Out of a Labyrinth," etc., etc.</span><br />
+Illustrated with 45 Original Engravings.<br />
+<b>PRICE, $1.50.</b>
+</p>
+
+<p><b>CONTENTS.</b>&mdash;The Lovers' Meeting. The Serpent in Eden. A Sudden Departure.
+What the Old Tree Revealed. Two Heartless Plotters. The Story of a
+Mother's Wrongs and a Husband's Crimes. Turns her Back on the Old Home,
+and Trusts the Future and Lucian Davlin. Nurse Hagar is "Out of Sorts."
+Madeline Defies her Enemies. "<i>You are her Murderer!</i>" The Railway
+Station at Night. A Disappointed Schemer Rejoiced. Madeline's Flight.
+The Night Journey to New York. A Friendly Warning Unheeded. "Take it;
+<i>in the Name of your Mother I ask it</i>!" Alone in the Great City. A
+Shrewd Scheme. An Ever-Present Face. Olive Gerard's Warning. The Cruel
+Awakening. The Bird in a Golden Cage. The Luxurious Apartments of Lucian
+Davlin, the Man of Luck. A Dissatisfied Servant. The Man of Luck Defied.
+A Well-Aimed Pistol Shot. "Little Demon, I will kill you before I will
+lose you now!" Doctor Vaughn Summoned. A Charming Widow at Bellair. "The
+Danger is Past!" Gone! "When Next we Meet, I Shall Have Other Weapons!"
+Bonnie, Bewitching Claire. A Tell-tale Photograph. "Cruel, Crafty,
+Treacherous." Madeline and Olive in Conference. "Kitty, the Dancer, will
+Die!" The Story of an Old Crime Retold. "Percy! Percy! Percy!" A Message
+from the Dead. "May God's Curse fall on all who Drove her to her Doom!"
+Miss Arthur's French Maid. Cora Growing Weary of Dissembling. Celine
+Leroque Overhears an Important Conversation. Mr. Percy startled. Cora
+Shares this Feeling. Percy Turns the Tables. "And yet you are on the
+Earth!" Celine Manages to Play the Spy to some Purpose. Cora and Celine
+Measure Swords. Cora's Cunning Plot. "Celine looked Cautiously about
+her." An Intercepted Telegram. Face to Face. A Midnight Appointment. "I
+am Afraid for <i>you</i>; but give it up now? never!" An Irate Spinster.
+Celine's Highly Probable Story. Gathering Clues. A Hurried Visit. The
+Hand of Friendship Wields the Surgeon's Knife. Claire Keith Placed Face
+to Face with Trouble. A Dual Renunciation. An Astonishing Disclosure. "I
+am not Worthy of Him, and <i>she</i> is!" Struggling Against Fate. "Ah, how
+Dared I think to Become one of you?" A Fiery Fair Champion. Hagar and
+Cora have a Meeting. Cora gets a Glimmer of a False Light. "To be, to
+do, to Suffer." A Troubled Spinster. An Aggravating French Maid. "Won't
+there be a Row in the Castle!" Setting some Snares. Cora and Celine form
+an Alliance. A Veritable Ghost Awakens Consternation in the Household.
+"If ever you want to make him feel what it is to Suffer, Hagar will help
+you!" Doctor Vaughn Visits Bellair. Not a Bad Day's Work. Henry Reveals
+his Master's Secrets. Claire Turns Circe. A Mysterious Tenant. Celine
+Hurries Matters a Trifle. The Curtain Rises on the Mimic Stage. Celine
+Discharged by the Spinster, takes Service with Cora. The Sudden Illness.
+The Learned "Doctor from Europe." "I am Sorry, very Sorry." The Plot
+Thickens. A Midnight Conflagration. The Mysterious House in Flames, and
+its Mysterious Tenant takes Refuge with Claire. The Story of a Wrecked
+Life. "Well, it is a Strange Business, and a Difficult." Letters from
+the Seat of War. Mr. Percy Shakes Himself. A Fair Invalid. "Two
+Handsomer Scoundrels Never Stood at Bay!" A Silken Belt Worth a King's
+Ransom. A Successful Burglary. Cross Purposes. A Slight Complication. A
+new Detective on the Scene. Clarence Vaughn seeks to Cultivate him.
+Bidding High for First-Class Detective Service. "Thou shalt not Serve
+two Masters" set at naught. Mr. Lord's Letter. Premonitions of a Storm.
+"The&mdash;fellow is Dead!" A Thunderbolt. "I have come back to my own!" A
+Fair, but Strong, Hand. Cora Restive under Orders. "You&mdash;you are&mdash;&mdash;?"
+"Celine Leroque, Madam." A Madman. A Bogus Doctor Uncomfortable. "Don't
+you try that, sir!" Lucian Davlin's "Points" are False Beacons. Cora's
+Humiliation. An Arrival of Sharp-Eyed Well-Borers. Rather Strange Maid
+Servants. The Cords are Tightening and the Victims Writhe. A Veritable
+Sphynx. Sleeping with Eyes Open. A Savage Toothache. A Judicious Use of
+Chloroform. A Bold Break for Freedom. An Omnipresent Well-Borer. "No
+Nonsense, Mind; I'm not a Flat." "For God's sake, <i>what</i> are you?" "A
+Witch!" The Doctor's Wooing. Mrs. Ralston Overhears Something. A Fresh
+Complication. "He is very Handsome; so are Tigers!" An Astounding
+Revelation. Mrs. Ralston's Story. "No," gasped Olive, "I&mdash;I&mdash;." A
+Movement in Force. Cora stirs up the Animals. A Wedding Indefinitely
+Postponed for Cause. Nipped in the Bud. Ready for Action. "Be at the
+Cottage to-night." A Plea for forgiveness. Sharpening the Sword of Fate.
+The Weight of a Woman's Hand. "Officers, take him; he has been my
+Prisoner long enough!" "Man, you have been a Dupe, a Fool!" Cora's
+Confession. "The Pistol is Aimed at Madeline's Heart!" "It is a Death
+Wound!" "The Goddess you Worship has Deserted you!" The Death-bed of a
+Hypocrite. "And then comes Rest!" The World is Clothed in a New White
+Garment.</p>
+
+<p>
+<span style="margin-left: 2em;">"God's greatness shines around our incompleteness,</span><br />
+<span style="margin-left: 2em;">Round our restlessness His rest!"</span><br />
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_476" id="Page_476">[Pg 476]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2><a name="Gold_Hunters" id="Gold_Hunters"></a>THE GOLD HUNTERS' ADVENTURES.</h2>
+<p class="center">
+<b>OR, WILD LIFE IN AUSTRALIA.</b><br />
+<br />
+<span class="small"><b>By WM. H. THOMES</b>, author of "The Bushrangers," "The Gold Hunters in Europe,"</span><br />
+<span class="small">"A Whaleman's Adventures," "Life in the East Indies," "Adventures on a </span><br />
+<span class="small">Slaver," "Running the Blockade," etc., etc.</span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/ad02.jpg"><img src="images/th_ad02.jpg" width="400" height="600" alt="&quot;Now for a rush.&mdash;Cut them to pieces!&quot;" title="&quot;Now for a rush.&mdash;Cut them to pieces!&quot;" /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;Now for a rush.&mdash;Cut them to pieces!&quot;</span>
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">
+<b>A FASCINATING STORY OF ADVENTURE.</b><br />
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_477" id="Page_477">[Pg 477]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+
+<h2><a name="Slavers" id="Slavers"></a>A SLAVER'S ADVENTURES</h2>
+<p class="center">
+<span class="big">ON SEA AND LAND.</span></p>
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/ad03.jpg"><img src="images/th_ad03.jpg" width="400" height="370" alt="&quot;We saw many species of wild animals.&quot; Page 39." title="&quot;We saw many species of wild animals.&quot; Page 39." /></a>
+<span class="caption">&quot;We saw many species of wild animals.&quot; Page 39.</span>
+</div>
+<p class="center">
+<span class="big">By WM. H. THOMES,</span><br />
+<br />
+<span class="small">Author of "<span class="smcap">The Gold Hunters' Adventures in Australia</span>," "<span class="smcap">The Bushrangers</span>,"</span><br />
+<span class="small">"<span class="smcap">Running the Blockade</span>," etc., etc.</span><br />
+<br />
+ILLUSTRATED WITH FORTY ELEGANT ENGRAVINGS.<br />
+<br />
+<span class="small">SOLD ON ALL RAILWAY TRAINS AND BY ALL BOOKSELLERS.</span><br />
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_478" id="Page_478">[Pg 478]</a></span></p>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2><a name="Whalemans" id="Whalemans"></a>A Whaleman's Adventures</h2>
+<p class="center">
+<i>AT SEA, IN THE SANDWICH ISLANDS AND CALIFORNIA.</i></p>
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 400px;">
+<a href="images/ad04.jpg"><img src="images/th_ad04.jpg" width="400" height="530" alt="A Whaleman&#39;s Adventures" title="A Whaleman&#39;s Adventures" /></a>
+</div>
+<p class="center">
+By WM. H. THOMES,<br />
+<br />
+<span class="small">Author of "<span class="smcap">The Gold Hunters' Adventures in Australia</span>," "<span class="smcap">The Bushrangers</span>,"</span><br />
+<span class="small">"<span class="smcap">Running the Blockade</span>," etc., etc.</span><br />
+<br />
+<b>Illustrated with Thirty-Six Fine Engravings.</b><br />
+<br />
+<span class="small">SOLD ON ALL RAILWAY TRAINS AND BY ALL BOOKSELLERS.</span><br />
+</p>
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_479" id="Page_479">[Pg 479]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="Transcribers_Notes" id="Transcribers_Notes"></a>Transcriber's Note:</h2>
+
+
+<p>Apparent printer's errors have been retained, unless stated below.</p>
+
+<p>Missing page numbers are attributed to blank or unnumbered pages in the
+original text.</p>
+
+<p>Page numbers cited in illustration captions refer to their discussion in
+the text. Illustrations have been moved near their mention in the text.</p>
+
+<p>Punctuation, capitalization, accents and formatting markup have been
+made consistent.</p>
+
+<p>Page 13, "tress" changed to "trees". (Mamie Rutger, the only daughter of
+a prosperous German farmer; wild little Mamie, who rode the wickedest
+colts, climbed the tallest trees, sang loudest in the singing-school,
+and laughed oftenest at the merry-makings, also vanished.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 32, "a a" changed to "a". (Instead of working swiftly on to a
+successful issue, this must be a case of waiting, of wit against wit,
+and I must report to my chief a balk in the very beginning.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 65, "facts" changed to "facks" for consistency in dialect within
+the paragraph. (They're facks, as anybody can see.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 89, Missing "on" added. (Brookhouse tore off half of the yellow
+envelope, and sitting on his horse, wrote a few words, resting his scrap
+of paper on the horn of his saddle.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 92, "then" changed to "them". (He had put the matter before them in
+a new light, and each man felt himself for the moment responsible for
+his own acts.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 98, "bad" changed to "had". (Those who at first had been held in
+check by the doctor's manner were once more spurred to action by the
+sight of those earth-stained tools, and the general verdict was that
+"Bethel was bluffing, sure.")</p>
+
+<p>Page 139, "thus" changed to "this". (I arose and made a hasty toilet,
+feeling sure that something unusual had called him from his bed this
+early.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 148, "he" changed to "be". (Whom he would be elected to office, and
+whom he would not, came somehow to be disapproved by all Trafton.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 157, "dis-displeased" changed to "displeased". (Arch displeased me
+very much by not coming to your aid;)</p>
+
+<p>Page 158, "in" changed to "is". (Your influence in Trafton is
+considerable, I know.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 199, "is is" changed to "is". ("I am afraid some new misfortune
+menaces Trafton, if, as you say, Blake Simpson is already here, for
+Dimber Joe came down on the train to-night, and is in Trafton.")</p>
+
+<p>Page 203, "undividuality" changed to "individuality". (His words were a
+mass of absurd contradictions, betraying no trait of his individuality,
+save his eccentricity;)</p>
+
+<p>Page 213, "he" changed to "be". (I hear his fiddle, so I s'pose he can
+be seen?)</p>
+
+<p>Page 214, "machime" changed to "machine". (I had supposed it to be none
+other than an old school friend of that name, who, when last I heard of
+him, was general agent for a city machine manufactory.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 221, "began" changed to "begin". ("Ah! I begin to see!")</p>
+
+<p>Page 266, "compainions" changed to "companions". (I find there are
+plenty of guides and companions to be picked up.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 276, Telegram edited to match one on Page 280, as it states it is
+the same telegram.</p>
+
+<p>Page 335, "statute" changed to "statue". (Louise sat mute and
+statue-like by the bedside of her lover, and I, oppressed by the
+stillness, was leaning over the open window sill, wondering how it was
+faring with Jim Long, when the gate gave the faintest creak, and I
+lifted my eyes to see the object of my mental inquiry coming toward me.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 336, "and and" changed to "and". (He glanced from me to the
+doorway, where Mrs. Harris was now standing, with an expectant look on
+her benevolent countenance, and replied, laconically:)</p>
+
+<p>Page 336, "unoticed" changed to "unnoticed". (At the same moment I
+observed what was unnoticed by the other two; Miss Barnard had left her
+post and was standing behind Mrs. Harris.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 336, "imperceptable" changed to "imperceptible". ("Now, the
+Jestice," with another sidelong glance, and an almost imperceptible
+gesture, "is a man an' a brother.")</p>
+
+<p>Page 344, "litttle" changed to "little". (All we want, is here; half a
+dozen men with ordinary courage and shrewdness, and a little patience.)</p>
+
+<p>Page 376, "ecstacy" changed to "ecstasy". (I experienced a thrill of
+ecstasy when I learned that Wyman kicked him three times, with stout
+boots!)</p>
+
+<p>Page 403, "darks" changed to "dark". (Three dark forms approach, one
+after the other,)</p>
+
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="full" />
+<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OUT OF A LABYRINTH***</p>
+<p>******* This file should be named 38888-h.txt or 38888-h.zip *******</p>
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+<a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/3/8/8/8/38888">http://www.gutenberg.org/3/8/8/8/38888</a></p>
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+*** END: FULL LICENSE ***
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+</html>
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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, Out of a Labyrinth, by Lawrence L. Lynch
+
+
+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: Out of a Labyrinth
+
+
+Author: Lawrence L. Lynch
+
+
+
+Release Date: February 15, 2012  [eBook #38888]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII)
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OUT OF A LABYRINTH***
+
+
+E-text prepared by Veronika Redfern, Suzanne Shell, and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images
+generously made available by Internet Archive/American Libraries
+(http://www.archive.org/details/americana)
+
+
+
+Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this
+      file which includes the original illustrations.
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+      or
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+
+
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive/American Libraries. See
+      http://www.archive.org/details/outoflabyrin00lynciala
+
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: "Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of
+defence about the building."--page 423.]
+
+
+OUT OF A LABYRINTH.
+
+by
+
+LAWRENCE L. LYNCH,
+
+(Of the Secret Service.)
+
+Author of "Shadowed by Three," "Madeline Payne,"
+"Dangerous Ground," "The Diamond Coterie,"
+etc., etc.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+Chicago:
+Alex. T. Loyd & Co.
+1885.
+
+
+Copyright, 1885, by
+ALEX. T. LOYD & CO.,
+CHICAGO.
+
+Copyright, 1882, by
+DONNELLEY, LOYD & CO.
+
+
+
+
+TABLE OF CONTENTS
+
+   Chapter I.       A Bad Beginning.
+   Chapter II.      The Enemy Makes a Move.
+   Chapter III.     Scenting a Mystery.
+   Chapter IV.      Chartering a Dummy.
+   Chapter V.       En Route for Trafton.
+   Chapter VI.      Jim Long.
+   Chapter VII.     We Organize.
+   Chapter VIII.    A Resurrection.
+   Chapter IX.      Mob Law.
+   Chapter X.       Two Fair Champions.
+   Chapter XI.      A Cup of Tea.
+   Chapter XII.     A Big Haul.
+   Chapter XIII.    'Squire Brookhouse Makes a Call.
+   Chapter XIV.     Mrs. Ballou's Pistol Practice.
+   Chapter XV.      Preparations of War.
+   Chapter XVI.     Fly Crooks in Trafton.
+   Chapter XVII.    Southward to Clyde.
+   Chapter XVIII.   A Sewing Machine Agent.
+   Chapter XIX.     Haunted by a Face.
+   Chapter XX.      Some Bits Of Personal History.
+   Chapter XXI.     "Evolving a Theory."
+   Chapter XXII.    Two Departures.
+   Chapter XXIII.   A Shot in the Dark.
+   Chapter XXIV.    Jim Long Shows His Hand.
+   Chapter XXV.     In Which I Take Jim on Trust.
+   Chapter XXVI.    The Trail of the Assassin.
+   Chapter XXVII.   An Angry Heiress.
+   Chapter XXVIII.  Jim Gives Bail.
+   Chapter XXIX.    Vigilants.
+   Chapter XXX.     A Chapter of Telegrams.
+   Chapter XXXI.    Carnes Tells His Story.
+   Chapter XXXII.   Amy Holmes Confesses.
+   Chapter XXXIII.  Johnny La Porte is Brought to Book.
+   Chapter XXXIV.   How Bethel was Warned.
+   Chapter XXXV.    We Prepare For a "Party."
+   Chapter XXXVI.   Something the Moon Failed to See.
+   Chapter XXXVII.  Caught in the Act.
+   Chapter XXXVIII. "The Counterfeiter's Daughter."
+   Chapter XXXIX.   "Louise Barnard's Friendship."
+   Chapter XL.      The Story Of Harvey James.
+   Chapter XLI.     A Gathering of the Fragments.
+   Chapter XLII.    In Conclusion.
+
+
+
+
+OUT OF A LABYRINTH.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+A BAD BEGINNING.
+
+
+It was a June day; breezy, yet somewhat too warm. The slow going old
+passenger train on the slow going mail route, that shall be nameless in
+these chronicles, seemed in less of a hurry than usual, and I, stretched
+lazily across two seats, with my left arm in a sling, was beginning to
+yield to the prevailing atmosphere of stupidity, when we rumbled up to a
+village station, and took on board a single passenger.
+
+I was returning from a fruitless mission; and had stepped on board the
+eastward-bound train in anything but an enviable frame of mind; and no
+wonder! I, who prided myself upon my skill in my profession; _I_, who
+was counted by my chief the "best detective on the force, sir,"--had
+started, less than a week before, for a little farming settlement in one
+of the interior States, confident of my ability to unravel soon, and
+easily, a knotty problem.
+
+I had taken every precaution to conceal my identity, and believed myself
+in a fair way to unveil the mystery that had brought grief and
+consternation into the midst of those comfortable, easy-going farmers;
+and I had been _spotted_ at the very outset! I had been first warned, in
+a gentlemanly but anonymous fashion, to leave the neighborhood, and
+then, because I did not avail myself of the very first opportunity to
+decamp, had been shot from behind a hedge!
+
+And this is how it happened:
+
+Groveland, so called, doubtless, because of the total absence of
+anything bearing closer resemblance to a grove than the thrifty orchards
+scattered here and there, is a thriving township, not a town.
+
+Its inhabitants reside in the midst of their own farms, and, save the
+farm buildings, the low, rambling, sometimes picturesque farm houses, or
+newer, more imposing, "improved" and often exquisitely ugly, white
+painted dwellings; the blacksmith shop, operated by a thrifty farmer and
+his hard-fisted sons; the post-office, kept in one corner of the "front
+room" by a sour-visaged old farmer's wife; and the "deestrict"
+school-house, then in a state of quiescence,--town institutions there
+were none in Groveland.
+
+The nearest village, and that an exceedingly small one, was five miles
+west of Groveland's western boundary line; and the nearest railroad town
+lay ten miles east of the eastern boundary.
+
+So the Grovelanders were a community unto themselves, and were seldom
+disturbed by a ripple from the outside world.
+
+It was a well-to-do community. Most of its inhabitants had "squatted"
+there when the land was cheap and uncultivated, and they were poor and
+young.
+
+Time, railroads, and the grand march of civilization had increased the
+value of their acres; and their own industry had reared for them
+pleasant homes, overflowing granaries, barns "good enough to live in,"
+orchards, vineyards, all manner of comforts and blessings. Strong sons
+and fair daughters had grown up around them; every man knew his
+neighbor, and had known him for years. They shared in their neighborhood
+joys and griefs, and made common cause at weddings, funerals,
+threshings, huskings, cider makings, everything.
+
+One would suppose it difficult to have a secret in Groveland, and yet a
+mystery had come among them.
+
+'Squire Ewing, 'squire by courtesy, lived in a fine new white house on a
+fine farm in the very center of the township. His family consisted of
+his wife, two daughters, the eldest, eighteen, the younger, fifteen, and
+two sons, boys of twelve and ten.
+
+The daughters of 'Squire Ewing were counted among the brightest and
+prettiest in Groveland, and they were not lacking in accomplishments, as
+accomplishments go in such communities. Much learning was not considered
+a necessity among the Groveland young ladies, but they had been smitten
+with the piano-playing mania, and every Winter the district school-house
+was given over, for one night in the week, to the singing school.
+
+The Misses Ewing were ranked among the best "musicians" of Groveland,
+and they had also profited for a time by the instructions of the nearest
+seminary, or young ladies' school.
+
+One evening, just as the sun was setting, Ellen, or Nell Ewing, as she
+was familiarly called, mounted her pony and cantered blithely away, to
+pass the night with a girl friend.
+
+It was nothing unusual for the daughters of one farmer to ride or drive
+miles and pass the night or a longer time with the daughters of another,
+and Nellie's destination was only four miles away.
+
+The night passed and half of the ensuing day, but the eldest daughter of
+Farmer Ewing did not return.
+
+However, there was no cause for alarm in this, and 'Squire Ewing ate his
+evening meal in peace, confident that his daughter would return before
+the night had closed in. But a second night came and went, and still she
+did not come.
+
+Then the good farmer became impatient, and early on the morning of the
+second day he dispatched his eldest son to hasten the return of the
+tardy one.
+
+But the boy came back alone, and in breathless agitation. Nellie had
+not been seen by the Ballous since the night she left home. She had
+complained of a headache, and had decided to return home again. She had
+remained at Mrs. Ballou's only an hour; it was not yet dark when she
+rode away.
+
+Well, Nellie Ewing was never seen after that, and not a clue to her
+hiding-place, or her fate, could be discovered.
+
+Detectives were employed; every possible and impossible theory was
+"evolved" and worked upon, but with no other result than failure.
+
+Groveland was in a state of feverish excitement; conjectures the most
+horrible and most absurd were afloat; nothing was talked of save the
+mysterious disappearance of Nellie Ewing.
+
+And so nearly three months passed. At the end of that time another
+thunderbolt fell.
+
+Mamie Rutger, the only daughter of a prosperous German farmer; wild
+little Mamie, who rode the wickedest colts, climbed the tallest trees,
+sang loudest in the singing-school, and laughed oftenest at the
+merry-makings, also vanished. At first they thought it one of her jokes,
+for she was given to practical joking; but she did not come back. No
+trace of her could be found.
+
+At twilight one June evening she was flitting about the door-yard,
+sometimes singing gayly, sometimes bending over a rosebush, sometimes
+snatching down handfuls of early cherries. After that she was seen no
+more.
+
+Then ensued another search, and a panic possessed that once quiet
+community. The country was scoured. Every foot of road, every acre of
+ground, every hedge or clump of trees, every stream, every deserted or
+shut-up building for miles around was faithfully searched.
+
+And then Farmer Rutger and 'Squire Ewing closeted themselves together,
+took counsel of each other, and decided to call in the aid of a city
+detective. They came together to our office and laid their case before
+our chief.
+
+"If any man can clear up this matter, it's Bathurst," said that bluff
+old fellow.
+
+And so I was called into the consultation.
+
+It was a very long and very earnest one. Questions were asked that would
+have done credit to the brightest lawyer. Every phase of the affair, or
+the two affairs, was closely examined from different standpoints. Every
+possibility weighed; copious notes taken.
+
+Before the two men left us, I had in my mind's eye a tolerably fair map
+of Groveland, and in my memory, safely stowed away, the names of many
+Grovelanders, together with various minute, and seemingly irrelevant,
+items concerning the families, and nearest friends and neighbors, of the
+two bereaved fathers.
+
+They fully perceived the necessity for perfect secrecy, and great
+caution. And I felt assured that no word or sign from them would betray
+my identity and actual business when, a few days later, I should appear
+in Groveland.
+
+It was a strange case; one of the sort that had a wonderful fascination
+for me; one of the sort that once entered upon, absorbed me soul and
+body, sleeping or waking, day and night, for I was an enthusiast in my
+profession.
+
+After waiting a few days I set out for the scene of the mystery. I did
+not take the most direct route to reach my destination, but went by a
+circuitous way to a small town west of the place, and so tramped into
+it, coming, not from the city, but from the opposite direction.
+
+My arrival was as unobtrusive as I could make it, and I carried my
+wardrobe in a somewhat dusty bundle, swung across my shoulder by a
+strap.
+
+I had assumed the character of a Swede in search of employment, and my
+accent and general _ensemble_ were perfect in their way.
+
+Perseveringly I trudged from farm to farm, meeting sometimes with
+kindness, and being as often very briefly dismissed, or ordered off for
+a tramp. But no one was in need of a man until I arrived at the widow
+Ballou's.
+
+This good woman, who was a better farmer than some of her male
+neighbors, and who evidently had an eye to the saving of dollars and
+cents, listened quite indifferently to my little story while I told how
+long I had looked for work, and how I had been willing to labor for very
+small wages. But when I arrived at the point where I represented myself
+as now willing to work for my board until I could do better, her eyes
+brightened, she suddenly found my monotone more interesting, decided
+that I "looked honest," and, herself, escorted me to the kitchen and
+dealt me out a bountiful supper, for I had reached the Ballou farmhouse
+at sundown.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+THE ENEMY MAKES A MOVE.
+
+
+Three days passed, and of course during that time I heard much about the
+two girls and their singular disappearance.
+
+At night, after work was done, and supper disposed of, Mrs. Ballou would
+send some one to the post-office. This duty had usually fallen to Miss
+Grace Ballou, or been chosen by her, but since the night when Nellie
+Ewing rode away from the door, never again to be seen, Mrs. Ballou had
+vetoed the evening canters that Grace so much loved, and so the
+post-office was attended to by Master Fred, the spoiled son and heir,
+aged thirteen, or by the "hired man."
+
+On the evening of the third day of my service, I saddled one of the farm
+horses, and rode to the post-office to fetch the widow's mail, and great
+was my surprise when the grim postmistress presented me with a letter
+bearing my assumed name, Chris Ollern, and directed to the care of Mrs.
+Ballou.
+
+Stowing away the widow's papers and letters in a capacious coat pocket,
+and my own letter in a smaller inner one, I rode thoughtfully homeward.
+
+Who had written me? Not the men at the office; they were otherwise
+instructed; besides, the letter was a local one, bearing only the
+Groveland mark. Could it be that Farmer Rutger or 'Squire Ewing had
+forgotten all my instructions, and been insane enough to write me?
+
+I hurriedly put my horse in his stable, unburdened my pocket of the
+widow's mail, and mounted to my room.
+
+Locking my door and lighting a tallow candle--the widow objected to
+kerosene in sleeping rooms,--I opened my letter.
+
+It was brief, very, containing only these words:
+
+     CHRIS OLLERN--As you call yourself, unless you wish to
+     disappear as effectually as did Nellie Ewing and Mamie Rutger,
+     you will abandon your present pursuit. A word to the wise is
+     sufficient.
+
+Here was an astonisher, and here was also a clue. I was betrayed, or
+discovered. But the enemy had showed his hand. I had also made a
+discovery.
+
+There was an enemy then; there had been foul play; and that enemy was
+still in the vicinity, as this letter proved.
+
+It was a wily enemy too; the letter would betray nothing as regarded
+identity. It was _printed_; the letters were smooth and even, but
+perfectly characterless. It was a wily enemy, but not quite a wise one,
+as the sending of such a letter proved.
+
+I did not leave my room again that night, but sat for hours thinking.
+
+The next morning as I came from the barn-yard with a pail of milk, I
+encountered Miss Grace Ballou. She was feeding a brood of chickens, and
+seemed inclined to talk with me.
+
+"Did you ever see such fine chicks, Chris?" she asked; "and they are
+only two weeks old."
+
+I stopped, of course, to admire the chickens and express my admiration
+in broken English.
+
+Suddenly she moved nearer me, and said, in a lower tone:
+
+"Chris, did you bring any letters for any one except mother, last
+night?"
+
+[Illustration: "Chris, did you bring any letters for any one, except
+mother, last night?"--page 18.]
+
+Promptly and unblushingly, yet somewhat surprised, I answered, "No."
+
+Her eyes searched my face for a second, and then she said, falling back
+a step:
+
+"Well, don't say anything about my asking you, Chris. I--I expected a
+letter."
+
+That night I went to the post-office as usual, and the next morning Miss
+Grace repeated her question:
+
+"Did you bring no letters for _any one, positively_?"
+
+"No, there were only papers that night."
+
+The third night after the receipt of my mysterious warning, however,
+there came a letter for Grace, which, a little to my surprise, was
+promptly handed over by her mother. Whether this was the expected
+missive or not it threw the young lady into unmistakable raptures.
+
+Amy was coming! Amy Holmes; she would be at the station to-morrow, and
+Grace must go in the carriage to meet her.
+
+Everybody was pleased except Fred Ballou. Mrs. Ballou heartily expressed
+her satisfaction, and announced that I should drive with Grace to "the
+station;" and Ann, the "help," became quite animated.
+
+But Fred scornfully declined his mother's proposition, that he should
+ride to town with his sister and myself.
+
+"Catch me," he sniffed, "for that stuck-up town girl; she was always
+putting ideas into Grace's head; and--he hated girls anyway. And hoped
+some one would just carry Amy Holmes off as they did Nellie Ewing."
+
+Whereupon Grace turned, first pale, then scarlet, and lastly, flew at
+her brother and boxed his ears soundly.
+
+The next day we went as per programme to the town, ten miles distant,
+where Miss Holmes would be. She had arrived before us, and was waiting.
+
+She was a handsome, showy-looking girl, stylishly dressed, and very
+self-possessed in manner; evidently a girl who knew something of town
+life.
+
+We found her beguiling the time of waiting by conversation with a
+well-dressed, handsome young fellow, who was evidently a prime favorite
+with both young ladies. He accompanied them while they went about making
+certain purchases that Mrs. Ballou had charged her daughter not to
+forget, and then he assisted them into the carriage, while I stowed away
+their bundles, shook their hands at parting, and stood gazing after them
+as the carriage rolled away, the very model of a young Don Juan, I
+thought.
+
+I had hoped to gain something from my ten-mile drive with the two young
+ladies sitting behind me. I had learned that Miss Holmes was a friend of
+the Ewings, and also of Mamie Rutger, and as she had not been in the
+vicinity since these young ladies had vanished, what more natural than
+that she should talk very freely of their mysterious fate, and might not
+these girl friends know something, say something, that in my hands would
+prove a clue?
+
+But I was disappointed; during the long drive the names of Nellie Ewing
+and Mamie Rutger never once passed their lips. Indeed, save for a few
+commonplaces, these two young ladies, who might be supposed to have so
+much to say to each other, never talked at all.
+
+I had driven the steady old work horses in going for Miss Holmes, and so
+when night came, a feeling of humanity prompted me to buckle the saddle
+upon a young horse scarcely more than half broken, and set off upon his
+back for the post-office.
+
+It was a little later than usual, and by the time I had accomplished
+the first half of my journey, stowed away the usual newspapers, and
+remounted my horse, it was fully dark; and I rode slowly through the
+gloom, thinking that Groveland was ambitious indeed to bring the mail
+every day from a railway ten miles distant, and wondering what it would
+be like to be the mail boy, and jog over that same monotonous twenty
+miles of fetching and carrying every day.
+
+I had now reached a high hedge that assured me that my homeward journey
+was half accomplished, when, from an imaginary inland mail boy, I was
+suddenly transformed into an actual, crippled John Gilpin. From out the
+blackness of the hedge came a flash and a sharp report; my horse bounded
+under me, my left arm dropped helpless, and then I was being borne over
+the ground as if mounted upon a whirlwind!
+
+[Illustration: "From out the blackness of the hedge came a flash and a
+sharp report; my horse bounded under me, my left arm dropped
+helpless."--page 23.]
+
+It was useless to command, useless to strive with my single hand to curb
+the frightened beast. It was a miracle that I did not lose my seat, for
+at first I reeled, and feeling the flow of blood, feared a loss of
+consciousness. But that swift rush through the dewy evening air revived
+me, and rallied my scattered senses.
+
+As we dashed on, I realized that my life had been attempted, and that
+the would-be assassin, the abductor or destroyer of the two missing
+girls, had been very near me; that but for the unruly beast I rode I
+might perhaps have returned his little compliment; at least have found
+some trace of him.
+
+My horse kept his mad pace until he had reached his own barn-yard gate,
+and then he stopped so suddenly as to very nearly unseat me.
+
+I quickly decided upon my course of action, and now, dismounting and
+merely leading my horse into the inclosure, I went straight to the
+house. I knew where to find Mrs. Ballou at that hour, and was pretty
+sure of finding her alone.
+
+As I had anticipated, she was seated in her own room, where she
+invariably read her evening papers in solitude. I entered without
+ceremony, and much to her surprise.
+
+But I was not mistaken in her; she uttered no loud exclamation, either
+of anger at my intrusion, or of fright at sight of my bleeding arm. She
+rose swiftly and came straight up to me.
+
+Before she could ask a question, I motioned her to be silent, and closed
+the door carefully. After which, without any of my foreign accent, I
+said:
+
+"Mrs. Ballou, a woman who can manage a great farm and coin money in the
+cattle trade, can surely keep a secret. Will you bind up my arm while I
+tell you mine?"
+
+"What!" she exclaimed, starting slightly; "you are not a--"
+
+"Not a Swede? No, madame," I replied; "I am a detective, and I have been
+shot to-night by the hand that has struck at the happiness of 'Squire
+Ewing and his neighbor."
+
+The splendid woman comprehended the situation instantly.
+
+"Sit there," she said, pointing to her own easy chair. "And don't talk
+any more now. I shall cut away your sleeve."
+
+"Can you?" I asked, deprecatingly.
+
+"Can I?" contemptuously; "I bleed my cattle."
+
+I smiled a little in spite of myself; then--
+
+"Consider me a colt, a heifer, anything," I said, resignedly. "But I
+feel as if I had been bled enough."
+
+"I should think so," she replied, shortly. "Now be still; it's lucky
+that you came to me."
+
+I thought so too, but obedient to her command, I "kept still."
+
+She cut away coat and shirt sleeves; she brought from the kitchen tepid
+water and towels, and from her own especial closet, soft linen rags. She
+bathed, she stanched, she bandaged; it proved to be only a flesh wound,
+but a deep one.
+
+"Now then," she commanded in her crisp way, when all was done, and I had
+been refreshed with a very large glass of wine, "tell me about this."
+
+"First," I said, "your colt stands shivering yet, no doubt, and all
+dressed in saddle and bridle, loose in the stable-yard."
+
+"Wait," she said, and hurried from the room.
+
+In a few moments she came back.
+
+"The colt is in his stable, and no harm done," she announced, sitting
+down opposite me. "How do you feel?"
+
+"A little weak, that is all. Now, I will tell you all about it."
+
+In the fewest words possible, I told my story, and ended by saying:
+
+"Mrs. Ballou, you, as a woman, will not be watched or suspected; may I
+leave with you the task of telling 'Squire Ewing and Mr. Rutger what has
+happened to me?"
+
+"You may," with decision.
+
+"And I must get away from here before others know how much or little I
+am injured. Can your woman's wit help me? I want it given out that my
+arm is broken. Do you comprehend me?"
+
+"Perfectly. Then no one here must see you, and--you should have that
+wound dressed by a good surgeon, I think. There is a train to the city
+to-morrow at seven. I will get up in the morning at three o'clock, make
+us a cup of coffee, harness the horses, and drive you to Sharon."
+
+"_You?_" I exclaimed.
+
+"Yes, I! Why not? It's the only way. And now, would you mind showing me
+that letter?"
+
+I took it from my pocket-book and put it in her hand. She read it
+slowly, and then looked up.
+
+"Why did you not heed this warning?" she asked.
+
+[Illustration: "Why did you not heed this warning?" she asked.--page
+28.]
+
+"Because I wanted to find out what it meant."
+
+"Well, you found out," sententiously. "Now, go to bed, but first let me
+help you remove that coat."
+
+"Mrs. Ballou, you are a woman in a thousand," I exclaimed, as I rose
+to receive her assistance. "And I don't see how I can ever repay you.
+You are your own reliance."
+
+As I spoke, the coat fell from my shoulder and my hand touched the
+weapon in my pistol pocket.
+
+She saw it, too, and pointing to it, said:
+
+"I have never owned a pistol, because I could not buy one without
+letting Fred know it; he is always with me in town. If you think I have
+earned it give me that."
+
+"Gladly," I said, drawing out the small silver-mounted six-shooter; "it
+is loaded, every barrel. Can you use it?"
+
+"Yes; I know how to use firearms."
+
+"Then when you do use it, if ever, think of me." I laughed.
+
+"I will," she said, quite soberly.
+
+And little either of us dreamed how effectively she would use it one
+day.
+
+The next morning, at half-past three, we drove out of the farm yard, _en
+route_ for the railway station.
+
+During our drive, we talked like two men, and when we parted at Sharon
+we were very good friends. I dropped her work-hardened hand reluctantly,
+and watched her drive away, thinking that she was the only really
+sensible woman I had ever known, and feeling half inclined to fall in
+love with her in spite of the fact that she was twenty-five years my
+senior.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+SCENTING A MYSTERY.
+
+
+That is how I chanced to be rolling city-ward on that phlegmatic,
+oft-stopping, slow going, accomodation train, and that is why I was out
+of temper, and out of tune.
+
+My operation had been retarded. Instead of working swiftly on to a
+successful issue, this must be a case of waiting, of wit against wit,
+and I must report to my chief a balk in the very beginning.
+
+Nevertheless, as I said in the outset, fifty miles of monotonous rumble,
+together with the soothing influence of a good cigar, had blunted the
+edge of my self-disgust; my arm was quite easy, only warning me now and
+then that it was a crippled arm; I was beginning to feel phlegmatic and
+comfortable.
+
+I had formed a habit of not thinking about my work when the thinking
+would be useless, and there was little room for effective thought in
+this case. My future movements were a foregone conclusion. So I rested,
+and fell almost asleep, and then it was that the single passenger of
+whom I made mention, came on board.
+
+I had not noticed the name of the station, but as I roused myself and
+looked out, I saw that we were moving along the outskirts of a pretty
+little town, and then I turned my eyes toward the new passenger.
+
+He was coming down the aisle towards me, and was a plain, somewhat
+heavy-featured man, with a small, bright, twinkling eye. Certainly it
+was not a prepossessing countenance, but, just as certainly, it was an
+honest one. He was dressed in some gray stuff, the usual "second best"
+of a thriving farmer or mechanic, and might have been either.
+
+By the time I had arrived at this stage in my observations, there was
+rustle and stir behind me, and a man who had been lounging, silent,
+moveless, and, as I had supposed, asleep, stretched forward a brown
+fist, exclaiming:
+
+"Hallo, old boy! Stop right here. Harding, how are ye?"
+
+Of course the "old boy" stopped. There was the usual hand shaking, and
+mutual exclamations of surprise and pleasure, not unmixed with
+profanity. Evidently they had been sometime friends and neighbors, and
+had not met before for years.
+
+They talked very fast and, it seemed to me, unnecessarily loud; the one
+asking, the other answering, questions concerning a certain village,
+which, because it would not be wise to give its real name we will call
+Trafton.
+
+Evidently Trafton was the station we had just left, and where we took
+on this voluble passenger. They talked of its inhabitants, its
+improvements, its business; of births, and deaths, and marriages. It was
+very uninteresting; I was beginning to feel bored, and was meditating a
+change of seat, when the tone of the conversation changed somewhat, and,
+before I could sufficiently overcome my laziness to move, I found myself
+getting interested.
+
+"No, Trafton ain't a prosperous town. For the few rich ones it's well
+enough, but the poor--well, the only ones that prosper are those who
+live without work."
+
+"Oh! the rich?"
+
+"No! the poor. 'Nuff said."
+
+"Oh! I see; some of the old lot there yet; wood piles suffer?"
+
+"_Wood piles!_"
+
+"And hen roosts."
+
+"_Hen roosts!_" in a still deeper tone of disgust.
+
+"Clothes lines, too, of course."
+
+"_Clothes lines!_" Evidently this was the last straw. "Thunder and
+lightning, man, that's baby talk; there's more deviltry going on about
+Trafton than you could scoop up in forty ordinary towns."
+
+"No! you don't tell me. What's the mischief?"
+
+"Well, it's easy enough to tell _what_ the mischief is, but _where_ it
+is, is the poser; but there's a good many in Trafton that wouldn't
+believe you if you told them there was no such thing as an organized
+gang of marauders near the place."
+
+"An organized gang!"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"But, good Lord, that's pretty strong for Trafton. Do you believe it?"
+
+"Rather," with Yankee dryness.
+
+"Well, I'm blessed! Come, old man, tell us some of the particulars. What
+makes you suspect blacklegs about that little town?"
+
+"I've figured the thing down pretty close, and I've had reason to. The
+thing has been going on for a number of years, and I've been a loser,
+and ever since the beginning it has moved like clock-work. Five years
+ago a horse thief had not been heard of in Trafton for Lord knows how
+long, until one night Judge Barnes lost a valuable span, taken from his
+stable, slick and clean, and never heard of afterwards. Since then, from
+the town and country, say for twenty-five miles around, they have
+averaged over twenty horses every year, and they are always the very
+best; picked every time, no guess work."
+
+The companion listener gave a long, shrill whistle, and I, supposed by
+them to be asleep, became very wide awake and attentive.
+
+"But," said the astonished man, "you found some of them?"
+
+"No, sir; horses that leave Trafton between two days never come back
+again."
+
+"Good Lord!"
+
+There was a moment's silence and then the Traftonite said:
+
+"But that ain't all; we can beat the city itself for burglars."
+
+[Illustration: "But that ain't all; we can beat the city itself for
+burglars."--page 36.]
+
+"Burglars, too!"
+
+"Yes, _burglars_!" This the gentleman emphasized very freely. "And cute
+ones; they never get caught, and they seldom miss a figure."
+
+"How's that?"
+
+"They always know where to strike. If a man goes away to be absent for a
+night or two, they know it. If a man draws money from the bank, or sells
+cattle, they know that. And if some of our farmers, who like to go home
+drunk once in a while, travel the road alone, they are liable to be
+relieved of a part of their load."
+
+"And who do the folks suspect of doing the mischief?"
+
+"They talk among themselves, and very carefully, about _having_
+suspicions and _being_ on the watch; but very few dare breathe a name.
+And after all, there is no clear reason for suspecting anyone."
+
+"But _you_ suspect some one, or I miss my guess."
+
+"Well, and so I do, but I ain't the man to lay myself liable to an
+action for damages, so I say nothing, but _I'm watching_."
+
+Little more was said on the subject that interested me, and presently
+the Traftonite took leave of his friend, and quitted the train at a
+station, not more than twenty miles east of Trafton; the other was going
+to the city, like myself.
+
+When quiet was restored in my vicinity, I settled myself for a fresh
+cogitation, and now I gave no thought to the fate of Mamie Rutger and
+'Squire Ewing's daughter. My mind was absorbed entirely with what I had
+just heard.
+
+The pretty, stupid-looking little town of Trafton had suddenly become to
+me what the great Hippodrome is to small boys. I wanted to see it; I
+wanted to explore it, and to find the mainspring that moved its mystery.
+
+The words that had fallen from the lips of the Trafton man, had revealed
+to my practiced ear a more comprehensive story than he had supposed
+himself relating.
+
+Systematic thieving and burglary for five years! Systematic, and always
+successful. What a masterful rogue must be the founder of this system!
+How secure he must be in his place, and his scheming, and what a foeman
+to encounter. It would be something to thwart, to baffle, and bring to
+justice a villain of such caliber.
+
+After a while my thoughts turned back to Groveland. Certainly the
+mystery there was quite as deep, and the solution of it of more vital
+importance. But--Groveland was the mystery that I had touched and
+handled; Trafton was the mystery unseen.
+
+So my mind returned to the latter subject, and when, hours later, we
+ran into the city, Groveland was still absent, and Trafton present, in
+my thoughts.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+CHARTERING A DUMMY.
+
+
+By the time I reached the city my arm, which needed fresh bandages,
+began to pain me, and I went straight to the office of a surgeon,
+well-known to fame, and to the detective service. He had bound up many a
+broken bone for our office, and we of the fraternity called him "Our
+Samaritan." Some of the boys, and, let me confess it, myself among the
+number, called him "Our old woman," as well, for, while he bandaged and
+healed and prescribed, he waged continued warfare upon our profession,
+or rather the dangers of it.
+
+Of course, the country needed secret service men, and must have them,
+but there was an especial reason why each one of us should not be a
+detective. We were too young, or too old; we were too reckless, or we
+were cut out for some other career. In short, every patient that came
+under the hand of good Dr. Denham, became straightway an object of
+interest to his kindly old heart; and--strange weakness in a man of his
+cloth--he desired to keep us out of danger.
+
+"So ho!" cried "our old woman," when I appeared before him with my
+bandaged arm, "here _you_ are! I knew you'd be along soon. You've kept
+out of my clutches a good while. Arm, eh? Glad of it! I'll cut it off;
+I'll cut it off! That'll spoil _one_ detective."
+
+I laughed. We always laughed at the talkative soul, and he expected it.
+
+"Cut it off, then," I retorted, flinging myself down in a chair and
+beginning to remove my sling. "I don't need a left arm to shoot the
+fellow that gave me this, and I'm bound to do that, you know."
+
+"So! Got shot again? Go on, go on, sir! I'll have the pleasure of
+dissecting you yet. You'll come home dead some day, you scoundrel. Ah!
+here we are. Um! flesh wound, rear of arm, under side; close, pretty
+close, pret-ty close, sir!"
+
+[Illustration: "So! Got shot again? Go on, go on, sir! I'll have the
+pleasure of dissecting you yet."--page 43.]
+
+All this was jerked out in short breaths, while he was undoing and
+taking a first look at my arm. When the actual business of dressing
+commenced, "our old woman" was always silent and very intent upon the
+delicate task.
+
+"Pity it wasn't a little worse," he sniffled, moving across the room and
+opening a case of instruments. "You chaps get off too easy; you don't
+come quite near enough to Death's door. There's Carnes, now; got a knife
+through his shoulder, and fretting and fuming because he can't put
+himself in a position to get another dig."
+
+"Is Carnes in?"
+
+"Yes. And was badly cut."
+
+"Poor fellow! I'm sorry for that, but glad of the chance to see him;
+he's been on a long cruise."
+
+"Well, I'm not so sure about his going on another. Now then."
+
+And the doctor applied himself to business, and I sat, wincing
+sometimes, under his hand, but thinking through it all of Carnes.
+
+He was the _comique_ of the force; a man who was either loved or hated
+by all who knew him. No one could be simply indifferent to Carnes. He
+was a well-educated man, although he habitually spoke with a brogue. But
+I knew Carnes was not an Irishman; although he professed to have "hailed
+from Erin," he could drop the accent at pleasure and assume any other
+with perfect ease,--a feat rather difficult of accomplishment by a
+genuine Irishman.
+
+Nobody knew much about Carnes; he had no confidants, although he had his
+favorites, one of whom I chanced to be.
+
+He was older than myself by ten years, but when the mood seized him,
+could be younger by twenty. He had been absent from the office for
+nearly a year, and I mentally resolved that, after making my report and
+attending to business, I would lose no time in seeing him.
+
+Under the skilled hand of Dr. Denham my arm was soon dressed and made
+comfortable. It would be well in a fortnight, the good doctor assured
+me, and then as soon as I could, I withdrew from his presence and his
+customary fire of raillery and questions, and stopping only to refresh
+myself at a restaurant by the way, hastened on toward our office, where
+I was soon closeted with my Chief.
+
+As usual, he made no comments, asked no questions, when I dawned upon
+him thus unexpectedly. He never made use of unnecessary words. He only
+turned out one or two of the force who were lounging there, waiting his
+pleasure to attend to less important business, saw that the doors were
+closed and the outer office properly attended, and then seating himself
+opposite me at the desk, said quietly:
+
+"Now, Bathurst?"
+
+I was well accustomed to this condensed way of doing things, and it
+suited me. In a concise manner matching his own, I put him in possession
+of the facts relating to the Groveland case, and then I made a
+discovery. After relating how I had received the anonymous letter I
+produced my pocket-book, where I supposed it to be, and found it
+missing! It was useless to search; the letter was not in my pocket-book,
+neither was it on my person.
+
+"Well!" I said, when fully convinced that the letter was certainly not
+in my possession, "here's another complication. I've been robbed and--I
+know who did it!"
+
+My companion made no comment, and I continued:
+
+"The letter was of no vital importance; I will finish my story and then
+you will know what has become of it."
+
+I told the rest; of my ride upon Mrs. Ballou's colt, of the pistol
+shot, my runaway steed, and my subsequent interview with Mrs. Ballou.
+How she had dressed my wound, how the circumstances had compelled me to
+confide in her, and how she had risen to the occasion, and driven me to
+the station at half-past three in the morning, and I finished by saying:
+
+"Now it looks to me as if Mrs. Ballou had stolen my letter, and if so,
+one might take that fact and the one that Nellie Ewing was never seen
+after leaving her house, and count it as strong circumstantial evidence;
+but, that kind of evidence won't convince me that Mrs. Ballou is
+implicated in the crime or the mystery. When I told her of the printed
+letter, I saw her eyes gleam; and when she asked to see the document I
+read anxiety in her face. I am sure she took the letter, and I think she
+has a suspicion of some sort; but if she has the letter she will return
+it."
+
+My chief made no comment on all that I had told him; he picked up a
+paper weight and laid it down again with great precision, then he put
+all my story "on the shelf," as we were wont to express it, by asking
+abruptly:
+
+"What are you going to do next?"
+
+The question did not surprise me. He was not in the habit of offering
+much advice to such operatives as he trusted with delicate cases, for he
+never trusted a man until he felt full confidence in his skill and
+integrity. But when we desired to consult with him, he entered into the
+study of the case with animation and zeal; and then, and then only, did
+he do a full share of the talking.
+
+"Going to send them a 'dummy,' if we can find one with the grit to face
+the chances. They must suppose me entirely out of the business."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I want an extraordinary dummy, too; a blusterer."
+
+"Wait," interrupted my companion, beginning to smile, "I have got just
+the animal. When do you want to see him?"
+
+"As soon as possible; I want him in the field at once."
+
+"Very good. This fellow came here yesterday, and he's the greatest
+combination of fool and egotist I ever saw. Knows he was born for a
+detective and is ready to face a colony of desperadoes; there is no
+limit to his cheek and no end to his tongue. If you want a talkative
+fool he'll do."
+
+"Well," I replied, "that's what I want, but the man must not be quite
+destitute of courage. I don't think that the party or parties will make
+another attack upon a fresh man, and yet they may; and this dummy must
+remain there quite alone until the rascals are convinced that he has no
+confederates. There is a keen brain at the bottom of this Groveland
+mischief. I mean to overreach it and all its confederates, for I believe
+there must be confederates; and, sir, I don't believe those girls have
+been murdered."
+
+"No?"
+
+"No. But I want our dummy to act on the supposition that they _have_
+been. This will ease the vigilance of the guilty parties, and when they
+are off their guard, our time will come. Where is Carnes?"
+
+My companion was in full sympathy with my abrupt change of the subject,
+and he answered, readily:
+
+"At his old rooms. Carnes had a bad cut, but he is getting along
+finely."
+
+"Is he? The doctor gave me the idea that he was still in a doubtful
+condition."
+
+"Stuff," giving a short laugh, "some of his scarey talk; he told me that
+Carnes would be about within two weeks. Carnes did some good work in the
+West."
+
+"He is a splendid fellow; I must see him to-night. But about our dummy:
+when can you produce him?"
+
+"Will to-morrow do? say ten o'clock."
+
+"It must be later by an hour; the doctor takes me in hand at ten."
+
+"Eleven, then. I will have him here, and you'll find him a jewel."
+
+"Very good," I said, rising, and taking up my hat, "any message to send
+to Carnes? I shall see him to-night."
+
+"Look here," turning upon me suddenly, "you are not to go to Carnes for
+any purpose but to _see_ him. You must not talk to him much, nor let him
+talk; the doctor should have told you that. He is weak, and easily
+excited. It's bad enough to have two of my best men crippled and off at
+once; you must not retard his recovery. Carnes is as unruly as a
+ten-year old, now."
+
+I laughed; I could see just how this whimsical comrade of mine would
+chafe under his temporary imprisonment.
+
+"I won't upset the old fellow," I said, and took my leave.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+EN ROUTE FOR TRAFTON.
+
+
+Over the minor events of my story I will not linger, for although they
+cannot be omitted altogether, they are still so overshadowed by
+startling and thrilling after events that they may, with propriety, be
+narrated in brief.
+
+I saw Carnes, and found that the Chief had not exaggerated, and that the
+doctor had.
+
+Carnes was getting well very fast, but was chafing like a caged bear, if
+I may use so ancient an illustration.
+
+We compared notes and sympathized with each other, and then we made some
+plans. Of course we were off duty for the present, and could be our own
+masters. Carnes had been operating in a western city, and I proposed to
+him a change. I told him of the conversation I had overheard that
+morning, and soon had him as much interested in Trafton as was myself.
+Then I said:
+
+"Now, old man, why not run down to that little paradise of freebooters
+and see what we think of it?"
+
+[Illustration: "Now, old man, why not run down to that little paradise
+of freebooters and see what we think of it?"--page 50.]
+
+"Begorra and that'll jist suit me case," cried Carnes, who was just then
+in his Hibernian mood. "And it's go we will widen the wake."
+
+But go "widen the wake" we did not.
+
+We were forced to curb our impatience somewhat, for Carnes needed a
+little more strength, and my arm must be free from Dr. Denham's sling.
+
+We were to go as Summer strollers, and, in order to come more naturally
+into contact with different classes of the Traftonites, I assumed the
+_role_ of a well-to-do Gothamite with a taste for rural Summer sports,
+and Carnes made a happy hit in choosing the character of half companion,
+half servant; resolving himself into a _whole_ Irishman for the
+occasion.
+
+It was a fancy of his always to operate in disguise, so for this reason,
+and because of his pallor, and the unusual length of his hair and beard,
+he chose to take his holiday _en naturale_, and most unnatural he looked
+to me, who had never seen him in ill-health.
+
+As for me, I preferred on this occasion to adopt a light disguise.
+
+In spite of the warning of our Chief, but not in defiance of it, I
+talked Carnes into a fidget, and even worked myself into a state of
+enthusiasm. Of course I made no mention of the Groveland case; we never
+discussed our private operations with each other; at least, not until
+they were finished and the _finale_ a foregone conclusion.
+
+After bidding Carnes good-night, I sauntered leisurely homeward, if a
+hotel may be called home, and the ring of a horse's hoofs on the
+pavement brought to my mind my wild ride, Groveland, and Mrs. Ballou.
+
+Why had she stolen that letter of warning? That she had I felt assured.
+Did she give her true reason for wishing my revolver? Would she return
+my letter? And would she, after all, keep the secret of my identity?
+
+I did not flatter myself that I was the wonderful judge of human nature
+some people think themselves, but I did believe myself able to judge
+between honest and dishonest faces, and I had judged Mrs. Ballou as
+honest.
+
+So after a little I was able to answer my own questions. She _would_
+return my letter. She _could_ keep a secret, and--she would make good
+use, if any, of my weapon.
+
+It was not long before my judgment of Mrs. Ballou, in one particular at
+least, was verified.
+
+On the morning after my interview with Carnes, I saw the man who was
+destined to cover himself with glory in the capacity of "Dummy," and
+here a word of explanation may be necessary.
+
+Sometimes, not often, it becomes expedient, if not absolutely necessary,
+for a detective to work under a double guard. It is not always enough
+that others should not know him as a detective; it is required that they
+should be doubly deluded by fancying themselves aware of _who is_, hence
+the dummy.
+
+But in this narrative I shall speak in brief of the dummy's operations.
+Suffice it to say that he was just the man for the place; egotistical,
+ignorant, talkative to a fault, and thoroughly imbued, as all dummies
+should be, with the idea that he was "born for a detective."
+
+Of course he was not aware of the part he was actually to play. He was
+instructed as to the nature of the case, given such points as we thought
+he would make best use of, and told in full just what risk he might run.
+
+But our dummy was no coward. He inspected my wounded arm, expressed
+himself more than ready to take any risk, promised to keep within the
+bounds of safety after nightfall, and panted to be in the field.
+
+Just one day before our departure for Trafton I received a letter from
+Mrs. Ballou. Enclosed with it was my lost note of warning. Its contents
+puzzled me not a little. It ran thus:
+
+     DEAR SIR--I return you the letter I took from your pocket the
+     morning you left us. You did not suspect me of burglary, did
+     you? Of course you guessed the truth when you came to miss it.
+     I thought it might help me to a clue, but was wrong. _I can not
+     use it._
+
+     If anything _new or strange_ occurs, it may be to your interest
+     to inform _me_ first of all.
+
+     The time may come when you can doubly repay the service I
+     rendered you not long since. If so, remember me. I think I
+     shall come to the city soon.
+
+                    Respectfully, etc.,            M. A. BALLOU
+
+     P. S.--_Please destroy._
+
+From some women such a letter might have meant simply nothing. From
+Mrs. Ballou it was fraught with meaning.
+
+How coolly she waived the ceremony of apology! She wanted the
+letter--she took it; a mere matter of course.
+
+And as a matter of course, she returned it.
+
+Thus much of the letter was straight-forward, and suited me well enough;
+but----
+
+"_I thought it might help me to a clue, but was wrong._ I CAN NOT USE
+IT."
+
+Over these words I pondered, and then I connected them with the
+remainder of the letter. Mrs. Ballou was clever, but she was no
+diplomatist. She had put a thread in my hands.
+
+I made some marks in a little memorandum book, that would have been
+called anything but intelligible to the average mortal, but that were
+very plain language to my eye, and to none other. Next I put a certain
+bit of information in the hands of my Chief; then I turned my face
+toward Trafton.
+
+To my readers the connection between the fate of the two missing girls,
+and the mysterious doings at Trafton, may seem slight.
+
+To my mind, as we set out that day for the scene of a new operation,
+there seemed nothing to connect the two; I was simply, as I thought, for
+the time being, laying down one thread to take up another.
+
+A detective has not the gift of second sight, and without this gift how
+was I to know that at Trafton I was to find my clue to the Groveland
+mystery, and that that mystery was in its turn to shed a light upon the
+dark doings of Trafton, and aid justice in her work of requital?
+
+So it is. Out of threads, divers and far-fetched, Fate loves to weave
+her wonderful webs.
+
+And now, for a time, we leave Groveland with the shadow upon it. We
+leave the shadow now; later it comes to us.
+
+For the present we are _en route_ for Trafton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+JIM LONG.
+
+
+"Trafton?" said Jim Long, more familiarly known as Long Jim, scratching
+his head reflectively, "can't remember just how long I _did_ live in
+Trafton; good sight longer'n I'll live in it any more, I calklate;
+green, oh, dretful green, when I come here; in fact mem'ry hadn't
+de-welluped; wasn't peart then like I am now. But I ain't got nothin' to
+say agin' Trafton, _I_ ain't, tho' there _be_ some folks as has. Thar's
+Kurnel Brookhouse, now, _he's_ bin scalped severial times; then
+thar's--hello!"
+
+Jim brought his rhetoric up standing, and lowered one leg hastily off
+the fence, where he had been balancing like a Chinese juggler.
+
+At the same moment a fine chestnut horse dashed around a curve of the
+road, bearing a woman, who rode with a free rein, and sat as if born to
+the saddle. She favored Jim with a friendly nod as she flew past, and
+that worthy responded with a delighted grin and no other sign of
+recognition.
+
+When she had disappeared among the trees, and the horse's hoofs could
+scarcely be heard on the hard dry road, Jim drew up his leg, resumed his
+former balance, and went on as if nothing had happened.
+
+"There was Kurnel Brookhouse and--"
+
+"The mischief fly away wid old Brookhouse," broke in Carnes, giving the
+fence a shake that nearly unseated our juggler. "Who's the purty girl as
+bowed till yee's? That's the question on board now."
+
+"Look here, Mr. Ireland," expostulated Jim, getting slowly off the fence
+backward, and affecting great timidity in so doing, "ye shouldn't shake
+a chap that way when he's practisin' jimnasti--what's its name? It's
+awful unsafe."
+
+[Illustration: "Look here, Mr. Ireland," expostulated Jim, "ye shouldn't
+shake a chap that way."--page 59.]
+
+And he assured himself that his two feet were actually on _terra firma_
+before he relinquished his hold upon the top rail of the fence. Then
+turning toward Carnes he asked, with a most insinuating smile:
+
+"Wasn't you askin' something?"
+
+"That's jist what I was, by the powers," cried Carnes, as if his fate
+hung upon the answer. "Who is the leddy? be dacent, now."
+
+We had been some two weeks in Trafton when this dialogue occurred, and
+Jim Long was one of our first acquaintances. Carnes had picked him up
+somewhere about town; and the two had grown quite friendly and intimate.
+
+Long was a character in the eyes of Carnes, and was gradually
+developing into a genius in mine. Jim was, to all outward appearances,
+the personification of laziness, candor, good nature, and a species of
+blundering waggishness; but as I grew to know him better, I learned to
+respect the irony under his innocent looks and boorish speeches, and I
+soon found that he possessed a faculty, and a fondness, for baffling and
+annoying Carnes, that delighted me; for Carnes was, like most
+indefatigible jokers, rather nonplussed at having the tables turned.
+
+Jim never did anything for a livelihood that could be discovered, but he
+called himself a "Hoss Fysician," and indeed it was said that he could
+always be trusted with a horse, if he could be induced to look at one.
+But he had his likes and dislikes, so he said, and he would obstinately
+refuse to treat a horse toward which he had what he called "onfriendly
+feelin's."
+
+Jim could tell us all there was to tell concerning the town of Trafton.
+It was only necessary to set him going; and no story lost anything of
+spirit through being told by him.
+
+He was an oracle on the subjects of fishing and hunting; indeed, he was
+usually to be found in the companionship of gun or fishing rod.
+
+Fortunately for us, Trafton had rare facilities for sports of the
+aforementioned sort, and we gathered up many small items while, in the
+society of Long Jim, we scrambled through copses, gun in hand, or
+whipped the streams, and listened to the heterogenous mass of
+information that flowed from his ready tongue.
+
+But the spirit of gossip was not always present with Jim. Sometimes he
+was in an argumentative mood, and then would ensue the most astounding
+discussions between himself and Carnes. Sometimes he was full of
+theology, and then his discourse would have enraptured Swing, and
+out-Heroded Ingersoll, for his theology varied with his moods. Sometimes
+he was given to moralizing, and then Carnes was in despair.
+
+Jim lived alone in a little house, or more properly, "cabin," something
+more than a mile from town. He had a small piece of ground which he
+called his "farm," and all his slight amount of industry was expended on
+this.
+
+"Who is the leddy, I tell yee's?" roared Carnes, who, I may as well
+state here, had introduced himself to the Traftonites as Barney Cooley.
+"Bedad, a body would think she was your first shwateheart by the
+dumbness av yee's!"
+
+"And so she air," retorted Jim with much solemnity. "Don't _you_ go ter
+presoomin', Mr. Ireland. That are Miss Manvers, as lives in the house
+that's just a notch bigger'n Kurnel Brookhouse's; and her father was
+Captain Manvers, as went down in the good ship _Amy Audrey_, and left
+his darter that big house, and a bigger fortune dug out 'en a
+treasure-ship on the coast uv--"
+
+"Stop a bit, long legs," interposed Carnes, or Barney, as we had better
+call him, "was it a threasure-ship yee's wur hatchin' when it tuck yee's
+so long to shun out yer little sthory?"
+
+"Well, then, Erin, tell your own stories, that's all. If yer wan't ter
+kick over one uv the institooshuns uv Trafton, why, wade in."
+
+But Carnes only shook his head, and lying at full length upon the ground
+feigning great pain, groaned at intervals:
+
+"Oh! h! h! threasure-ship!"
+
+"But, Long," I interposed, "does this young lady, this Miss Manvers,
+sanction the story of a treasure from the deep, or is it only a flying
+rumor?"
+
+"It's flyin' enough," retorted Jim, soberly. "It's in everybody's
+mouth; that is, everybody as has an appetite for flyin' rumors. And I
+never knew of the lady contradictin' it, nuther. The facks is jest
+these, boss. There's Miss Manvers, and there's the big house, and the
+blooded horses, an' all the other fine things that I couldn't begin to
+interduce by their right names. They're facks, as anybody can see. There
+seems to be plenty o' money backin' the big house an' other big fixins,
+an' _I_ ain't agoin' to be oudacious enough ter say there ain't a big
+treasure-ship backin' up the whole business. Now, I ain't never seen
+'em, an' I ain't never seen anyone as has, not bein' much of a society
+man; but folks _say_ as Miss Manvers has got the most wonderfullest
+things dug out o' that ship; old coins, heaps of 'em; jewels an'
+_aunteeks_, as they call 'em, that don't hardly ever see daylight. One
+thing's certain: old Manvers come here most six years ago; he dressed,
+looked, and talked like a sailor; he bought the big house, fitted it up,
+an' left his daughter in it. Then he went away and got drowned. They say
+he made his fortune at sea, and it's pretty sartin that he brought some
+wonderful things home from the briny. Mebbe you had better go up to the
+Hill, that's Miss Manvers' place, and interduce yourself, and ask for
+the family history, Mr. 'Exile of Erin,'" concluded Jim, with a grin
+intended to be sarcastic, as he seated himself on a half decayed stump,
+and prepared to fill his pipe.
+
+"Bedad, an' so I will, Long Jim," cried Barney, springing up with
+alacrity. "An' thank ye kindly for mintionin' it. When will I find the
+leddy at home, then?"
+
+Partly to avert the tournament which I saw was about to break out afresh
+between the two, and partly through interest in the fair owner of the
+treasure-ship spoils, I interposed once more.
+
+"Miss Manvers must be a fair target for fortune-hunters, Long; are there
+any such in Trafton?"
+
+"Wall, now, that's what _some_ folks says, tho' I ain't goin' ter lay
+myself liable ter an action fer slander. There's _lovers_ enough; it
+ain't easy tellin' jest what they _air_ after. There's young Mr.
+Brookhouse; now, _his_ pa's rich enough; _he_ ain't no call to go fortin
+huntin'. There's a lawyer from G----, too, and a young 'Piscopal parson;
+then there's our new young doctor. I ain't hearn anyone say anythin'
+about him; but _I've_ seen 'em together, and I makebold ter say that
+he's anuther on 'em. Seen the young doctor, ain't ye?" turning to me
+suddenly with the last question.
+
+"Yes," I replied, carelessly; "he dines at the hotel."
+
+"Just so, and keeps his own lodgin' house in that little smit on a
+cottage across the creek on the Brookhouse farm road."
+
+"Oh, does he?"
+
+"Yes. Queer place for a doctor, some think, but bless you, it's as
+central as any, when you come ter look. Trafton ain't got any _heart_,
+like most towns; you can't tell where the middle of it is. It's as
+crookid as--its reputation."
+
+Not desiring to appear over anxious concerning the reputation of
+Trafton, I continued my queries about the doctor.
+
+"He's new to Trafton, I think you said?"
+
+"Yes, bran new; _too_ new. We don't like new things, we don't; have to
+learn 'em afore we like 'em. We don't like the new doctor like we
+orter."
+
+"_We_, Long? Don't you like Dr. Bethel?"
+
+"Well, speakin' as an individual, I like him fust rate. _I_ wuz speakin'
+as a good citizen, ye see; kind o' identifyin' myself with the common
+pulse," with an oratorical flourish.
+
+"Oh, I do see," I responded, laughingly.
+
+"Yis, we see!" broke in Barney, who had bridled his tongue all too long
+for his own comfort. "He's runnin' fur office, is Jim; he's afther
+wantin' to be alderman."
+
+"Ireland," retorted Long, in a tone of lofty admonition, "we're talkin'
+sense, wot nobody expects ye to understand. Hold yer gab, won't yer?"
+
+Thus admonished, Barney relapsed into silence, and Jim, who was now
+fairly launched, resumed:
+
+"Firstly," said he, "the doctor's a leetle too good lookin', don't you
+think so?"
+
+"Why, he is handsome, certainly, but it's in a massive way; he is not
+effeminate enough to be _too_ handsome."
+
+"That's it," replied Long, disparagingly; "he ain't our style. _Our_
+style is curled locks, cunnin' little moustachys, little hands and feet,
+and slim waists. Our style is more ruffles to the square fut of shirt
+front, and more chains and rings than this interlopin' doctor wears."
+
+"Our sthyle! Och, murther, hear him!" groaned Carnes, in a stage aside.
+
+"His manners ain't our style, nuther," went on Long, lugubriously.
+"_We_ always has a bow and a smile fur all, rich an poor alike,
+exceptin' now and then a no count person what there's no need uv wastin'
+politeness on. _He_ goes along head up, independenter nor Fouth o' July.
+He don't make no distincshun between folks an' folks, like a man orter.
+I've seen him bow jist the same bow to old Granny Sanders, as lives down
+at the poor farm, and to Parson Radcliffe, our biggest preachin' gun.
+Now, _that's_ no way fer a man ter do as wants ter live happy in
+Trafton; it ain't _our_ way."
+
+A mighty groan from Barney.
+
+"He's got a practice, though," went on Jim, utterly ignoring the
+apparent misery of his would-be tormentor. "Somehow he manages to cure
+folks as some of our old doctors can't. I reckon a change o' physic's
+good fer folks, same's a change o' diet--"
+
+"Or a clane shirt," broke in Carnes, with an insinuating glance in the
+direction of Jim's rather dingy linen.
+
+"Eggsackly," retorted Long, turning back his cuffs with great care and
+glancing menacingly at his enemy--"er a thrashin'."
+
+"Gentlemen," I interposed, "let us have peace. And tell me, Jim, where
+may we find your model Traftonite, your hero of the curls, moustaches,
+dainty hands, and discriminating politeness? I have not seen him."
+
+"Whar?" retorted Long, in an aggrieved tone, "look here, boss, you don't
+think _I_ ever mean anythin' personal by my remarks? I'd sworn it were
+all that way when you come ter notice. The average Traftonite's the
+sleekest, pertiest chap on earth. We wuz born so."
+
+Some more demonstrations in pantomime from Carnes, and silence fell
+upon us. I knew from the way Long smoked at his pipe and glowered at
+Carnes that nothing more in the way of information need be expected from
+him. He had said enough, or too much, or something he had not intended
+to say; he looked dissatisfied, and soon we separated, Long repairing to
+his farm, and Carnes and I to our hotel, all in search of dinner.
+
+"We won't have much trouble in finding the 'Average Traftonite,' old
+man," I said, as we sauntered back to town.
+
+No answer; Carnes was smoking a huge black pipe and gazing thoughtfully
+on the ground.
+
+"I wonder if any attempt has been made to rob Miss Manvers of those
+treasure-ship jewels," I ventured next.
+
+"Umph!"
+
+"Or of her blooded horses. Carnes, what's your opinion of Long?"
+
+Carnes took his pipe from his mouth and turned upon me two serious eyes.
+When I saw the expression in them I knew he was ready to talk business.
+
+"Honor bright?" he queried, without a trace of his Irish accent.
+
+"Honor bright."
+
+"Well," restoring his pipe and puffing out a black cloud, "he's an odd
+fish!"
+
+"Bad?"
+
+"He's a fraud!"
+
+"As how?"
+
+"Cute, keen, has played the fool so long he sometimes believes himself
+one. Did you notice any little discrepancies in his speech?
+
+"Well, rather."
+
+"Nobody else ever would, I'll be bound; not the 'Average Traftonite,' at
+least. That man has not always been at odds with the English grammar,
+mark me. What do you think, Bathurst?"
+
+"I think," responded I, soberly, "that we shall find in him an ally or
+an enemy."
+
+We had been sauntering "across lots," over some of the Brookhouse acres,
+and we now struck into a path leading down to the highway, that brought
+us out just opposite the cottage occupied by Dr. Bethel.
+
+As we approached, the doctor was leaning over the gate in conversation
+with a gentleman seated in a light road wagon, whose face was turned
+away from us.
+
+As we came near he turned his head, favoring us with a careless glance,
+and, as I saw his face, I recognized him as the handsome young gallant
+who had attended the friend of Miss Grace Ballou, on the occasion of
+that friend's visit to the Ballou farm, and who had bidden the ladies
+such an impressive good-bye as I drove them away from the village
+station.
+
+Contrary to my first intention I approached the gate, and as I drew
+near, the young man gathered up his reins and nodding to the doctor
+drove away.
+
+Dr. Bethel and myself had exchanged civilities at our hotel, and I
+addressed him in a careless way as I paused at the gate.
+
+"That's a fine stepping horse, doctor," nodding after the receding
+turnout; "is it owned in the town?"
+
+"Yes," replied the doctor; "that is young Brookhouse, or rather one of
+them. There are two or three sons; they all drive fine stock."
+
+I was passing in the town for a well-to-do city young man with sporting
+propensities, and as the doctor swung open the gate and strode beside me
+toward the hotel, Carnes trudging on in advance, the talk turned quite
+naturally upon horses, and horse owners.
+
+That night I wrote to Mrs. Ballou, stating that I had nothing of much
+moment to impart, but desired that she would notify me several days in
+advance of her proposed visit to the city, as I wished to meet her. This
+letter I sent to our office to be forwarded to Groveland from thence.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+WE ORGANIZE.
+
+
+We had not been long in Trafton before our reputation as thoroughly good
+fellows was well established, "each man after his kind."
+
+Carnes entered with zest into the part he had undertaken. He was hail
+fellow well met with every old bummer and corner loafer; he made himself
+acquainted with all the gossippers and possessed of all the gossip of
+the town.
+
+After a little he began to grow somewhat unsteady in his habits, and
+under the influence of too much liquor, would occasionally make remarks,
+disparaging or otherwise as the occasion warranted, concerning me, and
+so it came about that I was believed to be a young man of wealth, the
+possessor of an irascible temper, but very generous; the victim of a
+woman's falseness;--but here Carnes always assured people that he did
+not know "the particulars," and that, if it came to my ears that he had
+"mentioned" it, it would cost him his place, etc.
+
+These scraps of private history were always brought forward by, or
+drawn out of, him when he was supposed to be "the worse for liquor." In
+his "sober" moments he was discreetness itself.
+
+So adroitly did he play his part that, without knowing how it came
+about, Trafton had accepted me at Carnes' standard, and I found my way
+made smooth, and myself considered a desirable acquisition to Trafton
+society.
+
+I became acquainted with the lawyers, the ministers, the county
+officials, for Trafton was the county seat. I was soon on a social
+footing with the Brookhouses, father and son. I made my bow before the
+fair owner of the treasure-ship jewels; and began to feel a genuine
+interest in, and liking for, Dr. Bethel, who, according to Jim Long, was
+_not_ Trafton style.
+
+Thus fairly launched upon the Trafton tide, and having assured ourselves
+that no one entertained a suspicion of our masquerade, we began to look
+more diligently about us for fresh information concerning the
+depredations that had made the town attractive to us.
+
+Sitting together one night, after Carnes had spent the evening at an
+especially objectionable saloon, and I had returned from a small social
+gathering whither I had been piloted by one of my new acquaintances, we
+began "taking account of stock," as Carnes quaintly put it.
+
+"The question now arises," said Carnes, dropping his Hibernianisms, and
+taking them up again as his enthusiasm waxed or waned. "The question is
+this: What's in our hand? What do wee's know? What do wee's surmise, and
+what have wee's got till find out?"
+
+"Very comprehensively put, old fellow," I laughed, while I referred to
+a previously mentioned note book. "First, then, what do we know?"
+
+"Well," replied Carnes, tilting back his chair, "we know more than mony
+a poor fellow has known when he set out to work up a knotty case. We
+know we are in the field, bedad. We know that horses have been stolen,
+houses broken open, robberies great and small committed _here_. We know
+they have been well planned and systematic, engineered by a cute head."
+
+Carnes stopped abruptly, and looked over as if he expected me to finish
+the summing up.
+
+"Yes," I replied, "we knew all that in the beginning; now for what we
+have picked up. First, then, just run your eye over this memorandum; I
+made it out to-day, and, like a love letter, it should be destroyed as
+soon as read. Here you have, as near as I could get them, the names of
+the farmers who have lost horses, harness, buggies, etc. Here is the
+average distance of their respective residences from the town, and their
+directions. Do you see the drift?"
+
+Carnes rubbed the bridge of his nose; a favorite habit.
+
+"No, be the powers," he ejaculated; "St. Patrick himself couldn't see
+the sinse o' that."
+
+"Very good. Now, here is a map of this county. On this map, one by one,
+you must locate those farms."
+
+"Bother the location," broke in Carnes, impatiently. "Serve it up in a
+nutshell. What's the point?"
+
+"The point, then, is this," drawing the map toward me. "The places where
+these robberies have been committed, are all in certain directions.
+Look; east, northeast, west, north; scarce one south, southeast, or
+southwest. Hence, I conclude that these stolen horses are run into some
+rendezvous that is not more than a five hours' ride from the scene of
+the theft."
+
+"The dickens ye do!" muttered Carnes, under his breath.
+
+"Again," I resumed, perceiving that Carnes was becoming deeply
+interested, and very alert, "the horses, etc., have been stolen from
+points ten, twelve, twenty miles, from Trafton; the most distant, so far
+as I have found out, is twenty-two miles."
+
+"Ar-m-m-m?" from Carnes.
+
+"Now, then, let us suppose the robbers to be living in this town. They
+leave here at nine, ten, or later when the distance is short. They ride
+fleet horses. At midnight, let us say, the robbery is committed. The
+horses must be off the road, and safe from prying eyes, before morning,
+and must remain _perdu_ until the search is over. What, then? The
+question is, do the robbers turn them over to confederates, in order to
+get safely back to the town under cover of the night; or, is the
+hiding-place so near that no change is necessary?"
+
+I paused for a comment, but Carnes sat mute.
+
+"Now, then," I resumed, "I am supposing this lair of horse-thieves to
+be _somewhere_ south, or nearly south, of the town, and not more than
+thirty miles distant."
+
+"Umph!"
+
+"I suppose it to be south, or nearly south, for obvious reasons. Don't
+you see what they are?"
+
+"Niver mind; prache on."
+
+"No horses have been taken from the south road, or from any of the roads
+that intersect it from this. I infer that it is used as an avenue of
+escape for the marauding bands. Consequently--"
+
+"We must make the acquaintance of that north and south highway," broke
+in Carnes.
+
+"Just so; and we must begin a systematic search from this out."
+
+"System's the word," said Carnes, jerking his chair close to the table,
+upon which he planted his elbows. "Now, then, let's organize."
+
+[Illustration: "System's the word," said Carnes, jerking his chair close
+to the table, upon which he planted his elbows. "Now, then, let's
+organize."--page 76.]
+
+It was nearly daybreak before we knocked the ashes from our pipes,
+preparatory to closing the consultation, and when we separated to
+refresh ourselves with a few hours' sleep, we were so thoroughly
+"organized" that had we not found another opportunity for private
+consultation during our operations in Trafton, we could still have gone
+on with the programme, as we had that night arranged it, without fear of
+blunder or misunderstanding.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"You came down upon me so sudden and solemn with your statistics and
+all that, last night," said Carnes, the following morning, "that I
+entirely forgot to treat you to a beautiful little Trafton vagary I was
+saving for your benefit. They _do_ say that the new doctor is suspected
+of being a _detective_!"
+
+"What!" I said, in sincere amazement; "Carnes, that's one of Jim Long's
+notions."
+
+"Yis, but it isn't," retorted Carnes. "I haven't seen Jim Long this day.
+D'ye mind the chap ye seen me in company with last evening early?"
+
+"The loutish chap with red hair and a scarred cheek?"
+
+"That's him; well, his name is Tom Briggs, and he's a very close-mouthed
+fellow when he's sober; to-day he was drunk, and he told me in
+confidence that _some_ folks looked upon Dr. Bethel as nothing more nor
+less than a detective, on the lookout for a big haul and a big reward."
+
+"What is this Briggs?"
+
+"He's a sort of a roust-about for 'Squire Brookhouse, but the 'squire
+don't appear to work him very hard."
+
+"Carnes," I said, after a moment of silence between us, "hadn't you
+better cultivate Briggs?"
+
+"Like enough I had," he replied, nonchalantly. Then turning slowly
+until he faced me squarely "If I were you, I would give a little
+attention to _Dr. Bethel_."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+A RESURRECTION.
+
+
+Two weeks passed, during which time Carnes and I worked slowly and
+cautiously, but to some purpose.
+
+Having arrived at the conclusion that here was the place to begin our
+search for the robbers, we had still failed in finding in or about
+Trafton a single man upon whom to fix suspicion.
+
+After thoroughly analyzing Trafton society, high and low, I was obliged
+to admit to Carnes, 'spite of the statement made by the worthy farmer on
+board the railway train that "the folks as prospered best were those who
+did the least work," that I found among the poor, the indolent and the
+idle, no man capable of conducting or aiding in a prolonged series of
+high-handed robberies.
+
+The only people in Trafton about whom there seemed the shadow of
+strangeness or mystery, were Dr. Bethel and Jim Long.
+
+Dr. Bethel had lived in Trafton less than a year; he was building up a
+fine practice; was dignified, independent, uncommunicative. He had no
+intimates, and no one knew, or could learn, aught of his past history.
+He was a regularly authorized physician, a graduate from a well-known
+and reliable school. He was unmarried and seemed quite independent of
+his practice as a means of support.
+
+According to Jim Long, he was "not Trafton style," and if Tom Briggs was
+to be believed, he was "suspected" of making one profession a cloak for
+the practice of another.
+
+Jim Long had been nearly five years in Trafton. He had bought his bit of
+land, built thereon his shanty, announced himself as "Hoss Fysician,"
+and had loafed or laughed, smoked or fished, hunted, worked and played,
+as best pleased him; and no one in Trafton had looked upon him as worthy
+of suspicion, until Carnes and I did him that honor.
+
+Up to this time we had never once ventured to walk or drive over that
+suspected south road. This was not an accident or an oversight, but a
+part of our "programme."
+
+We had lived and operated so quietly that Carnes began to complain of
+the monotony of our daily lives, and to long, Micawber-like, for
+something to turn up.
+
+We had both fully recovered in health and vigor; and I was beginning to
+fear that we might be compelled to report at the agency, and turn our
+backs upon Trafton without having touched its mystery, when there broke
+upon us the first ripple that was the harbinger of a swift, onrushing
+tide of events, which, sweeping across the monotony of our days, caught
+us and tossed us to and fro, leaving us no moment of rest until the
+storm had passed, and the waves that rolled over Trafton had swept away
+its scourge.
+
+One August day I received a tiny perfumed note bidding me attend a
+garden party, to be given by Miss Manvers one week from date. As I was
+writing my note of acceptance, Carnes suggested that I, as a gentleman
+of means, should honor this occasion by appearing in the latest and most
+stunning of Summer suits; and I, knowing the effect of fine apparel upon
+the ordinary society-loving villager, decided to profit by his
+suggestions. So, having sealed and despatched my missive, I bent my
+steps toward the telegraph office, intent upon sending an order to my
+tailor by the quickest route.
+
+The operator was a sociable young fellow, the son of one of the village
+clergymen, and I sometimes dropped in upon him for a few moments' chat.
+
+I numbered among my varied accomplishments, all of which had been
+acquired for _use_ in my profession, the ability to read, by sound, the
+telegraph instrument.
+
+This knowledge, however, I kept to myself, on principle, and young
+Harris was not aware that my ear was drinking in his messages, as we sat
+smoking socially in his little operating compartment.
+
+After sending my message, I produced my cigar case and, Harris
+accepting a weed, I sat down beside him for a brief chat.
+
+Presently the instrument called Trafton, and Harris turned to receive
+the following message:
+
+                                                 NEW ORLEANS, Aug. ----
+
+    ARCH BROOKHOUSE--Hurry up the others or we are likely to have
+    a balk.                                                       F. B.
+
+Hastily scratching off these words Harris enclosed, sealed, and
+addressed the message, and tossed it on the table.
+
+The address was directly under my eye; and I said, glancing carelessly
+at it:
+
+"Arch,--is not that a rather juvenile name for such a long, lean,
+solemn-visaged man as 'Squire Brookhouse?"
+
+Harris laughed.
+
+"That is for the son," he replied; "he is named for his father, and to
+distinguish between them, the elder always signs himself _Archibald_,
+the younger _Arch_."
+
+"I see. Is Archibald Junior the eldest son?"
+
+"No; he is the second. Fred is older by four years."
+
+"Fred is the absent one?"
+
+"Fred and Louis are both away now. Fred is in business in New Orleans, I
+think."
+
+"Ah! an enterprising rich man's son."
+
+"Well, yes, enterprising and adventurous. Fred used to be a trifle wild.
+He's engaged in some sort of theatrical enterprise, I take it."
+
+Just then there came the sound of hurrying feet and voices mingling in
+excited converse.
+
+In another moment Mr. Harris, the elder, put his head in at the open
+window.
+
+"Charlie, telegraph to Mr. Beale at Swan Station; tell him to come home
+instantly; his little daughter's grave has been robbed!"
+
+Uttering a startled ejaculation, young Harris turned to his instrument,
+and his father withdrew his head and came around to the office door.
+
+"Good-morning," he said to me, seating himself upon a corner of the
+office desk. "This is a shameful affair, sir; the worst that has
+happened in Trafton, to my mind. Only yesterday I officiated at the
+funeral of the little one; she was only seven years old, and looked like
+a sleeping angel, and now--"
+
+He paused and wiped the perspiration from his forehead.
+
+"Mrs. Beale will be distracted," said Charlie Harris, turning toward us.
+"It was her only girl."
+
+"Beale is a mechanic, you see," said the elder, addressing me. "He is
+working upon some new buildings at Swan Station."
+
+"How was it discovered?" said his son.
+
+"I hardly know; they sent for me to break the news to Mrs. Beale, and I
+thought it best to send for Beale first. The town is working into a
+terrible commotion over it."
+
+Just here a number of excited Traftonites entered the outer room and
+called out Mr. Harris.
+
+A moment later I saw Carnes pass the window; he moved slowly, and did
+not turn his head, but I knew at once that he wished to see me. I arose
+quietly and went out. Passing through the group of men gathered about
+Mr. Harris, I caught these words: "Cursed resurrectionist," and, "I knew
+he was not the man for us."
+
+Hurrying out I met Carnes at the corner of the building.
+
+"Have you heard--" he began; but I interrupted him.
+
+"Of the grave robbery? Yes."
+
+"Well," said Carnes, laying a hand upon my arm, "they are organizing a
+gang down at Porter's store. They are going to raid Dr. Bethel's cottage
+and search for the body."
+
+"They're a set of confounded fools!" I muttered. "Follow me, Carnes."
+
+And I turned my steps in the direction of "Porter's store."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+MOB LAW.
+
+
+Lounging just outside the door at Porter's was Jim Long, hands in
+pockets, eyes fixed on vacancy. He was smoking his favorite pipe, and
+seemed quite oblivious to the stir and excitement going on within. When
+he saw me approach, he lounged a few steps toward me, then getting
+beyond the range of Porter's door and window.
+
+"Give a dough-headed bumpkin a chance to make a fool of himself an'
+he'll never go back on it," began Jim, as I approached. "Have ye come
+ter assist in the body huntin'?"
+
+"I will assist, most assuredly, if assistance is needed," I replied.
+
+"Well, then, walk right along in. I guess _I'll_ go home."
+
+"Don't be too hasty, Jim," I said, in a lower tone. "I want to see you
+in about two minutes."
+
+Jim gave a grunt of dissatisfaction, but seated himself, nevertheless,
+on one of Porter's empty butter tubs, that stood just beside a window.
+
+I passed in and added myself to the large group of men huddled close
+together near the middle of the long store, and talking earnestly and
+angrily, with excitement, fiercely, or foolishly, as the case might be.
+
+The fire-brand had been dropped in among them, by whom they never could
+have told, had they stopped once to consider; but they did not consider.
+Someone had hinted at the possibility of finding the body of little
+Effie Beale in the possession of the new doctor, and that was enough.
+Guilty or innocent, Dr. Bethel must pay the penalty of his reticence,
+his newness, and his independence. Not being numbered among the
+acceptable institutions of Trafton, he need expect no quarter.
+
+It seemed that the child had been under his care, and looking at the
+matter from a cold-blooded, scientific standpoint, it appeared to me not
+impossible that the doctor _had_ disinterred the body, and I soon
+realized that should he be found guilty, or even be unable to prove his
+innocence, it would go hard with Dr. Bethel.
+
+Among those who cautioned the overheated ones, and urged prudence, and
+calm judgment, was Arch Brookhouse; but, somehow, his words only served
+to add fuel to the flame; while, chief among the turbulent ones, who
+urged extreme measures, was Tom Briggs, and I noted that he was also
+supported by three or four fellows of the same caliber, two of whom I
+had never seen before.
+
+Having satisfied myself that there was not much time to lose if I
+wished to see fair play for Dr. Bethel, I turned away from the crowd,
+unnoticed, and went out to where Jim waited.
+
+"Jim," I said, touching him on the shoulder, "they mean to make it hot
+for Bethel, and he will be one man against fifty--we must not allow
+anything like that."
+
+"Now ye're talkin'," said Jim, knocking the ashes from his pipe, and
+rising slowly, "an' I'm with ye. What's yer idee?"
+
+"We must not turn the mob against us, by seeming to co-operate," I
+replied. "Do you move with the crowd, Jim; I'll be on the ground as soon
+as you are."
+
+"All right, boss," said Jim.
+
+I turned back toward the telegraph office, that being midway between
+"Porter's" and my hotel.
+
+The men were still there talking excitedly. I looked in at the window
+and beckoned to young Harris. He came to me, and I whispered:
+
+"The men at Porter's mean mischief to Dr. Bethel; your father may be
+able to calm them; he had better go down there."
+
+"He will," replied Harris, in a whisper, "and so will I."
+
+Carnes was lounging outside the office. I approached him, and said:
+
+"Go along with the crowd, Carnes, and stand in with Briggs."
+
+Carnes winked and nodded, and I went on toward the hotel.
+
+On reaching my room, I took from their case a brace of five-shooters,
+and put the weapons in my pockets. Then I went below and seated myself
+on the hotel piazza.
+
+In order to reach Dr. Bethel's house, the crowd must pass the hotel; so
+I had only to wait.
+
+I did not wait long, however. Soon they came down the street, quieter
+than they had been at Porter's, but resolute to defy law and order, and
+take justice into their own hands. As they hurried past the hotel in
+groups of twos, threes, and sometimes half a dozen, I noted them man by
+man. Jim Long was loping silently on by the side of an honest-faced
+farmer; Carnes and Briggs were in the midst of a swaggering, loud
+talking knot of loafers; the Harrises, father and son, followed in the
+rear of the crowd and on the opposite side of the street.
+
+As the last group passed, I went across the road and joined the younger
+Harris, who was some paces in advance of his father, looking, as I did
+so, up and down the street. Arch Brookhouse came cantering up on a fine
+bay; he held in his hand the yellow envelope, which, doubtless, he had
+just received from Harris.
+
+"Charlie," he called, reining in his horse. "Stop a moment; you must
+send a message for me."
+
+We halted, Harris looking somewhat annoyed.
+
+Brookhouse tore off half of the yellow envelope, and sitting on his
+horse, wrote a few words, resting his scrap of paper on the horn of his
+saddle.
+
+"Sorry to trouble you, Charlie," he said, "but I want this to go at
+once. Were you following the mob?"
+
+"Yes," replied Charlie, "weren't you?"
+
+"No," said Brookhouse, shortly, "I'm going home; I don't believe in mob
+law."
+
+So saying, he handed the paper to Harris, who, taking it with some
+difficulty, having to lean far out because of a ditch between himself
+and Brookhouse, lost his hold upon it, and a light puff of wind sent it
+directly into my face.
+
+I caught it quickly, and before Harris could recover his balance, I had
+scanned its contents. It ran thus:
+
+                                   No. ---- NEW ORLEANS.
+
+     FRED BROOKHOUSE:--Next week L---- will be on hand.
+
+                                                    A. B.
+
+Harris took the scrap of paper and turned back toward the office. And I,
+joining the elder Harris, walked on silently, watching young Brookhouse
+as he galloped swiftly past the crowd; past the house of Dr. Bethel, and
+on up the hill, toward the Brookhouse homestead. I wondered inwardly why
+Frederick Brookhouse, if he were prominently connected with a Southern
+theater, should receive his telegrams at a private address.
+
+Dr. Bethel occupied two pleasant rooms of a small house owned by
+'Squire Brookhouse. He had chosen these, so he afterwards informed me,
+because he wished a quiet place for study, and this he could scarcely
+hope to find either in the village hotel or the average private boarding
+houses. He took his meals at the hotel, and shared the office of Dr.
+Barnard, the eldest of the Trafton physicians, who was quite willing to
+retire from the practice of his profession, and was liberal enough to
+welcome a young and enterprising stranger.
+
+Dr. Bethel was absent; this the mob soon ascertained, and some of them,
+after paying a visit to the stable, reported that his horse was gone.
+
+"Gone to visit some country patient, I dare say," said Mr. Harris, as we
+heard this announcement.
+
+"Gone ter be out of the way till he sees is he found out," yelled Tom
+Briggs. "Let's go through the house, boys."
+
+There was a brief consultation among the leaders of the raid, and then,
+to my surprise and to Mr. Harris's disgust, they burst in the front door
+and poured into the house, Carnes among the rest. Jim Long drew back as
+they crowded in, and took up his position near the gate, and not far
+from the place where we had halted.
+
+Their search was rapid and fruitless; they were beginning to come out
+and scatter about the grounds, when a horse came thundering up to the
+gate, and Dr. Bethel flung himself from the saddle.
+
+He had seen the raiding party while yet some rods away, and he turned a
+perplexed and angry face upon us.
+
+"I should like to know the meaning of this," he said, in quick, ringing
+tones, at the same moment throwing open the little gate so forcibly as
+to make those nearest it start and draw back. "Who has presumed to open
+my door?"
+
+Mr. Harris approached him and said, in a low tone:
+
+"Bethel, restrain yourself. Little Effie Beale has been stolen from her
+grave, and these men have turned out to search for the body."
+
+"Stolen from her grave!" the doctor's hand fell to his side and the
+anger died out of his eyes, and he seemed to comprehend the situation in
+a moment. "And they accuse me--of course."
+
+The last words were touched with a shade of irony. Then he strode in
+among the searchers.
+
+"My friends," he said, in a tone of lofty contempt, "so you have accused
+me of grave robbing. Very well; go on with your search, and when it is
+over, and you find that you have brought a false charge against me, go
+home, with the assurance that every man of you shall be made to answer
+for this uncalled-for outlawry."
+
+The raiders who had gathered together to listen to this speech, fell
+back just a little, in momentary consternation. He had put the matter
+before them in a new light, and each man felt himself for the moment
+responsible for his own acts. But the voice of Tom Briggs rallied them.
+
+"He's bluffin' us!" cried this worthy. "He's tryin' to make us drop the
+hunt. Boys, we're gittin' hot. Let's go for the barn and garden."
+
+And he turned away, followed by the more reckless ones.
+
+Without paying the slightest heed to them or their movements, Dr.
+Bethel turned again to Mr. Harris and asked when the body was
+disinterred.
+
+While a part of the men, who had not followed Briggs, drew closer to our
+group, and the rest whispered together, a little apart, Mr. Harris told
+him all that was known concerning the affair.
+
+As he listened a cynical half smile covered the doctor's face; he lifted
+his head and seemed about to speak, then, closing his lips firmly, he
+again bent his head and listened as at first.
+
+"There's something strange about this resurrection," said he, when Mr.
+Harris had finished. "Mr. Beale's little daughter was my patient. It was
+a simple case of diphtheria. There were no unusual symptoms, nothing in
+the case to rouse the curiosity of any physician. The Trafton doctors
+_know_ this. Drs. Hess and Barnard counselled with me. Either the body
+has been stolen by some one outside of Trafton, or--there is another
+motive."
+
+He spoke these last words slowly, as if still deliberating, and,
+turning, took his horse by the bridle and led him stableward.
+
+In another moment there came a shout from Briggs' party, their loud
+voices mingling in angry denunciations.
+
+With one impulse the irresolute ones, forgetting self, swarmed in the
+direction whence the voices came.
+
+We saw Dr. Bethel, who was just at the rear corner of the house, start,
+stop, then suddenly let fall the bridle and stride after the hurrying
+men, and at once, Mr. Harris, Jim Long and myself followed.
+
+Just outside the stable stood Briggs, surrounded by his crew, talking
+loudly, and holding up to the view of all, a bright new spade, and an
+earth-stained pick ax. As we came nearer we could see that the spade too
+had clots of moist black earth clinging to its surface.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+TWO FAIR CHAMPIONS.
+
+
+"Look, all of ye," shouted Briggs. "So much fer his big words; them's
+the things he did the job with."
+
+[Illustration: "Look, all of ye," shouted Briggs. "So much fer his big
+words; them's the things he did the job with."--page 97.]
+
+The doctor stopped short at sight of these implements; stopped and stood
+motionless so long that his attitude might well have been mistaken for
+that of unmasked guilt. But his face told another story; blank amazement
+was all it expressed for a moment, then a gleam of comprehension; next a
+sneer of intensest scorn, and last, strong but suppressed anger. He
+strode in among the men gathered about Tom Briggs.
+
+"Where did you get those tools, fellow?" he demanded, sternly.
+
+"From the place where ye hid 'em, I reckon," retorted Briggs.
+
+"Answer me, sir," thundered the doctor. "_Where_ were they?"
+
+"Oh, ye needn't try any airs on me; ye know well enough where we got
+'em."
+
+Dr. Bethel's hand shot out swiftly, and straight from the shoulder, and
+Briggs went down like a log.
+
+"Now, sir," turning to the man nearest Briggs, "where were these things
+hidden?"
+
+It chanced that this next man was Carnes, who answered quickly, and with
+well feigned self-concern.
+
+"In the sthable, yer honor, foreninst the windy, behind the shay."
+
+I heard a suppressed laugh behind me, and looking over my shoulder saw
+Charlie Harris.
+
+"Things are getting interesting," he said, coming up beside me. "Will
+there be a scrimmage, think you?"
+
+I made him no answer, my attention being fixed upon Bethel, who was
+entering the stable and dragging Carnes with him. When he had
+ascertained the exact spot where the tools were found, he came out and
+turned upon the raiders.
+
+"Go on with your farce," he said, with a sarcastic curl of the lip. "I
+am curious to see what you will find next."
+
+Then turning upon Briggs, who had scrambled to his feet, and who
+caressed a very red and swollen eye, while he began a tirade of abuse--
+
+"Fellow, hold your tongue, if you don't want a worse hit. If you'll walk
+into my house I'll give you a plaster for that eye--after I have cared
+for your better."
+
+And he turned toward his horse, whistling a musical call. The
+well-trained animal came straight to its master and was led by him into
+its accustomed place.
+
+And now the search became more active. Those who at first had been held
+in check by the doctor's manner were once more spurred to action by the
+sight of those earth-stained tools, and the general verdict was that
+"Bethel was bluffing, sure." When he emerged again from the stable, they
+were scattering about the garden, looking in impossible places of
+concealment, under everything, over everything, into everything.
+
+Briggs, who seemed not at all inclined to accept the doctor's proffered
+surgical aid, still grasping in his hand the pick, and followed by
+Carnes, to whom he had resigned the spade, went prowling about the
+garden.
+
+Bethel, who appeared to have sufficient mental employment of some sort,
+passed our group with a smile and the remark:
+
+"I can't ask you in, gentlemen, until I have set my house in order.
+Those vandals have made it a place of confusion."
+
+He entered the house through a rear door, which had been thrown open by
+the invaders, and a moment later, as I passed by a side window, I
+glanced in and saw him, not engaged in "setting his house in order," but
+sitting in a low, broad-backed chair, his elbows resting on his knees,
+his hands loosely clasped, his head bent forward, his eyes "fixed on
+vacancy," the whole attitude that of profound meditation.
+
+The finding of the tools, the manner of Bethel, both puzzled me. I went
+over to Jim Long, who had seated himself on the well platform, and
+asked:
+
+"How is this going to terminate, Jim?"
+
+"Umph!" responded Jim, somewhat gruffly. "'Twon't be long a comin' to a
+focus."
+
+And he spoke truly. In a few moments we heard a shout from the rear of
+the garden. Tom Briggs and his party had found a spot where the soil had
+been newly turned. In another moment a dozen hands were digging
+fiercely.
+
+Just then, and unnoticed by the exploring ones, a new element of
+excitement came upon the scene.
+
+Mr. Beale, the father of the missing child, accompanied by two or three
+friends, came in from the street. They paused a moment, in seeming
+irresolution, then the father, seeing the work going on in the garden,
+uttered a sharp exclamation, and started hastily toward the spot, where,
+at that moment, half a dozen men were bending over the small excavation
+they had made, and twice as many more were crowding close about them.
+
+"They have found something," said Harris, the elder, and he hastily
+followed Mr. Beale, leaving his son and myself standing together near
+the rear door of the house, and Jim still sitting aloof, the only ones
+now, save Dr. Bethel, who were not grouping closer and closer about the
+diggers, in eager anxiety to see what had been unearthed.
+
+In another moment, there came a tumult of exclamations, imprecations,
+oaths; and above all the rest, a cry of mingled anguish and rage from
+the lips of the bereaved and tortured father.
+
+The crowd about the spot fell back, and the diggers arose, one of them
+holding something up to the view of the rest. Instinctively, young
+Harris and myself started toward them.
+
+But Jim Long still sat stolidly smoking beside the well.
+
+As we moved forward, I heard a sound from the house, and looked back.
+Dr. Bethel had flung wide open the shutters of a rear window, and was
+looking out upon the scene.
+
+Approaching the group, we saw what had caused the father's cry, and the
+growing excitement of the searchers. They had found a tiny pair of
+shoes, and a little white dress; the shoes and dress in which little
+Effie Beale had been buried.
+
+And now the wildest excitement prevailed. Maddened with grief, rage, and
+sickening horror, the father called upon them to find the body, and to
+aid him in wreaking vengeance upon the man who had desecrated his
+darling's grave.
+
+It was as fire to flax. Those who have witnessed the workings of a mob,
+know how swiftly, mysteriously, unreasonably, it kindles under certain
+influences.
+
+How many men, with different, often opposing interests, make the cause
+of one their common cause, and forgetting personality, become a unit for
+vengeance, a single, dreadful, unreasoning force!
+
+The air resounded with threats, imprecations, exclamations, oaths.
+
+Some of the better class of Traftonites had followed after the first
+party, joining them by threes and fours. These made some effort to
+obtain a hearing for themselves and Mr. Harris, but it was futile.
+
+"Hang the rascally doctor!"
+
+"String him up!"
+
+"Run him out of town!"
+
+"Hanging's too good!"
+
+"Let's tar and feather him!"
+
+"Bring him out; bring him out!"
+
+"Give us a hold of him!"
+
+"We ain't found the body yet," cried one of the most earnest searchers.
+"Let's keep looking."
+
+As some of the party turned toward the house I looked back to the open
+window.
+
+Dr. Bethel still stood in full view, but Jim Long had disappeared from
+the pump platform.
+
+The search now became fierce and eager, and while some started to go
+once again through the house and cellar, a number of Briggs' cronies
+began a furious onslaught upon a stack of hay, piled against the stable.
+
+But those who approached the house met with an unlooked-for obstacle to
+their search,--the rear door was closed and barred against them. Failing
+in this quarter they hastened around to the front.
+
+Here the door was open, just as they had left it, swinging on one
+broken hinge; but the doctor's tall form and stalwart shoulders barred
+the way.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said, in low, resolute tones, "you can not enter my
+house, at least at present. You have done sufficient damage to my
+property already."
+
+The men halted for a moment, and then the foremost of them began to
+mount the steps.
+
+"Stand back," said Bethel. "I shall protect my property. I will allow my
+house to be inspected again by a committee, if you like, but I will
+_not_ admit a mob."
+
+"You'd better not try to stop us," said the leader of the party, "we are
+too many for ye." And he mounted the upper step.
+
+"Stand down, sir," again said Bethel. "Did I not say I should protect my
+property?" and he suddenly presented in the face of the astonished
+searcher a brace of silver-mounted pistols.
+
+The foremost men drew hastily back, but they rallied again, and one of
+them yelled out:
+
+"Ye'd better not tackle _us_ single-handed; an' ye won't get anyone to
+back ye _now_!"
+
+"Jest allow me ter argy that pint with ye," said Jim Long, as he
+suddenly appeared in the doorway beside Bethel. "I reckon _I'm_
+somebody."
+
+Jim held in his hand a handsome rifle, the doctor's property, and he ran
+his eye critically along the barrel as he spoke.
+
+"Here's five of us, an' we all say _ye can't come in_. Three of us can
+_repeat_ the remark if it 'pears necessary."
+
+Then turning his eye upon the last speaker of the party, he said,
+affably:
+
+"I ain't much with the little shooters, Simmons; but I can jest make a
+rifle howl. Never saw me shoot, did ye? Now, jest stand still till I
+shoot that grasshopper off ye'r hat brim."
+
+Simmons, who stood in the midst of the group, and was taller than those
+about him by half a head, began a rapid retrograde movement, and, as Jim
+slowly raised his rifle to his shoulder, the group about the door-steps
+melted away, leaving him in possession of the out-posts.
+
+"That," said Jim, with a grin, as he lowered his rifle, "illyusterates
+the sooperiority of mind over matter. Doctor, did ye know the darned
+thing wasn't loaded?"
+
+While Bethel still smiled at this bit of broad comedy, a sharp cry, and
+then a sudden unnatural stillness, told of some new occurrence, and
+followed by Jim we went back to the rear window and looked out.
+
+They were crowding close about something, as yet half hidden in the
+scattered hay; all silent, and, seemingly, awe-stricken. Thus for a
+moment only, then a low murmur ran through the crowd, growing and
+swelling into a yell of rage and fury.
+
+Hidden in the doctor's hay they had found the body of Effie Beale!
+
+It was still encoffined, but the little casket had been forced open,
+and it was evident, from the position of the body, that the buried
+clothing had been hurriedly torn from it.
+
+It would be difficult to describe the scene which followed this last
+discovery. While the father, and his more thoughtful friends, took
+instant possession of the little coffin, the wrath of the raiders grew
+hotter and higher; every voice and every hand was raised against Dr.
+Bethel.
+
+Tom Briggs, with his blackened eye, was fiercely active, and his two or
+three allies clamored loudly for vengeance upon "the cursed
+resurrectionist."
+
+"Let's give him a lesson," yelled a burly fellow, who, having neither
+wife, child, nor relative in Trafton was, according to a peculiar law
+governing the average human nature, the loudest to clamor for summary
+vengeance. "Let's set an example, an' teach grave robbers what to look
+for when they come to Trafton!"
+
+"If we don't settle with him nobody will," chimed in another fellow, who
+doubtless had good reason for doubting the ability of Trafton justice to
+deal with law-breakers.
+
+Those who said little were none the less eager to demonstrate their
+ability to deal with offenders when the opportunity afforded itself.
+Over and again, in various ways, Trafton had been helplessly victimized,
+and now, that at last they had traced an outrage to its source, Trafton
+seized the opportunity to vindicate herself.
+
+A few of the fiercest favored extreme measures, but the majority of the
+mob seemed united in their choice of feathers and tar, as a means of
+vengeance.
+
+Seeing how the matter would terminate, I turned to Harris, the younger,
+who had kept his position near me.
+
+"Ask your father to follow us," I said, "and come with me. They are
+about to attack the doctor."
+
+We went quietly around and entered the house from the front. The doctor
+and Jim were still at the open window, and in full view of the mob.
+
+Bethel turned toward us a countenance locked in impenetrable
+self-possession.
+
+"They mean business," he said, nodding his head toward the garden. "Poor
+fools."
+
+Then he took his pistols from a chair by the window, putting one in each
+pocket of his loose sack coat.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said, addressing us, "pray don't bring upon yourselves
+the enmity of these people by attempting to defend me. I assure you I am
+in no danger, and can deal with them single-handed. Out of regard for
+what they have left of my furniture, I will meet them, outside."
+
+And he put one hand upon the window sill and leaped lightly out,
+followed instantly by young Harris.
+
+"Here's the inconvenience of being in charge of the artillery," growled
+Jim Long, discontentedly. "I'll stay in the fort till the enemy opens
+fire," and he drew the aforementioned rifle closer to him, as he
+squatted upon the window ledge.
+
+The clergyman and myself, without consultation or comment, made our exit
+as we came, by the open front door, and arrived upon the scene just as
+Bethel, with his two hands in his coat pockets, halted midway between
+the house and rear garden to meet the mob that swarmed toward him,
+yelling, hooting, hissing.
+
+If the doctor had hoped to say anything in his own defense, or even to
+make himself heard, he was speedily convinced of the futility of such an
+undertaking. His voice was drowned by their clamor, and as many eager
+hands were outstretched to seize him in their hard, unfriendly grasp,
+the doctor lost faith in moral suasion and drew back a step, while he
+suddenly presented, for their consideration, a brace of five-shooters.
+
+The foremost men recoiled for a moment, and Mr. Harris seized the
+opportunity. Advancing until he stood almost before Dr. Bethel, he began
+a conciliatory speech, after the most approved manner.
+
+But it came to an abrupt ending, the men rallied almost instantly, and,
+drowning the clergyman's voice under a chorus of denunciations and
+oaths, they once more pressed forward.
+
+"Stand down, parson," cried Jim Long, now leaping from the window, rifle
+in hand, and coming to the rescue. "Your medicine ain't the kind they're
+hankerin' after."
+
+[Illustration: "Stand down, parson," cried Jim Long, rifle in hand,
+"Your medicine ain't the kind they're hankerin' after."--page 107.]
+
+"You fall back, Tom Briggs," called Charlie Harris, peremptorily, "we
+want fair play here," and he drew a pistol from his pocket and took his
+stand beside Bethel.
+
+At the same moment I drew my own weapons and fell into line.
+
+"Gentlemen," I said, "let's give Dr. Bethel a hearing."
+
+And now occurred what we had hardly anticipated. While some of the
+foremost of the raiders drew back, others advanced, and we saw that
+these comers to the front were armed like ourselves.
+
+While we stood thus, for a moment, there was a breathless silence and
+then Jim Long's deep voice made itself heard.
+
+"Some of you fellers are giving yourselves away," he said, with a sneer.
+"Now, jest look a here; ye mean bluff, we mean business. An' you chaps
+as has been supplied with shooters by Tom Briggs and Simmons and
+Saunders hed better drop the things an' quit."
+
+A moment's silence, then a babel of voices, a clamor and rush.
+
+There was the loud crack of a pistol, accompanied by a fierce oath,--a
+cry of "stop," uttered in a clear female voice,--then another moment of
+breathless silence.
+
+Two women were standing in our midst, directly between the doctor and
+his assailants, and Carnes still grasped the pistol hand of Tom Briggs,
+while the smoke of the averted charge yet hovered above their heads.
+
+One of the two ladies, who had so suddenly come to the rescue, was
+Miss Adele Manvers. The other a tall, lithe, beautiful blonde, I had
+never before seen.
+
+"Friends, neighbors," said this fair stranger, in clear, sweet, but
+imperious tones, "you have made a terrible mistake. Dr. Bethel was with
+_my father_ from sunset last night until one hour ago. They were
+together every moment, at the bedside of Mr. James Kelsey, on the
+Willoughby road."
+
+Evidently this fair young lady was an authority not to be questioned.
+The crowd fell back in manifest consternation, even Tom Briggs' tongue
+was silent.
+
+Miss Manvers stood for a moment casting glances of open contempt upon
+the crowd. Then, as the doctor's fair champion ceased speaking and,
+seeing that her words had been effective, drew nearer to Mr. Harris,
+flushing and paling as if suddenly abashed by her own daring, the
+brilliant owner of the treasure-ship riches turned to Dr. Bethel.
+
+"Doctor, you are _our_ prisoner," she said, smiling up at him. "Dr.
+Barnard is half frantic since hearing of this affair, and he
+commissioned us to bring you to him at once."
+
+Miss Manvers had not as yet noted my presence among the doctor's
+handful of allies. Wishing to give my eyes and ears full play, I drew
+back, and, using Jim Long as a screen, kept near the group about the
+doctor; but out of view. I had noted the sudden flash of his eyes, and
+the lighting up of his face, when the fair unknown came among us. And
+now I saw him clasp her hand between his two firm palms and look down
+into her face, for just a moment, as I could have sworn he had never
+looked at any other woman.
+
+I saw her eyes meet his for an instant, then she seemed to have
+withdrawn into herself, and the fearless champion was merged in the
+modest but self-possessed woman.
+
+I saw the haughty Adele Manvers moving about among the raiders,
+bestowing a word here and there, and I saw Mr. Harris now making good
+use of the opportunity these two fair women had made. I noted that Tom
+Briggs and his loud-voiced associates were among the first to slink
+away.
+
+Dr. Bethel was reluctant to quit the field, but the advice of Mr.
+Harris, the earnest entreaty of Miss Manvers, and, more than all the
+rest, the one pleading look from the eyes of the lovely unknown,
+prevailed.
+
+"Long," he said, turning to Jim, "here are my keys; will you act as my
+steward until--my place is restored to quiet?"
+
+Jim nodded comprehensively.
+
+"I'll clear the premises," he said, grimly. "Don't ye have any
+uneasiness; I'll camp right down here."
+
+"Bethel," said Charlie Harris, "for the sake of the ladies, you had
+better go at once; those fellows in the rear there are trying to rally
+their forces."
+
+"Since my going will be a relief to my friends, I consent to retreat,"
+said the besieged doctor, smiling down at the two ladies.
+
+They had driven thither in a dashing little pony phaeton, owned by Miss
+Manvers; and as they moved toward it the heiress said:
+
+"Doctor, you must drive Miss Barnard home; I intend to walk, and enjoy
+the society of Mr. Harris."
+
+Dr. Bethel and the blonde lady entered the little carriage, and, after a
+few words addressed to Harris and Miss Manvers, drove away.
+
+The heiress looked about the grounds for a moment, addressed a few
+gracious words to Harris, the elder, smiled at Jim Long, and then moved
+away, escorted by the delighted younger Harris.
+
+"Wimmen air--wimmen," said Jim Long, sententiously, leaning upon the
+rifle, which he still retained, and looking up the road after the
+receding plumes of Miss Manvers' Gainsborough hat. "You can't never tell
+where they're goin' ter appear next. It makes a feller feel sort a
+ornary, though, ter have a couple o' gals sail in an' do more business
+with a few slick words an' searchin' looks, then _he_ could do with a
+first-class rifle ter back him. Makes him feel as tho' his inflouence
+was weakening."
+
+"Jim," I said, ignoring his whimsical complaint, "who was the fair
+haired lady?"
+
+"Doctor Barnard's only darter, Miss Louise."
+
+"I never saw her before."
+
+"'Spose not; she's been away nigh onto two months, visitin' her
+father's folks. Old Barnard must a had one of his bad turns this
+morning, so's he couldn't git out, or he'd never a sent his gal into
+such a crowd on such an errand. Hullo, what's that Mick o' your'n
+doin'?"
+
+Glancing in the direction indicated by Jim, I saw that Carnes was
+engaged in a fisticuff bout with Tom Briggs, and hastened to interpose;
+not through solicitude for Carnes so much as because I wished to prevent
+a serious rupture between the two.
+
+[Illustration: "Glancing in the direction indicated by Jim, I saw that
+Carnes was engaged in a fisticuff bout with Tom Briggs, and hastened to
+interpose;"--page 114.]
+
+"Barney," I said, severely, "you have been drinking too much, I am sure.
+Stop this ruffianism at once."
+
+"Is it ruffianism yer callin' it, ter defend yerself aginst the
+murtherin' shnake; and ain't it all bekase I hild up his fist fer fear
+the blundherin' divil ud shoot yees by mishtake! Och, then, didn't I
+make the illigant rhyme though?"
+
+"You have made yourself very offensive to me, sir, by the part you have
+taken in this affair," I retorted, with additional sternness; "and so
+long as you remain in my service you will please to remember that I
+desire you to avoid the society of loafers and brawlers."
+
+"Meanin' me, I suppose?" snarled Tom Briggs.
+
+"Meaning you in _this_ instance," I retorted, turning away from the two,
+with all the dignity I could muster for the occasion.
+
+"Bedad, he's got his blood up," muttered Carnes, ruefully, as I
+walked away. "Old Red Top, shake! Seein' as I'm to be afther howldin'
+myself above yees in future, I won't mind yer airs jist now, an' if iver
+I git twenty dollars ahead I'll discharge yon blood an' be me own bye."
+
+Satisfied that this bit of by-play had had the desired effect, and being
+sure that Carnes would not leave the premises so long as there remained
+anything or any one likely to prove interesting, I turned my steps
+townward, musing as I went.
+
+I had made, or so I believed, three discoveries.
+
+Dr. Carl Bethel was the victim of a deep laid plot, of which this affair
+of the morning was but the beginning.
+
+Dr. Carl Bethel was in love with the fair Miss Barnard.
+
+And the brilliant owner of the treasure-ship jewels was in love with Dr.
+Carl Bethel.
+
+Whether Bethel was aware of the plot, or suspected his enemies; whether
+he was really what he seemed, or only playing a part like myself;
+whether to warn him and so risk bringing myself under suspicion, or to
+let matters take their natural course and keep a sharp lookout
+meantime;--were questions which I asked myself again and again, failing
+to find a satisfactory answer.
+
+On one thing I decided, however. Bethel was a self-reliant man. He was
+keen and courageous, quite capable of being more than he seemed. He was
+not a man to be satisfied with half truth. I must give him my fullest
+confidence or not seek his.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+A CUP OF TEA.
+
+
+It was growing dusk before I saw Carnes again that day. I had remained
+in my room since dinner, wishing to avoid as much as possible the gossip
+and natural inquiry that would follow the denouement of the raid against
+Dr. Bethel, lest some suspicious mind should think me too much
+interested, considering the part I had taken in the affair.
+
+Carnes came in softly, and wearing upon his face the peculiar knowing
+grin that we at the office had named his "Fox smile." He held in his
+hand a folded slip of paper, which he dropped upon my knee, and then
+drew back, without uttering a comment, to watch my perusal of the same.
+
+It was very brief, simply a penciled line from Dr. Barnard, asking me to
+tea at seven o'clock. It was almost seven as I read.
+
+"Where did you get this?" I asked, rising with sudden alacrity, and
+beginning a hurried toilet. "Read it Carnes, if you haven't already; I
+should have had it earlier."
+
+Carnes took up the note, perused it, and tossed it on the bed, then,
+seating himself astride a chair, he told his story, watching my
+progressing toilet with seeming interest the while.
+
+"After my tender parting with Briggs, I sherried over and made myself
+agreeable to Jim Long, and as I was uncommon respectful and willin' to
+be harangued, he sort o' took me as handy boy, an' let me stay an help
+him tidy up Bethel's place. He cleared out the multitude, put the yard
+into decent order, and then, while he undertook to rehang the doctor's
+front door, I'm blest if he didn't set _me_ to pilin' up the hay stack.
+Don't wear that beast of a choker, man, it makes you look like a
+laughing hyena."
+
+I discarded the condemned choker, swallowed the doubtful compliment, and
+Carnes continued, lapsing suddenly into broad Irish:
+
+"Prisintly he comes out to the shtack, as I was finishin' the pile,
+tellin' me as he must have some new hinges to the doctor's door, an'
+axin would I shtay an' kape house till he wint up fer the iron works. I
+consinted."
+
+"Yes!" eagerly.
+
+"And I made good use of the opportunity. I wint over that place in a way
+to break the heart of a jenteel crook, an' I'm satisfied."
+
+"Of what, Carnes?"
+
+"That there's no irregularity about the doctor. If there was a track as
+big as a fly's foot wouldn't I have hit it? Yes, sir! There ain't no
+trace of the detective-in-ambush about those premises, Tom Briggs to the
+contrary notwithstanding. He's a regular articled medical college
+graduate; there's plenty of correspondence to prove him Dr. Carl Bethel,
+and nothing to prove him anything else."
+
+"Quite likely," I replied, not yet wholly convinced; "Bethel is not the
+man to commit himself; he'd be very sure not to leave a trace of his
+'true inwardness' about the premises, if he _were_ on a still hunt. How
+about the note, Carnes?"
+
+"Oh, the note! Well, when Jim came back, about fifteen minutes ago, or
+so, he gave me that, saying that he called at Dr. Barnard's to ask for
+instructions from Bethel, and was handed that note to leave for you. Jim
+says that he forgot to stop with the note; but I'm inclined to think
+that he wanted to dispose of me and took this way to avoid hurting my
+feelings."
+
+"Well, I shall be late at Dr. Barnard's, owing to Jim's notions of
+delicacy," I said, turning away from the mirror and hurriedly brushing
+my hat. "However, I can explain the tardiness. By-by, Carnes; we will
+talk this day's business over when I have returned."
+
+Dr. Barnard's pleasant dwelling was scarce five minutes' walk from our
+hotel; and I was soon making my bow in the presence of the doctor, his
+wife and daughter, Miss Manvers, and Dr. Bethel.
+
+As I look back upon that evening I remember Louise Barnard as at once
+the loveliest, the simplest and most charmingly cultivated woman I have
+ever met. Graceful without art, self-possessed without ostentation,
+beautiful as a picture, without seeming to have sought by artifices of
+the toilet to heighten the effect of her statuesque loveliness.
+
+Adele Manvers was also beautiful; no, handsome is the more appropriate
+word for her; but in face, form, coloring, dress, and manner, a more
+decided contrast could not have been deliberately planned.
+
+Miss Barnard was the lovely lady; Miss Manvers, the daintily clad, fair
+woman of fashion.
+
+Miss Barnard was tall, slender, dazzlingly beautiful, with soft fair
+hair and the features of a Greek goddess. Miss Manvers was a trifle
+below the medium height, a piquant brunette, plump, shapely, a trifle
+haughty, and inclined to self-assertion.
+
+Miss Barnard wore soft flowing draperies, and her hair as nature
+intended it to be worn. Miss Manvers wore another woman's hair in
+defiance of nature, and her dress was fashion's last conceit,--a
+"symphony" in silks and ruffles and bewildering draperies.
+
+Miss Barnard was dignified and somewhat reticent. Miss Manvers was
+talkative and vivacious.
+
+They had learned from Jim Long all that he could tell them concerning
+the part I had taken in the affair of the morning. The elder physician
+desired to express his approbation, the younger his gratitude. They had
+sent for me that I might hear what they had to say on the subject of the
+grave robbery, and to ask my opinion and advice as to future movements.
+
+All this was communicated to me by the voluble old doctor, who was
+sitting in an invalid's chair, being as yet but half recovered from his
+neuralgic attack of the morning. We had met on several occasions, but I
+had no previous knowledge of his family.
+
+"There will be no further trouble about this matter," said Dr. Barnard,
+as we sat in the cool, cosy parlor after our late tea. "Our people have
+known me too long to doubt my word, and my simple statement of my
+absolute knowledge concerning all of Bethel's movements will put out the
+last spark of suspicion, so far as _he_ is concerned--but," bringing the
+palm of his large hand down upon the arm of his chair with slow
+emphasis, "it won't settle the question next in order. _Who are the
+guilty ones?_"
+
+"That I shall make it my business to find out," said Dr. Bethel,
+seriously, "I confess that at first I was unreasonably angry, at the
+thought of the suspicion cast upon me. On second thought it was but
+natural. I am as yet a stranger among you, and Trafton evidently
+believes it wise to 'consider every man a rogue until he is proved
+honest.'"
+
+"From what I have heard since coming here," I ventured, "I should say
+Trafton has some reason for adopting this motto."
+
+"So she has; so she has," broke in the old doctor. "And some one had a
+reason for attempting to throw suspicion upon Bethel."
+
+"Evidently," said Bethel. "I am puzzled to guess what that reason can
+be, and I dispose of the theory that would naturally come up first,
+namely, that it is a plot to destroy the public confidence in me, set on
+foot by rival doctors, by saying, at the outset, that I don't believe
+there is a medical man in or about Trafton capable of such a deed. I
+have all confidence in my professional brethren."
+
+"Why," interposed Miss Manvers, "the sentiment does you honor, Dr.
+Bethel, but--I should think the other doctors your most natural enemies.
+Who else could,"--she broke off abruptly with an appealing glance at
+Louise Barnard.
+
+"I think Dr. Bethel is right," said Miss Barnard, in her low, clear
+contralto. "I cannot think either of our doctors capable of a deed so
+shameful." Then turning to address me, she added, "You, as a stranger
+among us, may see the matter in a more reasonable light. How does it
+look to you?"
+
+"Taking the doctor's innocence as a foregone conclusion," I replied, "it
+looks as though he had an enemy in Trafton," here I turned my eyes full
+upon the face of Bethel, "who wished to drive him out of the community
+by making him unpopular in it."
+
+Bethel's face wore the same expression of mystified candor, his eyes
+met mine full and frankly, as he replied:
+
+"Taking _that_ as a foregone conclusion, we arrive at the point of
+starting, Who are the guilty ones? Who are my enemies? I have been
+uniformly successful in my practice; I have had no differences,
+disagreement, or disputes with any man in Trafton. Up to to-day I could
+have sworn I had not an enemy in the town."
+
+"And so could I," said Dr. Barnard. "It's a case for a wiser head than
+mine."
+
+"It's a case for the detectives," said Dr. Bethel, firmly. "If this
+unknown foe thinks to drive me from Trafton, he must try other measures.
+I intend to remain, and to solve this mystery."
+
+A moment's silence followed this decided announcement.
+
+The old doctor nodded his approval, his daughter looked hers.
+
+Miss Manvers sat with eyes fixed upon a spot in the carpet, biting
+nervously at her full red under lip, and tapping the floor with the toe
+of her dainty boot.
+
+I had no desire to take a prominent part in the discussion which
+followed, and became as much as I could a mere observer, but, as after
+events proved, I made very good use of my eyes that night.
+
+Having exhausted the subject of the grave robbery without arriving at
+any new conclusions, the social old doctor proposed a game of whist,
+cards being his chief source of evening pastime. The game was made up,
+Miss Manvers taking a seat opposite Dr. Barnard, and Dr. Bethel playing
+with Mrs. Barnard.
+
+After watching their game for a time, Miss Barnard and myself retired to
+the piano. She sang several songs in a tender contralto, to a soft,
+well-rendered accompaniment, and as I essayed my thanks and ventured to
+praise her singing, she lifted her clear eyes to mine, saying, in an
+undertone:
+
+"Don't think me odd, or too curious--but--will you answer a
+question--frankly?"
+
+I promised, recklessly; and she ran her pretty fingers over the keys,
+drowning our voices, for other ears, under the soft ripple of the notes,
+while she questioned and I replied.
+
+"As a stranger, and an unprejudiced person," she began, "how does this
+shameful charge against Dr. Bethel appear to you? Judging him as men
+judge men, do you think he _could_ be guilty of such a deed?"
+
+"Judging him by my limited knowledge of human nature," I replied, "I
+should say that Dr. Bethel is incapable of baseness in any form. In this
+case, he is certainly innocent."
+
+She looked thoughtfully down at the white, gliding fingers, and said:
+
+"We have seen so much of Dr. Bethel since he came to Trafton, that he
+seems quite like an old friend, and because of his being associated with
+father, it makes his trouble almost a personal matter. I do hope it will
+end without further complications."
+
+She looked up in my face as if hoping that my judgment accorded with her
+wish, but I made no reply, finding silence easier and pleasanter than
+equivocation when dealing with a nature so frank and fearlessly
+truthful.
+
+The game of whist being at an end, Miss Manvers arose almost immediately
+and declared it time to go. She had sent her phaeton home, her house
+being less than a quarter of a mile from Dr. Barnard's, and according to
+the custom of informal Trafton, I promptly offered myself as escort, and
+was promptly and smilingly accepted.
+
+"What a day this has been," said Miss Manvers, as the doctor's iron gate
+closed behind us. "Such a terrible charge to bring against Dr. Bethel.
+Do you really think," and, spite her evident intention to make the
+question sound common-place, I could detect the genuine anxiety in it,
+"Do you really think that it will--injure his practice to the extent
+of--driving him from Trafton?"
+
+"You heard what he said, Miss Manvers."
+
+"Oh, yes--but if I am rightly informed, Dr. Bethel is, in a measure at
+least, dependent on his practice. Is not this so?"
+
+"You are better advised than I, Miss Manvers; I know so little of Dr.
+Bethel."
+
+"And yet you were his warmest champion to-day."
+
+"I assure you I felt quite cool," I laughed. "I should have done as much
+for the merest stranger, under the same circumstances."
+
+"Then you are not prejudiced in his favor?"
+
+"I am not prejudiced at all. I like Bethel."
+
+"And so do I," replied the heiress, heartily, "and I like the spirit he
+shows in this matter. Is not this--a--exhuming of a subject, a frequent
+occurrence?"
+
+"Undoubtedly."
+
+"I mean--is it not often done by medical men?"
+
+"By them, or persons employed by them. I suppose so."
+
+She drew a little nearer, lifting an earnest face to meet my gaze.
+
+"Candidly, now," she said, "as if I were not Miss Manvers, but a man to
+be trusted. Do you think it impossible that Dr. Bethel has done this
+thing? Viewed from a scientific and practical standpoint, does such a
+deed appear to you to be the horrible thing _some_ seem to think it?"
+
+[Illustration: "Candidly, now," she said, "as if I were not Miss
+Manvers, but a man to be trusted. Do you think it impossible that Dr.
+Bethel has done this thing?"--page 129.]
+
+What spirit prompted my answer? I never knew just what impelled me, but
+I looked down into the pretty, upturned face, looked straight into the
+dark, liquid eyes, and answered:
+
+"Candidly, Miss Manvers--as you are certainly as much to be trusted as
+if you were a man--when I went to Bethel's defense, I went supposing
+that, for the benefit of science and the possible good of his
+fellow-beings, he _had_ exhumed the body."
+
+She drew a short, quick breath.
+
+"And you have changed your opinion?" she half asserted, half inquired.
+
+I laid the fingers of my gloved left hand lightly upon hers, as it
+rested on my arm, and bent lower toward the glowing brunette face as I
+answered:
+
+"I have not said so."
+
+She dropped her eyes and mused for a moment, then--
+
+"Do you think he will _actually_ call in a detective--to--to make his
+innocence seem more probable?"
+
+"I hope he will not," I replied, sincerely this time, but with a hidden
+meaning.
+
+"I don't think that Mr. Beale will desire further investigation. The
+matter will die out, undoubtedly. Mr. Barnard is a man of powerful
+influence in the community, and 'Squire Brookhouse will use _his_
+influence in behalf of Dr. Bethel, I am sure." Then, looking up again,
+quickly: "Do you not admire Miss Barnard?"
+
+"Miss Barnard is 'a thing of beauty,'" I rejoined, sententiously; then,
+with a downward glance that pointed my sentence, "I admire all lovely
+women."
+
+She laughed lightly, but said no more of Miss Barnard, or Dr. Bethel,
+and we parted with some careless badinage, supplemented by her cordial
+hope that I would prolong my stay in Trafton, and that she should see me
+often at The Hill.
+
+Going slowly homeward, through the August darkness, I mentally voted the
+treasure-ship heiress a clever, agreeable, and charming young lady, and
+spent some time in trying to decide whether her delightful cordiality
+was a token that I had pleased, or only amused her. Such is the vanity
+of man!
+
+I found Carnes wide awake, smoking and waiting.
+
+"Have ye done wid yer gallivantin'?" queried he, the instant I made my
+appearance. "Now, thin, be shquare; which is the purtyest gurl?"
+
+"How do you know there were two, sir?"
+
+"Inshtinct," he retorted, shamelessly. "I knew by the peculiar feelin'
+av the cords av me arums. I say, what a thunderin' lot o' snarly bushes
+old Barnyard kapes about his windys!"
+
+"What! you were up there?" I cried, in astonishment.
+
+"Worrunt I," he retorted, complacently. "_An' I wasn't the only one!_"
+
+"Carnes!"
+
+"Och, take off yer mittens an' sit down," he said, grinning offensively
+at my mighty efforts to draw off a pair of tight and moist kid gloves.
+"Warn't I up there, an' I could ave told ye all about the purty gals
+mysilf, an' what sort av blarney ye gave till em both, if it had not
+been fer the murtherin' baste of a shnake as got inter the scrubbery
+ahead av me."
+
+I threw aside the damp gloves, and seated myself directly in front of
+him.
+
+"Now, talk business," I said, impatiently. "It's getting late, and
+there's a good deal to be said."
+
+Carnes reached out for the pipe which he had laid aside at my entrance,
+lighted it with due deliberation, and then said, with no trace of his
+former absurdity:
+
+"I don't know what sent me strolling and smoking up toward Dr. Barnard's
+place, but I did go. My pipe went out, and I stopped to light it,
+stepping off the sidewalk just where the late lilacs hang over the fence
+at the foot of the garden. While I stood there, entirely hidden by the
+darkness and the shade, a man came walking stealthily down the middle of
+the road. His very gait betrayed the sneak, and I followed him,
+forgetting my pipe and keeping to the soft grass. He seemed to know just
+where to go for, although he moved cautiously, there was no hesitation.
+Well, he passed the gate, climbed the fence, sneaked up to the front of
+the house, skulking between the trees and rose bushes directly
+underneath the parlor window. I took the bearings as well as I could
+from a distance, and I made up my mind that the fellow, if he heard
+anything, could hardly catch the thread of the discourse, and I reckon I
+was right in my conclusions for, after a good deal of prospecting
+around, he sneaked away as he came, and I followed him back to Porter's
+store."
+
+[Illustration: "Well he passed the gate, climbed the fence, sneaked up
+to the front of the house, skulking between the trees and rose bushes
+directly underneath the parlor window."--page 132.]
+
+"And you knew him?" I questioned, hastily.
+
+"I used to know him," said Carnes, with a comical wink, "but recently
+I've cut his acquaintance."
+
+For a moment we stared at each other silently, then I asked, abruptly:
+
+"Old man, do you think it worth our while to go into this resurrection
+business?"
+
+"What for?"
+
+"To satisfy ourselves as regards Bethel's part in it."
+
+"You needn't go into it on my account," replied Carnes, crossing his
+legs and clasping his two hands behind his head; "I'm satisfied."
+
+"As how?"
+
+"He never did it."
+
+"Ah! how do you reason the case?"
+
+"First, he isn't a fool; second, if he had taken the body he would have
+made use of it that night; it was fast decomposing, and before to-night
+would be past pleasant handling. Then he, being called away, if he had
+instructed others to disinter the body, would never have instructed them
+to hide it on his own premises, much less to disrobe it for no purpose
+whatever. Then, last and most conclusive, there's the pick and spade."
+
+"And what of them?"
+
+"This of them," unclasping his hands, setting his two feet squarely on
+the floor, and bringing his palms down upon his knees. "You know old
+Harding, the hardware dealer?"
+
+I nodded. Old Harding was the elder brother of the Trafton farmer who
+had excited my eagerness to see Trafton by discussing its peculiarities
+on the railway train.
+
+"Well," leaning toward me and dropping out his words in stiff staccato.
+"After the crowd had left Jim Long and myself in possession of the
+doctor's premises, old Harding came back. I saw that he wanted to talk
+with Jim, and I went out into the yard. Presently the two went into the
+barn, and I skulked around till I got directly behind the window where
+those tools were found. And here's what I heard, stripped of old
+Harding's profanity, and Jim's cranky comments. Last year Harding's
+store was visited by burglars, and those identical tools were taken out
+of it along with many other things. You observed that they were quite
+new. Harding said he could swear to the tools. Now, if others had
+exhumed the body _for_ the doctor, they would not have left their tools
+in his stable and in so conspicuous a place. If the doctor exhumed it,
+how did he obtain those tools? _They were stolen before he came to
+Trafton._"
+
+"Then here is another thing," I began, as Carnes paused. "A man of
+Bethel's sense would not take such a step without a sufficient reason.
+Now, Dr. Barnard, who certainly is authority in the matter, says
+positively that there were no peculiar symptoms about the child's
+sickness; that it was a _very_ ordinary case; therefore, Dr. Bethel, who
+can buy all his skeletons without incurring disagreeable labor and risk,
+could have had no motive for taking the body."
+
+"Then you think----"
+
+"I think this," I interrupted, being now warm with my subject. "Dr.
+Bethel, who is certainly _not_ a detective, is suspected of being one,
+or feared as one. And this is the way his enemies open the war upon him.
+I think if we can find out who robbed that little girl's grave and
+secreted the body so as to throw suspicion upon Bethel, we shall be in a
+fair way to find out what we came here to learn, viz., what, and where,
+and who, are the daring, long existing successful robbers that infest
+Trafton. This is their first failure, and why?"
+
+"It's easy to guess _why_," said Carnes, gravely. "The old head was out
+of this business; for some reason it has been entrusted to underlings,
+and bunglers."
+
+"But won't old Harding give these rascals warning by claiming his stolen
+property?" I asked, dubiously.
+
+"Not he," replied Carnes. "Harding's too cute and too stingy for that.
+He reasons that the thieves, having begun to display their booty, may
+grow more reckless. He is one of the few who think that the body was not
+placed in the hay by the doctor's hirelings; he intends to keep silent
+for the present and look sharp for any more of his stolen merchandize."
+
+"Then, Carnes, we have no bars to our present progress. To-morrow we get
+down to actual business."
+
+Again we sat late into the night discussing and re-arranging our
+plans, only separating when we had mapped out a course which we, in our
+egotistical blindness, felt assured was the true route toward success;
+and seeking our slumbers as blissfully unconscious of what really was to
+transpire as the veriest dullard in all Trafton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+A BIG HAUL.
+
+
+When I awoke next morning, I was surprised to find my erratic
+body-servant not in attendance.
+
+Carnes, for convenience, and because of lack of modern hotel
+accommodations, occupied a cot in my room, which was the largest in the
+house, and sufficiently airy to serve for two. Usually, he was anything
+but a model serving man in the matter of rising and attending to duty,
+for, invariably, I was out of bed an hour before him, and had made my
+toilet to the music of his nasal organ, long before he broke his morning
+nap.
+
+This morning, however, Carnes was not snoring peacefully on his cot
+underneath the open north window, and I arose and made a hasty toilet,
+feeling sure that something unusual had called him from his bed this
+early.
+
+Wondering much, I descended to the office, where an animated buzz warned
+me that something new and startling was under discussion.
+
+Usually at that hour this sanctum was untenanted, save for the youth
+who served as a combination of porter and clerk, and perhaps a stray
+boarder or two, but this morning a motley crowd filled the room. Not a
+noisy, blustering crowd, but a gathering of startled, perplexed, angry
+looking men, each seeming hopeful of hearing something, rather than
+desirous of saying much.
+
+Jim Long, the idle, every-where-present Jim, stood near the outer door,
+looking as stolid and imperturbable as usual, and smoking, as a matter
+of course.
+
+I made my way to him at once.
+
+"What is it, Long," I asked, in a low tone; "something new, or--"
+
+"Nothin' _new_, by any means," interrupted Jim, sublimely indifferent to
+the misfortune of his neighbors. "Nothin' new at all, Cap'n; the Trafton
+Bandits have been at it again, that's all."
+
+[Illustration: "Nothin' new at all, Cap'n; the Trafton Bandits have been
+at it again that's all."--page 140.]
+
+"Trafton Bandits! you mean--"
+
+"Thieves! Robbers! Ku Klux! They've made another big haul."
+
+"Last night?"
+
+"Last night, Cap'n."
+
+"Of what sort?"
+
+Jim chuckled wickedly.
+
+"The right sort to git money out of. Hopper's two-forty's, that was in
+trainin' for the races. Meacham's matched sorrels. 'Squire Brookhouse's
+bay Morgans."
+
+"What! six blooded horses at one haul!"
+
+"Eggszactly."
+
+Jim's coolness was aggravating; I turned away from him, and mingled
+with the group about the clerk's desk.
+
+"Meacham'll suicide; he refused a fancy price for them sorrels not two
+weeks ago."
+
+"Wonder what old Brookhouse will do about it?"
+
+"There'll be some tall rewards offered."
+
+"Much good that'll do. We don't get back stolen horses so easy in this
+county."
+
+"It'll break Hopper up; he had bet his pile on the two-forty's, and bid
+fair to win."
+
+"One of 'em was goin' to trot against Arch Brookhouse's mare, Polly, an'
+they had big bets up. Shouldn't wonder if Arch was glad to be let out so
+easy. Polly never could outgo that gray four-year-old."
+
+"Think not?"
+
+"Brookhouse has telegraphed to his lawyers already, to send on a couple
+of detectives."
+
+"Bully for Brookhouse."
+
+"Don't yell till yer out of the woods. Detectives ain't so much more'n
+common folks. I don't go much on 'em myself. What we want is vigilants."
+
+"Pooh! neither detectives nor vigilants can't cure Trafton."
+
+These and like remarks greeted my ears in quick succession, and
+furnished me mental occupation. I lingered for half an hour among the
+eager, excited gossippers, and then betook myself to the dining-room and
+partook of my morning meal in solitude. With my food for the body, I had
+also food for thought.
+
+Here, indeed, was work for the detective. I longed for the instant
+presence of Carnes, that we might discuss the situation, and I felt no
+little annoyance at the thought of the two detectives who might come in
+upon us at the bidding of 'Squire Brookhouse.
+
+Carnes was in the office when I again entered it, and giving him a sign
+to follow me, I went up to my room. It was situated in a wing of the
+building most remote from the office, and the hum of many voices did not
+penetrate so far.
+
+The stillness seemed more marked by contrast with the din I had just
+left, as I sat waiting.
+
+Presently Carnes came in, alert, quick of movement, and having merged
+the talkative Irishman in the active, cautious detective.
+
+"This looks like business;" he began, dragging a chair forward, and
+seating himself close to me. "I chanced to wake up a little after
+sunrise, and heard some men talking outside, near my window. They were
+going through the lane, and I only caught the words: "Yes, sir; stolen
+last night; six of them." Somehow the tone, quite as much as the words,
+convinced me that something was wrong. I got up and hurried out,
+thinking it hardly worth while to disturb you until I had learned more
+of the fellow's meaning. Well, sir, it's a fact; six valuable pieces of
+horseflesh have been taken from under our very noses."
+
+"Have you got any particulars?"
+
+"Well, yes, as much as is known, I think. Hopper, as you remember, lives
+on the hill just at the edge of the town. His man sleeps in the little
+office adjoining the stable. It seems the fellow, having no valuables to
+lose, let the window swing open and slept near it. He was chloroformed,
+and is under the doctor's care this morning. Meacham's stable is very
+near the house, but no one was disturbed by the robbers; they threw his
+dog a huge piece of meat that kept his jaws occupied. I heard Arch
+Brookhouse talking with a lot of men; he says the Morgans were in a
+loose box near the rear door of the stable, and that two men were
+sleeping in the room above the front wing. He says they have telegraphed
+to the city for detectives."
+
+"Yes, I'm sorry for that, but it's to be expected."
+
+"What shall we do about it?"
+
+"As we are working for our own satisfaction and have little at stake, I
+am in favor of keeping quiet until we see who they bring down. If it's
+some of our own fellows, or _any one_ that we know to be skillful, we
+can then turn in and help them, or retire from the field without making
+ourselves known, as we think best. If the fellows are strangers--"
+
+"Then we will try the merits of the case with them," broke in Carnes. "I
+tell you, old man, I hate to quit the field now."
+
+"So do I," I acknowledged. "We must manage to know when these new
+experts arrive, and until we have found them out, can do little but keep
+our eyes and ears open. It won't do to betray too much interest just
+yet."
+
+Carnes wheeled about in his chair and turned his eyes toward the street.
+
+"I wish this thing had not happened just yet," he said, moodily. "Last
+night our plans were laid so smoothly. I don't see how we can even
+follow up this grave-robbing business, until these confounded detectives
+have shown their hand."
+
+"Carnes," I replied, solemnly, "do be a philosopher. If ever two
+conceited detectives got themselves into a charming muddle, we're those
+two, at present. If we don't come out of this escapade covered with
+confusion, we shall have cause to be thankful."
+
+My homily had its intended effect. Carnes wheeled upon me with scorn
+upon his countenance.
+
+"The mischief fly away wid yer croakin'," he cried. "An' it's lyin' ye
+know ye are. Is it covered wid confusion ye'd be afther havin' us, bad
+cess to ye? Av we quit this nest we'd be drappin' the natest job two
+lads ever tackled. Ye can quit av ye like, but I'm shtayin', avan if the
+ould boy himself comes down to look intil the bizness."
+
+By "the ould boy," Carnes meant our Chief, and not, as might be
+supposed, his Satanic majesty.
+
+I smiled at the notion of our Chief in the midst of these Trafton
+perplexities, and, letting Carnes' tirade remain unanswered, took from
+my pocket the before mentioned note book and began a new mental
+calculation.
+
+"There goes the ould identical Mephistophiles I used to see in my fairy
+book," broke out Carnes from his station by the window, where he had
+stood for some moments silently contemplating whatever might present
+itself to view in the street below. "Look at 'im now! Av I were an
+artist, wouldn't I ax 'im to sit for 'Satan'."
+
+I looked out and saw 'Squire Brookhouse passing on the opposite side of
+the street, and looking closer, I decided that Carnes' comparison was
+not inapt.
+
+In the days of his youth 'Squire Brookhouse might have been a handsome
+man, when his regular features were rounded and colored by twenty-two
+Summers, or perhaps more; but he must have grown old while yet young,
+for his cadaverous cheeks were the color of most ancient parchment; his
+black eyes were set in hollow, dusky caverns; his mouth was sunken, the
+thin lips being drawn and colorless. His upper lip was smooth shaven,
+but the chin was decorated by a beard, long but thin, and of a peculiar
+lifeless black. His eyebrows were long and drooped above the cavernous
+eyes. His hair was straight and thin, matching the beard in color, and
+he wore it so long that it touched the collar of his coat, the ends
+fluttering dismally in the least gust of wind. He was tall, and angular
+to emaciation, with narrow, stooping shoulders, and the slow, gliding
+gait of an Indian. He was uniformly solemn, it would be a mistake to say
+dignified; preternaturally silent, going and coming like a shadow among
+his loquacious neighbors; always intent upon his own business and
+showing not the least interest in anything that did not in some way
+concern himself. Living plainly, dressing shabbily, hoarding his riches,
+grinding his tenants, superintending the business of his large
+stock-farm, he held himself aloof from society, and had never been seen
+within the walls of a church.
+
+And yet this silent, unsocial man was a power in Trafton; his word of
+commendation was eagerly sought for; his frown was a thing to be
+dreaded; his displeasure to be feared. Whom he would be elected to
+office, and whom he would not, came somehow to be disapproved by all
+Trafton.
+
+"He has certainly an uncommon _ensemble_," I said, looking out over
+Carnes' shoulder, "not a handsome man, to be sure, but one toward whom
+you would turn in a crowd to take the second look at. I wonder where Jim
+Long would place him in the scale of Trafton weights and measures?"
+
+"Not under the head of the model Traftonite," replied Carnes, still
+gazing after the receding figure. "He's guiltless of the small hands and
+feet, perfumed locks and 'more frill to the square yard of shirt front'
+required by Jim for the making of his model. By-the-by, what the 'Squire
+lacks is amply made up by the son. When Jim pictured the model
+Traftonite, I think he must have had Arch Brookhouse in his eye."
+
+"I think so, too; a nature such as Jim's would be naturally antagonistic
+to any form of dandyism. Young Brookhouse is a fastidious dresser, and,
+I should say, a thoroughly good fellow."
+
+"As good fellows go," said Carnes, sententiously. "But dropping the
+dandy, tell me what are we going to do with Jim Long?"
+
+"It's a question I've been asking myself," responded I, turning away
+from the window, "Jim is not an easy conundrum to solve."
+
+"About as easy as a Chinese puzzle," grumbled Carnes, discontentedly.
+"Nevertheless, I tell you, old man, before we get much further on our
+way we've got to take his measure."
+
+"I quite agree with you, and the moment the way seems clear, we must do
+something more."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"We must explore that south road, every foot of it, for twenty miles at
+least."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+'SQUIRE BROOKHOUSE MAKES A CALL.
+
+
+The first train due from the city, by which, supposing 'Squire
+Brookhouse's message to be promptly received, and his commission
+promptly executed, it would be possible for the looked-for detectives to
+arrive, would be due at midnight. It was a fast, through express, and
+arriving so late, when the busy village gossips were, or should be,
+peacefully sleeping, it seemed to us quite probable that they would come
+openly by that train.
+
+Of course we expected them to assume disguise, or to have some plausible
+business in the town, quite foreign to their real errand thither; but,
+equally, of course we expected to be able to penetrate any disguise that
+might be assumed by parties known to us, or to see beneath any business
+subterfuge adopted by strangers.
+
+Until midnight then we had only to wait, and employ our time profitably,
+if we could, which seemed hardly probable.
+
+I remained in my room for the remainder of the morning, and Carnes went
+out among the gossipers, in search of any scrap that he might seize upon
+and manipulate into a thing of meaning.
+
+At the dinner table I met Dr. Bethel. He was his usual calm, courteous
+self, seeming in no wise ruffled or discomposed by the events of the
+previous day.
+
+We chatted together over our dinner, and together left the table. In the
+hall the doctor turned to face me, saying:
+
+"If you have nothing better to occupy your time, come down to my house
+with me. I shall enjoy your company."
+
+I could scarcely have found a way of passing the afternoon more to my
+taste, just then, and I accepted his invitation promptly.
+
+Outside the doctor's dwelling, quiet and order reigned, thanks to Jim
+Long's officious friendliness, but within was still the confusion of
+yesterday; Jim, seemingly, having exhausted himself in the hanging of
+the doctor's front door.
+
+Bethel looked about the disordered rooms, and laughed the laugh of the
+philosopher.
+
+"After all, a man can not be thoroughly angry at the doings of a mob,"
+he said, stooping to gather up some scattered papers. "It's like
+scattering shot; the charge loses its force; there is no center to turn
+upon. I was in a rage yesterday, but it was rather with the author of
+the mischief credited to me, than these fanatical would-be avengers, and
+then--after due reflection--it was quite natural that these village
+simpletons should suspect me, was it not?"
+
+"Candidly, yes," I replied; "and that only proves the cunning of the
+enemy who planned this business for your injury."
+
+Bethel, who was stooping to restore a chair to its proper position,
+lifted his head to favor me with one sharp glance. Then he brought the
+chair up with a jerk; and, taking another with the unoccupied hand,
+said:
+
+"This is hardly a picture of comfort. Fortunately, there is a condensed
+lawn and excellent shade outside. Let's smoke a cigar under the trees,
+and discuss this matter comfortably."
+
+In another moment we were sitting cosily, _vis-a-vis_, on the tiny grass
+plot, styled by the doctor a "condensed lawn," with a huge clump of
+lilacs at our backs, and the quivering leaves of a young maple above our
+heads.
+
+The doctor produced some excellent cigars, which we lighted, and smoked
+for a time in silence. Then he said:
+
+"I scarcely flatter myself that I have seen the end of this business. I
+quite expected the raid of yesterday to be followed by a formal
+accusation and a warrant to-day, in which case--"
+
+"In which case," I interrupted, "I will be responsible for your future
+good behavior, and go your bail."
+
+"Thank you," he said, quite seriously. "I appreciate your championship,
+but confess it surprises me. Why have you voted me guiltless, in
+opposition to the expressed opinions of two-thirds of Trafton?"
+
+"Perhaps," I replied, "it is because I am not a Traftonite, and am
+therefore without prejudice. To be perfectly frank, I _did_ suppose you
+to be implicated in the business when I came here yesterday; when I
+witnessed your surprise, and heard your denial, I wavered; when I saw
+the buried clothing, I doubted; when the body was discovered, I was
+convinced that a less clever head and more bungling hand than yours, had
+planned and executed the resurrection; it was a blunder which I could
+not credit you with making. If I had a doubt, Barnard's testimony would
+have laid it."
+
+"Thank you," said Bethel, with real warmth. "But----I might have had
+confederates."
+
+"No. Doctor Barnard's statement as to the manner of the child's death
+deprives you of a motive for the deed; then the too-easily found tools,
+and the stripped-off clothing could hardly be work of your planning or
+ordering. Depend upon it, when Trafton has done a little calm thinking,
+it will see this matter as I see it."
+
+"Possibly," with a shade of skepticism in his voice. "At least, when I
+have unearthed these plotters against me, they will see the matter as it
+is, and that day I intend to bring to pass."
+
+The fire was nearly extinct on the tip of his cigar, he replaced it in
+his mouth and seemingly only intent upon rekindling the spark; this
+done, he smoked in silence a moment and then said:
+
+"As to the author of the mischief, or his motive, I am utterly at a
+loss. I have given up trying to think out the mystery. I shall call in
+the help of the best detective I can find, and see what he makes of the
+matter."
+
+Gracious heavens! here was another lion coming down upon myself and my
+luckless partner! Trafton was about to be inundated with detectives. My
+brain worked hard and fast. Something must be done, and that speedily,
+or Carnes and I must retreat mutely, ingloriously.
+
+While I smoked in a seemingly careless reverie, I was weighing the
+_pros_ and _cons_ of a somewhat uncertain venture. Should I let this
+third detective come and risk a collision, or should I make a clean
+breast of it, avow my identity, explain the motive of my sojourn in
+Trafton, and ask Bethel to trust his case to Carnes and myself? Almost
+resolved upon this latter course, I began to feel my way.
+
+"A good detective ought to sift the matter, I should think," I said. "I
+suppose you have your man in view?"
+
+"Candidly, no," he replied, with a dubious shake of the head. "I'm
+afraid I am not well posted as regards the police, never expecting to
+have much use for the gentry. I must go to the city and hunt up the
+right man."
+
+I drew a breath of relief.
+
+"That will consume some valuable time," I said, musingly.
+
+"Yes, a day to go; another, perhaps, before I find my man. I shall go
+in person, because I fancy that I shall be able to give something like a
+correct guess as to the man's ability, if I can have a square look at
+his face."
+
+I blew a cloud of smoke before my own face to conceal a smile.
+
+"You are a physiognomist, then?"
+
+"Not a radical one; but I believe there is much to be learned by the
+careful study of the human countenance."
+
+"Give me a test of your ability," I said, jestingly, and drawing my
+chair nearer to him. "Have I the material in me for a passable
+detective?"
+
+"My dear sir," he replied, gravely, "if I had not given you credit for
+some shrewdness, I should hardly have made you, even in a slight degree,
+my confidante; if you were a detective I think you might be expected to
+succeed."
+
+"Thanks, doctor; being what I am I can, perhaps, give you the key to
+this mystery."
+
+"You?"
+
+"Yes, I," tossing away my cigar and now fully resolved to confide in the
+doctor. "I think I have stumbled upon the clue you require. I will tell
+you how."
+
+There was a sharp click at the gate; I closed my lips hurriedly, and we
+both turned to look.
+
+'Squire Brookhouse, if possible a shade more solemn of countenance than
+usual, was entering the doctor's door-yard.
+
+My host arose instantly to receive, but did not advance to meet, his
+latest guest.
+
+'Squire Brookhouse accepted the chair proffered him, having first given
+me a nod of recognition, and, while Bethel entered the house for another
+chair, sat stiffly, letting his small, restless black eyes rove about,
+taking in his surroundings with quick, furtive glances, and I fancied
+that he felt a trifle annoyed at my presence.
+
+"You seem quite serene here, in spite of yesterday's fracas," he said to
+me, in what he no doubt intended for the ordinary affable conversational
+tone.
+
+He possessed a naturally harsh, rasping voice, not loud, but, none the
+less, not pleasant to the ear, and this, coupled with his staccato
+manner of jerking out the beginnings of his sentences, and biting off
+the ends of them, would have given, even to gentle words, the sound of
+severity.
+
+While I replied, I was inwardly wondering what had called out this
+unusual visit, for I saw at once, by the look on Bethel's face, that it
+was unusual, and, just then, a trifle unwelcome.
+
+We were not left long in the dark. Scarcely had the doctor rejoined us
+and been seated before the 'squire gave us an insight into the nature of
+his business.
+
+"I am sorry our people gave you so much trouble yesterday, doctor," he
+began, in his stiff staccato. "Their conduct was as discreditable to the
+town as it was uncomplimentary to you."
+
+"One should always take into consideration the character of the
+elements that assails him," replied Bethel, coolly. "I was comforted to
+know that my assailants of yesterday were notably of the _canaille_ of
+the town; the majority, of the rough, vulgar excitables, who, while not
+being, or meaning to be, absolutely vicious, are, because of their
+inherent ignorance, easily played upon and easily led, especially toward
+mischief. The leaders most certainly were not of the _lower_ classes,
+but of the _lowest_. On the whole, I have experienced no serious
+discomfort, 'Squire Brookhouse, nor do I anticipate any lasting injury
+to my practice by this attempt to shake the public faith in me."
+
+This reply surprised me somewhat, and I saw that the 'squire was, for
+the moment, nonplussed. He sat quite silent, biting his thin under lip,
+and with his restless eyes seemed trying to pierce to the doctor's
+innermost thought.
+
+The silence became to me almost oppressive before he said, shifting his
+position so as to bring me more prominently within his range of vision:
+
+"I hope you are right; I suppose you are. Arch displeased me very much
+by not coming to your aid; he might, perhaps, have had some influence
+upon a portion of the mob. I regret to learn that one or two of my men
+were among them. I believe Arch tried to argue against the movement
+before they came down upon you; he came home thoroughly disgusted and
+angry. For myself, I was too much indisposed to venture out yesterday."
+
+He drew himself a trifle more erect; this long speech seeming to be
+something well off his mind.
+
+"I was well supported, I assure you," replied Bethel, courteously. "But
+I appreciate your interest in my welfare. Your influence in Trafton is
+considerable, I know."
+
+"Hardly that; hardly that, sir. However, such as it is, it is yours, if
+you need it. My call was merely to ask if you anticipated any further
+trouble, or if I could serve you in any way, in case you desired to make
+an investigation."
+
+Bethel hesitated a moment, seemingly at a loss for a reply.
+
+In that moment, while the 'squire's sharp eyes were fixed upon him, I
+lifted my hand, removed my cigar from my mouth with a careless gesture,
+and, catching the doctor's eye, laid a finger on my lip. In another
+instant I was puffing away at my weed, and the keen, quick eyes of
+'Squire Brookhouse were boring me clean through.
+
+"Thank you," said Bethel, after this pause, and without again glancing
+at me. "You are very good."
+
+"We seem to be especially honored by rogues of various sorts," went on
+the 'squire. "Of course you have heard of last night's work, and of my
+loss."
+
+The doctor bowed his head.
+
+"This thing is becoming intolerable," went on the usually silent man,
+"and I intend to make a stanch fight. If it's in the power of the
+detectives, I mean to have my horses back."
+
+"You will bestow a blessing upon the community if you succeed in
+capturing the thieves," said Bethel.
+
+Then the 'squire turned toward me, saying:
+
+"We are a victimized community, sir. I suppose you have found that out?"
+
+[Illustration: "We are a victimized community, sir. I suppose you have
+found that out?"--page 161.]
+
+"Judging from the events of yesterday and last night, I should think
+so," I replied, with an air of indifferent interest. "From the
+conversation I heard at the hotel to-day, I infer that this thieving
+business is no new thing."
+
+"No new thing, sir."
+
+I had no desire to participate in the conversation, so made no further
+comment, and the 'squire turned again to Bethel.
+
+"I suppose you intend to investigate this matter?"
+
+Bethel looked up to the maple, and down at the grass.
+
+"I have scarcely decided," he replied, slowly. "I have hardly had time
+to consider."
+
+"Ah! I supposed, from what I heard in the town, that you had made a
+decided stand."
+
+"So far as this, I have," replied Bethel, gravely. "I am determined not
+to let these underminers succeed in their purpose."
+
+"Then you have fathomed their purpose?"
+
+"I suppose it is to drive me from Trafton?"
+
+"You intend to remain?"
+
+"Most assuredly. I shall reside and practice in Trafton so long as I
+have one patient left who has faith in me."
+
+"That would be an unprofitable game--financially."
+
+"I think not, in the end."
+
+Again the 'squire seemed at a loss for words.
+
+I hugged myself with delight. The dialogue pleased me.
+
+"I like your spirit," he said, at length. "I should also like to see
+this matter cleared up." He rose slowly, pulling his hat low down over
+his cavernous eyes. "I have sent for detectives," he said, slightly
+lowering his tone. "Of course I wish their identity and whereabouts to
+remain a secret among us. If you desire to investigate and wish any
+information or advice from them, or if I can aid you _in any way_, don't
+hesitate to let me know."
+
+Dr. Bethel thanked him warmly, assuring him that if he had need of a
+friend he would not forget his very generously proffered service, and,
+with his solemn face almost funereal in its expression, 'Squire
+Brookhouse bowed to me, and, this time escorted by Bethel, walked slowly
+toward the gate.
+
+A carriage came swiftly down the road from the direction of the village.
+It halted just as they had reached the gate.
+
+I saw a pale face look out, and then 'Squire Brookhouse approached and
+listened to something said by this pale-faced occupant. Meantime Bethel,
+without waiting for further words with 'Squire Brookhouse, came back to
+his seat under the trees.
+
+In a moment the carriage moved on, going rapidly as before, and the
+'squire came back through the little gate and approached the doctor,
+wearing now upon his face a look of unmistakable sourness.
+
+"Doctor," he said, in his sharpest staccato, "my youngest scapegrace has
+met with an accident, and is going home with a crippled leg. I don't
+know how bad the injury is, but you had better come at once; he seems in
+great distress."
+
+The doctor turned to me with a hesitating movement which I readily
+understood. He was loth to leave our interrupted conversation unfinished
+for an indefinite time.
+
+I arose at once.
+
+"Don't let my presence interfere with your duties," I said. "You and I
+can finish our smoke to-morrow, doctor."
+
+He shot me a glance which assured me that he comprehended my meaning.
+
+Five minutes later, Dr. Bethel and 'Squire Brookhouse were going up the
+hill toward the house of the latter, while I, still smoking, sauntered
+in the opposite direction, lazily, as beseemed an idle man.
+
+I felt very well satisfied just then, and was rather glad that my
+disclosure to the doctor had been interrupted. A new thought had lodged
+in my brain, and I wished to consult Carnes.
+
+Just at sunset, while I sat on the piazza of the hotel, making a
+pretence of reading the _Trafton Weekly News_, I saw Charlie Harris, the
+operator, coming down the street with a yellow envelope in his hand.
+
+He came up the steps of the hotel, straight to me, and I noted a
+mischievous smile on his face as he proffered the envelope, saying:
+
+"I am glad to find you so easily. I should have felt it my duty to
+ransack the town in order to deliver that."
+
+I opened the telegram in silence, and read these words:
+
+     The widow B. is in town and anxious to see you. T. C.
+
+Then I looked up into the face of young Harris, and smiled in my turn.
+
+"Harris," I said, "this is a very welcome piece of news, and I am much
+obliged to you."
+
+"I knew you would be," laughed the jolly fellow. "I love to serve the
+ladies. And what shall I say in return?"
+
+"Nothing, Harris," I responded. "I shall go by the first train; the
+widow here referred to, is a particular friend of mine."
+
+Harris elevated his eyebrows.
+
+"In dead earnest, aren't you? Tell me--I'll never, never give you away,
+is she pretty?"
+
+"Pretty!" I retorted; "Harris, I've a mind to knock you down, for
+applying such a weak word to _her_. She's _magnificent_."
+
+"Whew," he exclaimed, "It's a bad case, then. When shall we see you
+again in Trafton?"
+
+"That depends upon the lady. I'll never leave the city while she desires
+me to stay."
+
+After a little more banter of this sort, Harris returned to his duties,
+and I went up-stairs, well pleased with the manner in which he had
+interpreted my Chief's telegram, and wondering not a little what had
+brought the widow Ballou to the city.
+
+Carnes and I had another long talk that night, while waiting the time
+for the arrival of the city express.
+
+I told him that I was called to the city in the interest of the case I
+had abandoned after getting my wound, and that unless my continued
+presence there was absolutely indispensable, I would return in three
+days, at the farthest.
+
+I gave him a detailed account of my visit to Bethel, with its attendant
+circumstances.
+
+"Bethel will hardly make a decided move in the matter for a day or two,
+I think," I said, after we had discussed the propriety of taking the
+doctor into our counsel. "I will write him a note which you shall
+deliver, and the rest must wait."
+
+I wrote as follows:
+
+     DR. CARL BETHEL,
+
+     _Dear Sir_--Am just in receipt of a telegram which calls me to
+     the city. I go by the early train, as there is a lady in the
+     case. Shall return in a few days, I trust, and then hope to
+     finish our interrupted conversation. I _think_ your success
+     will be more probable and speedy if you delay all action for
+     the present.
+
+     This is in confidence.
+
+                                      Yours fraternally, etc., etc.
+
+"There," I said, folding the note, "That is making the truth tell a
+falsehood." And I smiled as I pictured the "lady in the case," likely to
+be conjured up by the imaginations of Harris and Dr. Bethel, and
+contrasted her charms with the sharp features, work-hardened hands, and
+matter-of-fact head, of Mrs. Ballou.
+
+Just ten minutes before twelve o'clock Carnes and myself dropped
+noiselessly out of our chamber window, leaving a dangling rope to
+facilitate our return, and took our way to the depot to watch for the
+expected experts.
+
+Ten minutes later the great fiery eye of the iron horse shone upon us
+from a distance, disappeared behind a curve, reappeared again, and came
+beaming down to the little platform.
+
+The train halted for just an instant, then swept on its way.
+
+But no passengers were left upon the platform; our errand had been
+fruitless; the detectives were still among the things to be looked for.
+
+The next morning, before daybreak, I was _en route_ for the city.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+MRS. BALLOU'S PISTOL PRACTICE.
+
+
+Half an hour after my arrival in the city, I was seated in the private
+office of our Chief, with Mrs. Ballou opposite me.
+
+I had telegraphed from a way station, so that no time might be lost. I
+found the Chief and the lady awaiting me; and, at the first, he had
+signified his wish that I should listen to her story, and then give him
+my version of it.
+
+"She seems ill at ease with me," he said, "and frankly told me that she
+preferred to make her statement to you. Go ahead, Bathurst; above all we
+must retain her confidence."
+
+Mrs. Ballou looked careworn, and seemed more nervous than I had supposed
+it in her nature to be.
+
+She looked relieved at sight of me, and, as soon as we were alone,
+plunged at once into her story, as if anxious to get it over, and hear
+what I might have to say.
+
+This is what she told me in her own plain, concise, and very sensible
+language, interrupted now and then by my brief questions, and her
+occasional moments of silence, while I transferred something to my
+note-book.
+
+"I presume you have wanted to know what I did with that letter I took,"
+she began, smiling a little, probably in recollection of her adroit
+theft. "I will tell you why I took it. When you first showed it to me,
+the printed letters had a sort of familiar look, but I could not think
+where I had seen them. During the night it seemed to come to me, and I
+got up and went into the parlor." Here she hesitated for a moment, and
+then went on hurriedly: "Grace--my girl, you know--has a large autograph
+album; she brought it home when she came from the seminary, and
+everybody she meets that can scratch with a pen, must write in it. I
+found this precious album, and in it I found--this."
+
+She took from her pocket-book a folded paper and put it in my hand. It
+was a leaf torn from an album, and it contained a sentimental couplet,
+_printed_ in large, bold letters.
+
+I looked at the bit of paper, and then muttering an excuse, went
+hurriedly to the outer office. In a moment I was back; holding in my
+hand the printed letter of warning, which I had confided to the care of
+my Chief.
+
+I sat down opposite Mrs. Ballou with the two documents before me, and
+scrutinized them carefully.
+
+They were the same. The letter of warning was penciled, and bore
+evidence of having been hastily done; the album lines were in ink
+carefully executed and elaborately finished, but the lettering was the
+same. Making allowances for the shading, the flourishes, and the extra
+precision of the one, and looking simply at the formation of the
+letters, the height, width, curves, and spacing of both, and the
+resemblance was too strong to pass for a mere coincidence.
+
+I studied the two papers thoughtfully for a few moments, then looked at
+Mrs. Ballou.
+
+"You should have told me of this at once," I began; but she threw up her
+hand impatiently.
+
+"Wait," she said, with almost her ordinary brusqueness, seeming to lose
+her nervousness as she became absorbed in the task of convincing me that
+she thoroughly understood _herself_. "There was no time to compare the
+writing that night. I had not decided what to do, and I was not sure
+then that they were the same. I left the album, just as I found it, and
+went out and harnessed the horses. While I was helping you with your
+coat, I managed to get the letter."
+
+"You were certainly very adroit," I said. "Even now I can recall no
+suspicious movements of yours."
+
+"I made none," she retorted. "I saw where you put the letter, and it was
+easy to get it while helping you."
+
+She paused a moment, then went on:
+
+"When I went home, after driving you to the station, everybody was
+asleep. I knew they would be; I always have to wake them all, from Fred
+to the hired girl. I waked them as usual that morning, told them that I
+had discharged you for impertinence, and for abusing the horses, and
+that settled the matter. In the afternoon the girls went over to
+Morton's; it's only a mile across the fields, and a clear path. I made
+up my mind that I'd have them safe back again before dark, and I know
+where I could get a good man to take your place; he was high-priced, but
+I knew he was to be trusted, and I had made up my mind to keep a close
+eye on the girls, and to send some one with them wherever they went.
+After they were gone, I took the album to my room, locked Fred out, and
+compared the letter with the album verse. I thought the writing was the
+same."
+
+She hesitated a moment, brushed her handkerchief across her lips, and
+then went on.
+
+"I didn't know what to do, nor what to think--my first thought was to
+send for you, then I became frightened. I did not know what you might
+trace out, with this clue, and I did not know how it might affect my
+daughter. Grace is lively, fond of all kinds of gayety, especially of
+dancing. She is always surrounded with beaux, always has half a dozen
+intimate girl friends on hand, and is constantly on the go. There are so
+many young people about Groveland that picnics, neighborhood dances,
+croquet parties, buggy rides, etc., are plenty; and then, Grace often
+has visitors from Amora."
+
+"Where is Amora?" I interrupted.
+
+"It is about twenty-five miles from Groveland. Grace went to school at
+Amora."
+
+I made an entry in my note-book, and then asked:
+
+"Is there a seminary in Amora?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"How long since your daughter left Amora, Mrs. Ballou?"
+
+"She was there during the Winter term."
+
+"Yes. Did Nellie Ewing ever attend school at Amora?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"When?"
+
+Mrs. Ballou moved uneasily.
+
+"Nellie and Grace were room-mates last Winter," she replied.
+
+"And Mamie Rutger? Was she there, too?"
+
+"She began the Winter term, but was expelled."
+
+"Expelled! For what?"
+
+"For sauciness and disobedience. Mamie was a spoiled child, and not fond
+of study."
+
+I wrote rapidly in my note-book, and mentally anathematized myself, and
+my employers in the Ewing-Rutger case. Why had I not learned before that
+Nellie Ewing and Mamie Rutger were together at Amora? Why had their two
+fathers neglected to give me so important a piece of information?
+
+Evidently they had not thought of this fact in connection with the
+disappearance of the two girls, or the fact that Mamie was expelled from
+the school may have kept Farmer Rutger silent.
+
+I closed my note-book and asked:
+
+"Did any other young people from Groveland attend the Amora school? Try
+and be accurate, Mrs. Ballou."
+
+"Not last Winter," she replied; "at least, no other girls. Johnny La
+Porte was there."
+
+"Who is Johnny La Porte?"
+
+"His father is one of our wealthiest farmers. Johnny is an only son. He
+is a good-looking boy, and a great favorite among the young people."
+
+"Do you know his age?"
+
+"Not precisely; he is not more than twenty or twenty-one."
+
+"Where is Johnny La Porte at present?"
+
+"At home, on his father's farm."
+
+"Now, Mrs. Ballou, tell me who is Miss Amy Holmes?"
+
+She started and flushed.
+
+"Another school friend," she replied, in a tone which said plainly, "the
+bottom is reached at last."
+
+Evidently she expected some comment, but I only said:
+
+"One more, Mrs. Ballou, why have you held back this bit of paper until
+now?"
+
+"I am coming to that," she retorted, "when you have done with your
+questions."
+
+"I have finished. Proceed now."
+
+Once more she began:
+
+"I was worried and anxious about the papers, but, on second thought, I
+determined to know something more before I saw or wrote you. I did not
+think it best to ask Grace any questions; she is an odd child, and very
+quick to suspect anything unusual, and it would be an unusual thing for
+me to seem interested in the autographs. It was two days before I found
+out who wrote the lines in the album. I complained of headache that day,
+and Grace took my share of the work herself. Amy was in the parlor
+reading a novel. I went in and talked with her a while, then I began to
+turn over the leaves of the album. When I came to the printed lines, I
+praised their smoothness, and then I carelessly asked Amy if she knew
+what the initials A. B. stood for. She looked up at me quickly, glanced
+at the album, hesitated a moment as if thinking, and then said: 'Oh,
+that's Professor Bartlett's printing, I think, his first name is _Asa_.
+He is an admirable penman.'
+
+"I don't think Amy remembered the lines, or she would not have said
+that. I don't think Professor Bartlett would begin an album verse: 'I
+drink to the eyes of my schoolmate, Grace.' I knew that Amy had told a
+falsehood, and I watched her. She took the first opportunity, when she
+thought I did not see her, to whisper something to Grace. I saw that
+Grace looked annoyed, but Amy laughed, and the two seemed to agree upon
+something.
+
+"I thought I would come to the city the next day, but in the morning my
+boy was very sick; he was sick for more than two weeks, and I had no
+time to think of anything else. Amy helped Grace, and was so kind and
+useful that I almost forgave her for telling me a fib. I had sent your
+letter back during Fred's illness, and, when he began to mend, I thought
+the matter over and over. I knew it would be useless to question Grace,
+and I did not know what harm or scandal I might bring upon my own
+daughter by bringing the matter to your notice. I tried to convince
+myself that the similarity of the printing was accidental, and, as I had
+not the letter to compare with the album, it was easier to believe so. I
+concluded to wait, but became very watchful.
+
+"One night Fred brought in the mail; there was a letter for Amy; she
+opened it and began to read, then she uttered a quick word, and looked
+much pleased. I saw an anxious look on my girl's face and caught a
+glance that passed between them. By-and-by they both went up-stairs, and
+in a few minutes I followed, and listened at the door of their room.
+
+"Amy was reading her letter to Grace. I could tell that by the hum of
+her voice, but I could not catch a word, until Grace exclaimed, sharply,
+'What! the 17th?' 'Yes, the 17th, hush,' Amy answered, and then went on
+with her reading. I could not catch a single word more, so I went back
+down-stairs. It was then about the ninth of the month, and I thought it
+might be as well to keep my eyes open on the 17th, though it might have
+meant last month, or any other month, for all I could guess. After that
+Amy seemed in better spirits than usual, and Grace was gay and nervous
+by turns. On the 17th the girls stayed in their room, as usual--that was
+four days ago."
+
+She paused a moment, during which my eyes never left her face; she
+sighed heavily, and resumed:
+
+"I felt fidgety all day, as if something was going to happen. I expected
+to see the girls preparing for company, or to go somewhere, but they did
+no such thing. When evening came, they went to their room earlier than
+usual, but I sat up later than I often do. It was almost eleven o'clock
+when I went up-stairs, and then I could not sleep. I stopped and
+listened again at the door of the girls' room, but could hear nothing.
+They might both have been asleep.
+
+"It was very warm, and I threw open my shutters, and sat down by the
+window, thinking that I was not sleepy, and, of course, I fell asleep.
+All at once something awoke me. I started and listened; in a moment I
+heard it again; it was the snort of a horse. There was no moon, and the
+shrubbery and trees made the front yard, from the gate to the house,
+very dark. As I heard no wheels nor hoofs, of course I knew that the
+horse was standing still, and the sound came from the front. I sat quite
+still and listened hard. By-and-by I heard something else. This time it
+was a faint rustling among the bushes below--it was not enough to have
+aroused even a light sleeper, but I was wide awake, and all ears.
+'Somebody is creeping through my rose bushes,' I said to myself, then
+tip-toed to my bureau, got out the pistol you gave me, and slipped out,
+and down-stairs, as still as a mouse.
+
+"The girls slept in a room over the parlor, and their windows faced west
+and south; mine faced north and west, so you see I had no view, from my
+bed-room, of the south windows of their room. The croquet ground was on
+the south side of the house, and there was a bit of vacant lawn in front
+of the parlor, also. The windows below were all closed and so I could
+not hear the rustling any more.
+
+"I sat down by one of the parlor windows and peeped out. Presently I saw
+something come out from among the bushes; it was a man; and he came into
+the open space _carrying a ladder_. Then I knew what the rustling meant.
+He had taken the ladder from the big harvest-apple tree in front, where
+the girls had put it that afternoon, and was bringing it toward the
+house.
+
+"The man stopped opposite the south windows of the girls' room, and
+began to raise the ladder. Then I knew what to do. I slipped the pistol
+into my pocket, went out through the dining-room, unbolted the back door
+as quietly as I could, crept softly to the south corner of the house,
+and peeped around. The ladder was already up, and somebody was climbing
+out of the window, while the man steadied the ladder. It was one of the
+girls, but I could not tell which, so I waited. When she stood upon the
+ground not ten feet away from me, I knew by her height that it was
+Grace, and Amy had started down before Grace was off the ladder. Just
+then the man stepped back, so that I had a fair chance at him. I took
+aim as well as I could, and fired.
+
+[Illustration: "Just then the man stepped back, so that I had a fair
+chance at him. I took aim as well as I could, and fired."--page 177.]
+
+"The man yelled. Grace screamed and tumbled over on the grass, just as I
+expected her to. Amy Holmes jumped from the ladder, ran to the man, and
+said, "quick! come!" I fired again, and Grace raised herself suddenly
+with such a moan that I thought in my haste I had hit her.
+
+"I threw down the pistol, ran and picked her up as if she were a baby,
+and took her around to the back door. By the time I found out that she
+was not hurt, and had got back to the ladder, the man and Amy were gone,
+and I heard a buggy going down the road at a furious rate."
+
+She paused and sighed deeply, looked at me for a moment, and then, as I
+made no effort to break the silence, she resumed:
+
+"It's not a pleasant story for a mother to tell concerning her own
+daughter, but when I think of Nellie Ewing I know that it might
+accidentally have been worse.
+
+"I commanded Grace to tell me the whole truth. She cried, and declared
+that she was under oath not to tell. After a little she grew calmer, and
+then told me that she meant no harm. Amy had a lover who was not a
+favorite with her guardian, who lives somewhere South. Amy was about to
+run away and be married, and Grace was to accompany her as a witness.
+They both expected to be safely back before daylight. Of course I did
+not believe this, and I told her so. Her actions after that made me wish
+that I had not disputed her story. I have used every argument, and I am
+convinced that nothing more can be got out of Grace. She is terribly
+frightened and nervous, but she is stubborn as death. Whatever the truth
+is, she is afraid to tell it."
+
+"And Miss Holmes; what more of her?"
+
+"Nothing more; she went away in the buggy with the others."
+
+"The others?"
+
+"Yes; I am sure there were two, for I found the place where the buggy
+stood waiting. It was not at the gate, but further south. There was a
+ditch between the wheel marks and the fence, and nothing to tie to. Some
+one must have been holding the horses."
+
+"And this is all you know about the business?"
+
+"Yes, everything."
+
+"Where is your daughter now?"
+
+"At home, under lock and key, with a trusty hired man to stand guard
+over her and the house until I get back, and with Freddy and the hired
+girl for company."
+
+"Does she know why you came to the city?"
+
+"Not she. I told her I was coming to make arrangements for putting
+her to school at a convent, and I intend to do it, too."
+
+Making no comment on this bit of maternal discipline, I again had
+recourse to my note-book.
+
+"You are fixed in your desire not to have your daughter further
+interviewed?" I asked, presently.
+
+"I am," she replied. "I don't think it would do any good, and she is not
+fit to endure any more excitement. I expect to find her sick in bed when
+I get home."
+
+"Do you think your shot injured the man?"
+
+"I _know_ it did," emphatically. "I aimed at his legs, intending to hit
+them, and I did it. He never gave such a screech as that from sheer
+fright; there was _pain_ in it. Amy must have helped him to the
+carriage."
+
+"Is this escapade known among your neighbors?"
+
+"No. I hushed it up at home, giving my girl and hired man a different
+story to believe. I could not get away by the morning train from Sharon,
+and so started the next evening. I left them all at home with Grace, and
+drove alone to Sharon, leaving my horse at the stable there."
+
+"You certainly acted very wisely, although I regret the delay. Miss
+Holmes and her two cavaliers have now nearly four days the start of us.
+Did you notice the size of the man at the ladder?"
+
+"Yes; he was not a large man, if anything a trifle below the medium
+height."
+
+"You think, then, that Miss Holmes made a willful effort to deceive
+you, when she told you that the album verse was written by Professor
+Bartlett? By-the-by, _is_ there a Professor Asa Bartlett at Amora?"
+
+"Yes, he is the Principal. If you could see him, you would never accuse
+him of having written a silly verse like that. I am sure Amy meant to
+deceive me, and I am sure that she posted Grace about it, in case I
+should ask her."
+
+"But you did not ask her?"
+
+"No. One does not care to make one's own child tell an unnecessary lie.
+Grace would have stood by Amy, no doubt."
+
+It was growing late in the afternoon. There was much to do, much to
+think over, and no time to lose. I was not yet prepared to give Mrs.
+Ballou the benefit of my opinion, as regarded her daughter's escapade,
+so I arranged for a meeting in the evening, promising to have my plans
+decided upon and ready to lay before her at that time.
+
+She wished, if possible, to return home on the following day, and I told
+her that I thought it not only possible, but advisable that she should
+do so.
+
+Then I called a carriage, saw her safely ensconced therein, _en route_
+for her hotel, and returned to my Chief.
+
+I had now two interests. I much desired to arrive at the bottom of the
+Groveland mystery, and thought, with the information now in hand, that
+this was quite possible; and I also desired to remain at my post among
+the Traftonites. I at once decided upon my course. I would tell my Chief
+Mrs. Ballou's story, and then I would give him a brief history of our
+sojourn in Trafton and its motive. After that, we would decide how to
+act.
+
+There was no pause for rest or food, or thought, until I had given my
+Chief a history of Mrs. Ballou's vigil and excellent pistol exploit, and
+followed this up by the story of my Trafton experience.
+
+His first comment, after he had listened for an hour most attentively,
+brought from my lips a sigh of relief; it was just what I longed to
+hear.
+
+"Well, you need have no fear so far as this office is concerned.
+'Squire Brookhouse has not called for its services."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+PREPARATIONS OF WAR.
+
+
+"Bathurst," my Chief said, settling back in his chair, and eyeing me
+with great good humor, "I don't see but that you are getting on
+swimmingly, and I don't feel inclined to dictate much. Your Groveland
+affair is looking up. You may have as many men as you need to look after
+that business. As for Trafton, I think you and Carnes have made good use
+of your holiday. I think you have struck something rich, and that you
+had better remain there, and work it up; or, if you prefer to go to
+Groveland yourself, return there as soon as possible."
+
+"I am glad to hear you talk as I think," I replied. "I believe that
+Trafton is ripe for an explosion, and I confess that, just at present, I
+am more interested in Trafton than in Groveland, besides----. In my
+report from Groveland, you may remember that I mentioned going to the
+station to fetch Miss Amy Holmes?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"And that this young lady was accompanied on that day by a handsome
+young gentleman?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Well, I have since made the acquaintance of this young man."
+
+"Ah!"
+
+"At first I thought it only a coincidence, and dismissed the matter from
+my mind. Since I have heard Mrs. Ballou's story, a queer thought has
+entered my head."
+
+"Explain."
+
+"This young gallant, whom I first saw in the company of the runaway Miss
+Holmes, is Mr. Arch, or Archibald Brookhouse, of Trafton."
+
+"I see," thoughtfully.
+
+"And the initials following that album verse are A. B."
+
+"A. B.! Archibald Brookhouse! There _may_ be something in it, but should
+you feel justified in suspecting this young man as the possible author
+of _your_ anonymous letter?"
+
+"If he is the writer of the album lines, yes."
+
+"What do you propose to do?"
+
+"First," said I, "we must call in the dummy."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then I want a good man to go to Groveland in search of information. I
+want him to find out all that he can concerning the character of this
+Johnny La Porte, who attended school at Amora, and was a fellow-student
+with Nellie Ewing, Mamie Rutger, and Grace Ballou."
+
+"Good."
+
+"Then he must learn if any of the Groveland youths have become _lame_
+since last Sunday, and if any of these same gentry was missing, or
+absent from home, during the night of the 17th, for, of course, Miss Amy
+Holmes being on his hands, the driver of the carriage which Mrs. Ballou
+routed that night must have been absent sometime, _if_ he belonged in
+the community. He surely had to dispose of Miss Holmes in some way."
+
+"Do you think it probable that some Groveland Lothario was mixed up in
+this elopement business?"
+
+"I think it not improbable. The first search was made, seemingly, upon
+the supposition that all Groveland was above suspicion, and that search
+failed. I intend to hold all Groveland Lotharios upon my list of
+suspected criminals until they are individually and collectively proven
+innocent."
+
+"Quite right."
+
+"On second thought we had better let the dummy remain until we have put
+a new man in the field; by this time he must know something about the
+people he is among. Who can you send to Groveland?"
+
+"Wyman, I think."
+
+"Capital; Wyman is good at this sort of thing. He had better present
+himself in person to our dummy, hear all that he can tell, and then
+deliver your letter of recall, and see him safely on his way to the city
+before he has time to open his mouth for the benefit of any one else."
+
+"Very good; Wyman is at your disposal."
+
+I drew toward me a large portfolio containing State and county maps. It
+lay at all times upon the office table, convenient for reference.
+
+While I was tracing the eccentric course of a certain railroad, I could
+feel my Chief's eyes searching my countenance.
+
+"Bathurst," he said, after some moments of silence, and leaning toward
+me as he spoke, "I believe you have a theory, or a suspicion, that is
+not entirely based upon Mrs. Ballou's revelation."
+
+"You are right," I replied, "and it is a suspicion of so strange a sort
+that I almost hesitate to give it utterance, and yet I think it worthy
+of attention. I want to shadow this cavalier, Arch Brookhouse."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I find by this map that the town of Amora is situated twenty-five miles
+from Groveland, and thirty miles from Trafton. Sharon, the nearest
+railroad communication with Groveland, is thirty miles from Amora, so
+that the distance from Trafton to Sharon is sixty miles, and the
+seminary town is midway between."
+
+My Chief made a sign which meant "I comprehend; go on."
+
+"Now, it is possible that accident or business brought Mr. Arch
+Brookhouse to Sharon, and that his meeting with Miss Holmes was quite
+accidental, and his attendance upon Miss Holmes and Grace Ballou merely
+a chance bit of gallantry. But when you consider that he seemed equally
+well known to both young ladies, that Sharon is a small town, and a dull
+one, and that Miss Holmes came from Amora that morning, is it not just
+as probable that Mr. Brookhouse traveled from Trafton to Amora for the
+purpose of escorting Miss Holmes to Sharon? Now, young men of our day
+are not much given to acts of courtesy extending over sixty miles of
+railroad; therefore, if Arch Brookhouse visited Sharon for the sole
+purpose of meeting these two young ladies, and basking in their society
+for a brief half hour, it is fair to presume that he is more than
+ordinarily interested in one of them."
+
+"You are right, Bathurst; at least it would seem so."
+
+"Now let me tell you all that I know concerning the Brookhouses."
+
+Once more I gave a minute description of my first meeting with Arch
+Brookhouse, and of the second, when I recognized him at Trafton. Then I
+told him of my interview with the telegraph operator, of the telegram
+sent by Fred Brookhouse from New Orleans, and of the reply sent by Arch,
+and last I told him how Louis Brookhouse had come home, accompanied by
+another young man, _on the day after the attempted flight of Grace
+Ballou_, and how Dr. Bethel had been called upon to attend him, he
+having met with an accident.
+
+My Chief stroked his chin thoughtfully.
+
+"I see," he said, slowly, "you have some nice points of circumstantial
+evidence against these young gentlemen. How do you propose to use them?"
+
+"First, I must know what motive took Arch Brookhouse to Sharon, and find
+out if either of the Brookhouse brothers have been students at Amora. I
+want therefore to send a second man to Amora."
+
+"Very good."
+
+"If I find that either, or both, of the younger brothers have been
+fellow-students with Grace Ballou, and the missing girls, then I shall
+wish to extend my search."
+
+"To New Orleans?"
+
+"To New Orleans."
+
+"Is there anything more?"
+
+"Yes; one thing. If Carnes goes to New Orleans I shall want a telegraph
+operator in Trafton."
+
+"Then you wish to remain in Trafton?"
+
+"Yes, and this takes me back to the other matter. I quite expected that
+a man like 'Squire Brookhouse would have called upon you for help. If he
+has employed men from either of the other offices, we can easily find
+out who they are."
+
+"Easily."
+
+"I shall wish to inform myself on this point, and if possible, return to
+Trafton to-morrow night. I am to see Mrs. Ballou again to-night; now I
+think I will have some supper."
+
+I arose, but stood, for a moment, waiting for any word of command or
+suggestion my Chief might have to offer.
+
+He sat for many seconds, seemingly oblivious of my presence. Then he
+looked up.
+
+"I shall make no suggestions," he said, waving his hand as if to dismiss
+both the subject and myself. "I will instruct Wyman and Earle at once.
+When you come in after seeing Mrs. Ballou, you will find them at your
+disposal, and give yourself no trouble about those other detectives. I
+will attend to that."
+
+I thanked him and withdrew. This curt sentence from the lips of my Chief
+was worth more to me than volumes of praise from any other source, for
+it convinced me that he not only trusted me, but that he approved my
+course and could see none better.
+
+I saw Mrs. Ballou again that evening, and put to her some questions that
+not only amazed her, but seemed to her most irrelevant, but while she
+answered without fully comprehending my meaning or purpose, some of her
+replies were, to me, most satisfactory.
+
+After I had heard all that she could tell me concerning Mr. Johnny La
+Porte, I gave her a minute description of Arch Brookhouse, and ended by
+asking if she had ever seen any one who answered to that description.
+
+I was puzzled, but scarcely surprised, at her answer, which came slowly
+and after considerable reflection.
+
+Yes, she had seen such a young man; I had described him exactly. She
+had seen him twice. He came to her house in company with Ed. Dwight.
+Dwight was an agent for various sewing machines; he was a jolly,
+good-natured fellow, very much liked by all the young Grovelanders; he
+had traveled the Groveland route for two years, perhaps three. He was
+quite at home at Mrs. Ballou's, and, in fact, anywhere where he had made
+one or two visits. The young man I had described had been over the
+Groveland route twice with Ed. Dwight, each time stopping for dinner at
+Mrs. Ballou's. His name, she believed, was _Brooks_, and he had talked
+of setting up as an agent on his own responsibility.
+
+Did she know Mr. Dwight's place of residence?
+
+He lived on the C. & L. road, somewhere between Sharon and Amora. Mrs.
+Ballou could not recall the name of the town.
+
+I did not need that she should; a sewing machine agent whose name I
+knew, and who lived somewhere between Amora and Sharon, would not be
+difficult to find.
+
+"How did Mr. Dwight travel?"
+
+"In a very nice covered wagon, and with a splendid team."
+
+"How long since Mr. Brooks and Mr. Dwight paid a visit to Groveland?"
+
+Mrs. Ballou thought it was fully six months since their last visit.
+
+"That would be nearly two months before Mamie Rutger and Nellie Ewing
+disappeared?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Have you seen Dwight since?"
+
+"Oh, yes; he comes at stated times, as usual."
+
+It was growing late, and I was more than satisfied with my interview
+with Mrs. Ballou. I advised her to keep Grace for the present under her
+own eye and, promising that she should see or hear from me soon, took my
+leave.
+
+Mrs. Ballou had announced her intention to return by the morning train.
+
+We could not be traveling companions, as I was not to leave the city
+until afternoon.
+
+Reaching my room I sat into the small hours looking over my notes,
+jotting down new ones, smoking and thinking.
+
+The next morning I saw Wyman and Earle, gave them full instructions, and
+arranged to receive their reports at the earliest possible moment, by
+express, at Trafton.
+
+At noon I was in possession of all that could be learned concerning the
+identity of the detectives employed by 'Squire Brookhouse. No officer of
+any of the regular forces had been employed. Mr. Brookhouse had probably
+obtained the services of private detectives.
+
+Private detectives, of more or less ability, are numerous in the city,
+and I was personally known to but few of these independent experts. Most
+of those could be satisfactorily accounted for, and I turned my face
+toward Trafton, feeling that there was little danger of being "spotted"
+by a too knowing brother officer.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+FLY CROOKS IN TRAFTON.
+
+
+My train, which left the city early in the afternoon, would arrive in
+Trafton at midnight. Foreseeing a long and, in my then state of mind,
+tedious ride, I had armed myself with a well-filled cigar case, and
+several copies of the latest editions of the city papers, and we had not
+been long on the wing before I turned my steps toward the smoking car,
+biting off the end of a weed as I went.
+
+A group of four, evidently countrymen, were just beginning a game of
+cards. I took a seat opposite them and idly watched their progress,
+while I enjoyed my cigar.
+
+Presently a gentleman from the front, seemingly attracted by their
+hilarity, arose and sauntered down the aisle, taking up his station
+behind the players, and quietly overlooking the game.
+
+He did not glance at me, as he passed, but, from my lounging position,
+I could watch his face and study it at my leisure. At the first glance
+it struck me as being familiar; I had seen the man before, but where?
+Slowly, as I looked, the familiarity resolved itself into identity, and
+then I watched him with growing interest, and some wonder.
+
+Seven months ago, while working upon a criminal case, I had made the
+acquaintance of this gentleman at a thieves' tavern, down in the slums.
+I was, of course, safely disguised at the time, and in an assumed
+character; hence I had no fear of being recognized now.
+
+"Dimber[A] Joe" had been doing Government service, in consequence of his
+connection with a garroting escapade, and had but just been released
+from "durance vile." His hair was then somewhat shorter than was
+becoming; his face was unshaven, and his general appearance that of a
+seedy, hard-up rascal. The person before me wore his hair a little
+longer than the ordinary cut; his face was clean shaven, his linen
+immaculate, and his dress a well-made business suit, such as a merchant
+or banker abroad might wear. But it was Dimber Joe.
+
+[A] Handsome.
+
+Evidently fortune had dropped a few, at least, of her favors at Dimber
+Joe's feet, but it was quite safe to conjecture that some one was so
+much the worse off for his present prosperity.
+
+What new mischief was on foot? for it was hardly likely that Dimber Joe,
+late the associate of river thieves, was now undertaking an honest
+journey.
+
+I resolved to watch him closely while our way was the same, and to give
+my Chief an account of our meeting, together with a description of Joe's
+"get up," at the first opportunity.
+
+Accordingly, I remained in the smoking car during the entire journey,
+but no suspicious or peculiar movement, on the part of Dimber Joe,
+rewarded my vigilance, until the brakeman called Trafton, and we pulled
+into that station.
+
+Then Dimber Joe arose, stretched himself, flung a linen duster across
+his arm, and, swinging in his hand a small valise, quitted the car,
+stepped down upon the shadowy platform just ahead of me; and, while I
+was looking about for Carnes, vanished in the darkness.
+
+[Illustration: "Then Dimber Joe arose, stretched himself, flung a linen
+duster across his arm, and, swinging in his hand a small valise, quitted
+the car."--page 196.]
+
+"Well, Carnes," I said, when we were once more alone in our room at the
+hotel, "what has happened? Have you seen anything that looks like a
+detective?"
+
+"Niver a wan," he replied. "I've kept an open eye on every train from
+both ways, but the only arrival in this city, worth making mintion of,
+has been--who d'ye think?"
+
+"Myself, I suppose."
+
+"No, sir! Not a bit of it. It's a cove that means no good to Trafton,
+you may depend. It's Blake Simpson, and he's rooming in this very
+house."
+
+"Blake Simpson! are you _sure_?"
+
+"Av coorse I'm sure! Did ye ever know me to miss a face? I never saw
+the fellow before he came here, but I've made the acquaintance of his
+phiz in the rogue's gallery. He came yesterday; he wears good togs, and
+is playing the gentleman; you know he is not half a bad looking fellow,
+and his manner is above suspicion. He is figuring as a patent-right man,
+but he'll figure as something else before we see the last of him in
+Trafton, depend upon it."
+
+Blake Simpson was known, at least by name, to every man on the force. He
+was a mixture of burglar, street robber, and panel-worker; and was a
+most dangerous character.
+
+"Carnes," I said, slowly, "I am afraid some new misfortune menaces
+Trafton, if, as you say, Blake Simpson is already here, for Dimber Joe
+came down on the train to-night, and is in Trafton."
+
+Carnes uttered a long, low whistle.
+
+"Blake and Dimber Joe!" he said. "A fine pair, sure enough; and in what
+shape does the Dimber come?"
+
+"He comes well-dressed, and looking like a respectable member of
+society."
+
+"Well," with a prodigious yawn, "we got here first, and we will try and
+sleep with one eye open while they stay in Trafton. What did you learn
+about the Brookhouse investigation, Bathurst?"
+
+I told him the result of our search among the city detectives, and
+finished by saying:
+
+"Probably the new debutants will be strangers, and will not interfere
+with our movements. I wish I knew whether Bethel will eventually decide
+to employ a detective. I don't think he is the man to let such a matter
+drop."
+
+"He won't take it up for the present, I fancy. Dr. Barnard is
+dangerously ill; was taken yesterday, very suddenly. They depend
+entirely upon Bethel; he is in constant attendance. I heard Porter say
+that the old gentleman's case was a desperate one, and that a change for
+the worse might be expected at any moment."
+
+I was sorry to hear such news of the jovial old doctor. His was a life
+worth something to the community; but I was not sorry to learn that an
+immediate interview with Dr. Bethel could be staved off, without
+exciting wonder or suspicion in his mind; for, since my visit to the
+city, I had reconsidered my intention to confide in the doctor, and
+resolved to keep my own counsel, at least for the present.
+
+Previous to my visit to the city, we had decided that it was time to
+explore the south road, and also that it was desirable to "get the
+measure" of Jim Long at the earliest opportunity.
+
+We settled upon the best method by which to accomplish the former, and
+undertake the latter, object. And then Carnes, who had been very alert
+and active during my absence, and who was now very sleepy, flung himself
+upon his bed to pass the few hours that remained of darkness in slumber.
+
+I had not yet opened up to him the subject of the Groveland operations,
+thinking it as well to defer the telling until I had received reports
+from Wyman and Earle.
+
+We had now upon our hands a superabundance of raw material from which
+to work out some star cases. But, just now, the Groveland affair seemed
+crowding itself to the front, while the Trafton scourges, and the
+villainous grave-robbers, seemed to grow more and more mysterious,
+intangible, and past finding out.
+
+The presence of Blake Simpson and Dimber Joe gave me some uneasiness;
+but, guessing that their stay in Trafton would be short, I resolved not
+to bring myself into prominence by notifying the authorities of the
+presence of two such dangerous characters, but rather to trust them to
+Carnes' watchfulness while I passed a day, or more if need be, in
+exploring the south road.
+
+As I settled my head upon my pillow after a long meditation, I
+remembered that to-morrow would be Sunday, and that Tuesday was the day
+fixed for Miss Manvers' garden party.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+SOUTHWARD TO CLYDE.
+
+
+Early on the following morning I visited Trafton's best livery stable,
+and procuring a good team and light buggy, drove straight to Jim Long's
+cabin, intending to solicit his companionship on my ride. But the cabin
+was deserted; there was no sign of Jim about the premises; and, after
+waiting impatiently for a few moments, and uttering one or two
+resounding halloos, I resumed my journey alone.
+
+I had manufactured a pretext for this journey, which was to be confided
+to Jim by way of setting at rest any wonder or doubt that my maneuvers
+might otherwise give rise to, and I had intended to seize this
+opportunity for sounding him, in order the better to judge whether it
+would be prudent to take him into our confidence, in a less or greater
+degree, as the occasion might warrant.
+
+Such an ally as Jim would be invaluable, I knew; but, spite of the fact
+that we had been much in his society, and that we both considered
+ourselves, and were considered by others, very good judges of human
+nature, neither Carnes nor myself could say truly that we understood Jim
+Long.
+
+His words were a mass of absurd contradictions, betraying no trait of
+his individuality, save his eccentricity; and his face was, at all
+times, as unreadable as the sphinx. When you turned from his
+contradictory words to read his meaning in his looks, you felt as if
+turning from the gambols of Puck to peer into a vacuum.
+
+Regretting the loss of Jim's society, as well as the opportunity it
+might _possibly_ have afforded, I urged my horses swiftly over the
+smooth sun-baked road, noting the aspect of the country as we flew on.
+
+Straight and level it stretched before me, with field, orchard, and
+meadow on either hand; a cultivated prairie. There were well-grown
+orchards, and small artificial groves, rows of tall poplars, clumps of
+low-growing trees, planted as wind breaks, hedges high and branching,
+low and closely trimmed. But no natural timber, no belts of grove, no
+thick undergrowth; nothing that might afford shelter for skulking
+outlaws, or stolen quadrupeds.
+
+The houses were plentiful, and not far apart. There were the pretentious
+new dwellings of the well-to-do farmers, and the humbler abodes of the
+unsuccessful land tiller, and the renter. There were stacks, and barns,
+and granaries, all honest in their fresh paint or their weather-beaten
+dilapidation; no haven for thieves or booty here.
+
+So for ten miles; then there was a stretch of rolling prairie, but still
+no timber, and as thickly settled as before.
+
+Fifteen miles from Trafton I crossed a high bridge that spanned a creek
+almost broad enough and deep enough to be called a river. On either side
+was a fringe of hazel brush and a narrow strip of timber, so much
+thinned by the wood cutter that great gaps were visible among the trees,
+up and down, as far as the eye could see.
+
+I watered my horses here, and drawing forth a powerful field glass,
+which I had made occasional use of along the route, surveyed the
+country. Nothing near or remote seemed worthy of investigation.
+
+Driving beneath some friendly green branches, I allowed my horses to
+rest, and graze upon the tender foliage, while I consulted a little
+pocket map of the country.
+
+I had been driving directly south, and the C. & L. railroad ran from
+Trafton a little to the southwest. At a distance of eighteen miles from
+that town the railroad curved to the south and ran parallel with the
+highway I was now traveling, but at a distance of eight miles. Ten miles
+further south and I would come upon the little inland village of Clyde,
+and running due west from Clyde was a wagon road straight to the
+railroad town of Amora.
+
+I had started early and driven fast; consulting my watch I found that it
+was only half-past ten.
+
+I had intended to push my investigation at least twenty-five miles
+south, and although I was already convinced that no midnight raiders
+would be likely to choose as an avenue of escape a highway so thickly
+dotted with houses, many of them inconveniently near the road, and so
+insufficient in the matter of hills and valleys, forest and sheltering
+underbrush. I decided to go on to Clyde, hoping, if I failed in one
+direction, to increase my knowledge in another.
+
+I put away map and field glass, lit a fresh cigar, turned my horses once
+more into the high road and pursued my journey.
+
+It was a repetition of the first ten miles; broad fields and rich
+meadows, browsing cattle and honest-eyed sheep; thickly scattered farm
+buildings, all upright and honest of aspect; the whole broad face of the
+country seemed laughing my investigations to scorn.
+
+When I found myself within sight of Clyde I stopped my team, having
+first assured myself that no spectator was in sight and selected from
+the roadside a small, round pebble. Looking warily about me a second
+time, I inserted it between the hoof and shoe of the most docile of the
+two horses.
+
+It was an action that would have brought me into disfavor with the great
+Bergh, but in the little game I was about to play, the assistance which
+a lame horse could render seemed necessary.
+
+I promised the martyr a splendid rub down and an extra feed as a
+compensation, and we moved on slowly toward our destination, the near
+horse limping painfully, and his comrade evidently much amazed, and not
+a little disgusted, at this sudden change of gait.
+
+The little village of Clyde was taking its noontide nap when I drove
+down its principal street, and I felt like a wolf in Arcadia; all was so
+peaceful, so clean, so prim and so silent.
+
+A solitary man emerging from a side street roused me to action. I drove
+forward and checked my horses directly before him.
+
+Could I find a livery stable in the town? And was there such a thing as
+a hotel?
+
+Yes, there was a sort of a stable, at least anybody could get a feed at
+Larkins' barn, and he kept two or three horses for hire. As for a hotel,
+there it was straight ahead of me; that biggish house with the new
+blinds on it.
+
+Being directed to Larkins', I thanked my informant, and was soon making
+my wants known to Larkins himself.
+
+Thinking it quite probable that the hired team which I drove might be
+known to some denizen of Clyde, I at once announced myself as from
+Trafton; adding, that I had driven out toward Clyde on business, and,
+being told that I could reach Baysville by a short cut through or near
+Clyde, I had driven on, but one of my horses having suddenly become
+lame, I had decided to rest at Clyde, and then return to Trafton. I had
+been told that Baysville was not more than seven miles from Clyde.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to state that I had really no intention of
+visiting Baysville, and that my map had informed me as to its precise
+location.
+
+The truth was that I had dropped for the moment the Trafton case, and
+had visited Clyde in the interest of Groveland, thinking it not unlikely
+that this little hamlet, being so near Amora, might be within the area
+traversed by Mr. Ed. Dwight, the sewing machine agent.
+
+He was said to live somewhere between Amora and Sharon, perhaps here I
+could learn the precise location of his abiding place.
+
+Leaving my tired horses to the care of Larkins, I next bent my steps
+towards the commodious dwelling which did duty as hotel. There was no
+office, but the sitting-room, with its homely rag carpet, gaudy
+lithographs, old fashioned rocker, and straight-backed "cane seats," was
+clean and cool. There was a small organ in one corner, a sewing machine
+in another, and an old fashioned bureau in a third.
+
+A little girl, of fourteen years or less, entered the room timidly,
+followed by two younger children. She took from the bureau a folded
+cloth, snowy and smooth, and left the room quietly, but the younger
+ones, less timid, and perhaps more curious, remained.
+
+Perching themselves uncomfortably upon the extreme edges of two chairs,
+near together but remote from me, they blinked and stared perseveringly,
+until I broke the silence and set them at their ease by commencing a
+lively conversation.
+
+The organ was first discussed, then the sewing machine furnished a
+fresh topic. After a time my dinner was served: but, during the
+half-hour of waiting, while my hostess concocted yellow soda biscuit,
+and fried monstrous slices of ham, I had gathered, from my seemingly
+careless chatter with the children, some valuable information. While I
+ate my dinner, I had leisure to consider what I had heard.
+
+My hostess had not purchased her sewing machine of Ed. Dwight, but he
+had been there to repair it; besides, he always stopped there when
+making his regular journeys through Clyde. They all liked Dwight, the
+children had declared; he could play the organ, and he sang such funny
+songs. He could dance, too, "like anything." He lived at _Amora_, but he
+had told their mother, when he had paid his last visit, that he intended
+to sell out his route soon, and go away. He was going into another
+business.
+
+If Mr. Dwight lived at Amora, then Mrs. Ballou had misunderstood or been
+misinformed. She was the reverse of stupid, and not likely to err in
+understanding. If she had been misinformed, had it not been for some
+purpose?
+
+The machine agent had talked of abandoning his present business, and
+leaving the country shortly.
+
+If this was true, then it would be well to know where he was going, and
+what his new occupation was to be.
+
+Before I had finished doing justice to my country dinner, I had decided
+how to act.
+
+Returning to Larkins' stable I found that he had discovered the cause
+of my horse's lameness, and listened to his rather patronizing discourse
+upon the subject of "halts and sprains," with due meekness, as well as a
+profound consciousness that he had mentally set me down as a city
+blockhead, shockingly ignorant of "horse lore," and wholly unfit to draw
+the ribbons over a decent beast.
+
+He had been assisted to this conclusion by a neighboring Clydeite, who,
+much to my annoyance, had sauntered in, and, recognizing not only the
+team, but myself, had volunteered the information that:
+
+"Them was Dykeman's bays," and that I was "a rich city fellow that was
+stayin' at Trafton;" he had "seen me at the hotel the last time he
+hauled over market stuff."
+
+Having ascertained my position in the mind of Mr. Larkins, I consulted
+him as to the propriety of driving the bays over to Amora and back that
+afternoon.
+
+Larkins eyed me inquisitively.
+
+"I s'pose then you'll want to get back to Trafton to-night?" he queried.
+
+Yes, I wanted to get back as soon as possible, but if Larkins thought
+it imprudent to drive so far with the team, I would take fresh horses,
+if he had them to place at my disposal. And then, having learned from
+experience that ungratified curiosity, especially the curiosity of the
+country bumpkin with a taste for gossip, is often the detective's worst
+enemy, I explained that I had learned that the distance to Baysville was
+greater than I had supposed, and I had decided to drive over to Amora to
+make a call upon an acquaintance who was in business there.
+
+Mr. Larkins manifested a desire to know the name of my Amora
+acquaintance, and was promptly enlightened.
+
+I wanted to call on Mr. Ed. Dwight, of sewing machine fame.
+
+And now I was the helpless victim in the hands of the ruthless and
+inquisitive Larkins.
+
+He knew Ed. Dwight "like a book." Ed. always "put up" with him, and he
+was a "right good fellow, any way you could fix it." In short, Larkins
+was ready and willing to act as my pilot to Amora; he had "got a flyin'
+span of roans," and would drive me over to Amora in "less than no time";
+he "didn't mind seeing Ed. himself," etc., etc.
+
+There was no help for it. Larkins evidently did not intend to trust his
+roans to my unskilled hands, so I accepted the situation, and was soon
+bowling over the road to Amora, _tete-a-tete_ with the veriest
+interrogation point in human guise that it was ever my lot to meet.
+
+Larkins did not converse; he simply asked questions. His interest in
+myself, my social and financial standing, my occupation, my business or
+pleasure in Trafton, my past and my future, was something surprising
+considering the length, or more properly the _brevity_ of our
+acquaintance.
+
+Even my (supposed) relatives, near and remote, came in for a share of
+his generous consideration.
+
+To have given unsatisfactory answers would have been to provoke outside
+investigation.
+
+A detective's first care should be to clear up all doubt or uncertainty
+concerning himself. Let an inquisitive person think that he knows a
+little more of your private history than do his neighbors, and you
+disarm him; he has now no incentive to inquiry. He may ventilate his
+knowledge very freely, but by so doing he simply plays into your hands.
+
+If the scraps of family history, which I dealt out to Larkins during
+that drive, astonished and edified that worthy, they would have
+astonished and edified my most intimate friend none the less.
+
+By the time we had reached our destination, I was bursting with
+merriment, and he, with newly acquired knowledge.
+
+I had made no attempt to extract information concerning Ed. Dwight, on
+the route. I hoped soon to interview that gentleman in _propriae
+personae_, and any knowledge not to be gained from the interview I could
+"sound" for on the return drive.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+A SEWING MACHINE AGENT.
+
+
+On arriving within sight of Amora, I had reason to congratulate myself
+that I had brought Larkins along as convoy.
+
+Amora was by no means a city, but it was large enough to make a search
+after Mr. Dwight a proceeding possibly lengthy, and perhaps difficult.
+
+Larkins knew all about it. We drove past the Seminary, quite a large and
+imposing structure, surrounded by neat and tastefully laid out grounds,
+through a cheery-looking business street, and across a bridge, over a
+hill, and thence down a street which, while it was clean, well built,
+and thrifty of aspect, was evidently not the abode of Amora's _la beau
+monde_.
+
+In another moment Larkins was pulling in his reins before a large,
+unpainted dwelling, in front of which stood a pole embellished with the
+legend, "Boarding House."
+
+Several inquiring faces could be seen through the open windows, and the
+squeak of an untuneful violin smote our ears, as we approached the door.
+
+Larkins, who seemed very much at home, threw open the street door; we
+turned to the right, and were almost instantly standing in a large,
+shabbily-furnished parlor.
+
+Two of the aforementioned faces, carried on the shoulders of two
+blowzy-looking young women, were vanishing through a rear door, through
+which the tones of the violin sounded louder and shriller than before.
+Three occupants still remained in the room, and to one of these,
+evidently the "landlady," Larkins addressed himself.
+
+"Good evening, Mrs. Cole. We want to see Ed. I hear his fiddle, so I
+s'pose he can be seen?"
+
+Proffering us two hard, uninviting chairs, Mrs. Cole vanished, and,
+through the half-closed door, we could hear her voice, evidently
+announcing our presence, but the violin and "Lannigan's Ball" went on to
+the end. Like another musical genius known to fame, Mr. Dwight evidently
+considered "music before all else."
+
+With the last note of the violin came the single syllable, "Eh?" in a
+voice not unpleasant, but unnecessarily loud.
+
+Mrs. Cole repeated her former sentence; there was the sound of some one
+rising, quick steps crossed the floor and, as the door swung inward to
+admit Mr. Dwight, I advanced quickly and with extended hand.
+
+When he halted before me, however, I stepped back in feigned surprise
+and confusion.
+
+[Illustration: "When he halted before me, however, I stepped back in
+feigned surprise and confusion."--page 213.]
+
+But Dwight was equal to the occasion. Before I could drop or withdraw
+my hand, he seized it in his own large palm, and shook it heartily, the
+most jovial of smiles lighting his face meanwhile.
+
+"You've got the advantage of me, just now," he said, in the same loud,
+cheery tone we had heard from the kitchen, "but I'm glad to see you, all
+the same. Larkins! hallo, Larkins, how are you," and, dropping my hand
+as suddenly as he had grasped it, Dwight turned to salute Larkins.
+
+When their greeting was over, I stammered forth my explanation.
+
+I had made a mistake. Mr. DeWhyte must pardon it. Hearing at Clyde that
+a Mr. DeWhyte was living in Amora, and that he was engaged in the sale
+of sewing machines, I had supposed it to be none other than an old
+school friend of that name, who, when last I heard of him, was general
+agent for a city machine manufactory. It was a mistake which I trusted
+Mr. DeWhyte would pardon. I then presented my card and retired within
+myself.
+
+But the genial Dwight was once more "happy to know me." Shifting his
+violin, which he had brought into the room, from underneath his left
+elbow, he rested it upon his knee, and launched into a series of
+questions concerning my suppositious friend, which resulted in the
+discovery that their names, though similar, were not the same, and that
+the existence of a Mr. Edward DeWhyte and of Ed. Dwight, both following
+the same occupation, was not after all a very remarkable coincidence,
+although one liable to cause mistakes like the one just made by me.
+
+After this we were more at our ease. I proffered my cigar case, and both
+Larkins and Dwight accepted weeds, Dwight remarking, as he arose to take
+some matches from a card-board match safe under the chimney, that,
+"smoking was permitted in the parlor," adding, as he struck a match on
+the sole of his boot, that he "believed in comfort, and would not board
+where they were too high-toned to allow smoking."
+
+Conversation now became general; rather Larkins, Dwight, and the two
+hitherto silent "boarders" talked, and I listened, venturing only an
+occasional remark, and studying my "subject" with secret interest.
+
+"When are you comin' our way again, Dwight?" asked Larkins, as, after an
+hour's chat, we rose to take our leave.
+
+"I don't know, Lark.; I don't know," said Dwight, inserting his hands in
+his pockets and jingling some loose coin or keys as he replied. "I don't
+think I'll make many more trips."
+
+"Sho! Ye ain't goin' to take a new route, I hope?"
+
+"N-no; I think I'll try a new deal. I've got a little down on the S. M.
+biz., and talk of taking up my old trade."
+
+"What! the show business?"
+
+"Yes; I've got a pretty good chance for salary, and guess I'll go down
+south and do a little of the heel and toe business this Winter,"
+rattling his heels by way of emphasis.
+
+This fragment of conversation was a mine which I worked faithfully
+during our Clydeward drive, manifesting an interest in Mr. Ed. Dwight
+which quite met with the approval of Larkins, and which he was very
+ready to build up and gratify.
+
+I remained in Clyde that night, and before retiring to rest in the tiny
+room assigned me in the "hotel," I made the following entry in my
+note-book:
+
+     Ed. Dwight, sewing machine agent, living at Amora, is taller
+     than the medium, but slender, and of light weight, being narrow
+     of chest, with slim and slightly bowed legs, and long arms that
+     are continually in motion; large, nervous hands; small head,
+     with close-cropped curly black hair; fine regular features,
+     that would be handsome but for the unhealthy, sallow
+     complexion, and the look of dissipation about the eyes; said
+     eyes very black, restless and bold of expression; mouth
+     sensual, and shaded by a small, black mustache; teeth, white
+     and rather prominent.
+
+     He is full of life and animation; an inveterate joker, his
+     "chaff" being his principal conversational stock in trade. He
+     is loud of speech, somewhat coarse in manner, rakish in dress,
+     and possesses wonderful self-confidence. He is considered a
+     dangerous fellow among the country girls, and gets credit for
+     making many conquests. Is fickle in his fancies, and, like the
+     sailor, seems to have a sweetheart in every port.
+
+     He is a singer of comic songs, a scraper upon the violin, and a
+     some time song and dance man.
+
+     Has sold sewing machines for nearly three years in Amora and
+     vicinity, and is now preparing to return to the stage and to go
+     South.
+
+Early the next morning I bade Larkins a friendly farewell, and turned my
+face toward Trafton.
+
+Nothing noteworthy had occurred during my absence. Blake and Dimber Joe
+had observed Sunday in the most decorous fashion, attending divine
+worship, but not together, and remained in and about the hotel all the
+rest of the day and evening, treating each other as entire strangers,
+and, so far as Carnes could discover, never once exchanging word or
+glance.
+
+One thing Carnes had noted as peculiar: Jim Long had haunted the hotel
+all day, manifesting a lively interest in our city birds, watching them
+furtively, entering into conversation with one or the other as
+opportunity offered, and contriving, while seeming to lounge as
+carelessly as usual, to keep within sight of them almost constantly
+during the day and evening.
+
+Dr. Barnard was still in a critical condition; Carnes had not seen
+Bethel since Saturday.
+
+"And what elephant's tracks did ye's find till the south av us?"
+queried Carnes, after he had given me the foregoing information. "Any
+'nish' lairs, quiet fences, or cosy jungles, eh?"
+
+Whereupon I gave him a full description of the journey over the south
+road, reserving only the portion of my yesterday's experience that
+concerned, for the present, only Mr. Ed. Dwight and myself.
+
+"So there's nothing to get out of that," said Carnes, after listening to
+my recital with a serious countenance. "What do you think _now_, old
+man? If they don't run their booty over that road, where the mischief
+_do_ they take it?"
+
+"That we must find out," I replied. "And in order to do that we must
+investigate in a new direction."
+
+"How?"
+
+"Think a moment. We decided at the first that these systematic thieves
+had, _must have_, a rendezvous within half a night's ride from Trafton."
+
+"Yes; an' I stick to that theory."
+
+"So do I. All these robberies have been committed at distances never
+more than twenty-five miles from Trafton; often less, but _never more_."
+
+"Just so."
+
+"Within a radius of twenty-five miles around Trafton, east, north, and
+west, and at all intermediate points, it has not been safe to own a good
+horse. There is but one break in this unsafe circle and that is to the
+south. Now, that south road, one day, or _two_ days, after a robbery,
+would be anything but safe for a midnight traveler, who rode a swift
+going horse or drove with a light buggy. Carnes, get your map and study
+out my new theory thereon."
+
+Carnes produced his map and spread it out upon his knee, and I followed
+his example with my own.
+
+"Now, observe," I began, "the south road runs straight and smooth for
+twenty miles, intersected regularly by the mile sections."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Until a little north of Clyde, two miles, I believe they call it, a
+more curving irregular road runs southeast. Now, follow that road."
+
+"I'm after it."
+
+"It continues southeast for nearly ten miles, then the road forks."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"One fork, running directly south, takes you straight to some coal beds
+at Norristown--"
+
+"Aye, aye!"
+
+"The other runs beyond the county line and it is not on our maps; it
+takes an easterly course for nearly twenty miles, terminating at the
+river."
+
+"Ah! I begin to see!"
+
+"From Trafton to the river, then, is a little more than forty miles.
+You cross the river and are in another State. Up and down the river, for
+many miles, you have heavy timber; not far inland you find several
+competing railroads. Now, my belief is, that after the excitement
+following these robberies has had time to die out, the horses are
+hurried over this fifty miles of country, and across the river, and kept
+in the timber until it is quite safe to ship them to a distant market."
+
+"But meantime, before they are taken to the river, where are they
+ambushed, then?"
+
+"Under our very noses; here in Trafton!"
+
+Carnes stared at me in consternation.
+
+"Old man," he said, at last, drawing a long, deep breath, "you are
+either insane--or inspired."
+
+"I believe I have caught an inspiration. But time will test my idea,
+'whether it be from the gods or no.' These outlaws have proven
+themselves cunning, and fertile of brain. Who would think of overhauling
+Trafton for these stolen horses? The very boldness of the proceeding
+insures its safety."
+
+"I should think so. And how do you propose to carry out your search?"
+
+"We must begin at once, trusting to our wits for ways and means. In some
+way we must see or know the contents of every barn, stable, granary,
+store-house, outbuilding, and abandoned dwelling, in and about Trafton.
+No man's property, be he what he may, must be held exempt."
+
+"Do you think, then, that the stolen horses, the last haul of course,
+are still in Trafton?"
+
+"It is not quite a week since the horses were taken; the 'nine days'
+wonder' is still alive. If my theory is correct, they are still in
+Trafton!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+HAUNTED BY A FACE.
+
+
+It was the day of Miss Manvers' garden party, and a brighter or more
+auspicious one could not have dropped from the hand of the Maker of
+days.
+
+Never did the earth seem fairer, and seldom did the sun shine upon a
+lovelier scene than that presented to my gaze as I turned aside from the
+dusty highway, and paced slowly up the avenue leading to the Hill House.
+
+Even now the picture and the scenes and incidents of the day, rise
+before my mental vision, a graceful, sunlit, yet fateful panorama.
+
+I see the heiress, as she glides across the lawn to greet me, her
+brunette cheeks glowing, her lips wreathed in smiles. She wears a
+costume that is a marvel of diaphanous creamy material, lighted up here
+and there with dashes of vivid crimson. Crimson roses adorn the loops
+and rippling waves of her glossy hair, and nestle in the rich lace at
+her throat. And, as I clasp her little hand, and utter the commonplaces
+of greeting, I note that the eye is even more brilliant than usual, the
+cheek and lip tinged with the vivid hue left by excitement, and,
+underneath the gay badinage and vivacious hospitality, a suppressed
+something:--anxiety, expectation, displeasure, disappointment; which, I
+can not guess. I only see that something has ruffled my fair hostess,
+and given to her thoughts, even on this bright day, an under current
+that is the reverse of pleasant.
+
+The grounds are beautiful and commodious, tastefully arranged and
+decorated for the occasion, and the _elite_ of Trafton is there; all,
+save Louise Barnard and Dr. Bethel.
+
+"Have you heard from Dr. Barnard since noon?" queries my hostess, as we
+cross the lawn to join a group gathered about an archery target. "I have
+almost regretted giving this party. It seems unfeeling to be enjoying
+ourselves here, and poor Louise bowed down with grief and anxiety beside
+a father who is, perhaps, dying."
+
+"Not dying, I hope."
+
+"Oh, we all shall hope until hope is denied us. I suppose his chance for
+life is one in a thousand. I am so sorry, and we shall miss Louise and
+Dr. Bethel so much."
+
+"Bethel is in close attendance?"
+
+"Yes, Dr. Barnard has all confidence in him; and then--you know the
+nature of his relation with the family?"
+
+"His relation; that of family physician, I suppose?"
+
+Miss Manvers draws back her creamy skirts as we brush past a thorny rose
+tree.
+
+"That of family physician; yes, and prospective son-in-law."
+
+"Ah! I suspected an attachment there."
+
+"It appears they have been privately engaged for some time, with the
+consent of the Barnards, of course. It has only just been publicly
+announced; rather it will be; I had it from Mrs. Barnard this morning.
+Dr. Barnard desires that it should be made known. He believes himself
+dying, and wishes Trafton to know that he sanctions the marriage."
+
+Her voice has an undertone of constraint which accords with her manner,
+and I, remembering the scene of a week before, comprehend and pity. In
+announcing her friend's betrothal she proclaims the death of her own
+hope.
+
+I do not resume the subject, and soon we are in the midst of a gay
+group, chattering with a bevy of fair girls, and receiving from one or
+two Trafton gallants, glances of envious disfavor, which I, desiring to
+mortify vanity, attributed to my new Summer suit rather than to my own
+personal self.
+
+Arch Brookhouse is the next arrival, and almost the last. He comes in
+among us perfumed and smiling, and is received with marked favor. My new
+costume has now a rival, for Arch is as correct a gentleman of fashion
+as ever existed outside of a tailor's window.
+
+He is in wonderful spirits, too, adding zest to the merriment of the gay
+group of which he soon becomes the center.
+
+After a time bows and quivers come more prominently into use. Archery
+is having its first season in Trafton. Some of the young ladies have yet
+to be initiated into the use of the bow, and presently I find myself
+instructing the pretty sixteen-year-old sister of my friend, Charlie
+Harris.
+
+She manages her bow gracefully, but with a weak hand; her aim is far
+from accurate, and I find ample occupation in following the erratic
+movements of her arrows.
+
+Brookhouse and Miss Manvers are both experts with the bow. They send a
+few arrows flying home to the very center of the target, and then
+withdraw from the sport, and finally saunter away together, the hand of
+the lady resting confidingly upon her escort's arm.
+
+"Arn't they a pretty couple?" exclaims my little pupil, twanging her
+bow-string as she turns to look after them. "I do wonder if they are
+engaged."
+
+"So do I," I answer, with much fervor.
+
+She favors me with a quick roguish glance, and laughs blithely.
+
+"I don't know," turning back to her momentarily forgotten pastime. "Mr.
+Brookhouse has been very attentive, and for a long time we all thought
+him the favored one, until Dr. Bethel came, and since _you_ appeared in
+Trafton. Ah! I'm afraid Adele is a bit of a flirt."
+
+And astute Miss sixteen shoots me another mischievous glance, and poises
+her arrow with all the _nonchalance_ of a veteran.
+
+Again I glance in the direction taken by my hostess and her cavalier,
+but they have disappeared among the plentiful shrubbery.
+
+I turn back to my roguish little pupil, now provokingly intent upon her
+archery practice.
+
+Once more the arrow is fixed; she takes aim with much deliberation, and
+puts forth all her strength to the bending of the bow. Twang! whizz! the
+arrow speeds fast and far--and foul. It finds lodgment in a thicket of
+roses, that go clambering over a graceful trellis, full ten feet to the
+right of the target.
+
+There is a shout of merriment. Mademoiselle throws down the bow with a
+little gesture of despair, and I hasten toward the trellis intent upon
+recapturing the missent arrow.
+
+As I am about to thrust my hand in among the roses, I am startled by a
+voice from the opposite side; startled because the voice is that of my
+hostess, thrilling with intensest anger, and very near me.
+
+"It has gone far enough! It has gone _too_ far. It must stop now, or--"
+
+[Illustration: "It has gone far enough! It has gone _too_ far. It must
+stop now, or--" page 227.]
+
+"Or you will make a confounded fool of yourself."
+
+The voice is that of Arch Brookhouse, disagreeably contemptuous,
+provokingly calm.
+
+"No matter. What will it make of you?"
+
+The words begin wrathful and sibilant, and end with a hiss. Can that be
+the voice of my hostess?
+
+Making a pretense of search I press my face closer to the trellis and
+peer through.
+
+I see Adele Manvers, her face livid with passion, her eyes ablaze, her
+lips twitching convulsively. There is no undercurrent of feeling now.
+Rage, defiance, desperation, are stamped upon her every feature.
+
+Opposite her stands Arch Brookhouse, his attitude that of careless
+indifference, an insolent smile upon his countenance.
+
+"If I were you, I would drop that nonsense," he says, coolly. "You might
+make an inning with this new city sprig, perhaps. He looks like an easy
+fish to catch; more money than brains, I should say."
+
+"I think his brains will compare favorably with yours; he is nothing to
+me--"
+
+Brookhouse suddenly shifts his position.
+
+"Don't you see the arrow?" calls a voice behind me, and so near that I
+know Miss Harris is coming to assist my search.
+
+I catch up the arrow and turn to meet her.
+
+No rustle of the leaves has betrayed my presence; the sound of our
+voices, and their nearness, is drowned by the general hilarity.
+
+We return to our archery, and the two behind the screen finish their
+strange interview. How, I am unable to guess from their faces, when,
+after a time, they are once more among us, Brookhouse as unruffled as
+ever, Miss Manvers flushed, nervous, and feverishly gay.
+
+Throughout the remainder of the _fete_, the face of my hostess is
+continually before me; not as her guests see it, fair, smiling, and
+serene, but pallid, passionate, vengeful, as I saw it from behind the
+rose thicket. And I am haunted by the thought that somewhere, sometime,
+I have seen just such a face; just such dusky, gleaming, angry eyes;
+just such a scornful, quivering mouth; just such drawn and desperate
+features.
+
+Now and then I find time to chuckle over the words, uncomplimentary in
+intent, but quite satisfactory to me--"a city sprig with more money than
+brains."
+
+So this is the ultimatum of Mr. Brookhouse? Some day, perhaps, he may
+cherish another opinion, at least so far as the money is concerned.
+
+Then, while the gayety goes on, I think of Groveland and its mystery; of
+the anonymous warning, the album verse, the initials A. B. Again I take
+my wild John Gilpin ride, with one arm limp and bleeding.
+
+"Ah," I say to myself, thinking wrathfully of his taunting words and
+insolent bearing, which my hostess had seemed powerless to resent, "Ah,
+my gentleman, if I _should_ trace that unlucky bullet to you, then shall
+Miss Manvers rejoice at your downfall!"
+
+What was the occasion of their quarrel? What was the meaning of their
+strange words?
+
+Again and again I ask myself the question as I go home through the
+August darkness, having first seen pretty Nettie Harris safely inside
+her father's cottage gate.
+
+But I find no satisfactory answer to my questions. I might have
+dismissed the matter from my thoughts as only a lover's quarrel, save
+for the last words uttered by Brookhouse. But lovers are not apt to
+advise their sweethearts to "make an inning" with another fellow. If
+jealousy existed, it was assuredly all on the side of the lady.
+
+Having watched them narrowly after their interview behind the rose
+trellis, I am inclined to think it was not a lover's quarrel; and if not
+that, what _was_ it?
+
+I give up the riddle at last, but I can not dismiss the scene from my
+mental vision, still less can I banish the remembrance of the white,
+angry face, and the tormenting fancy that I have not seen it to-day for
+the first time.
+
+I am perplexed and annoyed.
+
+I stop at the office desk to light a cigar and exchange a word with
+"mine host." Dimber Joe is writing ostentatiously at a small table, and
+Blake Simpson is smoking on the piazza.
+
+The sight of the two rogues, so inert and mysterious, gives me an added
+twinge of annoyance. I cut short my converse with the landlord and go up
+to my room.
+
+Carnes is sitting before a small table, upon which his two elbows are
+planted; his fingers are twisted in his thick hair, and his head is bent
+so low over an open book that his nose seems quite ready to plow up the
+page.
+
+Coming closer, I see that he is glowering over a pictured face in his
+treasured "rogues' gallery."
+
+"If you want to study Blake Simpson's cranium," I say, testily, "why
+don't you take the living subject? He's down-stairs at this moment."
+
+"I've been studying the original till my head got dizzy," replies
+Carnes, pushing back the book and tilting back in his chair. "The fact
+is, the fellow conducts himself so confoundedly like a decent mortal,
+that I have to appeal to the gallery occasionally to convince myself
+that it _is_ Blake himself, and not his twin brother."
+
+I laugh at this characteristic whim, and, drawing the book toward me,
+carelessly glance from page to page.
+
+Carnes prides himself upon his "gallery." He has a large and motley
+collection of rogues of all denominations: thieves, murderers, burglars,
+counterfeiters, swindlers, fly crooks of every sort, and of both sexes.
+
+"They've been here four days now," Carnes goes on, plaintively, "and
+nothing has happened yet. It's enough to make a man lose faith in 'Bene
+Coves.' I wonder--"
+
+"Ah!" The exclamation falls sharply from my lips, the "gallery" almost
+falls from my hands.
+
+[Illustration: "Ah!" The exclamation falls sharply from my lips, the
+"gallery" almost falls from my hands.--page 233.]
+
+Carnes leaves his speech unfinished and gazes anxiously at me, while I
+sit long and silently studying a pictured face.
+
+By-and-by I close the book and replace it upon the table.
+
+One vexed question is answered; I know now why the white, angry face of
+Adele Manvers has haunted me as a shadow from the past.
+
+I arise and pace the floor restlessly; like Theseus, I have grasped the
+clue that shall lead me from the maze.
+
+After a time, Carnes goes out to inform himself as to the movements of
+Blake and Dimber Joe.
+
+Midnight comes, but no Carnes.
+
+The house is hushed in sleep. I lock the door, extinguish my light, and,
+lowering myself noiselessly from the window to the ground, turn my steps
+toward the scene of the afternoon revel.
+
+In the darkness and silence I reach my destination, and scaling a
+high paling, stand once more in the grounds of The Hill.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+SOME BITS OF PERSONAL HISTORY.
+
+
+While Miss Manvers was bidding farewell to the latest of her guests, and
+the "average Traftonite" was making his first voyage into dreamland, Dr.
+Barnard closed his eyes upon Trafton forever, and slept that long,
+sound, last, best sleep that comes once to all of us, and I, as well as
+numerous other restless sleepers, was awakened in the early morning by
+the sound of the tolling bell.
+
+It was sad news to many, for Dr. Barnard was an old and well-beloved
+citizen.
+
+It afforded a new subject for gossip to many more, who now learned for
+the first time that Louise Barnard was affianced to Dr. Carl Bethel, and
+that Dr. Barnard, with almost his latest breath, had proclaimed his
+entire faith in the young man's honor, by formally sanctioning his
+engagement with Louise.
+
+I had not seen Bethel since my return from the city, until we met that
+day, and exchanged a few words across the dinner table.
+
+He looked worn and weary, and seemed to have forgotten his own
+annoyances and interests in the absorption of his regret for the loss of
+his old friend and associate, and sympathy with the sorrow of his
+beloved.
+
+I had spent the entire morning in writing a long letter to my Chief,
+giving a detailed account of my acquaintance with Miss Manvers, and a
+description of the lady, her style of living, and, above all, more
+graphic than all, my experience of the previous day, up to the moment
+when I closed the "rogues' gallery" and opened my eyes to a new and
+startling possibility.
+
+This document I addressed to a city post-office box, and, having sealed
+it carefully, registered and dispatched it through the Trafton
+post-office.
+
+In the afternoon I received an express package from Baysville. It was a
+_book_, so the agent said. Innocent enough, no doubt, nevertheless I did
+not open it until I had closed and locked my door upon all intruders.
+
+It _was_ a book. A cheap volume of trashy poems, but the middle leaves
+were cut away, and in their place I found a bulky letter.
+
+It was Earle's report from Amora.
+
+It was very statistical, very long, and dry because of its minuteness of
+detail, and the constant recurrence of dates and figures. But it was
+most interesting to me.
+
+Arch Brookhouse and his brother, Louis, had both been students at Amora.
+
+Grace Ballou and Nellie Ewing had been fellow-students with them one
+year ago. Last term, however, Arch had not been a student, but Louis
+Brookhouse, Grace Ballou, Nellie Ewing, Mamie Rutger, Amy Holmes, and
+Johnny La Porte, had all been in attendance.
+
+For the last three named this was their first term.
+
+Mamie Rutger had been expelled for misconduct, during the last half of
+the term.
+
+Johnny La Porte and Louis Brookhouse had been "chums" and were,
+accordingly, pretty wild.
+
+Very little could be learned concerning Amy Holmes, previous to her
+coming to Amora. She was said to be an orphan, and came from the South.
+Nothing more definite could be learned concerning her abiding place. She
+was lively, dashing and stylish, not particularly fond of study; in fact
+was considered one of the "loudest" girls in the school. Her escapades
+had been numerous and she had, on more than one occasion, narrowly
+escaped expulsion. She was particularly intimate with Nellie Ewing,
+Mamie Rutger, and Grace Ballou; and had been seen, on several occasions,
+in the company of Arch Brookhouse, who was very often at Amora.
+
+Concerning Ed. Dwight, Earle could say very little.
+
+Dwight had left town with his team early on Monday morning, and had not
+yet returned. Earle had managed, however, to obtain lodgings at Dwight's
+boarding-house, and had made the acquaintance of one of the "girls," who
+had contributed the information that Arch Brookhouse had several times
+dined there with Dwight.
+
+This is an abbreviated account of what Earle's report contained.
+Accompanying said report was an autograph obtained from Professor Asa
+Bartlett, and it bore not the slightest resemblance to the printed album
+lines.
+
+Considering the time consumed in the investigation, Earle had done
+remarkably well. He had done well, too, in going to Baysville to send
+the letter.
+
+How many threads were now in my hands, and yet how powerless I was for
+the time!
+
+Only yesterday I had made, or so I believed, two most important
+discoveries, and yet I could turn them to no account for the present.
+
+Upon the first, it would be unwise to act until further information had
+been forwarded me by my Chief.
+
+As for the second, there was nothing to do but watch. I could not take
+the initiative step. Action depended solely upon others, and as to the
+identity of these others I scarce could give a guess.
+
+Louis Brookhouse had not been seen outside his home since his arrival,
+in a crippled condition, the day after Grace Ballou's escapade. I must
+see Louis Brookhouse. I must know the nature of that "injury" which Dr.
+Bethel had been called upon to attend.
+
+For the first, I must bide my time until the youth was sufficiently
+recovered to appear in public. For the second, I must rely on Bethel,
+and, until the last sorrowful tribute of respect and affection had been
+paid the dead, I could scarcely hope for an interview with him.
+
+A crisis must come soon, but it was not in our power to hasten it.
+
+So long as Dimber Joe and Blake Simpson continued inert and seemingly
+aimless, so long as the days brought no new event and the nights brought
+neither discovery on our part nor movement on the part of the
+horse-thieves, Carnes and I had only to wait and watch--watch--watch.
+
+Our days, to the onlooker, must have seemed only idle indeed, but still
+they were busy days.
+
+Carnes roamed about the town, inspecting the barns and buildings
+closely, when he could venture a near approach without arousing
+suspicion or objection; at a distance, when intrusion would be unsafe or
+unwelcome.
+
+Dr. Barnard was buried on Thursday, and on the afternoon of that day, as
+I was returning from the funeral in fact, I received a report from
+Wyman.
+
+Stripped of its details, and reduced to bare facts, it amounted to this:
+
+The "dummy" had proven of actual service. Wyman had found him with very
+little trouble, and in just the right place. He was domiciled with the
+La Porte family, and had been since the first week of his advent among
+the Grovelanders, and Wyman was indebted to him for much of the
+information contained in his report.
+
+Acting according to our instructions, or, rather, as we had expected
+and desired, overacting them, the "dummy" had soon contrived to let the
+Grovelanders know that he was a detective, sent out from the city to
+occupy the premises and keep his eyes open. He talked freely of the
+missing girls, always frankly avowing that it was his opinion, as well
+as the opinion of his superiors, that the two girls had been murdered.
+Indeed, he darkly hinted that certain facts corroborative of this theory
+had been discovered, and then he lapsed into vagueness and silence. When
+questioned as to his system or intentions regarding the investigation he
+became profoundly mysterious, oracular, and unsatisfactory.
+
+The result was all that we could have wished. The less intelligent among
+his critics looked upon him as a fountain of wisdom and cunning and
+skill. The more acute and observant fathomed his shallowness, but
+immediately set it down as a bit of clever acting, and, joining with
+their less penetrating neighbors, voted our "dummy" "wise as a serpent"
+underneath his "harmless as a dove" exterior, and looked confidently
+forward to something startling when he should finally arouse to action.
+
+To which class of critics Johnny La Porte belonged, Wyman had been
+unable to discover, for during his stay in Groveland he had not seen
+young La Porte.
+
+Whatever his opinion may have been, the young man had been among the
+first to seek our "dummy's" acquaintance, which he had cultivated so
+persistently that within less than a fortnight the two had become most
+friendly, and apparently appreciative of each other's society, and the
+"dummy" had found an abiding place underneath the hospitable roof of La
+Porte _pere_.
+
+Johnny La Porte was a spoiled son. He seemed to have had his own way
+always, and it had not been a way to wisdom. He was not dissipated; had
+none of the larger and more masculine vices, but he was idle, a shirk at
+school and at home. He had no business tact, and seemed as little
+inclined to make of himself a decent farmer as he was incapable of
+becoming a good financier, merchant, or mechanic.
+
+He was short of stature, and girlishly pretty, having small oval
+features, languid black eyes, black curly hair, and a rich complexion of
+olive and red.
+
+He drove a fine span of blacks before a jaunty light carriage, and was
+seldom seen with his turnout except when accompanied by some one of the
+many pretty girls about Groveland.
+
+In fact, he was that most obnoxious creature, a male flirt. He had roved
+from one bright Groveland flower to another, ever since his graduation
+from jackets to tail coats. During the previous Autumn and Winter, he
+had been very devoted to Nellie Ewing; but, since their return from
+school, in the Spring, his attentions had not been quite so marked,
+although Nellie had several times been seen behind the blacks and in
+company with the fickle Johnny.
+
+In short, after reading all that Wyman could say of him, I summed
+Johnny La Porte up, and catalogued him as follows:
+
+Vain, weak, idle, handsome, fickle, selfish, good-natured when not
+interfered with, over fond of pleasure, easily influenced, and a
+spendthrift.
+
+What might or might not be expected of such a character?
+
+He was, as Mrs. Ballou had said, popular among the young people,
+especially the young ladies; and where do you find a young man that
+drives a fine turnout, carries a well-filled purse, dances a little,
+sings a fair tenor and plays his own accompaniment, is handsome, and
+always ready for a frolic, who is _not_ popular with the ladies?
+
+Wyman had not seen La Porte, and for this reason:
+
+On the evening of the 17th, young La Porte had driven away from home
+with his black horses, telling our "dummy," in confidence, that he was
+"going to take a pretty girl out riding."
+
+La Porte and the "dummy" "roomed together," in true country fashion;
+and, at midnight, or later, the "dummy" could not be precise as to the
+lateness of the hour, he returned. Entering the room with evident
+caution, he nevertheless awoke the "dummy," who, turning lazily on his
+pillow, saw La Porte taking from a drawer something white, which our
+"dummy" supposed to be a handful of handkerchiefs, and from a shelf a
+bottle of brandy.
+
+[Illustration: "Entering the room with evident caution, he nevertheless
+awoke the "dummy," who, turning lazily on his pillow, saw La Porte
+taking from a drawer something white,"--page 244.]
+
+On seeing the open eyes of our "dummy," La Porte had explained as
+follows:
+
+One of his horses went lame a bit, and he intended to give him a
+little treatment. The "dummy" must not disturb himself, as the hired man
+was on hand to render all the necessary help.
+
+Then, as he was leaving the room, La Porte had added:
+
+"By-the-by, if the horse comes out all right, and I am gone when you
+turn out in the morning, tell the old man that I am off for Baysville to
+see about the club excursion."
+
+Wondering vaguely what species of lameness it was that must be treated
+with brandy and bandaged with linen handkerchiefs, the "dummy" fell
+asleep, and finding the young man absent on the following morning,
+delivered his message as directed.
+
+It was received without comment, as such excursions were of frequent
+occurrence, and as no one presumed to question the movements of the
+spoiled young pleasure seeker.
+
+He did not return on the next day, but the morning of the 19th brought
+him home, not, however, as he went, but in company with a sewing-machine
+agent whom he called Ed., and whose full name was Edward S. Dwight.
+
+La Porte stated that his horse was lame again, and that he had left his
+team at Amora, and returned with Dwight in the machine wagon.
+
+During that day La Porte accompanied Dwight on his rounds among the
+farmers, and early the following morning the two returned together to
+Amora.
+
+That was a week ago. The following Sunday, La Porte and Dwight had
+again visited Groveland, this time with La Porte's own turnout. During
+the day they had made several calls upon young ladies, and this time our
+"dummy," being cordially invited, accompanied them on their rounds.
+
+On Monday morning, as before, they returned to Amora, and since then had
+not reappeared in Groveland.
+
+Wyman, according to instructions, had visited Mrs. Ballou. She had
+nothing new to communicate, but she gave into his hands a small package,
+which Wyman had inclosed with his report.
+
+It contained three photographs; one of Miss Amy Holmes, one of Johnny La
+Porte, and a third of the same gentleman and Mr. Ed. Dwight, a rather
+rakish-looking duo.
+
+I read and re-read Wyman's long, complete descriptive report. I studied
+the photographed faces again and again, and that evening, before the
+sunset had fairly faded from the west, I told Carnes the whole story,
+and placed before him the printed letter and the autographs, photographs
+and reports.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+"EVOLVING A THEORY."
+
+
+"And you want me to go to New Orleans?" says Carnes, as he rises slowly,
+and stretches himself up to his fullest height, following up his words
+with an immense yawn. "What for, now?"
+
+He has listened so attentively, so silently, with such moveless,
+intelligent eagerness, that I forgive him the yawn, and treat myself to
+a long breath of restfulness and relief, at being at last unburdened of
+this great secret, and he crosses the room and drops into his favorite
+attitude beside the window that overlooks the fast darkening street.
+
+"I hardly know just what I expect you to unearth in New Orleans," I
+answer, after a pause of some moments. "But I have a notion that the
+links we have failed to find here may be in hiding down there."
+
+Carnes plunges his hands deep down into his pockets. I know, from the
+intentness of his face, and the unwinking fixedness of the eyes that
+stare yet see nothing beyond the panorama conjured by his own
+imagination, that he is studying diligently at the Groveland problem;
+and I sit silently, waiting his first movement, that I feel sure will be
+speedily followed by something in the way of an opinion.
+
+"It's a queer muddle," he says at last, coming back to his chair and
+dropping into his former attitude of interested attention. "It's a queer
+muddle; and, it seems to me, you have got hold of the wrong end of the
+business."
+
+"How the wrong end?"
+
+"Why, you have your supposed principals and accessories, and, perhaps,
+the outline of a plot; but where is your _motive_?"
+
+"Where, indeed! I have not even found a theory that suits me, although I
+have pondered over various suppositions. You are good at this sort of
+analysis, Carnes. Can't you help me to some sort of a theory that won't
+break of its own weight?"
+
+Carnes bit his under lip and pondered.
+
+"How far have you got?" he asked, presently.
+
+"I will tell you how I have reasoned thus far. Experience and
+statistics have proved that, of all the missing people, male and female,
+whose dead bodies are never found, or whose deaths are never
+satisfactorily proven, more than three-fourths have eventually turned up
+alive, or it is found they _have_ lived many years after they were
+numbered among the missing. In the majority of cases, say four to one,
+where missing persons, supposed to have been dead, are proved to be
+alive, it is also proved that they have 'disappeared' of their own free
+will. In the list of missing young girls, the police records show that
+two-thirds of those supposed to have been murdered or abducted, have
+eloped or forsaken their friends of their own free will. Let us keep in
+mind these statistics and begin with Nellie Ewing. Was she murdered? Was
+she forcibly abducted? Did she run away?"
+
+"Umph! If _she_ were a man I might venture an opinion," broke in Carnes.
+
+"Let us see. She left her house at sunset, riding a brown pony, and
+intent, or seeming so, upon visiting her friend, Grace Ballou."
+
+"Grace Ballou--oh!" Carnes lifts his head, then drops it again, quickly.
+
+I note the gesture and the ejaculation, and smile as I proceed.
+
+"She had announced her intention of spending the night with her friend
+Grace, but instead of so doing, she is suddenly afflicted with a
+headache, and, at dusk, or perhaps even later, she sets out, on her
+brown pony, for home, a distance of about four miles."
+
+"Um--ah!" from Carnes.
+
+"She is not seen after that. Neither is the brown pony. Was she
+murdered? If so, no trace of her body, no clue to her murderer, no
+motive for the deed, has been discovered. And the horse; if she was
+murdered, was the horse slaughtered also? And were they both buried in
+one grave? She was riding alone, after nightfall, over a country road.
+She might have been assailed by tramps or stragglers of some sort, but
+the first investigation proved that nothing in the form of tramp, or
+stranger of any sort, had been seen about Groveland, neither on that day
+nor for many days previous. And again, a tramp who might have killed her
+to secure the horse, would hardly have tarried to conceal the body so
+effectually that the most thorough search could not bring it to light.
+Nor would he have carried it with him beyond the reach of search. Was
+she murdered for revenge, or from motives of jealousy? Then, in all
+probability, the brown horse would have been found wandering somewhere
+at large."
+
+"It won't do," mutters Carnes, half to himself, and with a slow wag of
+the head; "it won't do."
+
+"That's what I said to myself, after reviewing the pros and cons of the
+'murder theory.' Now, was Nellie Ewing abducted? She _may_ have been,
+but, again, there's the missing horse. If a tramp or a horse-thief would
+take the horse, and leave the girl, a desperate lover would just as
+surely take the girl and leave the horse. Again, an avaricious lover
+_might_, with some difficulty, secure both horse and rider, but he could
+hardly travel far with an unwilling girl and a stolen horse, without
+becoming uncomfortably conspicuous. Did the young lady elope? If so,
+then it is my belief that she and her horse parted company very soon
+after she left the widow Ballou's. And here ends my theorizing. How, and
+why, and whither, the horse was spirited away, I can not guess."
+
+"If the thing had occurred in Trafton," says Carnes, thoughtfully, "one
+might account for the horse."
+
+"True; but as it did not occur within the limit of the Trafton
+operations, I naturally concluded that, if the young lady really did
+abscond, her lover must have had a confederate who took charge of the
+horse. But, at first, this seemed to me improbable."
+
+"Why improbable?"
+
+"Because I did not view the matter, as you do now, in the light of after
+discoveries and developments."
+
+"Then you think now that Miss Ewing eloped?"
+
+"I think she was not murdered; and the elopement theory is much more
+plausible, more reasonable, all things considered, than that of
+abduction. First of all, there are the movements of the girl herself.
+Supposing her quartered for the night with her friend Grace, 'Squire
+Ewing felt no uneasiness at her absence, even when it was prolonged into
+the second day. Might she not have considered all this when she planned
+her flight? When she was actually missed, she had two days the start of
+her inquiring friends."
+
+"True."
+
+"Then, not long after, Mamie Rutger, a friend and schoolmate of the
+missing Nellie, also disappears. While it is yet daylight, or at least
+hardly dark, she vanishes from her father's very door-step, and is seen
+no more. Now, let me call your attention to some facts. Farmer Rutger's
+house stands on a bit of rising ground; the road runs east and west. To
+the east of the house is a thick grove of young trees planted as a
+wind-break for the cattle. This belt of trees begins at the front of the
+house and extends northward, the house being on the north side of the
+highway, past the barns, cow stables, and sheep pens. So while a person
+in the front portion of the house, on the porch or in the door-yard, can
+obtain a clear view of the road to the west, those farther back, in the
+kitchen, the stables, or the milking sheds, are shut off from a view of
+the road by the wind-break on the one hand, by a high orchard hedge on
+the other, and by the house and thick door-yard shrubbery in front. For
+over an hour, on the night of her disappearance, Mamie Rutger was the
+only person within view of this highway. The hired girl was in the
+kitchen washing up the supper things. Mrs. Rutger, who, by-the-by, is
+Miss Mamie's step-mother, was skimming milk in the cellar, and Mr.
+Rutger, with the two hired men, were watering and feeding the stock and
+milking the cows. When the work for the night was done and the lamps
+were lighted, if they thought of Mamie at all it was as sitting alone on
+the front piazza, or perched in her chamber window up-stairs, enjoying
+the quiet of the evening. It was only when their early bed-time came
+that the girl's absence, and more than that, her unusual silence, was
+noted, and that a search proved her missing. Was _she_ murdered? That
+theory in this case is so unreasonable that I discard it at once."
+
+Carnes nodded his head approvingly.
+
+"Was she abducted? Possibly; but to my mind, it is not probable. Mamie
+Rutger was a gypsyish lassie, pretty as a May blossom, skittish as a
+colt, hard to govern and prone to adventurous escapades. Her father was
+kind and her step-mother meant to be so, but the latter perpetually
+frowned down the girl's innocent hilarity, and curbed her gayety, when
+she could, with a stern hand. They sent her to school to tame her, and
+the faculty, after bearing with her, and forgiving her many mischievous
+pranks because of her youth, at last sent her home in disgrace,
+expelled. If this girl, wearied of a humdrum farmhouse existence and
+thirsting for a broader glimpse of the gay outer world, had planned an
+elopement or runaway escapade, she could have chosen no better time.
+While all the others are busy at their evening task, she, from the
+front, watches for a swift horse and a covered buggy, which comes from
+the west. Sure that no eyes are looking, she awaits it at the gate,
+springs in, with a backward glance, and when she is missed, is miles
+away."
+
+"Yes, I see," comments Carnes, dryly; "it's a pity your second sight
+couldn't keep 'em in view till ye see where they land."
+
+I curb my imagination. That useful quality is deficient in the cranium
+of my comrade; he can neither follow nor sympathize.
+
+"Well, here is the condensed truth for you," I reply, amiably: "for
+this much we have ocular and oral testimony: Four young ladies attend
+school at Amora; all are pretty, under the age of discretion, and, with
+perhaps one exception, little versed in the ways of the world and its
+wickedness. During their sojourn at school, where they are not under
+constant discipline owing to the fact that they all board outside of the
+Seminary, and all together, they are much in the society of four young
+men, two of whom are students of the Seminary. This quartette of youths
+are more or less good looking, and all of them notably 'gay and
+festive,' after the manner of the stereotyped young man of the period."
+
+"Right you are now," ejaculated Carnes.
+
+"Just how these gentlemen divided their affections or attentions," I
+continue, "it is difficult to say, in regard to all. We know that Mr.
+Johnny La Porte was the chosen cavalier of Miss Ewing, and that Arch
+Brookhouse and Amy Holmes were frequently seen in each other's society.
+We are told that the eight young people formed frequent pleasure
+parties; riding, picnicking, passing social evenings together.
+
+"They leave school; their jolly companionship is over. By-and-by,
+Nellie Ewing disappears; a little later, Mamie Rutger is also missing;
+after a little time the other two young ladies are caught in the act of
+escaping from home, by the means of a ladder placed at their chamber
+window by an unknown man, while a second, it is supposed, awaits their
+coming with horses and vehicle. This much for the ladies of this
+octette. Now, upon inquiring after the whereabouts of the gentlemen, we
+find that upon the night of this last named escapade, Johnny La Porte,
+with his buggy and horses, was absent from home from sunset until after
+midnight. That he returned when all the household was asleep, and
+securing some clean handkerchiefs and a flask of brandy, ostensibly to
+doctor a sick horse, he again goes, and returns after an absence of two
+days, accompanied by another member of the octette, Mr. Ed. Dwight."
+
+"That's a point," assented Carnes.
+
+"Now, we have previously learned," I resume, "that said Dwight is about
+to abandon his old trade and quit the country. We also remember that
+Mrs. Ballou shot at, and believes she hit, the man who was assisting her
+daughter and guest to escape from the house. Very good. During the time
+that Johnny La Porte is absent from his home, Mr. Louis Brookhouse is
+brought home to Trafton, in a covered buggy, by some unknown friend,
+with a crippled limb!"
+
+"I see; that's a clincher," muttered Carnes.
+
+"This much for three of the gay Lotharios," I continue. "Now for Arch
+Brookhouse. In Grace Ballou's autograph album is a couplet, very neatly
+printed and signed A. B. It bears date one year back, and one year ago
+Grace Ballou and Arch Brookhouse were both students at Amora. Not long
+since I received an interesting letter of warning, and I believe it was
+written by the same hand that indited the lines beginning 'I drink to
+the eyes of my schoolmate, Grace.'"
+
+Carnes opened his lips, but I hurried on.
+
+"I have noted one other thing, which, if you like, you may call
+coincidence of latitude. The eldest of the Brookhouse brothers is a
+resident of New Orleans. At about the time of Nellie Ewing's
+disappearance, Louis Brookhouse went to New Orleans, returning less than
+two weeks ago. Amy Holmes is vaguely described as being 'somewhere
+South,' and Ed. Dwight meditates a Southern journey soon."
+
+"It looks like a league," says Carnes, scratching his head, and
+wrinkling his brows in perplexity. "Are they going to form a colony of
+some new sort? What's your notion?"
+
+"My notion is that we had better not waste our time trying to guess out
+a motive. Consider the language of the telegram sent by Fred Brookhouse
+to his brother, and the reply to it, and then reflect upon the possible
+meaning of both. The New Orleans brother says:
+
+     Hurry up the others, or we are likely to have a balk.
+
+"Arch answers:
+
+     Next week L---- will be on hand.
+
+"Hurry up the others! What others? Why are they likely to have a
+'balk?' Are the two missing girls _there_, in charge of Fred Brookhouse,
+and are they becoming restive at the non-appearance of the others? If
+they had succeeded in escaping, would Grace Ballou and Amy Holmes have
+gone to New Orleans in company with Louis Brookhouse?"
+
+"By Saint Patrick, I begin to see!" cried Carnes.
+
+"The telegram sent by Arch," I resume, "implies that Louis was already
+here, or near here. Yet he made his first appearance at his father's
+house two days later. Is Ed. Dwight going to New Orleans to embrace the
+'heel and toe business,' under the patronage of Fred Brookhouse, who, it
+is said, is connected with a theater? Is Johnny La Porte in hiding at
+Amora? or has he already 'gone to join the circus?'"
+
+Carnes springs suddenly to his feet.
+
+"By the powers, old man, I see how it looks to you;" he cries, "an'
+ye've got the thing by the right end at last. I'll go to New Orleans;
+only say when. But," here his face lengthens a little, "ye must get
+Wyman, or some one else, here in my place. I wish we had got that horse
+rendezvous hunted down."
+
+"As to that," I respond, "give yourself no uneasiness; I believe that I
+have found the right place, and to-night I mean to confirm my
+suspicion."
+
+Carnes stares astonished.
+
+"How did you manage it?" he asks, "and when?"
+
+"Two days ago, and by accident. You will be surprised, Carnes. It is a
+barn."
+
+"It is?"
+
+"A lead-colored barn, finished in brown."
+
+"_What?_"
+
+"It is large, and nearly square," I hasten to say, enjoying his marked
+amazement. "A large stack of hay is pitched against the rear end,
+running the length of it. It has a cupola and a flagstaff."
+
+Carnes simply stares.
+
+"I will send for Wyman if I need his help. What I am studying upon now
+is a sufficient pretext for sending you away suddenly."
+
+"I'll furnish that," Carnes says, with a droll roll of his eye.
+"To-morrow I'll get drunk--beastly drunk. You shall inquire after me
+about the hotel and at Porter's. By-and-by I will come into the office
+too drunk to be endurable. You must be there to reprimand me. I grow
+insolent; you discharge me. I go away somewhere and sleep off the
+effects of my spree. You pay me my wages in the presence of the clerk,
+and at midnight I board the train _en route_ for the Sunny South. You
+shall hear from me----"
+
+"By telegraph," I interrupt. "We shall have a new night operator here
+within the week. I arranged for that when I was in the city, and wrote
+the old man, yesterday, to send him on at once."
+
+"All right; that's a good move," approved Carnes.
+
+"And now," I said, rising hastily, and consulting my watch, "I must go.
+To-night, or perhaps in the 'small hours,' we will talk over matters
+again, and I will explain myself further. For the present, good-by; I am
+expected to-night at the Hill; I shall pass the evening in the society
+of Miss Manvers."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+TWO DEPARTURES.
+
+
+On the ensuing morning, Carnes and I enacted the "quarrel scene," as
+planned by him the previous night.
+
+A more aggravated case of drunkenness than that presented by Carnes, a
+little before noon, could not well be imagined. He was a marvel of
+reeling stupidity, offensive hiccoughs, and maudlin insolence.
+
+Quite a number of people were lounging about the office when Carnes
+staggered in, thus giving me my cue to commence. Among the rest were
+Dimber Joe and Blake Simpson. Our scene went off with considerable
+_eclat_; and, having paid Carnes at the office desk, with a magnificent
+disregard for expense, I turned to leave the room, looking back over my
+shoulder, to say with my grandest air:
+
+"If you think yourself sufficiently sober, you may come up-stairs and
+pack your things. The sooner you, and all that belongs to you, are out
+of my sight, the better I shall be pleased."
+
+[Illustration: "If you think yourself sufficiently sober, you may come
+up-stairs and pack your things."--page 262.]
+
+I had been in my room less than half an hour, when I heard Carnes come
+stumbling noisily through the passage.
+
+When he was fairly within the room, he straightened himself suddenly,
+and uttered a sound midway between a laugh and a chuckle.
+
+"Old man," he said, coming slowly toward me, "I don't think I'll take
+the down train."
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Because," winking absurdly, and then staring up at the ceiling while he
+finished his sentence, "the snakes are beginning to crawl. Blake Simpson
+has just paid his bill, and ordered his baggage to be sent to the 4:30
+train."
+
+"Ah! And you will take the same train?"
+
+"Exactly; I'm curious to see where he is going, and to find out why. We
+must not remain together long, old man. Do you go down-stairs and tell
+them that I am sleeping off my booze up here. I shan't be very sober by
+4:30, but I'll manage to navigate to the depot."
+
+I went down to the office, after a few more words with Carnes.
+
+Simpson and Dimber Joe had both disappeared. Two or three men were
+smoking outside, and a man by the window was falling asleep over a
+newspaper three days old. Mine host, in person, was lounging over the
+desk. He was idle, and inclined to be talkative.
+
+"You weren't trying to give Barney a scare, I suppose?" he said, as I
+approached the desk. "Do you really mean to let him go?"
+
+"I certainly do," I replied, as I lounged upon the desk.
+
+Then, coming nearer mine host, and increasing the distance between
+myself and the old man by the window; "I have been tolerably patient
+with the fellow. He has his good points, but he has tired me out.
+Patience has ceased to be a virtue. I can do very well without him now.
+He never was much of a valet. But I thought him quite necessary as a
+companion on my fishing, hunting, and pedestrian excursions. However, I
+have become pretty well acquainted with places and people, and I find
+there are plenty of guides and companions to be picked up. I can do very
+well without Barney, especially as of late he is drunk oftener than he
+is sober."
+
+Mine host smiled fraternally. It was not my custom to be so
+communicative. Always, in my character of the wealthy aristocrat, I had
+maintained, for the benefit of those about me, an almost haughty
+reserve, only unbending when, because of my supposed financial
+importance, I "was made much of" in the social circles of the Trafton
+_elite_. To-day, however, I had an object to gain, and I did not bestow
+my condescending confidence without the expectation of "value received."
+
+"You'll have no trouble about finding company," said mine host, with a
+benign smile. "As you say, Barney has been a good many times off. He
+hasn't kept the best of company. He's been too much with that Briggs."
+
+"Yes," I assented, carelessly; "I have repeatedly warned him to let the
+fellow alone. Has he no occupation?"
+
+"Briggs? he's a sort of extra hand for 'Squire Brookhouse; but, he
+plays more than he works," trifling with the leaves of his register, and
+then casting his eye slowly down the page before him. "Here's an odd
+thing, you might say," laughing, as he lifted his eye from the book,
+"I'm losing my most boisterous boarder and my quietest one at the same
+time."
+
+"Indeed; who else is going?"
+
+My entertainer cast a quick glance towards the occupant of the window,
+and lowered his voice as he replied:
+
+"The gentleman in gray."
+
+"In gray?" absently. "Oh! to be sure, a--a patent-right agent, is he
+not?"
+
+Another glance toward the window, then lowering his voice an additional
+half tone, and favoring me with a knowing wink, he said:
+
+"Have you heard anything concerning him?"
+
+"Concerning the gentleman in gray?"
+
+My entertainer nodded.
+
+"Assuredly not," said I, affecting languid surprise. "Nothing wrong
+about the gentleman, I hope?"
+
+"Nothing wrong, oh, no," leaning over the desk, and speaking slowly.
+"They say he is a _detective_."
+
+"A detective!" This time my surprise was not entirely feigned. "Oh--is
+not that a sensationalism?"
+
+"Well," said my host, reflectively, "I might think so if I had heard it
+from any of the ordinary loungers;--the fact is, I had no right to
+mention the matter. I don't think it is guessed at by many."
+
+He was beginning to retire within himself. I felt that I must not lose
+my ground, and became at once more interested, more affable.
+
+"Oh, I assure you, Mr. Holtz, I am quite interested. Do you really think
+the man a detective? Pray, rely on my discretion."
+
+There were two hard, unpainted chairs behind the office desk, and some
+boxes containing cheap cigars, upon a shelf against the wall. I
+insinuated myself into one of the chairs, and presently, Mr. Holtz was
+seated near me in the other, smoking one of his own cigars, at my
+expense, while I, with a similar weed between my lips, drew from him, as
+best I could, all that he had heard and thought concerning Mr. Blake
+Simpson, the gentleman in gray.
+
+It was not much when all told, but Mr. Holtz consumed a full hour in
+telling it.
+
+Jim Long had been so frequently at the hotel since the advent of Blake
+and Dimber Joe, that mine host had remarked upon the circumstance, and,
+only two days ago, had rallied Jim upon his growing social propensities.
+
+Whereupon, Jim had taken him aside, "quite privately and mysteriously,"
+and confided to him the fact that he, Jim, had very good reason for
+believing Blake and Dimber, or, as my informer put it, "The gent in gray
+and the other stranger," to be detectives, who were secretly working in
+the interest of 'Squire Brookhouse.
+
+What these very good reasons were, Jim had declined to state. But he
+had conjured Mr. Holtz to keep silent about the matter, as to bring the
+"detectives" into notice would be to impair their chances of ultimate
+success.
+
+Mr. Holtz had promised to keep the secret, and he had kept it--two days.
+He should never think of mentioning the matter to any of his neighbors,
+he assured me fervently, as they, for the most part, being already much
+excited over the recent thefts, could hardly be expected to keep a
+discreet silence; but I, "being a stranger, and a different person
+altogether," might, in Mr. Holtz's opinion, be safely trusted.
+
+I assured Mr. Holtz that he might rely upon me as he would upon himself,
+and he seemed quite satisfied with this rather equivocal statement.
+
+Having heard all that mine host could tell, I remained in further
+conversation with him long enough to avoid any appearance of abruptness,
+and then, offering the stereotyped excuse, "letters to write," I took a
+second cigar, pressed another upon my companion, and nodding to him with
+friendly familiarity, sauntered away to meditate in solitude upon what I
+had just learned.
+
+And so, if Mr. Holtz had not exaggerated, and Jim Long was not mistaken,
+Blake Simpson and Dimber Joe, two notorious prison birds, were
+vegetating in Trafton in the character of detectives!
+
+What a satire on my profession! And yet, absurd and improbable as it
+seemed, it was not impossible. Indeed, did not this theory account for
+their seemingly aimless sojourn here?
+
+Jim Long was not the man to perpetrate a causeless jest. Neither was he
+one to form a hasty conclusion, or to make an assertion without a
+motive.
+
+Whether his statement were true or false, what had been his reason for
+confiding it to Mr. Holtz? It was not because of any especial friendship
+for, or attachment to, that gentleman. Jim had no intimates, and had he
+chosen such, Mr. Holtz, gossipping, idle, stingy, and shallow of brain,
+would scarcely have been the man.
+
+Why, then, had he confided in the man?
+
+Did he wish the report to circulate, and himself remain unknown as its
+author? Was there some individual whose ears he wished it to reach
+through the talkative landlord?
+
+I paused in my reflections, half startled by a sudden thought.
+
+Had this shrewd, incomprehensible Yankee guessed my secret? And was Mr.
+Holtz's story intended for _me_?
+
+I arose to my feet, having formed a sudden resolution.
+
+I _would_ know the truth concerning Jim Long. I _would_ prove him my
+friend or my enemy, and the story told by Mr. Holtz should be my weapon
+of attack.
+
+As for Blake and Dimber, if they _were_ figuring as dummy detectives,
+who had instigated their masquerade?
+
+Again I started, confronted by a strange new thought.
+
+'Squire Brookhouse had telegraphed to an agent to employ for him two
+detectives. My Chief had been unable to discover what officers had been
+employed. Carnes and myself, although we had kept a faithful lookout,
+had been able to discover no traces of a detective in Trafton. Indeed,
+except for ourselves and the two crooks, there were no strangers in the
+village, nor had there been since the robbery.
+
+If Blake and Dimber were playing at detectives, why was it? Had the
+agent employed by 'Squire Brookhouse played him a trick, or had he been
+himself duped?
+
+'Squire Brookhouse had telegraphed to his _lawyer_, it was said. A
+lawyer could have no motive for duping a wealthy client, nor would he be
+likely to be imposed upon or approached by such men as Blake and Dimber.
+
+Had 'Squire Brookhouse procured the services of these men? And if so,
+why?
+
+Carnes was endeavoring to sustain his _role_ by taking a much needed nap
+upon his cot, but I now roused him with eager haste, and regaled his
+sleepy ears with the story I had just listened to below stairs.
+
+At first he seemed only to see the absurdity of the idea, and he buried
+his face in the pillow, to stifle the merriment which rose to his lips
+at the thought of the protection such detectives would be likely to
+afford the innocent Traftonites.
+
+Then he became wide awake and sufficiently serious, and we hastily
+discussed the possibilities of the case.
+
+There was not much to be done in the way of investigation just then;
+Carnes would follow after Blake so long as it seemed necessary, or until
+he could inform me how to guard against any evil the crook might be
+intent upon.
+
+Meantime I must redouble my vigilance, and let no movement of Dimber's
+escape my notice.
+
+To this end I abandoned, for the present, my hastily formed resolution,
+to go at once in search of Jim Long, and bring about a better
+understanding between us. That errand, being of less importance than the
+surveillance of the rascal Dimber, could be left to a more convenient
+season, or so I reasoned in my pitiful blindness.
+
+Where was my professional wisdom then? Where the unerring foresight, the
+fine instinct, that should have warned me of danger ahead?
+
+Had these been in action, one man might have been saved a shameful
+stigma, and another, from the verge of the grave.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+A SHOT IN THE DARK.
+
+
+That afternoon dragged itself slowly away.
+
+I left Carnes in our room, and went below to note the movements of the
+two crooks.
+
+They were both upon the piazza; Blake smoking a well-colored meerschaum
+and seemingly half asleep, and the Dimber, with his well-polished boot
+heels elevated to the piazza railing, reading from a brown volume, with
+a countenance expressive of absorbed interest.
+
+I seated myself where I could observe both without seeming to do so, and
+tilting my hat over my nose, dropped into a lounging attitude. I suppose
+that I looked the personification of careless indolence. I know that I
+felt perplexed, annoyed, uncomfortable.
+
+Perplexed, because of the many mysteries that surrounded me. Annoyed,
+because while I longed to be actively at work upon the solution of these
+mysteries, I could only sit like a sleepy idiot, and furtively watch two
+rascals engaged in killing time, the one with a pipe, the other with a
+French novel. Uncomfortable, because the day was sultry, and the piazza
+chairs were hard, and constructed with little regard for the ease of the
+forms that would occupy them.
+
+But there comes an end to all things, or so it is said. At last there
+came an end to my loitering on the warm piazza.
+
+At the proper time Carnes came lumbering down-stairs seeming not yet
+sobered, but fully equipped for his journey. He took an affectionate
+leave of the landlord, receiving some excellent advice in return. And,
+after favoring me with a farewell speech, half maudlin, half
+impertinent, wholly absurd, and intended for the benefit of the
+lookers-on, who certainly enjoyed the scene, he departed noisily, and,
+as Barney Cooley, was seen no more in Trafton.
+
+A few moments later, "the gentleman in gray" also took his leave,
+bestowing a polite nod upon one or two of the more social ones, but
+without so much as glancing toward Dimber Joe or myself. He walked
+sedately away, followed by the hotel factotum, who carried his natty
+traveling bag.
+
+Still Dimber read on at his seemingly endless novel, and still I lounged
+about the porch, sometimes smoking, sometimes feigning sleep.
+
+At last came supper time. I hailed it as a pleasant respite, and
+followed Dimber Joe to the dining room with considerable alacrity.
+
+Dr. Bethel came in soon, looking grave and weary. We saluted each
+other, but Bethel seemed little inclined to talk, and I was glad not to
+be engaged in a conversation which might detain me at the table after
+Joe had left it.
+
+Bethel, I knew, was much at the house of the Barnards. The shock caused
+by the loss of her husband, together with the fatigue occasioned by his
+illness, had prostrated Mrs. Barnard, who, it was said, was threatened
+with a fever, and Bethel was in constant attendance.
+
+As yet there had been no opportunity for the renewal of the
+conversation, concerning the grave robbery, which had been interrupted
+more than a week since by Mr. Brookhouse, and afterwards effectually cut
+off by my flying visit to the city.
+
+When the Dimber left the table I followed him almost immediately, only
+to again find him poring over that absorbing novel, and seemingly
+oblivious to all else.
+
+Sundown came, and then twilight. As darkness gathered, Dimber Joe laid
+down his book with evident reluctance and carefully lighted a cigar.
+
+Would he sit thus all the evening? I was chafing inwardly. Would the man
+do _nothing_ to break this monotony?
+
+Presently a merry whistle broke upon the stillness, and quick steps came
+down the street.
+
+It was Charlie Harris and, as on a former occasion, he held a telegram
+in his hand.
+
+"For you," he said, having peered hard at me through the gloom. "It came
+half an hour ago, but I could not get down until now."
+
+I took the envelope from his hand and slowly arose.
+
+"I don't suppose you will want my help to read it," he said, with an odd
+laugh, as I turned toward the lighted office to peruse my message.
+
+I gave him a quick glance, and then said:
+
+"Come in, Harris, there may be an answer wanted."
+
+He followed me to the office desk, and I was conscious that he was
+watching my face as I perused its contents.
+
+This is what I read by the office lamp.
+
+    4--. H, c, n, c, e, o, g, k, i, m, b--s, i, a--.
+
+A cipher message. I turned, half smiling, to meet the eye of Harris and
+kept my own eyes upon his face while I said:
+
+"I'm obliged to you, Harris, your writing is capital, and very easily
+read. No answer is required."
+
+The shrewd twinkle of his eye assured me that he comprehended my meaning
+as well as my words.
+
+I offered him a cigar, and lighted another for myself. Then we went out
+upon the piazza together.
+
+We had been in the office less than four minutes, but in that time
+Dimber Joe had disappeared, French novel and all. Much annoyed I peered
+up and down the street.
+
+To the left was the town proper, the stores, the depot, and other
+business places. To the right were dwellings and churches; a hill, the
+summit and sides adorned with the best residences of the village; then a
+hollow, where nestled Dr. Bethel's small cottage; and farther on, and
+back from the highway, Jim Long's cabin. Beyond these another hill,
+crowned by the capacious dwelling of the Brookhouse family.
+
+Which way had Dimber gone?
+
+It was early in the evening, too early to set out on an expedition
+requiring stealth. Then I remembered that Joe had not left the hotel
+since dinner; probably he had gone to the post office.
+
+Harris was returning in that direction. I ran down the steps and
+strolled townward in his company.
+
+"It's deuced hot," said Harris, with characteristic emphasis, as he
+lifted his hat to wipe a perspiring brow. "My office is the warmest hole
+in town after the breeze goes down, and I've got to stay there until
+midnight."
+
+"Extra business?" I inquired.
+
+"Not exactly; we are going to have a night operator."
+
+"Ah!" The darkness hid the smile on my face. "That will relieve you a
+little?"
+
+"Yes, a little; but I'm blessed if I understand it. Business is
+unusually light just now. I needed an assistant more in the Fall and
+Winter."
+
+"Indeed," I said, aloud. Then to myself, "But Carnes and I did not need
+one so much."
+
+Our agency had done some splendid work for the telegraph company whose
+wires ran through Trafton; and I knew, before requesting a new operator
+in the town, that they stood ready to oblige my Chief to any extent
+compatible with their own business. And my Chief had been expeditious
+indeed.
+
+"Then you look for your night operator by the down express?" I
+questioned, carelessly.
+
+"Yes; they wired me that he would come to-night. I hope he'll be an
+obliging fellow, who won't mind taking a day turn now and then."
+
+"I hope so," I replied, "for your sake, Harris."
+
+We had reached the post-office, and bidding him good night, I entered.
+
+A few tardy Traftonites were there, asking for and receiving their mail,
+but Dimber Joe was not among them.
+
+I went slowly back to Porter's store, glancing in at various windows as
+I passed, but saw not the missing man.
+
+How had he eluded me? Where should I look for him?
+
+Returning to the hotel, I sat down in the seat lately occupied by the
+vanished crook, and pondered.
+
+Was Dimber about to strike? Had he strolled out thus early to
+reconnoiter his territory? If so, he would return anon to equip himself
+for the work; he could not well carry a burglar's kit in the light suit
+he wore.
+
+Suddenly I arose and hurried up the stairs, resolved upon a bold
+measure.
+
+Hastily unlocking my trunk, I removed a tray, and from a skillfully
+concealed compartment, took a pair of nippers, some skeleton keys, and a
+small tin case, shaped like the candle it contained. Next, I removed my
+hat, coat, and boots; and, in another moment, was standing before the
+door of the room occupied by Dimber Joe. I knocked lightly and the
+silence within convinced me that the room was unoccupied.
+
+The Trafton House was not plentifully supplied with bolts, as I knew;
+and my nippers assured me that there was no key in the lock.
+
+Thus emboldened, I fitted one of the skeleton keys, and was soon within
+the room, making a hasty survey of Dimber Joe's effects.
+
+[Illustration: "Thus assured, I fitted one of the skeleton keys."--page
+279.]
+
+Aided again by my skeleton keys, I hurriedly opened and searched the two
+valises. They were as honest as they looked.
+
+The first contained a liberal supply of polished linen, a water-proof
+coat and traveling-cap, together with other articles of clothing, and
+two or three novels. The second held the clerical black suit worn by
+Dimber on the evening of his arrival in Trafton; a brace of linen
+dusters, a few articles of the toilet, and a small six-shooter.
+
+There was nothing else; no concealed jimmy, no "tools" of any
+description.
+
+It might have been the outfit of a country parson, but for the novels
+and the revolver. This latter was loaded, and, without any actual motive
+for so doing, I extracted the cartridges and put them in my pocket.
+
+In another moment I was back in my own room, baffled, disappointed, and
+puzzled more than before.
+
+Sitting there alone, I drew from my pocket the lately received telegram,
+and surveyed it once more.
+
+    4--. H, c, n, c, e, o, g, k, i, m, b--s, i, a--.
+
+Well might Harris have been puzzled. Arrant nonsense it must have seemed
+to him, but to me it was simplicity itself. The dispatch was from
+Carnes, and it said:
+
+"He is coming back."
+
+Simplicity itself, as the reader will see, by comparing the letters and
+the words.
+
+"He is coming back." This being interpreted, meant, "Blake Simpson is
+now returning to Trafton."
+
+Was I growing imbecile?
+
+Blake Simpson had departed in the daylight, doubtless taking the "tools
+of his trade" with him, hence the innocent appearance of his partner's
+room, for partners, I felt assured, they were.
+
+He was returning under cover of the darkness; Dimber had gone out to
+meet him, and before morning, Trafton would be supplied with a fresh
+sensation.
+
+How was I to act? How discover their point of attack?
+
+It yet lacked more than two hours of midnight. Trafton had not yet gone
+to sleep.
+
+Blake was coming back, but how?
+
+My telegram came from a village fifteen miles distant. Blake then
+must have left the train at that point, and Carnes had followed him. He
+had followed him until assured that he was actually returning to
+Trafton, and then he had sent the message.
+
+Blake might return in two ways. He might hire a conveyance and drive
+back to Trafton, or he might walk back as far as the next station, a
+distance of five miles, and there wait for the night express.
+
+It seemed hardly probable that he would care to court notice by
+presenting himself at an inn or livery stable. He would be more apt to
+walk away from the village, assume some light disguise, and return by
+the train. It would be a child's trick for him to drop from the moving
+train as it entered the town, and disappear unnoticed in the darkness.
+
+Carnes might return by that train, also, but we had agreed that, unless
+he was fully convinced that Blake meant serious mischief, and that I
+would need his assistance, he was to continue on his journey, as it
+seemed important that he should be in New Orleans as soon as possible.
+
+After some consideration, I decided that I would attach myself to
+Dimber, should he return, as it seemed likely that he would, it being so
+early. And if he failed to appear, I would lie in wait for the night
+express, and endeavor to spot Blake, should he come that way.
+
+Having thus decided, I resumed my hat, coat and boots, extinguished my
+light, locked my door and went down-stairs.
+
+The office lamp was burning its brightest, and there underneath it,
+tilted back in the only arm-chair the room could boast, sat Dimber Joe;
+his hat hung on a rack beside the door, a fresh cigar was stuck between
+his lips, and he was reading again that brown-covered French novel!
+
+I began to feel like a man in a nightmare. Could that indolent-looking
+novel reader be meditating a crime, and only waiting for time to bring
+the hour?
+
+I went out upon the piazza and fanned myself with my hat. I felt
+discomposed, and almost nervous. At that moment I wished devoutly that I
+could see Carnes.
+
+By-and-by my absurd self-distrust passed away, and I began to feel once
+more equal to the occasion.
+
+Dimber's room was not, like mine, at the end of the building. It was a
+"front room," and its two windows opened directly over the porch upon
+which I stood.
+
+I had the side door of the office in full view. He could not leave the
+house unseen by me.
+
+Mr. Holtz came out to talk with me. I complained of a headache and
+declared my intention to remain outside until it should have passed
+away. We conversed for half an hour, and then, as the hands of the
+office clock pointed to half-past ten he left me to make his nightly
+round through kitchen, pantries, and dining-room, locking and barring
+the side door of the office before going. And still Dimber Joe read on,
+to all appearances oblivious of time and all things else.
+
+A wooden bench, hard and narrow, ran along the wall just under the
+office window, affording a seat for loungers when the office should be
+overfull, and the chairs all occupied. Upon this I stretched myself, and
+feigned sleep, for a time that seemed interminable.
+
+Eleven o'clock; eleven loud metalic strokes from the office time keeper.
+
+Dimber Joe lowered the leg that had been elevated, elevated the leg that
+had been lowered, turned a page of his novel and read on. The man's
+coolness was tantalizing. I longed to forget my identity as a detective,
+and his as a criminal, and to spring through the window, strike the book
+from his hand, and challenge him to mortal combat, with dirks at close
+quarters, or pistols at ten paces.
+
+Half-past eleven. Dimber Joe stretched his limbs, closed his book,
+yawned and arose. Whistling softly, as if not to disturb my repose, he
+took a small lamp from a shelf behind the office desk, lighted it
+leisurely and went up-stairs.
+
+As he entered the room above, a ray of light, from his window gleamed
+out across the road. It rested there for, perhaps, five minutes and then
+disappeared.
+
+Had Dimber Joe closed his novel to retire like an honest man?
+
+Ten more long minutes of quiet and silence, and then the stillness was
+broken by a long, shrill shriek, sounding half a mile distant. It was
+the night express nearing Trafton station.
+
+As this sound died upon the air, another greeted my ears; the sound of
+swift feet running heedlessly, hurriedly; coming directly toward me from
+the southward.
+
+As I rose from my lounging place and stepped to the end of the piazza
+the runner came abreast of me, and the light streaming through the
+office window revealed to me Jim Long, hatless, coatless, almost
+breathless.
+
+The lamp light fell upon me also, and even as he ran he recognized me.
+
+Halting suddenly, he turned back with a quick ejaculation, which I did
+not understand.
+
+"Long, what has happened?"
+
+The answer came between short, sharp breaths.
+
+"Carl Bethel has been shot down at his own door! For God's sake go to
+him! He is there alone. I must find a doctor."
+
+[Illustration: "Carl Bethel has been shot down at his own door! For
+God's sake go to him! He is there alone. I must find a doctor."--page
+286.]
+
+In another instant he was running townward at full speed, and I was
+flying at an equal pace through the dark and silent street toward Dr.
+Bethel's cottage.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+JIM LONG SHOWS HIS HAND.
+
+
+As I ran through the silent, dusky street, keeping to the road in
+preference to risking myself, at that pace, over some most uncertain
+"sidewalks," for pavements were unknown in Trafton, my thoughts were
+keeping pace with my heels.
+
+First they dwelt upon the fact that Jim Long, in making his brief, hasty
+exhortation to me, had forgotten, or chosen to ignore, his nasal twang
+and rustic dialect, and that his earnestness and agitation had betrayed
+a more than ordinary interest in Carl Bethel, and a much more than
+ordinary dismay at the calamity which had befallen him.
+
+Carl Bethel had been shot down at his own door!
+
+How came it that Jim Long was near the scene and ready for the rescue,
+at eleven o'clock at night? Who had committed the deed? And why?
+
+Some thoughts come to us like inspirations. Suddenly there flashed upon
+my mind a possible man and a probable motive.
+
+Blake Simpson was coming back. Contrary to my expectations, he had
+probably entered Trafton on foot, having made the journey by means of
+some sort of conveyance which was now, perhaps, carrying him away from
+the scene of his crime.
+
+This would explain the singular apathy of Dimber Joe. He had walked out
+earlier in the evening to ascertain that the way was clear and the game
+within reach, or, in other words, at home and alone. Then perhaps he had
+made these facts known to his confederate, and after that, his part in
+the plot being accomplished, he had returned to the hotel, where he had
+kept himself conspicuously in sight until after the deed was done. Here
+was a theory for the murder ready to hand, and a motive was not wanting.
+
+Only a week since, some party or parties had committed a shameful
+outrage, and the attempt had been made to fasten the crime upon Carl
+Bethel. Fortunately the counter evidence had been sufficient to clear
+him in the eyes of impartial judges. The doctor's courage and popularity
+had carried him safely through the danger. His enemies had done him
+little hurt, and had not succeeded in driving him from Trafton.
+Obviously he was in somebody's way, and the first attempt having failed,
+they had made a second and more desperate one.
+
+Here my mental diagnosis of the case came to an end. I had reached the
+gate of the doctor's cottage.
+
+All was silent as I opened the door and entered the sitting-room. A
+shaded lamp burned softly on the center-table, and beside it stood the
+doctor's easy-chair and footrest. An open book lay upon the table, as if
+lately laid down by the occupant of the chair, who had put a half-filled
+pipe between the pages, to mark the place where he had stopped reading
+when interrupted by--what?
+
+Thus much I observed at a glance, and then turned toward the inner room
+where, upon the bed, lay Carl Bethel.
+
+Was he living or dead?
+
+Taking the lamp from the table I carried it to the bedside, and bent to
+look at the still form lying thereon. The loose coat of white linen, and
+also the vest, had been drawn back from the right shoulder; both were
+blood-stained, and the entire shirt front was saturated with blood.
+
+I put the lamp upon a stand beside the bed, and examined closer. The
+hands were not yet cold with the chill of death, the breath came feebly
+from between the parted lips.
+
+What should I do?
+
+As I glanced about the room while asking myself this helpless question,
+there came a step upon the gravel outside, quick, light, firm. Then the
+door opened, and Louise Barnard stood before me.
+
+Shall I ever forget that woful face, white as the face of death, rigid
+with the calmness of despair? Shall I ever banish from my memory those
+great dark eyes, too full of anguish for tears? It was another mental
+picture of Louise Barnard never to be forgotten.
+
+"Carl, Carl!"
+
+She was on her knees at the bedside clasping the limp hand between her
+own, bowing her white face until it rested upon his.
+
+"Carl, Carl! speak to me!"
+
+[Illustration: "Carl, Carl! speak to me!"--page 292.]
+
+But there was no word of tenderness in answer to her pitiful appeal, no
+returning pressure from the still hand, and she buried her head in the
+pillows, uttering a low moan of despair.
+
+In the presence of one weaker than myself, my own helplessness forsook
+me. I approached the girl who knelt there believing her lover dead, and
+touched her shoulder lightly.
+
+"Miss Barnard, we have no time now for grief. He is not dead."
+
+She was on her feet in an instant.
+
+"Not dead! Then he must not die!"
+
+A red flush mounted to her cheek, a new light leaped to her eye. She
+waited to ask or give no explanation, but turned once more and laid her
+hand upon the blood-ensanguined garments.
+
+"Ah, we must waste no more time. Can you cut away this clothing?"
+
+I nodded and she sprang from the room. I heard a clicking of steel and
+the sound of opening drawers, then she was back with a pair of sharp
+scissors in her hand.
+
+"Use these," she said, taking command as a matter of course, and
+flitting out again, leaving me to do my work, and as I worked, I
+marveled at and admired her wonderful presence of mind--her splendid
+self-control.
+
+In a moment I knew, by the crack of a parlor match and a responsive
+flash of steady light, that she had found a lamp and lighted it.
+
+There were the sounds of another search, and then she was back again
+with restoratives and some pieces of linen.
+
+Glancing down at the bed she uttered a sharp exclamation, and all the
+blood fled out of her face. I had just laid bare a ghastly wound in the
+right shoulder, and dangerously near the lung.
+
+It was with a mighty effort that she regained her self-control. Then she
+put down the things she held, and said, quite gently:
+
+"Please chafe his hands and temples, and afterward try the restoratives.
+There is a fluid heater out there. I must have warm water before--"
+
+"Long has gone for a doctor," I interrupted, thinking her possibly
+ignorant of this fact.
+
+"I know; we must have everything ready for him."
+
+She went out and I began my work of restoration.
+
+After some time passed in the outer room, she came back to the bedside
+and assisted me in my task.
+
+After a little, a faint sigh and a feeble fluttering of the eyelids
+assured us that we were not thus active in vain. The girl caught her
+breath, and while she renewed her efforts at restoration I saw that she
+was fast losing her self-control.
+
+And now we heard low voices and hurrying footsteps.
+
+It was the doctor at last.
+
+Excepting Bethel, Dr. Hess was the youngest practitioner in Trafton. He
+was a bachelor, and slept at his office, a fact which Jim took into
+account in calling for him, instead of waking up old Dr. Baumbach, who
+lived at the extreme north of the village.
+
+Dr. Hess looked very grave, and Jim exceedingly anxious, as the two bent
+together over the patient.
+
+After a brief examination, Dr. Hess said:
+
+"I must get at Bethel's instruments. I know he keeps them here, so did
+not stop to fetch mine."
+
+"They are all ready."
+
+He turned in surprise. Miss Barnard had drawn back at his entrance, and
+he was now, for the first time, aware of her presence.
+
+"I knew what was required," she said, in answer to his look of surprise.
+"They are ready for you."
+
+The doctor moved toward the outer room.
+
+"I must have some tepid water," he said.
+
+"That, too, is ready. I shall assist you, Dr. Hess."
+
+"You!"
+
+"Yes, I. I know something about the instruments. I have helped my father
+more than once."
+
+"But--"
+
+"There need be no objection. I am better qualified than either of these
+gentlemen."
+
+He looked at me, still hesitating.
+
+"I think you can trust the lady," I said; "she has proved her
+capability."
+
+"Very well, Miss Barnard," said the doctor, more graciously; "it may try
+your nerves;" and, taking up some instruments, he turned toward the
+inner room.
+
+"I shall be equal to it," she replied, as, gathering up some lint, and
+going across the room for a part of the water, fast heating over the
+fluid lamp, she followed him.
+
+"Doctor, can't _we_ do something?" asked Jim Long.
+
+"Nothing at present."
+
+How still it was! Jim Long stood near the center of the room, panting
+heavily, and looking down at a dark stain in the carpet,--a splash of
+human blood that marked the place where Bethel had fallen under the fire
+of the assassin. His face was flushed, and its expression fiercely
+gloomy. His hands were clenched nervously, his eye riveted to that spot
+upon the carpet, his lips moved from time to time, as if framing
+anathemas against the would-be destroyer.
+
+After a time, I ventured, in a low tone:
+
+"Long, you are breathing like a spent racer. Sit down. You may need your
+breath before long."
+
+He turned, silently opened the outer door, making scarcely a sound, and
+went out into the night.
+
+That was a long half hour which I passed, sitting beside the little
+table with that splash of blood directly before my eyes, hearing no
+sound save an occasional rustle from the inner room, and now and then a
+low word spoken by Dr. Hess.
+
+To think to the purpose seemed impossible, in that stillness where life
+and death stood face to face. I could only wait; anxiously, impatiently,
+fearing the worst.
+
+At last it was over; and Jim, who evidently, though out of sight, had
+not been out of hearing, came in to listen to the verdict of Dr. Hess.
+
+"It was a dangerous wound," he said, "and the patient was in a critical
+condition. He might recover, with good nursing, but the chances were
+much against him."
+
+A spasm of pain crossed Louise Barnard's face, and I saw her clench her
+small hand in a fierce effort to maintain her self-control. Then she
+said, quite calmly:
+
+"In his present condition, will he not require the constant attention of
+a surgeon?"
+
+Dr. Hess bowed his head.
+
+"Hemorrhage is likely to occur," he said. "He _might_ need surgical aid
+at a moment's notice."
+
+"Then, Dr. Hess, would you object to our calling for counsel--for an
+assistant?"
+
+He elevated his eyebrows, more in surprise at the pronoun, I thought,
+than at the suggestion, or request.
+
+"I think it might be well to have Dr. Baumbach in to-morrow," he
+replied.
+
+"I was not thinking of Dr. Baumbach," she said. "I wish to send to New
+York for a doctor who is a relative of Mr. Bethel's. I know--it is what
+he would wish."
+
+Dr. Hess glanced from her face to mine and remained silent.
+
+"When my father was sick," she went on, now looking appealingly from the
+doctor's face to mine, and then over my shoulder at Jim, who had
+remained near the door, "Dr. Bethel said that if he had any doubts as to
+his case, he should telegraph at once for Dr. Denham, and he added that
+he knew of no surgeon more skillful."
+
+Still no answer from Dr. Hess.
+
+Jim Long came forward with a touch of his old impatience and accustomed
+quaintness in his words and manner.
+
+"_I'm_ in favor of the city doctor," he said, looking, not at Dr. Hess,
+but straight into my face. "And I'm entitled to a voice in the matter.
+The patient's mine by right of discovery."
+
+Miss Barnard gave him a quick glance of gratitude, and I rallied from
+the surprise occasioned by the mention of "our old woman," to say:
+
+"I think you said that this gentleman is a _relative_ of Dr. Bethel's;
+if so, he should be sent for by all means."
+
+"He is Dr. Bethel's uncle," said Miss Barnard.
+
+"Then," I repeated, with decision, "as a relative he should be sent for
+at once."
+
+"Most certainly," acquiesced Dr. Hess, who now saw the matter in, to
+him, a more favorable light. "Send for him; the sooner the better."
+
+"Oh," breathed the anxious girl, "I wish it could be done at once."
+
+"It can," I said, taking my hat from the table as I spoke. "Fortunately
+there is a new night operator at the station; he came to-night, or was
+expected. If he is there, we shall save time, if not, we must get Harris
+up."
+
+"Oh, thank you."
+
+Dr. Hess went to take a look at his patient, and came back, saying:
+
+"I will remain here until morning, I think."
+
+"And I will come back as soon as possible," I responded, turning to go.
+
+Jim Long caught up his hat from the floor, where he had flung it on
+entering.
+
+"I reckon I had better go along with you," he said, suddenly assuming
+his habitual drawl; "you may have to rout Harris up, and I know right
+where to find him."
+
+I was anxious to go, for a reason of my own, and I was not sorry to have
+Jim's company. "Now, if ever," I thought, "is the time to fathom 'the
+true inwardness' of this strange man."
+
+We waited for no more words, but set out at once, walking briskly
+through the night that seemed doubly dark, doubly silent and mysterious,
+at the witch's hour of one o'clock.
+
+We had walked half the distance to the station; in perfect silence, and
+I was studying the best way to approach Jim and overcome his reticence,
+when suddenly he opened his lips, to give me a glimpse of his "true
+inwardness," that nearly took me, figuratively, off my feet.
+
+"Men are only men, after all," he began, sententiously, "and
+_detectives_ are only common men sharpened up a bit. I wonder, now, how
+you are going to get the address of this Dr. Denham?"
+
+I started so violently, that he must have perceived it, dark though it
+was.
+
+What a blunder! I had walked away from the cottage forgetting to ask for
+Dr. Denham's address.
+
+Uttering an exclamation of impatience, I turned sharply about.
+
+"What are you going to do?" he asked.
+
+"I'm going back after the address, of course."
+
+"I wouldn't do that; time's precious. Do you go ahead and send the
+message. I'll run back and ask after the address."
+
+"Long," I said, sharply, "what do you mean?"
+
+"I mean this," he replied, his tone changing suddenly. "I mean that
+it's time for you and I to understand each other!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+IN WHICH I TAKE JIM ON TRUST.
+
+
+"It is time for you and I to understand each other. Don't stop there
+looking moon-struck! Go ahead, and don't waste time. I'll run back and
+ask for the address. Miss Barnard, if she scented a secret, might be
+trusted with it. But, Dr. Hess--his brain has not kept pace with the
+steps of the universe."
+
+With these remarkable words, Jim Long lowered his head, compressed his
+elbows after the fashion of a professional prize-runner, and was off
+like a flying shadow, while I stood staring after him through the
+darkness, divided betwixt wonder at his strange words and manner, and
+disgust at my own stupidity.
+
+What did he mean? Had he actually discovered my identity? And, if so,
+how?
+
+While waiting for a solution to these riddles, it would be well to
+profit by Jim's advice. So I turned my face toward the village, and
+hurried forward.
+
+As I approached the station, a bright light from the operator's window
+assured me that I should not find the office empty, and coming
+stealthily toward it, I peered in, to see, seated in the most commodious
+office chair, Gerald Brown, of our agency, the expected "night
+operator."
+
+On a lounge opposite the window, lay Charlie Harris asleep.
+
+I tapped softly on the open casement, and keeping myself in the shadow
+whispered:
+
+"Come outside, Gerry, and don't wake Harris."
+
+The night-operator, who knew the nature of the services required of him
+in Trafton, and who doubtless had been expecting a visit, arose quietly
+and came out on the platform with the stealthy tread of a bushman.
+
+After a cordial hand-clasp, and a very few words of mutual inquiry, I
+told Brown what had happened at the doctor's cottage, and of my
+suspicions regarding Blake Simpson; and, then, using a leaf from my
+note-book, and writing by the light from the window, I wrote two
+messages, to be sent before Harris should awake.
+
+The first was as follows:
+
+    DOCTOR CHARLES DENHAM,
+
+                     No. 300 ---- street, N. Y.
+
+    Carl Bethel is in extreme danger; requires your professional
+    services. Come at once.
+
+                                                        BATHURST.
+
+The second was addressed to our office, and was much longer. It ran
+thus:
+
+    CAPT. B., A----, N. Y.
+
+    Murder was attempted last night; Bethel the victim. See that
+    Denham comes by the first train to attend to him. Give him some
+    hints before starting. Look out for B. S. If he returns to the
+    city in the morning, keep him shadowed. Will write particulars.
+
+                                                        BATHURST.
+
+"There," I said, as I passed them to Brown, "send them as soon as you
+can, Gerry. The doctor will hardly receive his before morning, but the
+other will be delivered at once, and then they can hurry up the "old
+woman." As for Blake, he will probably take the morning train, if he
+returns to the city, so they have ample time to prepare for him. Did you
+see Carnes on the express?"
+
+"Yes; but only had a moment's speech with him. He told me to tell you
+that Blake left the train at Ireton, and that he went straight to a sort
+of feed stable, kept by a man named Briggs--"
+
+"Briggs!" I exclaimed, involuntarily.
+
+"Yes, that was the name. At this stable he was furnished with a good
+team and light buggy, and he drove straight south."
+
+"Ah! he did. But my time is not at my disposal just now, Gerry; I have a
+companion somewhere on the road. I suppose you got the bearings of this
+Trafton business at the Agency?"
+
+"Yes; I think I am pretty well posted. I have read all your reports."
+
+"So much the better. Gerry, you had better take up your quarters at the
+Trafton House. I am stopping there. It will be convenient, for more than
+one reason."
+
+Gerry agreed with me in this, and, as at that moment we heard footsteps
+approaching, which I rightly guessed to be those of Jim Long, we
+separated at once, and I went forward to meet Jim.
+
+Before, I had deemed it necessary to press the siege, and lead Jim to
+talk by beginning the attack in a voluble manner. Now, I was equally
+intent upon holding my own forces in reserve, and letting him open the
+engagement, which, after a few moments' silence, he did.
+
+A few rods away from the depot stood a church, with broad, high steps
+leading up from the street, and a deep, old-fashioned portico.
+
+Here Jim came to an abrupt halt, for we had turned our steps southward,
+and said, with more of courtesy in his voice than might have been
+expected, considering his recent abruptness:
+
+"Let us go up there, and sit under the porch. It's safer than to talk
+while walking, and I fancy you would like me to explain myself."
+
+I followed him in silence up the steps, and sat down beside him on the
+portico.
+
+"I wonder," began Jim, lowering his voice to insure himself against
+possible eavesdroppers, "I wonder why you have not asked me, before this
+time, how it happened that I was the first to discover Bethel's
+condition, or, at any rate, the first to give the alarm."
+
+"There has scarcely been time," I replied, guardedly. "Besides I, being
+so nearly a stranger, thought that a question to be more properly asked
+by Miss Barnard or the doctor."
+
+"You are modest," said Jim, with a short laugh. "Probably it will not
+occur to Miss Barnard to ask that question, until her mind is more at
+ease concerning Bethel's condition. As for Dr. Hess, he had asked it
+before he took off his nightcap."
+
+"And did you answer it," asked I, maliciously, "in the same good English
+you are addressing to me?"
+
+"I hope not," he replied, laughing again. "I told him the truth,
+however, in a very few words, and now I will tell it to you. Last
+night--I suppose it is morning now by the clock--I spent the evening in
+the village, principally about the Trafton House. I presume you are
+wondering how it came that you did not see me there, for I happen to
+know that you spent the entire evening in the office or on the porch.
+Well, the fact is, I was there on a little private business, and did not
+make myself very conspicuous for that reason. It was late when I came
+home, and, on looking about the cabin, I discovered that my gun was
+missing. My door, for various reasons, I always leave unlocked _when
+absent_, so I did not waste any time in wondering how the thief got in.
+I missed nothing else, and, after a little, I went outside to smoke, and
+think the matter over. I had not been out many minutes before I heard
+the report of a gun,--_my_ gun, I could have sworn. It sounded in the
+direction of Bethel's cottage, and I was not many minutes in getting
+there. I found the door open, and Bethel lying across the threshold,
+wounded, as you have seen. He was almost unconscious then, but as I bent
+above him he whispered one word, 'Louise.' I could not leave him lying
+there in the doorway, so I lifted him and carried him to the bed, and
+then, seeing that it was a shoulder wound, and that he still breathed, I
+rushed off, stopping to tell Louise Barnard that her lover was wounded
+and, maybe, dying, and then on again until I saw you, the very man whose
+help I wanted."
+
+"And why my help rather than that of another?"
+
+"Because, next to that of a physician, the presence of a _detective_
+seemed most necessary."
+
+"Long," I said, turning upon him sharply, "this is the second time you
+have referred to me as 'a detective.' Will you be good enough to
+explain?"
+
+"I have spoken of you as a detective," he replied, gravely, "because I
+believe you to be one, and have so believed since the day you came to
+Trafton. To explain in full would be to occupy more time than you or I
+can well spare to story telling. I have watched you since you first came
+to this place, curiously at first, then earnestly, then anxiously. I
+believe you are here to ferret out the authors of the many robberies
+that have happened in and about Trafton. If this is so, then there is no
+one more anxious to help you, or who could have a stronger motive for so
+doing, than Jim Long."
+
+He paused for a moment, but I remained silent, and he began anew.
+
+"I think you are interested in Bethel and his misfortunes. I think you
+know him for the victim of those who believe him to be what you really
+are."
+
+"You think there are those who fear Bethel because they believe him to
+be a detective? Is that your meaning?"
+
+"That is my meaning."
+
+"Long," I said, seriously, "you tell me that your gun was stolen last
+night; that you recognized the sound of the report coming from the
+direction of Bethel's house."
+
+He moved closer to me and laid a hand on my shoulder.
+
+"It was my gun that shot Bethel," he said, solemnly. "To-morrow that gun
+will be found and _I_ shall be accused of the crime. If the devils had
+possessed my knowledge, it would have been you, instead of Carl Bethel,
+lying somewhere now, dying or dead. I say these things to you to-night
+because, if my gun is found, as I anticipate, and I am accused of the
+shooting, I may not be able to serve Carl Bethel, and he is not yet out
+of danger. If he lives he will still be a target for his enemies."
+
+He spoke with suppressed emotion, and my own feelings were stirred as I
+replied:
+
+"Long, you have been a mystery to me from the first, and I do not read
+your riddle even now, but I believe you are a man to be trusted. Give me
+your hand, and depend upon it you shall not rest long under a false
+accusation. Carl Bethel, living, shall not want a friend; Carl Bethel,
+dead, shall have an avenger. As for you, and myself--"
+
+"We shall understand each other better," he broke in, "when the time
+comes for me to tell you my own story in my own way."
+
+"Then," I said, "let us go back to Bethel. I want to take a look about
+the premises by the first streak of daylight."
+
+"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, "that is what I wanted to hear you say."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+THE TRAIL OF THE ASSASSIN.
+
+
+During the night there was little change in Bethel's condition, and in
+the gray of dawn Miss Barnard went reluctantly home, having been assured
+by the doctor that the patient was in no immediate danger, and, by Jim
+and myself, converted to the belief that he might be safely trusted for
+a short time to our care.
+
+A little later, with the first clear light of the dawn, I left Jim on
+guard at the bedside, and went to take a survey of the premises.
+
+I was not long in convincing myself that there was little to be
+discovered outside, and returning to the house seated myself in Bethel's
+easy-chair.
+
+"Long," I called softly,--somehow since last night I could not bring
+myself to use the familiar "Jim," as of old.
+
+He came from the inner room looking a mute inquiry.
+
+"Long, you had ought to know something about your own gun; was that
+wound of Bethel's made at long or short range?"
+
+He looked surprised at first, then a gleam of intelligence leaped to his
+eyes.
+
+"What do you mean by short range?" he asked.
+
+"Suppose Bethel to have stood on the steps outside, was the gun fired
+from behind that evergreen just beyond, and close to the gravel walk, or
+from some other point equally distant?"
+
+He opened the door and glanced out at the tree, seeming to measure the
+distance with his eye.
+
+"It was further away," he said, after a moment's reflection. "If the
+scoundrel had stood as you suggest, the muzzle of the gun would have
+been almost at Bethel's breast. The powder would have scorched his
+clothing and his flesh."
+
+"Do you think it may have been fired from the gate, or a few feet beyond
+it?"
+
+"Judging by the appearance of the wound, I should say it must have been
+from a little beyond the gate."
+
+"I think so too," I said. "I think some one drove to the gate last
+night with a light buggy, and two small horses. He or they drove quite
+close to the fence and stopped the horses, so that they were hidden from
+the view of any one who was nearer the house. The buggy was directly
+before the gate and so close that it could not have been opened, as it
+swings outward. The horses were not tied, but they were doubtless well
+trained animals. A man jumped out of the buggy, and, standing beside it,
+on the side farthest from the gate, of course, leveled your gun across
+the vehicle and called aloud for the doctor. Bethel was alone, sitting
+in this chair by this table. His feet were on this footstool," touching
+each article as I named it. "He was smoking this pipe, and reading this
+book. The window was open, and the blinds only half closed. The man, who
+probably drove close to the fence for that purpose, could see him quite
+distinctly, and from his attitude and occupation knew him to be alone.
+
+"When Bethel heard the call, he put down the book and pipe with cool
+deliberation, pushed back the footstool and opened the door, coming from
+the light to the darkness. At that moment he could see nothing, and
+leaving the door open he stepped outside, standing clearly outlined in
+the light from within. _Then_ the assassin fired."
+
+[Illustration: "When Bethel heard the call, he put down the book and
+pipe with cool deliberation, pushed back the footstool and opened the
+door,"--page 312.]
+
+Jim Long came toward me, his eyes earnestly searching my face.
+
+"In Heaven's name, what foundation have you for such a theory," he
+asked, slowly.
+
+"Excellent foundation," I replied. "Let us demonstrate my theory."
+
+Long glanced at his charge in the inner room, and then said, "go on."
+
+"Suppose me to be Bethel," I said, leaning back in the big chair. "That
+window is now just as it was last night, I take it?"
+
+"Just the same."
+
+"Well, if you choose to go outside and walk beside the fence, you will
+be able to decide whether I could be seen as I have stated."
+
+He hesitated a moment, and then said:
+
+"Wait; I'll try it;" and opened the door.
+
+"Long," I whispered, as he passed out, "keep _this side_ of the fence."
+
+"Yes."
+
+He was back in a moment.
+
+"I can see you plainly," he said.
+
+"And, of course, with a light within and darkness outside you could see
+me still more plainly."
+
+"I suppose so," he assented.
+
+"Now for the second test. I hear my name called, I lay aside my book and
+meerschaum, push back my footrest, and go to the door. I can see nothing
+as I open it," I was suiting the action to the word, "so I fling it wide
+open, and step outside. Now, Long, that spot of blood tells me just
+about the location of Bethel's head when you discovered him. Will you
+point out the spot where his feet rested?"
+
+Long considered a moment and then laid two fingers on the step.
+
+"There, as nearly as I can remember," he said.
+
+I planted my own feet on the spot indicated by him.
+
+"Now, please go to the gate. Go outside of it. There are some bits of
+paper scattered about; do not step where you see any of these."
+
+He obeyed my directions, striding over and around the marked places.
+
+"Now," I called, retaining my position on the door-step, "step about
+four feet from the gate, and from that distance how must you stand to
+take aim at me, on this spot?"
+
+He shifted his position a trifle, went through the motion of taking aim,
+looking down at his feet, then dropped his arms, and said:
+
+"I can't do it; to aim at you there, I would have to stand just where
+you have left some bits of paper. In any other position the bushes
+obstruct the sight."
+
+I came down to the gate and swung it open.
+
+"Just what I wanted to establish. Now for the next test," I said. "Mark
+me, Long; do you see those bits of paper along the fence? Go and look at
+the ground, where they lie, and you will see the faint impression of a
+wheel. Just before the gate where the vehicle stood for a moment, the
+print is deeper, and more easily noticed. I said that the gun was fired
+across the buggy; you have convinced yourself that aim could be taken
+from only one position, at this distance. The man must stand where those
+bits of paper are scattered. Now, look;" I bent down and gathered up the
+fragments of paper; "look close. Here is a fine, free imprint from the
+heel of a heavy boot. As there is but one, and that so marked, it is
+reasonable to suppose that the assassin rested one foot upon the buggy
+wheel, thus throwing his weight upon this heel."
+
+Long bent to examine the print and then lifted his head to ejaculate:
+
+"It is wonderful!"
+
+"It is simplicity itself," I replied; "the a, b, c of the detective's
+alphabet. I said there were two horses; look, here is where one of them
+scraped the fence with his teeth, and here the other has snatched a
+mouthful of leaves from the doctor's young shade tree. Here, too, are
+some faint, imperfect hoof-prints, but they are enough to tell us, from
+their position, that there were two horses, and from their size, that
+the animals were pretty small."
+
+Long examined the different marks with eager attention, and then stood
+gazing fixedly at me, while I gathered up my bits of paper.
+
+"I shall not try to preserve these as evidence in the case," I said. "I
+think we shall do very well without them. They were marked for your
+benefit, solely. Are you convinced?"
+
+"Convinced! Yes, convinced and satisfied that you are the man for this
+business."
+
+We returned to the house, each intent on his own thoughts.
+
+The sun was rising in a cloudless sky. It would not be long before
+curious visitors would be thronging the cottage. After a time I went to
+the door of the room where Jim had resumed his watch.
+
+"Long," I asked, in a low tone, "do you know any person in Ireton?"
+
+He shook his head.
+
+"Do you know whether this fellow Tom Briggs has any relatives about
+Trafton?"
+
+He pondered a moment.
+
+"Yes," he said, finally. "He has a brother somewhere in the
+neighborhood. I don't know just where. He comes to Trafton
+occasionally."
+
+"What is he like?"
+
+"He is not unlike Tom, but goes rather better dressed."
+
+"Do you know his occupation?"
+
+"A sort of horse-trading character, I think."
+
+I considered for a time, and then resumed my catechism.
+
+"Among the farmers whose horses have been stolen, do you know one who is
+thoroughly shrewd, cautious and reliable?"
+
+"I think so," after a moment's reflection. "I think Mr. Warren is such a
+man."
+
+"Where can he be found?"
+
+"He lives five miles northwest of Trafton."
+
+"If you wished to organize a small band of regulators, say six or eight,
+where could you find the right men, and how soon?"
+
+"I should look for them among the farmers. I think they could be
+organized, _for the right purpose_, in half a day's ride about the
+country."
+
+As my lips parted to launch another question, the outer door opened
+slowly and almost noiselessly, and Louise Barnard brushed past me and
+hurried to the bedside.
+
+"Miss Barnard--"
+
+"Don't lecture me, please," she said, hurriedly. "Mamma is better and
+could spare me, and I _could_ not sleep. I have taken a cordial, and
+some food. You must let me stay on guard until Dr. Denham arrives. I
+will resign my post to him."
+
+"Which means that you will not trust to us. You are a 'willful woman,'
+Miss Barnard, and your word is our law, of course. There is actually
+nothing to do here just now but to sit at the bedside and watch our
+patient. And so, if you _will_ occupy that post, Long and myself will
+take a look at things out of doors."
+
+She took her seat by the bedside, and, beckoning Jim to follow me, I
+went out, and, turning to see that he was close behind me, walked to the
+rear of the house.
+
+Here we seated ourselves upon the well platform, where Jim had once
+before stationed himself to watch the proceedings of the raiding party,
+and for a full half-hour remained in earnest consultation.
+
+At the end of that time, Jim Long saddled and bridled the doctor's
+horse, led him softly from the yard, mounted, and rode swiftly away to
+the northwest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+AN ANGRY HEIRESS.
+
+
+Very soon after Jim's departure, the first visitors arrived at the
+cottage, and most welcome ones they were.
+
+Miss Barnard, who seemed capable of wise thought in the midst of her
+grief and anxiety, had dispatched her own servant with a message to Mr.
+Harris, and, early as was the hour, that good man had hastened to the
+cottage, with his wife at his side. Their presence was comforting to
+Miss Barnard and myself. Mr. Harris was the right man to assume
+responsibilities, which I, for various reasons, had no desire to take
+upon myself, and Mrs. Harris was the very companion and assistant needed
+by the anxious girl. They were soon in possession of all the facts, as
+we knew them, concerning the previous night, and its calamity.
+
+I say, as we knew them; Miss Barnard had heard nothing concerning the
+part Jim's gun was believed to have played in the sad affair, and I did
+not think it necessary to enlighten either her or Mr. Harris on that
+subject, at that time.
+
+Leaving Bethel in such good hands, I went back to the hotel. But before
+I could breakfast or rest, I was called upon to repeat again and again
+all that I could or would tell concerning this new calamity that had
+befallen Dr. Bethel, for the news of the night was there before me.
+
+As I re-entered the office, after quitting the breakfast table, I found
+a considerable crowd assembled, and was again called upon to rehearse my
+story.
+
+"It looks sorter queerish to me," commented a hook-nosed old Traftonite,
+who had listened very intently to my words. "It's sorter _queerish_! Why
+warn't folks told of this sooner? Why warn't the alarm given, so'at
+citizens could agone and seen for theirselves how things was?"
+
+I recognized the speaker as one who had been boisterously and
+vindictively active on the day of the raid upon Bethel's cottage, and I
+fixed my eye upon his face with a look which he seemed to comprehend, as
+I retorted:
+
+"Dr. Bethel has received one visit from a delegation of 'citizens who
+were desirous to see for theirselves how things was,' and if he suffered
+no harm from it, it was not owing to the tender mercies of the
+'citizens' aforesaid. The attendance of a mob last night would not have
+benefited Bethel. What he needed was a doctor and good nursing. These he
+had and will have," and I turned upon my heel to leave the room.
+
+"I should say," spoke up another voice, "that there was a detective
+needed around there, too."
+
+"Nothing shall be lacking that is needed," I retorted, over my
+shoulder, and then ascended the stairs, wishing heartily, as I entered
+my room, that Trafton and a large majority of its inhabitants were
+safely buried under an Alpine avalanche.
+
+Two hours later I awoke, and being in a more amiable mood, felt less
+inclined to consign all Trafton to annihilation.
+
+Going below I found the office comparatively quiet, and Dimber Joe and
+the new operator socially conversing on the porch.
+
+Gerald's presence was a relief to me. I felt sure that he would keep a
+sharp eye upon the movements of Dimber, and, being anxious about the
+situation of Bethel I returned to the cottage.
+
+Dr. Hess stood in the doorway, in conversation with Mr. Harris.
+
+"How is the patient?" asked I, approaching them.
+
+"Much the same," replied the doctor. "But there will be a change soon."
+
+"Has he spoken?"
+
+"No; he will hardly do that yet, and should not be allowed to talk even
+if he could. When the change comes there will be fever, and perhaps
+delirium."
+
+I passed them and entered the sick-room.
+
+Mrs. Harris sat by the bed. Louise Barnard was not there.
+
+"We have sent Louise home," Mrs. Harris whispered, seeing me glance
+about inquiringly. "The doctor told her that if she insisted upon
+remaining she would soon be sick herself, and unable to help us at all.
+That frightened her a little. The poor child is really worn out, with
+her father's sickness and death, her mother's poor health, and now
+this," nodding toward the bed.
+
+"Have you had any visitors?"
+
+"Oh, yes. But we knew that the house must be kept quiet, and Mr. Harris
+has received the most of them out in the yard. Dr. Hess says it will be
+best to admit none but personal friends."
+
+"Dr. Hess is very sensible."
+
+Going back to join the two gentlemen, I saw that Dr. Hess was hastening
+toward the gate with considerable alacrity, and that a pony phaeton had
+just halted there.
+
+Swinging the gate wide open, the doctor assisted the occupant to alight.
+
+It was Miss Manvers.
+
+There was an anxious look upon her face, and in her eyes a shadow of
+what I had once discovered there, when, myself unseen, I had witnessed
+her interview with Arch Brookhouse on the day of the garden party. She
+was pale, and exceedingly nervous.
+
+She said very little. Indeed her strongest effort to preserve her
+self-control seemed almost a failure, and was very evident to each of
+us. She listened with set lips to the doctor's description and opinion
+of the case, and then entered the inner room, and stood looking down at
+the figure lying there, so stalwart, yet so helpless. For a moment her
+features were convulsed, and her hands clenched each other fiercely. Her
+form was shaken with emotion so strong as to almost overmaster her. It
+was a splendid picture of fierce passion held in check by an iron will.
+
+She came out presently, and approached me.
+
+"You were one of the first to know this, I am told," she said, in a low,
+constrained tone. "Please tell me about it."
+
+I told her how I was called to the rescue by Jim, and gave a brief
+outline of after events.
+
+"And has all been done that can be?" she asked, after a moment of
+silence.
+
+"Not quite all, Miss Manvers. We have yet to find this would-be murderer
+and bring him to justice." I spoke with my eyes fixed on her face.
+
+She started, flushed, and a new excited eagerness leaped to her eyes.
+
+"Will you do that? _Can_ you?"
+
+"It shall be done," I replied, still watching her face.
+
+She gave a little fluttering sigh, drew her veil across her arm, and
+turned to go.
+
+"If I can be of service, in any way," she began, hesitatingly.
+
+"We shall not hesitate to ask for your services," I interrupted,
+walking beside her to the door, and from thence to the gate, a little to
+the annoyance of Dr. Hess, I fancied.
+
+As I assisted her to her seat in the phaeton, and put the reins in her
+hands, I saw Arch Brookhouse galloping rapidly from the direction of
+town. And, just as she had turned her ponies homeward, and I paused at
+the gate to nod a final good-bye, he reined his horse up sharply beside
+her vehicle.
+
+"How is the doctor, Adele?" he asked, in a tone evidently meant for my
+ears.
+
+"Don't speak to me," she replied, vehemently, and utterly regardless of
+my proximity. "Don't speak to me. I wish it were _you_ in his place."
+
+She snatched up her whip, as though her first instinct was to draw the
+lash across his face, but she struck the ponies instead, and they flew
+up the hill at a reckless gait.
+
+As Brookhouse turned in the saddle to look after the flying phaeton, I
+saw a dark frown cross his face.
+
+But the next instant his brow cleared, and he turned again to bestow on
+me a look of sharp scrutiny.
+
+Springing from his horse, and throwing the bridle across his arm, he
+approached the gate.
+
+"Did you hear her?" he exclaimed. "That is what I get for being an
+amiable fellow. My friend is not amiable to-day."
+
+"Evidently not," I responded, carelessly. "Lovers' quarrels are fierce
+affairs, but very fleeting."
+
+He smiled and shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I have been so unfortunate as to offend her," he said. "By to-morrow
+she will have forgotten the circumstances."
+
+"Will she, indeed?" thought I. "We shall see, my friend."
+
+But I made no audible comment, and he dismissed the subject to ask the
+stereotyped questions, "How was Dr. Bethel? Could he be of any service?
+How did it happen?"
+
+While I was answering these questions with the best grace I could
+muster, there came the patter of horse's hoofs, and Jim Long rode up to
+the side gate, dismounted with a careless swing, nodded to me, and,
+opening the gate, led the doctor's horse stableward.
+
+The look of surprise on my companion's face was instantly followed by a
+malicious smile, which, in its turn, was banished to give place to a
+more proper expression.
+
+"Long has been giving the doctor's horse some exercise," he said, half
+inquiringly.
+
+"I believe he has been executing some commission for Miss Barnard," I
+fabricated, unblushingly. "Long has been very useful here."
+
+"Indeed," carelessly; then glancing at his watch, "nearly noon, I see."
+
+He turned, vaulted into his saddle, and touched his hat. "Good-morning.
+In case of necessity, command me;" and with a second application of his
+finger-tip to the brim of his hat, he shook the reins and cantered away.
+
+As soon as he was out of sight I went straight to the stable where Jim
+was bountifully feeding the tired horse.
+
+"Well, Long?"
+
+"It's all right, captain. I've had a hard ride, but it's _done_."
+
+"And the men?"
+
+"Will be at the cabin to-night."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+JIM GIVES BAIL.
+
+
+Upon Jim's reappearance in the cottage, Mrs. Harris installed him as
+nurse, and, herself, set about improvising a kitchen in the rear room.
+
+Mr. Harris had been despatched to town for sundry articles, and, at
+noon, we were served with a plentiful lunch, of which we partook in
+rather primitive fashion.
+
+Not long after, while Jim and I were conversing out under the trees, and
+Mr. Harris was discoursing to two Trafton ladies who had called to
+proffer service and sympathy, I saw Gerald Brown coming toward the
+cottage, and guessing that his real business was with me, whatever
+pretext he might present, I advanced to the gate and met him there.
+
+He carried in his hand a telegraph envelope, which he proffered me
+ostentatiously over the gate.
+
+I opened it and read:
+
+                                        N. Y., etc., etc.
+
+    Will come to-night.
+
+                                                  DENHAM.
+
+Underneath this was written:
+
+    _They are wild in town; are about to arrest Jim Long for the
+    shooting of Bethel._
+
+Two pair of eyes, at least, were looking out from the cottage door and
+window.
+
+I turned the message over, and resting it upon the gate post, wrote the
+following:
+
+    _Don't lose sight of Dimber; telegraph to the Agency to ask if Blake
+    has arrived. Tell them not to let him get out of reach. We may want
+    him at any moment._
+
+While I was writing this Gerry shifted his position, so that his face
+could not be seen by the observers in the house, and said:
+
+"Dimber is in it. He claims to have seen Long with his gun near Bethel's
+house last night. The gun has been found."
+
+"Of course," I returned. "We will put a muzzle on friend Dimber very
+shortly."
+
+I refolded the message and returned it to Gerry, who touched his hat and
+turned back toward the village.
+
+Going to the door of the cottage, I informed Mr. Harris and the ladies
+that the new operator had just brought the news we so much wished for,
+viz.: the coming of Bethel's uncle from New York by that night's
+express. Then, sauntering back to my old place under the trees, I
+communicated to Jim the purport of the postscript written by Gerry.
+
+He listened attentively, but with no sign of discomposure visible upon
+his countenance.
+
+"I've had time to think the matter over," he said, after a moment's
+silence, "and I think I shall pull through, but," with a waggish twinkle
+in his eye, "I am puzzled to know why that young man going up the hill
+should take so much interest in me, or was it Harris?"
+
+"It was not Harris," returning his look with interest. "That young man
+going up the hill is Gerald Brown, of New York. He's the new night
+operator, and he will not fail to do his _duty_, in the office and out
+of it."
+
+"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, turning his eyes once more toward the receding
+form of Gerry.
+
+I let my own gaze follow his and there, just coming into sight on the
+brow of the hill, was a party of men.
+
+It consisted of the constable, supported by several able-bodied
+citizens, and followed, of course, by a promiscuous rabble.
+
+Jim gave vent to a low chuckle.
+
+"See the idiots," he said, "coming like mountain bandits. No doubt they
+look for fierce resistance. Don't let them think you are too much
+interested in the case."
+
+"I won't," I said, briefly, for the men were hurrying down the hill. "It
+would not be politic, but I'll have you out of their clutches, Long,
+without a scratch, sure and soon."
+
+I turned toward the house as I finished the sentence, and Jim arose and
+went toward the gate; not the man of easy movements and courteous speech
+who had been my companion for the past twenty-four hours, not Long, the
+gentleman, but "Long Jim," the loafer, awkward, slouching, uncouth of
+manner and speech.
+
+As the crowd made a somewhat noisy approach, Jim leaned over the gate
+and motioned them to silence.
+
+"Gentlemen," he said, seriously, "ye can't be any too still about this
+place, an' ye'd a' showed better gumption if ye hadn't paid yer respects
+in a squad, as if ye was comin' to a hangin'. Somehow ye seem mighty
+fond o' waitin' on Dr. Bethel in a gang."
+
+Acting upon a hint from me, Mr. Harris now went out, and in milder
+words, but with much the same meaning, exhorted the visitors to quiet.
+
+And then, casting a quick glance behind him, and a somewhat apprehensive
+one toward Jim, the constable read his warrant. The two men inside the
+gate listened with astonished faces. Indeed, Jim's assumption of
+amazement, viewed in the light of my knowledge concerning its
+genuineness, was ludicrous beyond description.
+
+Mr. Harris began an earnest expostulation, and turned to beckon me to
+his assistance, but Jim checked him by a gesture.
+
+"We can't have any disputing here," he said, sharply. "Don't argy,
+parson; tain't wuth while."
+
+Then he opened the gate and stepped suddenly out among them.
+
+"I'll go with ye," he said, "for the sake of peace. But," glaring about
+him fiercely, "if it wan't fer makin' a disturbance, again the doctor's
+orders, I'd take ye one at a time and thrash a little sense into ye.
+Come along, Mr. Constable; I'm goin' to 'pear' afore Jestice Summers,
+an' I'm goin' to walk right to the head o' this mob o' your'n, an' don't
+ye try to come none o' yer jailer dodges over me. Ye kin all walk
+behind, an' welcome, but the first man as undertakes to lay a finger on
+me, or step along-side--somethin'll happen to him."
+
+And Jim thrust his hands deep down in his pockets, walked coolly through
+the group, which divided to let him pass, and strode off up the hill.
+
+"Goodness!" ejaculated the valorous officer of the law, "is--is there a
+man here that's got a pistol?"
+
+[Illustration: "Goodness!" ejaculated the valorous officer of the law,
+"is--is there a man here that's got a pistol?"--page 332.]
+
+No reply from his supporters.
+
+I put my hand behind me and produced a small revolver.
+
+"Take this," I said, proffering the weapon over the gate. "You had
+better humor his whim, but if he attempts to escape, you know how to
+stop him."
+
+He seized the protecting weapon, nodded his thanks, and hastened after
+his prisoner, followed by the entire body guard.
+
+"My dear sir," said Mr. Harris, gravely, "I was sorry to see you do
+that. You surely don't think Long guilty?"
+
+I turned toward him, no longer trying to conceal my amusement.
+
+"He is as innocent as you or I," I replied, "and the pistol is not
+loaded. One may as well retain the good will of the magnates of the law,
+Mr. Harris."
+
+He smiled in his turn, and, wishing to avoid a discussion, in which I
+must of necessity play a very hypocritical part, I turned back and
+entered the cottage to explain the situation to the ladies.
+
+During that long, still afternoon, visitors came and went. Louise
+Barnard, a little refreshed and very anxious returned and resumed her
+post at the bedside. She was shocked and indignant at the news of Jim
+Long's arrest; and she breathed a sigh of relief and gratification upon
+being told of the expected coming Dr. Denham. Late in the afternoon, Dr.
+Hess made a second visit, and when he returned to town Mr. Harris
+accompanied him, the two driving back in the doctor's gig.
+
+It was very quiet. Mrs. Harris dozed in the easy-chair; Louise sat mute
+and statue-like by the bedside of her lover, and I, oppressed by the
+stillness, was leaning over the open window sill, wondering how it was
+faring with Jim Long, when the gate gave the faintest creak, and I
+lifted my eyes to see the object of my mental inquiry coming toward me.
+
+Uttering an exclamation which roused good Mrs. Harris and caused the
+watcher in the inner room to turn her head, I hastened to meet him.
+
+"Long," I exclaimed, "what lucky fate has brought you back?"
+
+He glanced from me to the doorway, where Mrs. Harris was now standing,
+with an expectant look on her benevolent countenance, and replied,
+laconically:
+
+"Bail."
+
+"Good! I was thinking of that."
+
+"Jim," broke in Mrs. Harris, eagerly, "who did it? We'll all bless his
+kindness."
+
+He advanced to the door, planted his right foot upon the lower step,
+rested his elbow on his knee, pushed his hat off his forehead, and
+grinned benignly on us both.
+
+"Then I'm the feller that'll walk off with the blessin'," he said, with
+a chuckle. "I went my own bail to the tune of five thousand dollars!"
+
+Mrs. Harris gave a gasp of surprise. I seated myself on the corner of
+the step farthest from Jim, and, seeing that he was about to volunteer a
+further explanation, remained silent.
+
+At the same moment I observed what was unnoticed by the other two; Miss
+Barnard had left her post and was standing behind Mrs. Harris.
+
+"Ye see," continued Jim, giving me a sidelong glance, and then fixing
+his eyes upon the hem of Mrs. Harris's apron, "Ye see, I had ter appear
+afore Jestice Summers. Now, the Jestice," with another sidelong glance,
+and an almost imperceptible gesture, "is a man an' a brother. I ain't
+agoin' ter say anythin' agin' him. I s'pose he had to do his duty. There
+was some in that office that wanted ter see me put where I couldn't be
+so sassy, but I didn't mind them. The minit I got in my oar, I jest
+talked right straight at the Jestice, an' I told him in short order that
+ef I was sure of bein' treated on the square, I'd jest waive an
+examination. An' then I kind o' sighed, an' appealed to their feelin's,
+tellin' them that I hadn't no friends nor relations, but that may be, ef
+they gave me half a show, an' didn't set my bail too high, may be some
+one would go my security, an' give me a chance ter try ter clear myself.
+Wal! ef you could a looked around that office, ye'd a thought my chance
+o' gittin security was slim. The Jestice called the time on me, an'
+allowed 'twould be fair ter give me bail. An' then 'Squire Brookhouse,
+an' one or two more, piped in with objections, until the Jestice put the
+bail up ter five thousand. Of course that wilted me right down.
+Everybody grinned or giggled, an' nobody didn't offer any more
+objections, an' the bizness was finished up. Then, when they had got ter
+a place where there was no backin' out, I jest unbuttoned my coat an'
+vest, whipped off a belt I'd got fixed handy for the 'casion, an'
+counted five thousand dollars right down under their noses!"
+
+Here he paused to lift his eyes to the face of Mrs. Harris, and to see,
+for the first time, his third auditor, who now came forward to grasp his
+hand, and utter rejoicings at his present liberty, and indignant
+disapproval of the parties who had brought against him a charge which
+she unhesitatingly pronounced absurd and without reasonable foundation.
+
+Next Jim's hand came into the cordial grasp of good Mrs. Harris, who was
+more voluble than Louise Barnard, and none the less sincere.
+
+When, after a time, Jim and I found ourselves _tete-a-tete_ for a
+moment, I said:
+
+"Long, I look on it as a fortunate thing that you were taken before
+Justice Summers."
+
+"Well," said Jim, dryly, "all things considered, so do I."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+VIGILANTS.
+
+
+The long day is ended at last; the sun has set in a bank of dim clouds.
+There is no moon as yet, and that orb, which is due above the horizon in
+exactly eight minutes, by an authentic almanac, will scarcely appear at
+her best to-night, for the leaden clouds that swallowed up the sun have
+spread themselves across all the sky, leaving scarce a rent through
+which the moon may peep at the world.
+
+The darkness is sufficient to cover my journey, and the hour is yet
+early--too early for birds of the night to begin to prowl, one might
+think; yet, as I approach Jim Long's cabin, I encounter a sentinel,
+dimly outlined but upright before me, barring the way.
+
+"Hold on, my--"
+
+"Jim."
+
+"Oh! it's you, Cap'n; all right. Come along; we're waitin'."
+
+I follow him into his own cabin, and stand beside the door, which some
+one has closed as we enter, while Jim strikes a light. Then I see that
+the cabin is occupied by half a dozen men.
+
+[Illustration: "I follow him into his own cabin, and stand beside the
+door, which some one has closed as we enter, while Jim strikes a
+light."--page 339.]
+
+"Pardner," says Jim, setting down the candle, and indicating the
+various individuals, by a gesture, as he names them, "this 'er's Mr.
+Warren, the captain o' the Trafton vigilants."
+
+I turn upon Jim a look of surprise, but he goes placidly on.
+
+"This is young Mr. Warren."
+
+I return the nod of a bright-looking young farmer.
+
+"This is Mr. Booth, Mr. Benner, and Mr. Jaeger."
+
+The three men who stand together near the window bow gravely.
+
+"And this," finishes Jim, "is Mr. Harding."
+
+As Mr. Harding moves forward out of the shadow, I recognize him. It is
+the man whose recital of the misfortunes of Trafton, overheard by me on
+the day of my departure from Groveland, had induced me to come to the
+thief-ridden village.
+
+"I have met Mr. Harding before," I say, as I proffer my hand to him.
+
+"I don't remember," with a look of abashed surprise.
+
+"Perhaps not, Mr. Harding; nevertheless, if it had not been for you I
+should, probably, never have visited Trafton."
+
+The look of surprise broadens into amazement. But it is not the time for
+explanations. I turn back to Mr. Warren.
+
+"Am I to understand that you have a vigilance committee already
+organized here?"
+
+"We have an organized party, sir." Here Jim interposes.
+
+"Ye see, I happen ter belong ter the vigilants. An' when ye asked me ter
+name a reliable man, why, I jest thought I'd bring you an' Mr. Warren
+together an' 'twould simplify matters. 'Twant my business to explain
+jest then."
+
+"Charlie," says Mr. Warren, addressing the young man near the door, "go
+outside and see that no one comes within seeing or hearing distance. We
+want Long here."
+
+The young vigilant mounts guard and I turn again to Mr. Warren.
+
+"Mr. Long has explained the nature of my business?"
+
+"Yes, you may be sure it was a surprise to me."
+
+"How many men have you?"
+
+"Fifteen in all."
+
+"And you have all failed to find a clue to the identity of the
+horse-thieves?"
+
+"Yes, sir, we have failed. We have organized in secret and worked in
+secret. We hoped and expected to sift this matter to the bottom, and we
+have failed utterly. But Jim tells me that you have succeeded where we
+have failed."
+
+"Not quite that. Listen, gentlemen. I know where to put my hands, now,
+to-night, upon the six horses that were stolen one week ago. If it were
+merely a question of the recovery of these, I should not need your aid.
+It might be worth something to me if I recovered the horses, but it will
+be worth much more to us, and to all Trafton, if we capture the thieves,
+and they cannot be taken to-night, perhaps not for many nights. We are
+surrounded with spies; the man we might least suspect, may be the very
+one to betray us. Our only safe course is to work in harmony, and, for
+the present, at least, trust none outside of this room. I have trusted
+this organization to Jim Long, believing in his discretion. He assures
+me that I can rely upon every man of you."
+
+Mr. Warren bares his head, and comes forward.
+
+"We have all been losers at the hands of these rascally thieves," he
+says, earnestly. "And we all want to see the town free from them. We are
+not poor men; the vigilants are all farmers who have something at stake.
+Show us how to clean out these horse-thieves, and if you want reliable
+men, they will be on hand. If you want money, that can be had in
+plenty."
+
+"All we want, is here; half a dozen men with ordinary courage and
+shrewdness, and a little patience. The moon is now at its full; before a
+new moon rises, we will have broken up the gang of Trafton outlaws!"
+
+"And why," asks Mr. Warren, eagerly, "must our time be regulated by the
+moon?"
+
+"Because," I say, significantly, "horse-thieves are seldom abroad on
+moonlight nights."
+
+An hour passes; an hour during which Mr. Warren, Mr. Harding, and
+myself, talk much, and the others listen attentively, making, now and
+then, a brief comment, or uttering an approving ejaculation. All except
+Jim. He has forced young Warren to join the conference within, and has
+stood on picket-duty outside, to all appearances, the least interested
+of any gathered there for counsel.
+
+It is ten o'clock when we separate; the vigilants going their way
+silently, and one at a time, and Jim and myself returning to the cottage
+together.
+
+"Ye couldn't have found six better men," says Jim, who has chosen to
+sustain his _role_ of illiterate rustic throughout the evening. "Ye can
+trust 'em."
+
+"I have given them no unnecessary information, Long. Not half so much as
+you have scented out for yourself. They know enough to enable them to do
+what will be required of them and nothing more."
+
+"Then," with a dry laugh, "they know more than I do."
+
+"If they know that you are actually capable of drawing the reins over
+the 'nine parts of speech,'" I retort, "they did not learn it from me."
+
+"Then," with another chuckling laugh, "I fancy they don't know it."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Dr. Denham came at midnight, and Miss Barnard greeted him with a smile
+that ended in a sob.
+
+Evidently "our old woman" had been enlightened concerning her, for he
+took her in his arms and kissed her with grave tenderness, before going
+to the bedside of his patient.
+
+He took absolute command of the cottage, and no one, not even Louise,
+ventured to oppose him or raise the voice of argument. He took all
+responsibility out of my hands, and dismissed me with his usual formula.
+
+"Go about your business, you young rascal. I might have known you'd be
+at some new deviltry shortly. Go about your business, and by the time I
+get Bethel on his feet, you'll have me another patient, I'll be bound."
+
+But Jim found favor in the eyes of "our old woman," who straightway
+elected him general assistant, and he soon discovered that to be
+assistant to Dr. Denham was no sinecure. Indeed, a more abject bond
+slave than Jim, during that first week of Bethel's illness, could not
+well be imagined.
+
+"Our old woman's" scepter extended, too, over poor Louise. He was as
+tender as possible, allowing her to assist him when she could, and
+permitting her to watch by the bedside four or five hours each day. But
+beyond that she could not trespass. There must be no exhausting effort,
+no more night vigils.
+
+Louise rebelled at first; tried coaxing, then pouting, then submitted to
+the power that would wield the scepter.
+
+The good doctor brought from the city a package sent me by my Chief,
+which he put into my hands at the first opportunity.
+
+It contained papers, old and yellow; some copied memoranda, and two
+photographs. When I had examined all these, I breathed a sigh of
+relieved surprise.
+
+Another link was added to my chain of evidence, another thread to the
+web I was weaving.
+
+Without that packet I had cherished a suspicion. With it, I grasped a
+certainty.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+A CHAPTER OF TELEGRAMS.
+
+
+The following week was to me one of busy idleness. Now at the cottage,
+where Bethel, pain-racked and delirious, buffeted between life and
+death. Now closeted for a half-hour with the new night operator. Keeping
+an eye upon Dimber Joe, who continued his lounging and novel reading,
+and who was, to all appearances, the idlest and most care-free man in
+Trafton.
+
+I saw less of Jim Long than pleased me, for, when he was not bound to
+the chariot wheel of "our old woman," he contrived somehow to elude me,
+or to avoid all _tete-a-tetes_. I scarcely saw him except in the
+presence of a third party.
+
+Mr. Warren, or one or two other members of the party who had met me at
+Jim Long's cabin, were constantly to be seen about Trafton. During the
+day they were carelessly conspicuous; during the night their
+carelessness gave place to caution; but they were none the less present,
+as would have been proven by an emergency.
+
+The new telegraph operator was a host in himself. He was social,
+talkative, and something of a lounger. He found it easy to touch the
+pulse of Trafton gossip, and knew what they thought at Porter's
+concerning Bethel's calamity, Long's arrest and subsequent release under
+bail, etc., without seeming to have made an effort in search of
+information.
+
+The two questions now agitating the minds of the Trafton gossips were:
+"Who shot Dr. Bethel, if Jim Long did not?" and "Where did Jim Long, who
+had always been considered but one remove from a pauper, get the money
+to pay so heavy a bail?"
+
+The theories in regard to these two questions were as various as the
+persons who advocated them, and were as astounding and absurd as the
+most diligent sensation-hunter could have desired.
+
+Jim's gun had been found in a field less than half a mile from Bethel's
+cottage, by some workmen who had been sent by 'Squire Brookhouse to
+repair one of his farm fences, and I learned, with peculiar interest,
+that _Tom Briggs_ was one of these workmen.
+
+Upon hearing that the gun had been found, Dimber Joe had made his
+statement. He had seen Jim Long, between the hours of nine and ten
+P. M., going in the direction of the cottage, with a gun upon his
+shoulder.
+
+Of course, when making this assertion, he had no idea of the use to
+which it would be put; and equally, of course, he much regretted that he
+had mentioned the fact when he found himself likely to be used as a
+witness against Long, whom he declared to be an inoffensive fellow, so
+far as he had known him, and toward whom he could have no ill-will.
+
+In due time, sooner, in fact, than I had dared hope, there came a
+message from Carnes.
+
+It came through the hands of young Harris. Carnes, having sent it early
+in the day, and knowing into whose hands it would probably fall, had
+used our cipher alphabet:
+
+    4. F d, t, t, o w n--u h e--n a x----, --, --. C----.
+
+This is the cipher which, using the figure at the head as the key, will
+easily be interpreted:
+
+    Found. What next?                    CARNES.
+
+Found! That meant much. It meant that the end of the Groveland mystery
+was near at hand!
+
+But there was much to learn before we could decide and reply to the
+query, "What next?"
+
+While Harris was absent for a few moments, during the afternoon, the
+night operator sent the following to Carnes:
+
+    Where found? In what condition? What do you advise?
+
+Before midnight, this answer came:
+
+     In a fourth-rate theater. One well, the other sick. Their
+     friends had better come for them at once. Can you get your
+     hands on Johnny La Porte?
+
+To this I promptly replied:
+
+     Telegraph particulars to the Agency. We can get La Porte, but
+     must not alarm the others too soon. State what you want with
+     him. Wyman will come to you, if needed.
+
+This message dispatched, I dictated another to my Chief.
+
+     Let Wyman act with Carnes. Can not quit this case at present.
+     Carnes will wire you particulars.
+
+This being sent, I went back to my hotel and waited.
+
+The next day the night operator offered to relieve Harris, an offer
+which was gladly accepted.
+
+A little before noon the following message came:
+
+     Instructions received. Wyman, Ewing, Rutger, and La Porte start
+     for New Orleans to-morrow. Do you need any help?
+
+I heaved a sigh of relief and gratification, and sped back the answer,
+"_No._"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+CARNES TELLS HIS STORY.
+
+
+The time came when Carnes told me the story of his New Orleans search.
+As he related it to me then, let him relate it now:--
+
+Arrived in New Orleans without trouble or delay, at three o'clock in the
+afternoon. Registered at the "Hotel Honore," a small house near the
+levees; giving my name as George Adams, sugar dealer, from St. Louis.
+
+Then began a hunt among the theaters, and, before seven o'clock I had
+found the place I wanted,--"The Little Adelphi," owned and managed by
+"Storms & Brookhouse." It is a small theater, but new and neatly fitted
+up, has a bar attached, and beer tables on the floor of the auditorium.
+I made no effort to see Brookhouse, but went back to the "Honore," after
+learning that money would open the door of the green room to any patron
+of the theater.
+
+After supper I refreshed my memory by a look at the pictures of the
+missing young ladies, including that of Miss Amy Holmes, and then I set
+out for the little Adelphi.
+
+There was never an easier bit of work than this New Orleans business.
+The curtain went up on a "Minstrel first part," and there, sitting next
+to one of the "end men," was Mamie Rutger!
+
+Her curly hair was stuck full of roses. She wore a very short pink satin
+dress, and her little feet were conspicuous in white kid slippers. If
+Miss Mamie was forcibly abducted, she has wasted no time in grieving
+over it. If she has been in any manner deceived or deluded, she bears it
+wonderfully well. She sang her ballad with evident enjoyment, and her
+voice rang out in the choruses, clear and sweet. Her lips were wreathed
+in smiles, her cheeks glowed, and her eyes sparkled. Occasionally she
+turned her head to whisper to the blacked-up scamp who sat at her right
+hand. Altogether she deported herself with the confidence of an old
+_habitue_ of the stage. Evidently she had made herself popular with the
+Little Adelphi audiences, and certainly she enjoyed her popularity.
+
+After the first part, I watched the stage impatiently, it being too
+early to venture into the green-room.
+
+Mamie Rutger did not re-appear, but, after an hour, occupied
+principally by "burnt cork artists," Miss Lotta Le Clair, "the song and
+dance Queen," came tripping from the wings; and Miss Lotta Le Clair, in
+a blue velvet coat and yellow satin nether garments, was none other than
+Amy Holmes! She danced very well, and sang very ill; and I fancied that
+she had tasted too often of the cheap wine dealt out behind the bar.
+Very soon after her exit I made my way to the green-room, piloted by the
+head waiter. I had, of course, gotten myself up for the occasion, and I
+looked like a cross between a last year's fashionplate and a Bowery
+blackleg.
+
+It is always easy to make a variety actress talk, and those at the
+Little Adelphi proved no exception. Two or three bottles of wine opened
+the way to some knowledge.
+
+By chatting promiscuously with several of the Adelphi belles, I learned
+that Amy Holmes and Mamie Rutger, who, by the way, was "Rose
+Deschappelles" on the bills, lived together. That Amy, who was not known
+at the theater by that name, was "a hard one," and "old in the
+business;" while "Rose" was a soft little prig who "wore her lover's
+picture in a locket," and was "as true to him as steel." The girls all
+united in voting Amy disagreeable, in spite of her superior wisdom; and
+Mamie, "a real nice, jolly little thing," spite of her verdancy.
+
+The fair Amy was then approached, and my real work began. I ordered, in
+her honor, an extra brand of wine. I flattered her, I talked freely of
+my wealth, and displayed my money recklessly. I became half intoxicated
+in her society, and, through it all, bemoaned the fact that I could not
+offer, for her quaffing, the sparkling champagne that was the only
+fitting drink for such a goddess.
+
+The Adelphi champagne _was_ detestable stuff, and Miss Amy was
+_connoisseur_ enough to know it. She frankly confessed her fondness for
+good champagne, and could tell me just where it was to be found.
+
+The rest came as a matter of course. I proposed to give her a champagne
+banquet; she accepted, and the programme was speedily arranged.
+
+At eleven o'clock the next day, she would meet me at a convenient little
+restaurant near the theater. I must come with a carriage. We would have
+a drive, and, just outside the city, would come upon Louis Meniu's
+Summer _cafe_. There we would find fine luscious fruits, rare wines,
+everything choice and dainty.
+
+Miss Amy, who seemed to possess all the luxurious tastes of a native
+creole, arranged the programme, and we parted at the green-room door,
+mutually satisfied, she anticipating a gala day, and I seeing before me
+the disagreeable necessity of spoiling her frolic and depriving the
+Little Adelphi, for a time at least, of one of its fairest attractions.
+
+The course which I had resolved to pursue was not the one most to my
+taste; but it was the simplest, shortest, and would accord best with the
+instructions given me, viz., that no arrests must be made, nor anything
+done to arouse the suspicions of Fred Brookhouse, and cause him to give
+the alarm to his confederates in the North.
+
+I had purposely held aloof from Mamie Rutger, feeling convinced that it
+were best not to approach _her_ until a definite course of action had
+been decided upon. Nor was I entirely certain that my scheme would
+succeed. If Amy Holmes should prove a shade wiser, shrewder, and more
+courageous, and a trifle less selfish and avaricious than I had judged
+her to be, my plans might fail and, in that case, the girl might work me
+much mischief.
+
+I weighed the possibilities thoughtfully, and resolved to risk the
+chances.
+
+Accordingly, on the morning after my visit to the Little Adelphi, I sent
+my first telegram, and made arrangements for putting my scheme into
+execution.
+
+The beginning of the programme was carried out, as planned by the young
+lady.
+
+We drove to the _cafe_, kept by Louis Meniu, and tested his champagne,
+after which I began to execute my plans.
+
+"Louis Meniu might be all very well," I said, "but there was no man in
+New Orleans, so I had often been told by Northern travelers, who could
+serve such a dinner as did the _chef_ at the P---- Hotel. Should we
+drive to this house and there eat the best dinner to be served in the
+city?"
+
+The prospect of dining at a swell hotel pleased the young lady. She gave
+instant consent to the plan, and we turned back to the city and the
+P---- Hotel.
+
+Here we were soon installed in a handsome private parlor, and, after I
+had paused a few moments in the office, to register, "Geo. Adams and
+sister, St. Louis, Mo.," I closed the door upon servants and intruders,
+and the engagement commenced.
+
+Having first locked the door and put the key in my pocket, I approached
+Miss Amy, who stood before a mirror, carelessly arranging a yellow rose
+in her black frisettes. Dropping my swaggering, half-maudlin,
+wholly-admiring tone and manner, I said, quietly:
+
+"Now, Miss Amy Holmes, if you will sit down opposite me, we will talk
+things over."
+
+She started violently, and turned toward me with a stare of surprise, in
+which, however, I could observe no fear. The name had caused her
+astonishment. I had been careful to address her by her stage name, or
+rather the one she chose to use at the theater. I hardly suppose her
+real name to be Holmes,--probably it is Smith or Jones instead.
+
+She let the hand holding the rose drop at her side, but did not loosen
+her grasp of the flower.
+
+"Look here," she exclaimed, sharply. "Where did you pick up that name?
+and what kind of a game are you giving me, anyhow?"
+
+After the surprise occasioned by the utterance of her discarded name, my
+altered tone and manner had next impressed her.
+
+"I got that name where I got several others, Miss Amy, and the game I am
+playing is one that is bound to win."
+
+She sat down upon the nearest chair, and stared mutely.
+
+"How would you like to go back to Amora, Miss Holmes? Or to Groveland
+and the widow Ballou's?"
+
+She sprang up with her eyes flashing, and made a sudden dash for the
+door. Of course it resisted her effort to open it.
+
+"Open that door," she said, turning upon me a look of angry defiance.
+"You are either a fool or a meddler. Open the door!"
+
+[Illustration: "Open that door," she said, turning upon me a look of
+angry defiance.--page 358.]
+
+I laid one hand somewhat heavily upon her shoulder, and led her back to
+the seat she had just vacated.
+
+"Possibly I may be both fool and meddler," I replied, in a tone so stern
+that it seemed to arrest her attention, and impress her with the fact
+that I was neither trifling nor to be trifled with. "But I am something
+else, and I know more of you, my young lady, and of your past career,
+than you would care to have me know. Perhaps you may never have heard of
+Michael Carnes, the detective, but there are others who have made his
+acquaintance."
+
+Now, all this was random firing, but I acted on the knowledge that
+nine-tenths of the women who are professional adventuresses have, in
+their past, something either criminal or disgraceful to conceal, and on
+the possibility that Miss Amy Holmes might not belong to the exceptional
+few.
+
+The shot told. I saw it in the sudden blanching of her cheek, in the
+startled look that met mine for just an instant. If there were nothing
+else to conceal, I think she would have defied me and flouted at my
+efforts to extract information on the subject of the Groveland mystery.
+
+But I had touched at a more vulnerable point. If I could now convince
+her that I knew her past career, the rest would be easy.
+
+It was a delicate undertaking. I might say too much, or too little, but
+I must press the advantage I had gained. Her attention was secured. Her
+curiosity was aroused. There was a shade of anxiety on her face.
+
+Drawing a chair opposite her, and seating myself therein, I fixed my
+eyes upon her face, and addressed her in a tone half stern, half
+confidential:
+
+"You are a plucky girl," I began, "and I admire you for that; and when I
+tell you that I have followed you, or tracked you, from the North,
+through Amora, through Groveland, down to the Little Adelphi, you will
+perhaps conjecture that I do not intend to be balked or evaded, even by
+so smart a little lady as you have proved yourself. I bear you no
+personal ill-will, and I much dislike to persecute a woman even when she
+has been guilty of"----
+
+I paused; she made a restless movement, and a look of pain flitted
+across her face.
+
+"Perhaps we may be able to avoid details," I said, slowly. "I will let
+you decide that."
+
+"How?" with a gasp of relief or surprise, I could hardly guess which.
+
+"Listen. Some time ago two girls disappeared from a little northern
+community, and I was one of the detectives employed to find them. I need
+not go into details, since you know so much about the case. In the
+course of the investigation, we inquired pretty closely into the
+character of the company kept by those two young ladies, and learned
+that a Miss Amy Holmes had been a schoolmate of the missing girls.
+Afterward, this same Amy Holmes and a Miss Grace Ballou made an attempt
+to escape from the Ballou farm house. The scheme was in part frustrated,
+but Amy Holmes escaped. Mrs. Ballou furnished us with a photo of Miss
+Amy Holmes, and when I saw it _I knew it_!"
+
+"Ah!"
+
+This time it was an interjection of unmistakable terror. It gave me my
+cue.
+
+"I knew it for the picture of a young woman who had--committed--a crime;
+a young woman who would be well received at police headquarters, and I
+said to myself I will _now_ find this young person who calls herself Amy
+Holmes."
+
+A look of sullen resolution was settling upon her face. She sat before
+me with her eyes fixed upon the carpet and her lips tightly closed.
+
+"I have found her," I continued, mercilessly. "And now--shall I take you
+back with me, a prisoner, and hand you over to the officers of the law,
+or will you answer truthfully such questions as I shall put to you, and
+go away from this house a free woman?"
+
+She was so absorbed by her own terror, or so overshadowed by some ghost
+of the past, that she seemed to take no note of my interest in the
+Groveland business, except as it had been an incidental aid in hunting
+her down.
+
+"Do you think I would trust you?" she said, with a last effort at
+defiance. "You want to make me testify against myself."
+
+"You mistake, or you do not understand. I am at present working in the
+interest of the Groveland case. My discovery of you was an accident, and
+my knowledge concerning you I am using as a means toward the elucidation
+of the mystery surrounding the movements of Mamie Rutger and Nellie
+Ewing. Mamie Rutger I saw last night at the Little Adelphi. Nellie Ewing
+is no doubt within reach. I might find them both without your
+assistance. It would only require a little more time and a little more
+trouble; but time just now is precious. I have other business which
+demands my attention at the North. Therefore, I say, tell me all that
+you know concerning these two girls--_all_, mind. If you omit one
+necessary detail, if you fabricate in one particular, I shall know it.
+Answer all my questions truthfully. I shall only ask such as concern
+your knowledge or connection with this Groveland affair. If you do this,
+you have nothing to fear from me. If you refuse--you are my _prisoner_.
+You comprehend me?"
+
+She eyed me skeptically.
+
+"How do I know that you will let me go, after all?" she said.
+
+"You have my promise, and I am a man of my word. You are a woman, and I
+don't want to arrest you. If you were a man, I should not offer you a
+chance for escape. Do as I wish and you are free, and if you need
+assistance you shall have it. You must choose at once; time presses."
+
+She hesitated a moment, and then said:
+
+"I may as well tell you about the girls, as you seem to know so much,
+and--I can't be arrested for that."
+
+"Very well! Tell your story, then, truly and without omissions."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+AMY HOLMES CONFESSES.
+
+
+"You say that you have seen Mamie Rutger at the theater," began the
+unwilling narrator, rather ungraciously, "and so I should think you
+wouldn't need to be told why she ran away from home. She wanted to go on
+the stage, and so did Nellie Ewing. Every country girl in christendom
+wants to be an actress, and if she has a pretty face and a decent voice
+she feels sure that she can succeed. The girls had both been told that
+they were pretty, and they could both sing, so they ran away to come out
+at the Little Adelphi.
+
+"Mamie took to the business like a duck to water. Nellie got sick and
+blue and whimsical, and has not appeared at the theater for several
+weeks. They live at 349 B---- place."
+
+I made a careful note of the address, and then said:
+
+"Well, proceed."
+
+"Proceed! what more do you want to know? I have told you why they ran
+away and where to find them."
+
+This was too much. My wrath must have manifested itself in face and
+voice, for she winced under my gaze and made no further attempt to
+baffle or evade me.
+
+"I want to know who devised the villainous plot to allure two innocent
+country girls away from home and friends! Who set you on as decoy and
+temptress, and what reward did you receive? There are men or scoundrels
+connected with this affair; who are they; and what means have they used
+to bring about such a misfortune to the girls and their friends? Tell
+the _whole_ truth, and remember what I have said. If you evade, omit,
+equivocate, _I shall know it_!"
+
+"Will you give me time?" she faltered.
+
+"Not ten minutes. Do you want time to telegraph to Arch Brookhouse? It
+will be useless; he is in the hands of the detectives, and no message
+can reach him."
+
+"What has Arch done?" she cried, excitedly. "He is not the one to be
+blamed."
+
+"He has done enough to put him out of the way of mischief. You have seen
+the last of Arch Brookhouse."
+
+"But Fred is the man who set this thing going!"
+
+"Very likely. And Arch and Louis Brookhouse were the brothers to help
+him. What about Johnny La Porte and Ed. Dwight? You see I know too much.
+There are two officers down-stairs. If you have not finished your story,
+and told it to my satisfaction, before half-past four, I will call them
+up and hand you over to them. It is _now_ ten minutes to four."
+
+She favored me with a glance full of impotent hatred, sat quite silent
+for a long moment, during which I sat before her with a careless glance
+fixed on my watch.
+
+Then she began:
+
+"I worked at the Little Adelphi over a year ago. There was a hot rivalry
+between us, the Gayety, and the 'Frolique.' Fred Brookhouse was managing
+alone then; _Storms_--only came into partnership in the Spring.
+
+"During the winter the Gayety brought out some new attractions,--I mean
+new to the profession; no old names that had been billed and billed, but
+young girls with fresh faces and pretty voices. They were new in the
+business, and the 'old stagers,' especially the faded and cracked-voiced
+ones, said that they would fail, they would hurt the business. But the
+managers knew better. They knew that pretty, youthful faces were the
+things most thought of in the varieties. And the 'freshness' of the new
+performers was only another attraction to green-room visitors. Nobody
+knew where these new girls came from, and nobody could find out; but
+they _drew_, and the Little Adelphi lost customers, who went over to the
+'Gayety.'
+
+"Fred Brookhouse was angry, and he began to study how he should outdo
+the 'Gayety,' and 'put out' the new attractions.
+
+"At the carnival season, Arch and Louis Brookhouse came down; and we
+got to be very good friends. Do you mean to use anything that I say to
+make me trouble?" she broke off, abruptly.
+
+"Not if you tell the entire truth and spare nobody."
+
+"Then I will tell it just as it happened. Arch and Fred and I were
+together one day after rehearsal. I was a favorite at the theater, and
+Fred consulted me sometimes. Fred wanted some fresh attractions, and
+wondered how they got the new girls at the 'Gayety.' And I told him that
+I thought they might have been 'recruited.' He did not seem to
+understand, and I explained that there were managers who paid a
+commission to persons who would get them young, pretty, bright girls,
+who could sing a little, for the first part, and for green-room talent.
+
+"I told him that I knew of an old variety actress who went into the
+country for a few weeks in the Summer, and picked up girls for the
+variety business. They were sometimes poor girls who 'worked out,' and
+were glad of a chance to earn an easier living, and sometimes daughters
+of well-to-do people; girls who were romantic or ambitious,
+stage-struck, and easily flattered.
+
+"Fred asked me how I knew all this, and I told him that I was roped into
+the business in just that way."
+
+"Was that true?"
+
+"Yes; it was true," a dark shade crossing her face. "But never mind me.
+Fred asked me if I knew where to go to find three or four pretty girls.
+He said he did not want '_biddies_;' they must be young and pretty; must
+be fair singers, and have nice manners. He could get gawks in plenty. He
+wanted lively young girls who would be interesting and attractive. Some
+new idea seemed to strike Arch Brookhouse. He took Fred aside, and
+by-and-by they called Louis, and the three talked a long time.
+
+"The next day, Arch and Louis came to me. They knew where to find just
+the girls that would suit Fred, but it would be some trouble to get
+them. Then they told me all about the Groveland girls; Nellie and her
+sister, Mamie, Grace Ballou and one or two others. Arch knew Nellie and
+Grace. Louis seemed particularly interested in Mamie.
+
+"Fred is a reckless fellow, and he would spend any amount to outdo the
+'Gayety,' and he seemed infatuated with the new scheme for getting
+talent. Besides, he knew that he could pay them what he liked; they
+would not be clamoring for high salaries. He agreed to pay my expenses
+North if I would get the girls for him.
+
+"Arch and Louis went home, and we corresponded about the business.
+Finally, Arch wrote that three of the girls would attend school at
+Amora, the Spring term, and it was settled that I should attend also.
+
+"I rather liked the prospect. Fred fitted me out in good style, and I
+went.
+
+"Of course I soon found how to manage the girls. Mamie Rutger was ripe
+for anything new, and she did not like her step-mother. She was easy to
+handle.
+
+"Grace was vain and easily influenced. She thought she could run away
+and create a sensation at home, and come back after a while to astonish
+the natives with her success as an actress.
+
+"Nellie Ewing was more difficult to manage, but I found out that she was
+desperately in love with Johnny La Porte. Johnny had begun by being in
+love with Nellie, but her silly devotion had tired him, and besides, he
+is fickle by nature.
+
+"I told Arch that if we got Nellie, it would have to be through La
+Porte. Arch knew how to manage La Porte, who was vain, and prided
+himself upon being a 'masher.' He thought to be mixed up in a
+sensational love affair, would add to his fame as a dangerous fellow. He
+sang a good tenor, and often sang duets with Nellie.
+
+"Louis Brookhouse had a chum named Ed. Dwight; Ed. had been, or claimed
+to have been, a song and dance man. _I_ don't think he was ever anything
+more than an amateur, but he was perpetually dancing jigs, and singing
+comic songs, and went crazy over a minstrel show.
+
+"Louis used to take Grace out for an occasional drive, and one day he
+introduced Ed. to Mamie.
+
+"After a time, Arch and Louis thought they could better their original
+plan. Arch is a shrewd fellow, with a strong will, and he could just
+wind Johnny La Porte around his finger. Johnny took him for a model, for
+Arch was a stylish fellow, who knew all the ropes, and had seen a deal
+of the world; and Johnny, while he had been a sort of prince among the
+Grovelanders, had never had a taste of town life.
+
+"Arch managed Johnny, and _he_ managed Nellie Ewing."
+
+She paused, and something in her face made me say, sternly:
+
+"How did Johnny La Porte manage Nellie Ewing?" and then I glanced
+ominously at my watch, which I still held in my hand.
+
+She moved uneasily, and averted her eyes.
+
+"Nellie was conscientious," she resumed, reluctantly. "She had all sorts
+of scruples. But Johnny told her that he was to go South and study law
+with his mother's cousin, who lived in New Orleans. He said that he
+dared not marry until he had finished his studies, but if she would
+marry him privately, and keep the marriage a secret, she could go South
+and they would not be separated.
+
+"She agreed to this, and the ceremony was performed. After it was over,
+he told her that he had just discovered that he would be subject to
+arrest under some new marriage law, and that they would be separated if
+it became known.
+
+"And then he persuaded her to come here before him and work at the
+Little Adelphi; telling her that if her father found her there they
+would not suspect him, and as soon as his studies were over he would
+claim her openly."
+
+Again she hesitated.
+
+"And was this precious programme carried out?" I demanded.
+
+"Yes. It was a long time before Nellie consented, but a little cool
+treatment from Johnny brought her to terms. She got away very nicely. I
+presume you know something about that."
+
+"Never mind what I know. How did she get rid of her horse after leaving
+Mrs. Ballou's house?"
+
+"Not far from Mrs. Ballou's there is a small piece of timber. Johnny was
+there with his team and he had a fellow with him who took charge of the
+pony. Johnny drove Nellie ten miles towards Amora, driving at full
+speed. There Ed. Dwight, with his machine wagon, waited, and Nellie was
+taken by Ed. into Amora. On the way she put on some black clothes and a
+big black veil. At Amora, Louis Brookhouse was waiting. They got there
+just in time to catch the midnight express, and were almost at their
+journey's end before Nellie was missed."
+
+"Stop. You have said that Nellie Ewing has not been at the theater of
+late; has been blue, and ill. What has caused all this?"
+
+She colored hotly, and a frightened look crept into her eyes.
+
+"You are not to hold me to blame?"
+
+"Not if you answer me truly."
+
+"One night I had come home from the theater with Nellie, and she began
+crying because Johnny did not come as he had promised, and did not write
+often enough. I was tired and cross, and I suppose I had taken too much
+wine. I forgot myself, and told her that Johnny had hired a man to
+personate a parson, and that she was not married at all. She broke down
+entirely after that."
+
+I sprang to my feet, for the moment forgetting that the creature before
+me was a woman. I wanted to take her by the throat and fling her from
+the window.
+
+"Go on!" I almost shouted. "Go on; my patience is nearly exhausted. Is
+Nellie Ewing seriously ill?"
+
+"She is fretting and pining; she thinks she is dying, and she loves
+Johnny La Porte as much as ever."
+
+"And Mamie Rutger?"
+
+"She was glad to run away. One evening when every body about the farm
+was busy, she waited at the front gate for Ed. Dwight. People were used
+to the sight of his covered wagon, and it was the last thing to suspect.
+But Mamie Rutger went from her father's gate in that wagon, and she and
+Dwight drove boldly to Sharon, and both took the midnight train as the
+others did at Amora.
+
+"Ed. only went a short distance with Mamie; he came back the next
+morning. Mamie was plucky enough to come on alone."
+
+"And then you and Grace Ballou tried to elope?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Well, I won't trouble you to tell you that story. I know all about it.
+Now, listen to me. I have registered you here as my sister, and you are
+going to stay here for one week a prisoner. You are to speak to no one,
+write to no one. You will be constantly watched, and if you attempt to
+disobey me you know the consequences. As soon as Mr. Rutger and 'Squire
+Ewing arrive I will set you at liberty, and no one shall harm you; but
+until then you must remain in your own room, and see no one except in my
+presence."
+
+"But you promised--"
+
+"I shall keep my promise, but choose my own time."
+
+"But the theater--"
+
+"You can write them a note stating that you are going to leave the city
+for a little recreation. You may send a similar note to Mamie and
+Nellie."
+
+"You are not treating me fairly."
+
+"I am treating you better than you deserve. Did you deal fairly at
+Amora and Groveland? If I were not morally sure that such crimes as
+yours must be punished sooner or later, I should not dare set you free."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+JOHNNY LA PORTE IS BROUGHT TO BOOK.
+
+
+That is how Miss Amy Holmes was brought to judgment. I had managed her
+by stratagem, and extracted the truth from her under false pretenses.
+The weapon that I brandished above her head was a reed of straws, but it
+sufficed. My pretended knowledge of her past history had served my
+purpose.
+
+What her secret really was, and is, I neither know nor care. She is a
+woman, and when a woman has stepped down from her pedestal the world is
+all against her. The law may safely trust such sinners and their
+punishment to Dame Nature, who never errs, and never forgives, and to
+Time, who is the sternest of all avengers.
+
+After hearing her story, I sent my second telegram to you, and then my
+third; and after assuring myself that the girl had told the truth
+concerning Nellie Ewing, I telegraphed to the office, giving the hints
+which Wyman acted on.
+
+I should not have liked Wyman's task of going to those two honest
+farmers and telling them the truth concerning their daughters; but I
+should not have been averse to the other work.
+
+I can imagine Johnny La Porte, under the impression that he was
+preparing for a day's lark, oiling his curly locks, scenting his pocket
+handkerchief, and driving Wyman, in whom he thought he had found a boon
+companion, to Sharon, actually flying into the arms of the avengers, at
+the heels of his own roadsters. I should have driven over that ten miles
+of country road, had I been in Wyman's place, bursting with glee,
+growing fat on the stupidity of the sleek idiot at my side.
+
+But Wyman is a modest fellow, and given to seeing only the severe side
+of things, and he says there is no glory in trapping a fool. Possibly he
+is right.
+
+I should like to have seen Johnny La Porte when he was brought,
+unexpectedly, before 'Squire Ewing and Farmer Rutger, to be charged with
+his villainy, and offered one chance for his life. He had heard the
+Grovelanders talk, and he knew that the despoilers of those two
+Groveland homes had been dedicated to Judge Lynch.
+
+Small wonder that he was terror-stricken before these two fathers, and
+that under the lash of Wyman's eloquence he already felt the cord
+tightening about his throat.
+
+I don't wonder that he whined and grovelled and submitted, abjectly, to
+their demands. But I do wonder that those two fathers could let him out
+of their hands alive; and I experienced a thrill of ecstasy when I
+learned that Wyman kicked him three times, with stout boots!
+
+That must have been an unpleasant journey to New Orleans. The two
+farmers, stern, silent, heavy of heart, and filled with anxiety. La
+Porte, who was taken in hand by Wyman, writhing under the torments of
+his own conscience and his own terror, and compelled to submit to his
+guardian's frequent tirades of scorn and contempt, treated, for the
+first time in his life, like the poltroon he was.
+
+I found the two girls at the address given by Amy Holmes; and, more to
+spare the two farmers the sight of her, than for her sake, I did not
+compel her to repeat her story in their presence, but related it myself
+instead.
+
+It's not worth while to attempt a description of the meeting between the
+two girls and their parents. Mamie was, at first, inclined to rebel; but
+Nellie Ewing broke down completely, and begged to be taken home. She was
+pale and emaciated, a sad and pitiful creature. Her father was overcome
+with grief at sight of the change in her. He could not trust himself to
+speak to her of Johnny La Porte; and so--what a Jack of all trades a
+detective is--he called me from the room and delegated to me the
+unpleasant task.
+
+I did it as well as I could. I told her as gently as possible that
+Johnny La Porte was in New Orleans, and asked if she wanted to see him.
+She cried for joy, poor child, and begged me to send for him at once.
+And then I told her why we had brought him; he was prepared to make what
+reparation he could. Did she wish him to make her his wife? She
+interrupted me with a joyful cry.
+
+"Would he do that? Oh, then she could go home and die happy."
+
+In that moment I made a mental vow that this dying girl, if she could be
+made any happier by it, should have not only the name of the young
+scoundrel she so foolishly loved, but his care and companionship as
+well.
+
+I assured her that he was ready to make her his lawful wife, but could
+not tell her that he did it under compulsion.
+
+After a long talk with 'Squire Ewing, during which I persuaded him to
+think first of his daughter's needs, and to make such use of Johnny La
+Porte as would best serve her, I went back to the hotel, where we had
+left the young scamp in charge of Wyman, and a little later in the day
+the ceremony was performed which made Johnny La Porte the husband of the
+girl he had sought to ruin.
+
+Not long after this I invited the young man to a _tete-a-tete_, and he
+followed me somewhat ungraciously into a room adjoining that in which
+his new wife lay.
+
+"Sit down," I said, curtly, motioning him to a chair opposite the one in
+which I seated myself. "Sit down. I want to give you a little advice
+concerning your future conduct."
+
+He threw back his head defiantly; evidently he believed that he was now
+secure from further annoyance, and no longer within reach of law and
+justice.
+
+"I don't need your advice," he said, pettishly. "I have done all that
+you, or any one else, can require of me."
+
+"Mistaken youth, your conformity with my wishes is but now begun."
+
+"You can't bully me, now," he retorted. "I have married the girl, and
+that's enough."
+
+"It is _not_ enough! it is not all that you will do."
+
+"You are a liar."
+
+I took him by the shoulders, and lifting him fairly off his feet shook
+him as a terrier shakes a rat. Then I popped him down upon the chair he
+had refused to occupy, and said:
+
+"There, you impudent little dunce, if you want to call me any more
+names, don't hesitate. Now, hear me; you will do _precisely_ what I bid
+you, now, and hereafter, or you will exchange that smart plaid suit for
+one adorned with horizontal stripes, and I'll have that curly pate of
+yours as bare as a cocoanut."
+
+[Illustration: "I took him by the shoulders, and lifting him fairly off
+his feet shook him as a terrier shakes a rat."--page 379.]
+
+"The law,"--he began.
+
+"The _law_ may permit you to break the marriage vow you have just taken,
+but _I_ will not."
+
+"You?" incredulously.
+
+"Yes, _I_," I retorted, firmly. "The law of this mighty country, made by
+very wise men, and enacted by very great fools, is a wondrous vixen. You
+have stolen 'Squire Ewing's daughter, and for that the law permits you
+to go unhung. You have stolen 'Squire Ewing's horse, and for that, the
+law will put you in the State's prison."
+
+"His horse--I!--" the poor wretch gasped, helplessly.
+
+"Exactly. The horse! and you! You see, the daughter has been found, but
+the horse has _not_."
+
+"But--I can prove--"
+
+"You can prove nothing. I know all about the affair. _You_ carried
+Nellie Ewing away in your own carriage. _You_ handed her pony over to an
+accomplice. I have, at my finger's ends, testimony enough to condemn you
+before any jury, and the only thing that can save you from the fate of a
+common horse-thief, is--your own good behavior."
+
+"What do you want?" he said, abjectly.
+
+"I _want_ to see you hung as high as Haman. But that poor girl in the
+next room wants something different, and I yield my wishes to hers. She
+is so foolish as to value your miserable existence, and so I give you
+this one chance. Go home with your wife, not to your home, but hers, and
+remain there so long as she needs or wants you. Treat her with
+tenderness, serve her like a slave, and try thus to atone for some of
+your past villainy. Quit your old associates, be as decent and dutiful
+as the evil within will let you. So long as I hear no complaint, so long
+as your wife is made happy, you are safe. Commit one act of cruelty,
+unkindness, or neglect, and your fate is sealed. And, remember this, if
+you attempt to run away, I will bring you back, if I have to bring you
+dead."
+
+He whined, he blustered, he writhed like a cur under the lash. But he
+was conquered. 'Squire Ewing behaved most judiciously. Poor Nellie was
+foolishly happy. Mamie Rutger, too, became our ally, and, after a time,
+La Porte, who loved his ease above all things, seemed resigned, or
+resolved to make the best of the situation. I think, too, that he was,
+in his way, fond of his poor little wife. Perhaps his conscience
+troubled him, for when a physician was called in by the anxious father,
+her case was pronounced serious, and the chances for her recovery less
+than three in ten. The physician advised them to take her North at once,
+and they hastened to obey his instructions.
+
+Our next care was to quiet Fred Brookhouse, for the present, and punish
+him, as much as might be, for the future.
+
+Accordingly, Brookhouse was arrested, on a trumped-up charge, and locked
+up in the city jail, and then Wyman and myself gave to the Chief of
+police and the Mayor of the city, a detailed account of his scheme to
+provide attractions for his theater, and took other measures to insure
+for the Little Adelphi a closer surveillance than would be at all
+comfortable or welcome to the enterprising manager.
+
+Brookhouse was held in jail until we were out of the city, and far on
+our way Northward, thus insuring us against the possibility of his
+telegraphing the alarm to any one who might communicate it to Arch, or
+Ed. Dwight, and then, there being no one to appear against him, at the
+proper time, he was released.
+
+Amy Holmes remained a prisoner at the hotel, conducting herself quite
+properly during the time of her compulsory sojourn there; and on the day
+of our departure I paid her a sum equivalent to the week's salary she
+had lost, and bade her go her way, having first obtained her promise
+that she would not communicate with any of her accomplices; a promise
+which I took good care to convince her it would be safest to keep.
+
+She was not permitted to see either Mamie or Nellie, and she had no
+desire to see the other members of the homeward-bound party. And thus
+ended our case in New Orleans.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+HOW BETHEL WAS WARNED.
+
+
+While Carnes was solving the Groveland problem, in that far-away
+Southern city, we, who were in Trafton, were living through a long, dull
+week of waiting.
+
+There were two dreary days of suspense, during which Carl Bethel and Dr.
+Denham wrestled with the deadly fever fiend, the one unconsciously, the
+other despairingly. But when the combat was over, the doctor stood at
+his post triumphant, and "Death, the Terrible," went away from the
+cottage without a victim.
+
+Then I began to importune the good doctor.
+
+"When would Bethel be able to talk? at least to answer questions? For it
+was important that I should ask, and that he should answer _one_ at
+least."
+
+I received the reward I might have expected had I been wise. "Our old
+woman" turned upon me with a tirade of whimsical wrath, that was a
+mixture of sham and real, and literally turned me out of doors, banished
+me three whole days from the sick room; and so great was his ascendancy
+over Jim Long, that even he refused to listen to my plea for admittance,
+and kept me at a distance, with grim good nature.
+
+At last, however, the day came when "our old woman" signified his
+willingness to allow me an interview, stipulating, however, that it must
+be very brief and in his presence.
+
+"Bethel is better," he said, eyeing me severely, "but he can't bear
+excitement. If you think you _must_ interview him, I suppose you must,
+but mind, _I_ think it's all bosh. Detectives are a miserable tribe
+through and through. Is not that so, Long?"
+
+And Jim, who was present on this occasion, solemnly agreed with him.
+
+And so the day came when I sat by Bethel's bedside and held his weak,
+nerveless hand in my own, while I looked regretfully at the pallid face,
+and into the eyes darkened and made hollow by pain.
+
+[Illustration: "And so the day came when I sat by Bethel's bedside and
+held his weak, nerveless hand in my own."--page 386.]
+
+The weak hand gave mine a friendly but feeble pressure. The pale lips
+smiled with their old cordial friendliness, the eyes brightened, as he
+said:
+
+"Louise has told me how good you have been, you and Long."
+
+"Stuff," interrupted Dr. Denham. "_He_ good, indeed; stuff! stuff! Now,
+look here, young man, you can talk with my patient just five minutes,
+then--out you go."
+
+"Very well," I retorted, "then see that you don't monopolize four
+minutes out of the five. Bethel, you may not be aware of it, but, that
+cross old gentleman and myself are old acquaintances, and, I'll tell you
+a secret, we, that is myself and some friends,--"
+
+"A rascally lot," broke in the old doctor, "a _rascally_ lot!"
+
+"We call him," I persisted, "our old woman!"
+
+"Humph!" sniffed the old gentleman, "upstarts! 'old woman,' indeed!"
+
+But it was evident that he was not displeased with his nickname in the
+possessive case.
+
+We had judged it best to withhold the facts concerning our recent
+discoveries, especially those relating to his would-be assassin, from
+Bethel, until he should be better able to bear excitement. And so, after
+I had finished my tilt with the old doctor, and expressed my regret for
+Bethel's calamity, and my joy at his prospective recovery, I said:
+
+"I have been forbidden the house, Bethel, by your two dragons here, and
+now, I am only permitted a few moments' talk with you. So I shall be
+obliged to skip the details; you shall have them all soon, however. But
+I will tell you something. We are having things investigated here, and,
+for the benefit of a certain detective, I want you to answer me a
+question. You possess some professional knowledge which may help to
+solve a riddle."
+
+"What is your question?" he whispers, with a touch of his natural
+decisiveness.
+
+"One night, nearly two weeks ago," I began, "you and I were about to
+renew an interview, which had been interrupted, when the second
+interruption came in the shape of a call, from 'Squire Brookhouse, who
+asked you to accompany him home, and attend to his son, who, so he said,
+had received some sort of injury."
+
+"I remember."
+
+"Was your patient Louis Brookhouse?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Did you dress a wound for him?"
+
+He looked at me wonderingly and was silent.
+
+"Bethel, I am tracing a crime; if your professional scruples will not
+permit you to answer me, I must find out by other means what you can
+easily tell me. But to resort to other measures will consume time that
+is most valuable, and might arouse the suspicions of guilty parties. You
+can tell me all that I wish to learn by answering my question with a
+simple 'Yes,' or 'No.'"
+
+While Bethel continued to gaze wonderingly, my recent antagonist came to
+my assistance.
+
+"You may as well answer him, boy," "our old woman" said. "If you don't,
+some day he'll be accusing you of ingratitude. And then this is one of
+the very _rare_ instances when the scamp may put his knowledge to good
+use."
+
+Bethel looked from the doctor's face to mine, and smiled faintly.
+
+"I am overpowered by numbers," he said; "put your questions, then."
+
+"Did you dress a wound for Louis Brookhouse?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"A wound in the leg?"
+
+"Yes, the right leg."
+
+"Was it a bullet wound?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Did you extract the ball?"
+
+"I did."
+
+"Who has it?"
+
+"I. Nobody seemed to notice it. I put it in my pocket."
+
+"Brookhouse said that his wound was caused by an accident, I suppose?"
+
+"Yes, an accidental discharge of his own pistol."
+
+"Some one had tried to dress the wound, had they not?"
+
+"Yes, it had been sponged and--"
+
+"And bound with a fine cambric handkerchief," I interrupted.
+
+"Yes," with a stare of surprise, "so it was."
+
+"How old was the wound, when you saw it?"
+
+"Twenty-four hours, at least."
+
+"Was it serious?"
+
+"No; only a flesh wound, but a deep one. He had ought to be out by this
+time."
+
+"Can you show me the bullet, sometime, if I wish to see it?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+My five minutes had already passed, but "our old woman" sat with a look
+of puzzled interest on his face, and as Bethel was quite calm, though
+none the less mystified, I took advantage of the situation, and hurried
+on.
+
+"Bethel, I want to ask you something concerning your own hurt, now. Will
+it disturb or excite you to answer?"
+
+"No; it might relieve me."
+
+"This time I _will_ save you words. On the night when you received your
+wound, you were sitting by your table, reading by the light of the
+student's lamp, and smoking luxuriously; the door was shut, but the
+front window was open."
+
+"True!" with a look of deepening amazement.
+
+"You heard the sound of wheels on the gravel outside, and then some one
+called your name."
+
+"Oh!" a new look creeping into his eyes.
+
+"When you opened the door and looked out, could you catch a glimpse of
+the man who shot at you?"
+
+"No," slowly, as if thinking.
+
+"Have you any reason for suspecting any one? Can you guess at a motive?"
+
+"Wait;" he turned his head restlessly, seemingly in the effort to
+remember something, and then looked toward Dr. Denham.
+
+"In my desk," he said, slowly, "among some loose letters, is a yellow
+envelope, bearing the Trafton post-mark. Will you find it?"
+
+Dr. Denham went to the desk, and I sat silently waiting. Bethel was
+evidently thinking.
+
+"I received it," he said, after a moment of silence, disturbed only by
+the rustling of papers, as the old doctor searched the desk, "I received
+it two days after the search for little Effie Beale. I made up my mind
+then that I would have a detective, whom I could rely upon, here in
+Trafton. And then Dr. Barnard was taken ill. After that I waited--have
+you found it?"
+
+Dr. Denham stood beside me with a letter in his hand, which Bethel, by a
+sign, bade him give to me.
+
+"Do you wish me to read it?" I asked.
+
+"Yes."
+
+I glanced at the envelope and almost bounded from my seat. Then,
+withdrawing the letter with nervous haste, I opened it.
+
+     _Dr. Bethel. If that is your name, you are not welcome in
+     Trafton. If you stay here three days longer, it will be_ AT
+     YOUR OWN RISK.
+
+                                          _No resurrectionists._
+
+I flushed with excitement; I almost laughed with delight. I got up,
+turned around, and sat down again. I wanted to dance, to shout, to
+embrace the dear old doctor.
+
+I held in my hand a _printed warning_, every letter the counterpart of
+those used in the anonymous letter sent to "Chris Oleson" at Mrs.
+Ballou's! It was a similar warning, written by the same hand. Was the
+man who had given me that pistol wound really in Trafton? or--
+
+I looked up; the patient on the bed, and the old doctor beside me, were
+both gazing at my tell-tale countenance, and looking expectant and
+eager.
+
+"Doctor," I said, turning to "our old woman," "you remember the day I
+came to you with my wounded arm?"
+
+"Umph! Of course."
+
+"Well, shortly before getting that wound I received just such a thing as
+this," striking the letter with my forefinger, "a warning from the same
+hand. And now I am going to find the man who shot _me_, who shot
+_Bethel_, and who robbed the grave of little Effie Beale, here, in
+Trafton, and _very soon_."
+
+"What is it? I don't understand," began Bethel.
+
+But the doctor interposed.
+
+"This must be stopped. Bethel, you shan't hear explanations now, and you
+_shall_ go to sleep. Bathurst, how dare you excite my patient! Get out."
+
+"I will," I said, rising. "I must keep this letter, Bethel, and I will
+tell you all about it soon; have patience."
+
+Bethel turned his eyes toward the doctor, and said, eagerly:
+
+"Why did you call him _Bathurst_?"
+
+"Did I?" said the old man, testily. "It was a slip of the tongue."
+
+The patient turned his head and looked from one to the other, eagerly.
+Then he addressed me:
+
+"If you will answer me one question, I promise not to ask another until
+you are prepared to explain."
+
+"Ask it," I replied.
+
+"Are _you_ a detective?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Thank you," closing his eyes, as if weary. "I am quite content to
+wait. Thank you."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+WE PREPARE FOR A "PARTY."
+
+
+My first movement, after having made the discovery chronicled in the
+last chapter, was to go to the telegraph office and send the following
+despatch:
+
+     Arrest Blake Simpson instantly, on charge of attempted
+     assassination. Don't allow him to communicate with any one.
+
+This message was sent to the Agency, and then I turned my attention to
+other matters, satisfied that Blake, at least, would be properly
+attended to.
+
+Early the following morning Gerry Brown presented himself at the door of
+my room, to communicate to me something that instantly roused me to
+action.
+
+At midnight, or a little later, Mr. Arch Brookhouse had dropped in at
+the telegraph office; he was in evening dress, and he managed to convey
+to Gerry in a careless fashion the information that he, Arch, had been
+enjoying himself at a small social gathering, and on starting for home
+had bethought himself of a message to be sent to a friend. Then he had
+dashed off the following:
+
+     ED. DWIGHT, Amora, etc.
+
+     Be ready for the party at The Corners to-morrow eve. Notify
+     Lark. B.---- will join you at Amora. A. B.
+
+"There," he had said, as he pushed the message toward the seemingly
+sleepy operator, "I hope he will get that in time, as I send it in
+behalf of a lady. Dwight's always in demand for parties."
+
+Then, with a condescending smile as he drew on his right glove, "Know
+anybody at Amora?"
+
+"No," responded Gerry, with a yawn, "nor anywhere else on this blasted
+line; wish they had sent me East."
+
+"You must get acquainted," said the gracious young nabob. "I'll try and
+get you an invitation to the next social party; should be happy to
+introduce you."
+
+And then, as Gerry was too sleepy to properly appreciate his
+condescension, he had taken himself away.
+
+"Gerry," I said, after pondering for some moments over the message he
+had copied for my benefit, "I'm inclined to think that this means
+business. You had better sleep short and sound this morning, and be on
+hand at the office as early as twelve o'clock. I think you will be
+relieved from this sort of duty soon, and as for Mr. Brookhouse, perhaps
+you may be able to attend this 'party' in question, even without his
+valuable patronage."
+
+After this I went in search of Jim Long. I found him at Bethel's
+cottage, and in open defiance of "our old woman," led him away where we
+could converse without audience or interruption. Then I put the telegram
+in his hand, telling him how it had been sent, much as Gerry had told
+the same to me.
+
+"What do you make of it?" asked Jim, as he slowly folded the slip of
+paper and put it in my hand.
+
+"Well, I may be amiss in my interpretation, but it seems to me that we
+had better be awake to-night. The moon has waned; it will be very dark
+at ten o'clock. I fancy that _we_ may be wise if we prepare for this
+party. I don't know who B---- may stand for, but there is, at Clyde, a
+man, who is a friend of Dwight's, and whose name is _Larkins_."
+
+"Larkins! To be sure; the man is often in Trafton."
+
+"Exactly. He appears like a good-natured rustic, but he is a good judge
+of a horse. Do you know of a place in this vicinity called The Corners?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Well, you are probably aware that the south road forks, just two miles
+north of Clyde, and that the road running east goes to the river, and
+the coal beds. It would not be a long drive from Amora to these corners,
+and Larkins is only two miles off from them. Both Dwight and Larkins own
+good teams."
+
+"Ah!" ejaculated Jim, in a tone which conveyed a world of meaning. "Ah,
+yes!" Then after a moment's silence, and looking me squarely in the
+face, "what do you want me to do?"
+
+"Our movements must be regulated by theirs. We must see Warren and all
+the others."
+
+"All?"
+
+"Yes, all. It will not be child's play. I think Mr. Warren is the man to
+lead one party, for there must be two. I, myself, will manage the other.
+As for you and Gerry--"
+
+"Gerry?" inquiringly.
+
+"Gerald Brown, our night operator. You will find him equal to most
+emergencies, I think."
+
+"And what are we to do?"
+
+"Some special business which will depend on circumstances. We must
+capture the gang outside of the town, if possible, and the farther away
+the better."
+
+"But--"
+
+"Wait. There are others who must not take the alarm too soon."
+
+"They will ride fleet horses; remember that."
+
+"Long," I said, earnestly, "we won't let them escape us. If they ride,
+we will pounce upon them at the very outset. But if my theory, which has
+thus far proven itself correct, holds good to the end _they will not
+ride_."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+SOMETHING THE MOON FAILED TO SEE.
+
+
+It has come at last; that night, almost the last in August, which I and
+others, with varying motives and interests, have so anxiously looked
+forward to.
+
+It has come, and the moon, so lately banished from the heavens, had she
+been in a position to overlook the earth, would have witnessed some
+sights unusual to Trafton at the hour of eleven P. M.
+
+A little more than a mile from Trafton, at a point where the first mile
+section crosses the south road, not far from the Brookhouse dwelling,
+there is a little gathering of mounted men. They are seven in number;
+all silent, all cautious, all stern of feature. They have drawn their
+horses far into the gloom of the hedge that grows tall on either side,
+all save one man, and he stands in the very center of the road, looking
+intently north and skyward.
+
+Farther away, midway between Trafton and Clyde, six other horsemen are
+riding southward at an easy pace.
+
+These, too, are very quiet, and a little light would reveal the earnest
+faces of Messrs. Warren, Harding, Benner, Booth, Jaeger and Meacham; the
+last mentioned being the owner of the recently stolen matched sorrels,
+and the others being the most prominent and reliable of the Trafton
+vigilants.
+
+A close inspection would develop the fact that this moving band of men,
+as well as the party whose present mission seems "only to stand and
+wait," is well armed and strongly mounted.
+
+The Hill, Miss Manvers' luxurious residence, stands, as its name
+indicates, on an elevation of ground, at the extreme northern boundary
+of Trafton.
+
+It stands quite alone, this abode of the treasure-ship heiress, having
+no neighbors on either hand for a distance of more than a quarter of a
+mile.
+
+The road leading up the hill from the heart of Trafton, is bordered on
+either side by a row of shade trees, large and leafy. All about the
+house the shrubbery is dense, and the avenue, leading up from the road,
+and past the dwelling, to the barns and outhouses, is transformed, by
+two thickly-set rows of poplars into a vault of inky blackness.
+
+To-night, if the moon were abroad, she might note that the fine
+roadster driven by Arch Brookhouse had stood all the evening at the
+roadside gate at the foot of the dark avenue of poplars, and, by peeping
+through the open windows, she would see that Arch Brookhouse himself
+sits in the handsome parlor with the heiress, who is looking pale and
+dissatisfied, and who speaks short and seldom, opposite him.
+
+The lady moon might also note that the new telegraph operator is not at
+his post, in the little office, at eleven o'clock P. M. But then, were
+the fair orb of night actually out, and taking observations, these
+singular phenomena might not occur.
+
+At half-past ten, on "this night of nights," three shadows steal through
+the darkness, moving northward toward the Hill.
+
+At a point midway between the town proper and the mansion beyond, is a
+junction of the roads; and here, at the four corners, the three shadows
+pause and separate.
+
+Two continue their silent march northward, and the third vanishes among
+the sheltering, low-bending branches of a gnarled old tree that
+overhangs the road, and marks the northwestern corner.
+
+At twenty minutes to eleven Arch Brookhouse takes leave of the
+treasure-ship heiress, and comes out into the darkness striding down the
+avenue like a man accustomed to the road. He unties the waiting horse
+which paws the ground impatiently, yet stands, obedient to his low
+command, turns the head of the beast southward, seats himself in the
+light buggy, lights a cigar, and then sits silently smoking, and
+waiting,--for what?
+
+The dull red spark at the end of his cigar shines through the dark; the
+horse turns his head and chafes to be away, but the smoker sits there,
+moveless and silent.
+
+Presently there comes a sound, slight but distinct; the crackling of a
+twig beneath a man's boot, and almost at the same instant the last light
+disappears from the windows of the "Hill House."
+
+One, two, three. Three dark forms approach, one after the other, each
+pauses for an instant beside the light buggy, and seems to look up to
+the dull red spark, which is all of Arch Brookhouse that is clearly
+visible through the dark. Then they enter the gate and are swallowed up
+in the blackness of the avenue.
+
+And now, a fourth form moves stealthily down the avenue after the
+others. It does not come from without the grounds, it starts out from
+the shrubbery within, and it is unseen by Arch Brookhouse.
+
+How still the night is! The man who follows after the three first comers
+can almost hear his pulses throb, or so he fancies.
+
+Presently the three men pause before the door of the barn, and one of
+them takes from his pocket a key, with which he unlocks the door, and
+they enter.
+
+As soon as they are inside, a lantern is lighted, and the three men move
+together toward the rear of the barn, the part against which is piled a
+monstrous stack of hay.
+
+Meanwhile the watcher outside glides close to the wall of the building,
+listening here and there, as he, too, approaches the huge hay pile.
+
+And now he does a queer thing. He begins to pull away handfuls of hay
+from the bottom of the stack, where it is piled against the barn. He
+works noiselessly, and very soon has made an opening, into which he
+crawls. Evidently this mine has been worked before, for there is a long
+tunnel through the hay, penetrating to the middle of the stack. Here the
+watcher peeps through two small holes, newly drilled in the thick boards
+of the barn. And then a smile of triumph rests upon his face.
+
+[Illustration: "He works noiselessly, and very soon has made an opening,
+into which he crawls."--page 404.]
+
+He sees a compartment that, owing to the arrangement of the hay against
+the rear wall, is in the very heart of the barn, shut from the gaze of
+curious eyes. On either side is a division, which our spy knows to
+contain a store of grain piled high, and acting as a complete
+non-conductor of sound. In front is a small room hung about with
+harness, and opening into a carriage room. The place is completely
+hidden from the ordinary gaze, and only a very inquiring mind would have
+fathomed its secret.
+
+The spy, who is peering in from his vantage ground among the hay, _has_
+fathomed the secret. And he now sees within six horses--two bay Morgans,
+two roans, and two sorrels.
+
+The three men are there, too, busily harnessing the six horses. They are
+working rapidly and silently.
+
+The watcher lingers just long enough to see that the harness looks
+new and that it is of the sort generally used for draft horses, and then
+he executes a retreat, more difficult than his entrance, inasmuch as he
+can not turn in his hay tunnel, but must withdraw by a series of
+retrograde movements more laborious than graceful.
+
+A moment more, and from among the poplars and evergreens a light goes
+shooting up, high and bright against the sky; a long, red ribbon of
+fire, that says to those who can read the sign,
+
+"The Trafton horse-thieves are about to move with their long-concealed
+prey. Meacham's matched sorrels, Hopper's two-forty's, and the bay
+Morgans stolen from 'Squire Brookhouse."
+
+It was seen, this fiery rocket, by the little band waiting by the
+roadside more than a mile away.
+
+"There it is!" exclaims young Warren, who is the leader of this
+party--"It is the red rocket. They _are_ going with the wagons; it's all
+right, boys, we can't ride too fast now."
+
+The seven men file silently out from the roadside and gallop away
+southward.
+
+At the four corners, not far from the house on the hill, where, a short
+time before, a single individual had stationed himself, as a sentinel in
+the darkness, this signal rocket was also seen, and the watcher uttered
+an exclamation under his breath, and started out from underneath the
+tree that had sheltered him.
+
+He could never remember how it happened, but his next sensation was
+that of being borne to the ground, clutched with a tiger-like grip,
+crushed by a heavy weight.
+
+And then a voice, a voice that he had not heard for years, hissed above
+him,
+
+"Lie still, Joe Blaikie! I've waited for this opportunity for eight long
+years, and it won't be worth your while to trifle with Harvey James
+_now_."
+
+[Illustration: "Lie still, Joe Blaikie! I've waited for this opportunity
+for eight long years, and it won't be worth your while to trifle with
+Harvey James _now_."--page 408.]
+
+And something cold and hard is pressed against the temple of the fallen
+sentinel, who does not need the evidence of the accompanying ominous
+click to convince him that it is a revolver in the hand of his deadliest
+foe.
+
+"You did not use to be a horse-thief, Joe," continues the voice, and the
+speaker's words are emphasized by the pressure of a knee upon his chest,
+and the weapon at his forehead. "They could not trust you to do the fine
+business, it seems, and so you are picketed here to give the alarm if
+anything stirs up or down the road. If it's all right, you are to remain
+silent. If anything occurs to alarm you, you are to give the signal.
+Now, listen; you are to get up and stand from under this tree. I shall
+stand directly behind you with my revolver at your head, and I shall not
+loosen my grip upon your collar. When your friends pass this way, _you
+had better remain silent_, Joe Blaikie."
+
+Arch Brookhouse, waiting at the avenue gate, has not seen the red
+rocket. The tall poplars that overshadow him have shut the shooting
+fiery ribbon from his vision; besides, he has been looking down the
+hill. Neither has he seen the form that is creeping stealthily toward
+him from behind the tree that guards the gate.
+
+Those within the barn have not seen the rocket, of course; and presently
+they come forth and harness the six horses to two huge wagons that stand
+in readiness. Four horses to one wagon, two to the other. The wheels are
+well oiled, and the wagons make no unnecessary rumbling as they go down
+the dark poplar avenue.
+
+At the gate the foremost wagon halts, just long enough to enable the
+driver to catch the low-spoken word that tells him it is safe to
+proceed.
+
+"All right," Arch Brookhouse says, softly, and the two wagons pass out
+and down the hill, straight through the village of Trafton.
+
+At the foot of the hill, where the four roads cross, the drivers peer
+through the darkness. Yes, their sentinel is there. The white
+handkerchief which he holds in his hand, as a sign that all is safe,
+gleams through the dark, and they drive on merrily, and if the sound of
+their wheels wakens any sleeper in Trafton, what then? It is not unusual
+to hear coal wagons passing on their way to the mines.
+
+Should they meet a belated traveler, no matter. He may hear the rumble
+of the wheels, and welcome, so long as the darkness prevents him from
+seeing the horses that draw those innocent vehicles of traffic.
+
+Meanwhile, his duty being done, Arch Brookhouse heaves a sigh of
+relief, gathers up his reins, and chirrups to his horse.
+
+But the animal does not obey him. Arch leans forward; is there something
+standing by the horse's head? He gives an impatient word of command, and
+then,--yes, there is some one there.
+
+Arch utters a sharp exclamation, and his hand goes behind him, only to
+be grasped by an enemy in the rear, who follows up his advantage by
+seizing the other elbow and saying:
+
+"Stop a moment, Mr. Brookhouse; you are my prisoner, sir. Gerry, the
+handcuffs."
+
+The man at the horse's head comes swiftly to my assistance, Arch
+Brookhouse is drawn from his buggy, and his hands secured behind him by
+fetters of steel. Not a captive to be proud of; his teeth chatter, he
+shivers as with an ague.
+
+"Wh--who are you?" he gasps. "Wh--what do you want?"
+
+"I'm a city sprig," I answer, maliciously, "and I'm an easy fish to
+catch. But not so easy as _you_, my gay Lothario. By-and-by you may
+decide, if you will, whether I possess most money or brains; now I have
+more important business on hand."
+
+Just then comes a long, low whistle.
+
+"Gerry," I say, "that is Long. Go down to him and see if he needs help."
+
+Gerry is off in an instant, and then my prisoner rallies his cowardly
+faculties, and begins to bluster.
+
+"What does this assault mean? I demand an explanation, sir!"
+
+"But I am not in the mood to give it," I retort. "You are my prisoner,
+and likely to remain so, unless you are stolen from me by Judge Lynch,
+which is not improbable."
+
+"Then, y--you are an impostor!"
+
+"You mistake; I am a detective. You shot at the wrong man when you
+winged Bethel. You did better when you crippled widow Ballou's hired
+man."
+
+"What, are you?--" he starts violently, then checks his speech.
+
+"I'm the man you shot, behind the hedge, Mr. Brookhouse, and I'll
+trouble you to explain your conduct to-morrow."
+
+My prisoner moves restlessly under my restraining hand, but I cock my
+pistol, and he comprehending the unspoken warning, stands silent beside
+his buggy.
+
+Presently I hear footsteps, and then Gerry comes towards me, lighting
+the way with a pocket lantern, which reveals to my gaze Dimber Joe,
+handcuffed and crest-fallen, marching sedately over the ground at the
+muzzle of a pistol held in the firm clutch of Jim Long, upon whose
+countenance sits a look of grim, triumphant humor.
+
+"Here," says Gerry, with aggravating ceremony, "is Mr. Long, with
+sentinel number two, namely: Mr. Dimber Joe Blaikie, late of Sing Sing."
+
+"And very soon to return there," adds Jim Long, emphatically. "What
+shall we do with these fellows?"
+
+"We must keep everything quiet to-night," I say, quickly. "If you and
+Gerry think you won't go to sleep over the precious scamps you might
+take them to the barn and let them pass the night where they have hidden
+so many horses. We will take them there now, and bind them more
+securely. Then one of you can look after them easily, while the other
+stands guard outside. All must be done quietly, so that they may not
+take the alarm in the house. If your prisoners attempt to make a noise,
+gag them without scruple."
+
+"But," gasps Brookhouse, "you can not; you have no power."
+
+"No power," mocks Jim Long. "We'll see about that! It may be
+unparliamentary, gentlemen, but you should not object to that. If you
+give us any trouble, we will convince you that we have inherited a
+little brief authority."
+
+Ten minutes later we have carried out our programme. The two prisoners
+are safely housed in the hidden asylum for stolen horses, with Jim Long
+as guard within, and Gerry as sentinel without, and I, seated in the
+light buggy from which I have unceremoniously dragged Arch Brookhouse,
+am driving his impatient roadster southward, in the wake of the honest
+coal wagons.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+CAUGHT IN THE ACT.
+
+
+It is long past midnight. A preternatural stillness broods over the four
+corners where the north and south road, two miles north from Clyde,
+intersects the road running east and west, that bears westward toward
+the coal beds and the river.
+
+There are no houses within sight of these corners, and very few trees;
+but the northeastern corner is bounded by what the farmers call a "brush
+fence," an unsightly barricade of rails, interwoven with tall, ragged,
+and brambly brush, the cuttings, probably, from some rank-growing hedge.
+
+The section to the southwest is bordered by a prim hedge, thrifty and
+green, evenly trimmed, and so low that a man could leap across it with
+ease.
+
+And now the silence is broken by the sound of wheels coming from the
+direction of Clyde; swift running wheels that soon bring their burden to
+the four corners, and then come to a sudden halt.
+
+It is a light buggy, none other than that owned by Mr. Larkins, of
+Clyde, drawn by his roans that "go in no time," and it contains three
+men.
+
+"There!" says the driver, who is Larkins himself, springing to the
+ground, and thrusting his arm through the reins, "here we are, with
+nothing to do but wait. We always do wait, you know."
+
+"Yes, I know," assents a second individual, descending to the ground in
+his turn. "We're always on time. Now, if a man only could smoke--but he
+can't."
+
+And Ed. Dwight shrugs his shoulders and burrows in his pockets, and
+shuffles his feet, as only Ed. Dwight can.
+
+"Might's well get out, Briggs," says Larkins, to the man who still sits
+in the buggy.
+
+"Might's well stay here, too," retorts that individual, gruffly. "I'm
+comfortable."
+
+Larkins sniffs, and pats the haunch of the off roan.
+
+Dwight snaps a leaf from the hedge and chews it nervously.
+
+The man in the buggy sits as still as a mummy.
+
+Presently there comes again the sound of wheels. Not noisy wheels, that
+would break in upon midnight slumbers, nor ghostly wheels, whose honesty
+might be called in question, but well oiled, smooth running wheels, that
+break but do not disturb the stillness.
+
+These also approach the cross roads, and then stop.
+
+The first are those of a coal wagon, drawn by four handsome horses; the
+second, those of a vehicle of the same description, drawn by two fine
+steeds.
+
+Two men occupy the first wagon; one the next.
+
+As the foremost wagon pauses, Larkins tosses his reins to the silent man
+in the buggy, and advances, followed by Dwight.
+
+"Anything wrong?" queries Larkins.
+
+"Not if _you_ are all right," replies a harsh voice, a voice that has a
+natural snarl in it.
+
+"All right, Cap'n; give us your orders."
+
+The two men in the wagon spring to the ground, and begin to unharness
+the foremost horses. The other wagon comes closer.
+
+"You and Briggs are to take in these two teams. Tom is to go on with the
+Morgans. Dwight is to take us back to Trafton," says the rasping voice.
+
+Dwight comes closer, and then exclaims:
+
+"By George, Captain, it's _you_ in person."
+
+"Yes, it's me," shortly. "Simpson failed to come, and I wanted to have a
+few words with you and Larkins. Hark! _What's that?_"
+
+Wheels again; swift rushing, rattling wheels. Six heads are turned
+toward the north, whence they approach.
+
+Suddenly there is a whistle, short and shrill.
+
+Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are rising up from
+the long grass by the roadside!
+
+[Illustration: "Men are bounding over the low hedge to the left! Men are
+rising up from the long grass by the roadside!"--417.]
+
+Oaths, ejaculations, cracking of pistols, plunging of horses--
+
+"The first man who attempts to run will be shot down!"
+
+I hear these words, as I drive the Brookhouse roadster, foaming and
+panting, into the midst of the melee.
+
+In spite of the warning one man has made a dart for liberty, has turned
+and rushed directly upon my horse.
+
+In spite of the darkness his sharp eyes recognize the animal. What could
+his son's horse bring save a warning or a rescue?
+
+He regains his balance, which, owing to his sudden contact with the
+horse, he had nearly lost, and springs toward me as my feet touch the
+earth.
+
+"Arch!"
+
+Before he can realize the truth my hands are upon him. Before he can
+recover from his momentary consternation other hands seize him from
+behind.
+
+The captain of the horse-thieves, the head and front and brains of the
+band, is bound and helpless!
+
+It is soon over; the horse-thieves fight well; strive hard to evade
+capture; but the attack is so sudden, so unexpected, and they are
+unprepared, although each man, as a matter of course, is heavily armed.
+
+The vigilants have all the advantage, both of numbers and organization.
+While certain ones give all their attention to the horses, the larger
+number look to the prisoners.
+
+Briggs, the silent man in the buggy, is captured before he knows what
+has happened.
+
+Tom Briggs, his cowardly brother, is speedily reduced to a whimpering
+poltroon.
+
+Ed. Dwight takes to his heels in spite of the warning of Captain
+Warren, and is speedily winged with a charge of fine shot. It is not a
+severe wound, but it has routed his courage, and he is brought back,
+meek and pitiful enough, all the jauntiness crushed out of him.
+
+Larkins, my jehu on a former occasion, makes a fierce fight; and Louis
+Brookhouse, who still moves with a limp, resists doggedly.
+
+Our vigilants have received a few bruises and scratches, but no wounds.
+
+The struggle has been short, and the captives, once subdued, are silent
+and sullen.
+
+We bind them securely, and put them in the coal wagons which now, for
+the first time, perhaps, are put to a legitimate use.
+
+We do not care to burden ourselves with Larkins' roans, so they are
+released from the buggy and sent galloping homeward.
+
+The bay Morgans, which have been "stolen" for the sake of effect, are
+again harnessed, as leaders of the four-in-hand. The vigilants bring out
+their horses from behind the brush fence, and the procession starts
+toward Trafton.
+
+No one attempts to converse with the captives. No one deigns to answer a
+question, except by a monosyllable.
+
+'Squire Brookhouse is wise enough to see that he can gain nothing by an
+attempt at bluster or bribery. He maintains a dogged silence, and the
+others, with the exception of Dwight, who can not be still under any
+circumstances, and Tom Briggs, who makes an occasional whimpering
+attempt at self-justification, which is heeded by no one, all maintain a
+dogged silence. And we move on at a leisurely pace, out of consideration
+for the tired horses.
+
+As we approach Trafton, the Summer sun is sending up his first streak of
+red, to warn our side of the world of his nearness; and young Warren
+reins his horse out from the orderly file of vigilants, who ride on
+either side of the wagons.
+
+He gallops forward, turns in his saddle to look back at us, waves his
+hat above his head, and then speeds away toward the village.
+
+I am surprised at this, but, as I look from one face to another, I see
+that the vigilants, some of them, at least, understand the movement, and
+so I ask no questions.
+
+I am not left long in suspense as to the meaning of young Warren's
+sudden leave-taking, for, as we approach to within a mile of Trafton,
+our ears are greeted by the clang of bells, all the bells of Trafton,
+ringing out a fiercely jubilant peal.
+
+I turn to look at 'Squire Brookhouse. He has grown old in an instant;
+his face looks ashen under the rosy daylight. The caverns of his eyes
+are larger and deeper, and the orbs themselves gleam with a desperate
+fire. His lifeless black locks flutter in the morning breeze. He looks
+forlorn and desperate. Those clanging bells are telling him his doom.
+
+Warren has done his work well. When we come over the hill into Trafton,
+we know that the news is there before us, for a throng has gathered in
+the street, although the hour is so early.
+
+The bells have aroused the people. The news that the Trafton
+horse-thieves are captured at last, in the very act of escaping with
+their booty, has set the town wild.
+
+Not long since these same horse-thieves have led Trafton on to assault,
+to accuse, and to vilify an innocent man. Now, those who were foremost
+at the raiding of Bethel's cottage, are loudest in denouncing those who
+were then their leaders; and the cry goes up,
+
+"Hand over the horse-thieves! Hand them out! Lynch law's good enough for
+them!"
+
+But we are fourteen in number. We have captured the prisoners, and we
+mean to keep them.
+
+Once more my pistols, this time fully loaded, are raised against a
+Trafton mob, and the vigilants follow my example.
+
+We guard our prisoners to the door of the jail, and then the vigilants
+post themselves as a wall of defence about the building, while Captain
+Warren sets about the easy task of raising a trusty relief guard to take
+the places of his weary men.
+
+[Illustration: "Then the vigilants post themselves as a wall of defence
+about the building."--page 423.]
+
+It is broad day now. The sun glows round and bright above the Eastern
+horizon. I am very weary, but there is work yet to be done.
+
+I leave Captain Warren at the door of the jail, and hasten toward the
+Hill.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+"THE COUNTERFEITER'S DAUGHTER."
+
+
+I am somewhat anxious about this coming bit of work, and a little
+reluctant as well, but it must be done, and that promptly.
+
+Just outside of the avenue gate I encounter a servant from the Hill
+House, and accost him.
+
+"Is Miss Manvers at home, and awake?"
+
+"Yes, she is at home; she has been disturbed by the bells," and has sent
+him to inquire into the cause of the commotion.
+
+She does not know, then! I heave a sigh of relief and hurry on.
+
+I cross the avenue, and follow the winding foot-path leading up to the
+front entrance. I make no effort to see Jim or Gerry, at the barn; I
+feel sure that they are equal to any emergency that may arise.
+
+Miss Manvers is standing at an open drawing-room window; she sees my
+approach and comes herself to admit me.
+
+Then we look at each other.
+
+She, I note, seems anxious and somewhat uneasy, and she sees at a
+glance that I am not the jaunty, faultlessly-dressed young idler of past
+days, but a dusty, dishevelled, travel-stained individual, wearing,
+instead of the usual society smile, a serious and preoccupied look upon
+my face.
+
+"Miss Manvers," I say, at once, "you will pardon my abruptness, I trust;
+I must talk with you alone for a few moments."
+
+She favors me with a glance of keen inquiry, and a look of apprehension
+crosses her face.
+
+Then she turns with a gesture of careless indifference, and leads the
+way to the drawing-room, where she again turns her face toward me.
+
+"I have before me an unpleasant duty," I begin again; "I have to inform
+you that Arch Brookhouse has been arrested."
+
+A fierce light leaps to her eyes.
+
+"_Is that all?_" she questions.
+
+"The charge against him is a grave one," I say, letting her question
+pass unanswered. "He is accused of attempted abduction."
+
+"Abduction!" she exclaims.
+
+"And attempted assassination."
+
+"Assassination! ah, _who_?"
+
+"Attempt first, upon myself, in June last. Second attempt, upon Dr. Carl
+Bethel."
+
+A wrathful look crosses her face.
+
+"I wish they could hang him for it!" she says, vindictively. Then she
+looks me straight in the eyes. "Did you come to tell me this because you
+fancy that I care for Arch Brookhouse?" she questions.
+
+"No."
+
+"Why, then?"
+
+"Because I am a detective, and it was my duty to come. There is more to
+tell you. 'Squire Brookhouse and his gang were arrested last night in
+the act of removing stolen horses from your barn."
+
+Her face pales and she draws a long sighing breath, but she does not
+falter nor evince any other sign of fear.
+
+"So it has come," she says. "And now you are here to arrest me. I don't
+think I shall mind it much."
+
+"I have come to make terms with you, Miss Lowenstein, and it will be
+your fault if they are hard terms. I know your past history, or, at
+least--"
+
+"At _least_, that I am a counterfeiter's daughter, and that I have
+served a term as a convict," she finishes, sarcastically.
+
+"I know that you are the daughter of Jake Lowenstein, forger and
+counterfeiter. I know that you were arrested with him, as an accomplice;
+that immunity was offered you if you would testify against your father,
+the lawyers being sure that your evidence alone would easily convict
+him. I know that you refused to turn State's evidence; that you scoffed
+at the lawyers, and rather than raise your voice against your father,
+let them send you to prison for two years."
+
+"You know all this?" wonderingly. "How did you find me out here?"
+
+"Before you were taken to prison, they took your picture for--"
+
+I hesitate, but she does not.
+
+"For the rogue's gallery," she says, impatiently. "Well! go on."
+
+"You were fiercely angry, and the scorn on your face was transferred to
+the picture."
+
+"Quite likely."
+
+"I had heard of your case, and your father's, of course. But I was not
+personally concerned in it, and I never saw him. I had never seen you,
+until I came to Trafton."
+
+"I have changed since then," she breaks in, quickly.
+
+"True; you were a slender, pretty young girl then. You are a handsome
+woman, now. Your features, however, are not much changed; yet probably,
+if I had never seen you save when your face wore its usual serene smile,
+I should never have found you out. But my comrade, who came to Trafton
+with me--"
+
+"As your servant," she interposes.
+
+"As my servant; yes. He had your picture in his collection. On the day
+of your lawn party, I chanced to see you behind a certain rose thicket,
+in conversation with Arch Brookhouse. He was insolent; you, angry and
+defiant. I caught the look on your face, and knew that I had seen it
+before, somewhere. I went home puzzled, to find Carnes, better known to
+you as Cooley, looking at a picture in his rogue's gallery. I took the
+book and began turning its leaves, and there under my eye was your
+picture. Then I knew that Miss Manvers, the heiress, was really Miss
+Adele Lowenstein."
+
+"You say that it will be my fault if you make hard terms with me. My
+father is dead. I suppose you understand that?"
+
+"Yes; I know that he is dead, but I do not know why you are here, giving
+shelter to stolen property and abbetting horse-thieves. Frankly, Miss
+Lowenstein, so far as your past is concerned, I consider you sinned
+against as much as sinning. Your sacrifice in behalf of your father was,
+in my eyes, a brave act, rather than a criminal one. I am disposed to be
+ever your friend rather than your enemy. Will you tell me how you became
+connected with this gang, and all the truth concerning your relations
+with them, and trust me to aid you to the limit of my power?"
+
+"You do not promise me my freedom if I give you this information," she
+says, more in surprise than in anxiety.
+
+"It is not in my power to do that and still do my duty as an officer;
+but I promise you, upon my honor, that you shall have your freedom if it
+can be brought about."
+
+"I like the sound of that," says this odd, self-reliant young woman,
+turning composedly, and seating herself near the open window. "If you
+had vowed to give me my liberty at any cost I should not have believed
+you. Sit down; I shall tell you a longer story than you will care to
+listen to standing."
+
+I seat myself in obedience to her word and gesture, and she begins
+straightway:
+
+"I was seventeen years old when my father was arrested for
+counterfeiting, and I looked even younger.
+
+"He had a number of confederates, but the assistant he most valued was
+the man whom people call 'Squire Brookhouse. He was called simply Brooks
+eight years ago.
+
+"When my father was arrested, 'Squire Brookhouse, who was equally
+guilty, contrived to escape. He was a prudent sharper, and both he and
+father had accumulated considerable money.
+
+"If you know that my father and myself were sentenced to prison, he for
+twenty years, and I for two, you know, I suppose, how he escaped."
+
+"I know that he did escape; just how we need not discuss at present."
+
+"Yes; he escaped. Brookhouse used his money to bribe bolder men to do
+the necessary dangerous work, for he, Brookhouse, needed my father's
+assistance, and he escaped. I had yet six months to serve.
+
+"Well, Brookhouse had recently been down into this country on a
+plundering expedition. He was an avaricious man, always devising some
+new scheme. He knew that without my father's assistance, he could hardly
+run a long career at counterfeiting, and he knew that counterfeiting
+would be dangerous business for my father to follow, in or near the
+city, after his escape.
+
+"They talked and schemed and prospected; and the result was that they
+both came to Trafton, and invested a portion of their gains, the largest
+portion of course, in two pieces of real estate; this and the Brookhouse
+place.
+
+"Before we had been here a year, my father grew venturesome. He went to
+the city, and was recognized by an old policeman, who had known him too
+well. They attempted to arrest him, but only captured his dead body. The
+papers chronicled the fact that Jake Lowenstein, the counterfeiter, was
+dead. And we, at Trafton, announced to the world that Captain Manvers,
+late of the navy, had been drowned while making his farewell voyage.
+
+"After that, I became Miss Manvers, the heiress, and the good
+Traftonites were regaled with marvelous stories concerning a
+treasure-ship dug out from the deep by my father, 'the sea captain.'
+
+"Their main object in settling in Trafton, was to provide for themselves
+homes that might afford them a haven should stormy times come. And,
+also, to furnish them with a place where their coining and engraving
+could be safely carried on.
+
+"Then the 'Squire grew more enterprising. He wanted more schemes to
+manage. And so he began to lay his plans for systematic horse-stealing.
+
+"Little by little he matured his scheme, and one by one he introduced
+into Trafton such men as would serve his purpose, for, if you inquire
+into the matter, you will find that every one of his confederates has
+come to this place since the first advent of 'Squire Brookhouse.
+
+"The hidden place in our barn was prepared before my father was killed,
+and after that--well, 'Squire Brookhouse knew that I could be a great
+help to him, socially.
+
+"I did not know what to do. This home was mine, I felt safe here; I had
+grown up among counterfeiters and law-breakers, and I did not see how I
+was to shake myself free from them--besides--"
+
+Here a look of scornful self-contempt crosses her face.
+
+"Besides, I was young, and up to that time had seen nothing of society
+of my own age. Arch Brookhouse had lately come home from the South, and
+I had fallen in love with his handsome face."
+
+She lifts her eyes to mine, as if expecting to see her own self-scorn
+reflected back in my face, but I continue to look gravely attentive, and
+she goes on:
+
+"So I stayed on, and let them use my property as a hiding-place for
+their stolen horses. I kept servants of their selection, and never knew
+aught of their plans. When I heard that a horse had been stolen, I felt
+very certain that it was concealed on my premises, but I never
+investigated.
+
+"After a time I became as weary of Arch Brookhouse as he, probably, was
+of me. Finally indifference became detestation. He only came to my house
+on matters of business, and to keep up the appearance of friendliness
+between the two families. Mrs. Brookhouse is a long-suffering,
+broken-down woman, who never sees society.
+
+"I do not intend to plead for mercy, and I do not want pity. I dare say
+that nine-tenths of the other women in the world would have done as I
+did, under the same circumstances. I have served two years in the
+penitentiary; my face adorns the rogues' gallery. I might go out into
+the world and try a new way of living, but I must always be an impostor.
+Why not be an impostor in Trafton, as well as anywhere else? I have
+always believed that, some day, I should be found out."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX.
+
+"LOUISE BARNARD'S FRIENDSHIP."
+
+
+When she has finished her story there is a long silence, then she says,
+with a suddenness that would have been surprising in any other woman
+than the one before me:
+
+"You say you have arrested Arch Brookhouse for the shooting of Dr.
+Bethel. Tell me, is it true that Dr. Bethel is out of danger?"
+
+"He is still in a condition to need close attention and careful medical
+aid; with these, we think, he will recover."
+
+"I am very glad to know that," she says, earnestly.
+
+"Miss Lowenstein, I have some reason for thinking that you know who is
+implicated in that grave-robbing business."
+
+"I do know," she answers, frankly, "but not from them. The Brookhouses,
+father and sons, believed Dr. Bethel to be a detective, and to be
+candid, so did I. You know 'the wicked flee when no man pursueth.' They
+construed his reticence into mystery. They fancied that his clear,
+searching eye was looking into all their secrets. I knew they were
+plotting against him, but I had told Arch Brookhouse that they should
+not harm him. When I went down to the cottage with Louise Barnard, I
+felt sure that it was _their_ work, the grave-robbing.
+
+"Tom Briggs was there, the fiercest of the rioters. Tom had worked about
+my stable for a year or more, and I thought that I knew how to manage
+him. I contrived to get a word with him. Did you observe it?"
+
+"Yes, I observed it."
+
+"I told him to come to The Hill that evening, and he came. Then I made
+him tell me the whole story.
+
+"Arch Brookhouse had planned the thing, and given it to Briggs to
+execute. There were none of the regular members of the gang here to help
+him at that work, so he went, under instructions, of course, to Simmons
+and Saunders, two dissolute, worthless fellows, and told them that Dr.
+Bethel had offered him thirty dollars to get the little girl's body, and
+offered to share with them.
+
+"Those three did the work. Briggs buried the clothing and hid the tools.
+Then, when the raid began, Briggs told his two assistants that, in order
+to avoid suspicion, they must join the hue and cry against Dr. Bethel,
+and so, as you are aware, they did."
+
+This information is valuable to me. I am anxious to be away, to meet
+Simmons and Saunders. I open my lips to make a request, when she again
+asks a sudden question.
+
+"Will you tell me where and how you arrested the Brookhouse gang? I am
+anxious to know."
+
+"I will tell you, but first will you please answer one more question?"
+
+She nods and I proceed.
+
+"I have told you that Arch Brookhouse is charged with attempted
+abduction; I might say Louis Brookhouse stands under the same charge. Do
+you know anything about the matter?"
+
+"I? No."
+
+"Did you ever know Miss Amy Holmes?"
+
+"Never," she replies, emphatically. "Whom did they attempt to abduct?"
+
+"Three young girls; three innocent country girls."
+
+"Good heavens!" she exclaims, her eyes flashing fiercely, "that is a
+deed, compared with which horse-thieving is honorable!"
+
+I give her a brief outline of the Groveland affair, or series of
+affairs, so far as I am able, before having heard Carnes' story. And
+then I tell her how the horse-thieves were hunted down.
+
+"So," she says, wearily, "by this time I am known all over Trafton as
+the accomplice of horse-thieves."
+
+"Not so, Miss Lowenstein. The entire truth is known to Carnes and
+Brown, the two detectives I have mentioned, to Jim Long, and to Mr.
+Warren. The vigilants knew that the horses had been concealed near
+Trafton, but, owing to the manner in which the arrests were made, they
+do not know where. I suppose you are aware what it now becomes my duty
+to do?"
+
+"Assuredly," with constrained voice and manner. "You came here to arrest
+me. I submit."
+
+"Wait. From first to last it has been my desire to deal with you as
+gently as possible. Now that I have heard your story, I am still more
+inclined to stand your friend. The three men in Trafton who know your
+complicity in this business, are acting under my advice. For the
+present, you may remain here, if you will give me your promise not to
+attempt an escape."
+
+"I shall not try to escape; I would be foolish to do so, after learning
+how skillfully you can hunt down criminals."
+
+"Thanks for the compliment, and the promise implied. If you will give
+your testimony against the gang, telling in court the story you have
+told me, you shall not stand before these people without a champion."
+
+"I don't like to do it. It seems cowardly."
+
+"Why? Do you think they would spare you were the positions reversed?"
+
+"No, certainly not; but--" turning her eyes toward the foliage without,
+and speaking wistfully, "I wish I knew how another woman would view my
+position. I never had the friendship of a woman who knew me as I am. I
+wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would advise me."
+
+[Illustration: "I wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would
+advise me."--page 438.]
+
+Scarcely knowing how to reply to this speech, I pass it by and hasten to
+finish my own.
+
+Will she remain in her own house until I see her again, which may not
+be until to-morrow? And will she permit me to leave Gerry Brown here,
+for form's sake?
+
+Jim Long would hardly question my movements and motives, but Mr. Warren,
+who is the fourth party in our confidence, might. So, for his
+gratification, I will leave Gerry Brown at the Hill.
+
+She consents readily enough, and I go out to fetch Gerry.
+
+"Miss Lowenstein, this is my friend, Gerry Brown, who has passed the
+night in your barn and in very bad company. Will you take pity on him
+and give him some breakfast?" I say, as we appear before her.
+
+She examines Gerry's handsome face attentively, and then says:
+
+"If your late companions were bad, Mr. Brown, you will not find your
+present company much better. You do look tired. I will give you some
+breakfast, and then you can lock me up."
+
+"I'll eat the breakfast with relish," replies Gerry, gallantly; "but as
+for locking you up, excuse me. I've been told that you would feed me and
+let me lie down somewhere to sleep; and I've been ordered to stay here
+until to-morrow. It looks to me as if I were your prisoner, and such I
+prefer to consider myself."
+
+I leave them to settle the question of keeper and prisoner as best they
+can, and go out to Jim.
+
+He is smoking placidly, with Arch Brookhouse, in a fit of the sulks,
+sitting on an overturned peck measure near by, and Dimber Joe asleep on
+a bundle of hay in a corner.
+
+We arouse Dimber and casting off the fetters from their feet, set them
+marching toward the town jail, where their brethren in iniquity are
+already housed.
+
+Trafton is in a state of feverish excitement. As we approach the jail
+with our prisoners the air is rent with jeers and hisses for them, and
+"three cheers for the detective," presumably for me.
+
+I might feel flattered and gratified at their friendly enthusiasm, but,
+unfortunately for my pride, I have had an opportunity to learn how
+easily Trafton is excited to admiration and to anger, so I bear my
+honors meekly, and hide my blushing face, for a time, behind the walls
+of the jail.
+
+All the vigilants are heroes this morning, and proud and happy is the
+citizen who can adorn his breakfast table with one of the band. The
+hungry fellows, nothing loath, are borne away one by one in triumph, and
+Jim and I, who cling together tenaciously, are wrangled over by Justice
+Summers and Mr. Harris, and, finally, led off by the latter.
+
+We are not bored with questions at the parsonage, but good, motherly
+Mrs. Harris piles up our plates, and looks on, beaming with delight to
+see her good things disappearing down our hungry throats.
+
+We have scarcely finished our meal, when a quick, light step crosses
+the hall, and Louise Barnard enters. She has heard the clanging bells
+and witnessed the excitement, but, as yet, scarcely comprehends the
+cause.
+
+"Mamma is so anxious," she says, deprecatingly, to Mr. Harris, "that I
+ran in to ask you about it, before going down to see Carl--Dr. Bethel."
+
+While she is speaking, a new thought enters my head, and I say to myself
+instantly, "here is a new test for Christianity," thinking the while of
+that friendless girl at this moment a paroled prisoner.
+
+"Miss Barnard," I say, hastily, "it will give me pleasure to tell you
+all about this excitement, or the cause of it."
+
+"If I understand aright, you are the cause, sir," she replies,
+smilingly. "How horribly you have deceived us all!"
+
+"But," interposes Mr. Harris, "this is asking too much, sir. You have
+been vigorously at work all night, and now--"
+
+"Never mind that," I interrupt. "Men in my profession are bred to these
+things. I am in just the mood for story telling."
+
+They seat themselves near me. Jim, a little less interested than the
+rest, occupying a place in the background. Charlie Harris is away at his
+office. I have just the audience I desire.
+
+I begin by describing very briefly my hunt for the Trafton outlaws. I
+relate, as rapidly as possible, the manner in which they were captured,
+skipping details as much as I can, until I arrive at the point where I
+turn from the Trafton jail to go to The Hill.
+
+Then I describe my interview with the counterfeiter's daughter minutely,
+word for word as nearly as I can. I dwell on her look, her tone, her
+manner, I repeat her words: "I wish I knew how another woman would view
+my position. I wish I knew how such a woman as Louise Barnard would
+advise me." I omit nothing; I am trying to win a friend for Adele
+Lowenstein, and I tell her story as well as I can.
+
+When I have finished, there is profound silence for a full moment, and
+then Jim Long says:
+
+"I know something concerning this matter. And I am satisfied that the
+girl has told no more and no less than the truth."
+
+I take out a pocket-book containing papers, and select one from among
+them.
+
+"This," I say, as I open it, "is a letter from the Chief of our force.
+He is a stern old criminal-hunter. I will read you what _he_ says in
+regard to the girl we have known as Adele Manvers, the heiress. Here it
+is."
+
+And I read:
+
+     In regard to Adele Lowenstein, I send you the papers and copied
+     reports, as you request; but let me say to you, deal with her
+     as mercifully as possible. There should be much good in a girl
+     who would go to prison for two long years, rather than utter
+     one word disloyal to her counterfeiter father. Those who knew
+     her best, prior to that affair, consider her a victim rather
+     than a sinner. Time may have hardened her nature, but, if there
+     are any extenuating circumstances, consider how she became what
+     she is, and temper justice with mercy.
+
+"There," I say, as I fold away the letter, "that's a whole sermon,
+coming from our usually unsympathetic Chief. Mr. Harris, I wish you
+would preach another of the same sort to the Traftonites."
+
+Still the silence continues. Mr. Harris looks serious and somewhat
+uneasy. Mrs. Harris furtively wipes away a tear with the corner of her
+apron. Louise Barnard sits moveless for a time, then rises, and draws
+her light Summer scarf about her shoulders with a resolute gesture.
+
+"I am going to see Adele," she says, turning toward the door.
+
+Mr. Harris rises hastily. He is a model of theological conservatism.
+
+"But, Louise,--ah, don't be hasty, I beg. Really, it is not wise."
+
+"Yes, it is," she retorts. "It is wise, and it is right. I have eaten
+her bread; I have called myself her friend; I shall not abandon her
+now."
+
+"Neither shall I!" cries Mrs. Harris, bounding up with sudden energy.
+"I'll go with you, Louise."
+
+"But, my dear," expostulates Mr. Harris, "if you really insist, I will
+go first; then, perhaps--"
+
+"No, you won't go first," retorts his better half. "You don't know what
+that poor girl needs. You'd begin at once to administer death-bed
+consolation. That will do for 'Squire Brookhouse, but not for a
+friendless, unhappy girl. Take your foot off my dress, Mr. Harris; I'm
+going for my bonnet!"
+
+She conquers, of course, gets her bonnet, and ties it on energetically.
+
+During the process, I turn to Jim.
+
+"Long," I say, "we have yet one task to perform. Dr. Denham is on duty
+at the cottage, and fretting and fuming, no doubt, to know the meaning
+of all this storm in Trafton. Bethel, too, may be anxious--"
+
+"Now, hear him!" interrupts our hostess, indignantly. "Just hear that
+man! As if you were not both tired to death already. You two are to stay
+right here; one in the parlor bed, and one in Charlie's room; and you're
+to sleep until dinner, which I'll be sure to have late. Mr. Harris can
+run down to the cottage and tell all the news. It will keep him from
+going where he is not wanted."
+
+Mr. Harris warmly seconds this plan. Jim and I are indeed weary, and
+Mrs. Harris is an absolute monarch. So we submit, and I lay my tired
+head on her fat pillows, feeling that everything is as it should be.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL.
+
+THE STORY OF HARVEY JAMES.
+
+
+It is late in the afternoon when I awake, for Mrs. Harris has been
+better than her word.
+
+Jim is already up, and conversing with Mr. Harris on the all-absorbing
+topic, of course.
+
+After a bountiful and well-cooked dinner has received our attention, Jim
+and I go together to the cottage.
+
+Here we are put upon the witness stand by "our old woman," who takes
+ample vengeance for having been kept so long in the dark concerning my
+business in Trafton.
+
+After he has berated us to his entire satisfaction, and after Bethel,
+who, having heard a little, insists upon hearing more, has been
+gratified by an account of the capture, given for the most part by Jim
+Long, we go southward again and come to a halt in Jim's cottage. Here we
+seat ourselves, and, at last, I hear the story of Jim Long, or the man
+who has, for years, borne that name.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"My name is Harvey James," he begins, slowly. "My father was a farmer,
+and I was born upon a farm, and lived there until I became of age.
+
+"Except two years passed at a college not far from my home, I had never
+been a week away from my father's farm. But after my twenty-first
+birthday, I paid a visit to the city.
+
+"It was short and uneventful, but it unsettled me. I was never content
+upon the home farm again.
+
+"After my father died and the property came into my possession, I
+resolved to be a farmer no longer, but to go and increase my fortune in
+the city.
+
+"My farm was large and valuable, and there was considerable money in the
+bank. My mother clung to the farm; so, as the house was a large one, I
+reserved for her use, and mine when I should choose to come home, a few
+of the pleasantest rooms, and put a tenant into the remainder of the
+house.
+
+"I was engaged to be married to a dear girl, the daughter of our nearest
+neighbor. She was pretty and ambitious. She heartily approved of my new
+departure, but when I urged our immediate marriage, she put the matter
+off, saying that she preferred to wait a year, as by that time I should
+be a city gentleman; and until I should have become established in
+business, I would have no time to devote to a rustic wife. If she had
+married me then, my fate might have been different, God knows! But I
+went to the city alone, and before the year had elapsed I was in a
+prison cell!
+
+"I took with me a considerable sum of money, and I commenced to enjoy
+city life. I began with the theaters and billiards, and went on down the
+grade. Before I had been in town a mouth I became acquainted with
+Brooks, the name then used by 'Squire Brookhouse. He professed to be a
+lawyer, and this profession, together with his superior age, won my
+confidence, as, perhaps, a younger man could not have done. After a time
+he made me acquainted with Joe Blaikie and Jake Lowenstein, both
+brokers, so he said.
+
+"I was an easy victim; I soon began to consult the 'brokers' as to the
+best investment for a small capital.
+
+"Of course they were ready to help me. I think I need not enter into
+details; you know how such scoundrels work. We soon became almost
+inseparable, and I thought myself in excellent company, and wrote
+glowing letters to my mother and sweetheart, telling them of my fine new
+friends and the promising prospect for a splendid investment, which was
+to double my money speedily, and laying great stress upon the fact that
+my prospective good fortune would be mainly brought about by my
+'friends,' the lawyer and the brokers, who 'knew the ropes.'
+
+"At last the day came when I drew a considerable sum of money from my
+home bankers, to invest in city stock. The 'brokers' strongly advised me
+to put in all I could command, even to the extent of mortgaging my farm,
+but this I would not do. I adhered to my stern old father's principle,
+'never borrow money to plant,' and I would not encumber my land; but I
+drew every dollar of my ready capital for the venture.
+
+"I had established myself in comfortable rooms at a hotel, which,
+by-the-by, was recommended me by Brooks, as a place much frequented by
+'solid men.' And soon the three blacklegs began dropping in upon me
+evenings, sometimes together, sometimes separately. We would then amuse
+ourselves with 'harmless' games of cards. After a little we began to bet
+chips and coppers, to make the game more interesting.
+
+"They worked me with great delicacy. No doubt they could have snared me
+just as easily with half the trouble they took. I was fond of cards, and
+it was not difficult to draw me into gambling. I had learned to drink
+wine, too, and more than once they had left me half intoxicated after
+one of our 'pleasant social games,' and had laughingly assured me, when,
+after sobering up, I ventured a clumsy apology, that 'it was not worth
+mentioning; such things would sometimes happen to gentlemen.'
+
+"On the night of my downfall I had all my money about my person,
+intending to make use of it early on the following morning. I expected
+the three to make an evening in my room, but at about eight o'clock
+Lowenstein came in alone and looking anxious.
+
+"He said that he had just received a telegram from a client who had
+entrusted him with the sale of a large block of buildings, and he must
+go to see him that evening. It was a long distance, and he would be out
+late. He had about him a quantity of gold, paid in to him after banking
+hours, and he did not like to take it with him. He wanted to leave it in
+my keeping, as he knew that I intended passing the evening in my rooms,
+and as he was not afraid to trust me with so large a sum.
+
+"I took the bait, and the money, three rouleaux of gold; and then, after
+I had listened to his regrets at his inability to make one at our social
+game that evening, I bowed him out and locked the door.
+
+"As I opened my trunk and secreted the money in the very bottom,
+underneath a pile of clothing and books, I was swelling with gratified
+vanity, blind fool that I was, at the thought of the trust imparted to
+me. Did it not signify the high value placed upon my shrewdness and
+integrity by this discriminating man of business?
+
+"Presently Brooks and Blaikie came, and we sat down to cards and wine.
+Blaikie had brought with him some bottles of a choice brand, and it had
+an unusual effect upon me.
+
+"My recollections of that evening are very indistinct. I won some gold
+pieces from Brooks, and jingled them triumphantly in my pockets, while
+Blaikie refilled my glass. After that my remembrance is blurred and then
+blank.
+
+"I do not think that I drank as much wine as usual, for when I awoke it
+was not from the sleep of intoxication. I was languid, and my head
+ached, but my brain was not clouded. My memory served me well. I
+remembered, first of all, my new business enterprise, and then recalled
+the events of the previous evening, up to the time of my drinking a
+second glass of wine.
+
+"I was lying upon my bed, dressed, as I had been when I sat down to play
+cards with Brooks and Blaikie. I strove to remember how I came there on
+the bed, but could not; then I got up and looked about the room.
+
+"Our card table stood there with the cards scattered over it. On the
+floor was an empty wine-bottle--where was the other, for Blaikie had
+brought two? On a side table sat _two_ wine-glasses, each containing a
+few drops of wine, and a third which was _clean_, as if it had been
+unused.
+
+"Two chairs stood near the table, as if lately occupied by players.
+
+"What did it mean?
+
+"I stepped to the door and found that it had not been locked. Then I
+thought of my money. It was gone, of course. But I still had in my
+pockets the loose gold won at our first game, and the three rouleaux
+left by Lowenstein were still in my trunk. I had also won from Brooks
+two or three bank notes, and these also I had.
+
+"You can easily guess the rest. The three sharpers had planned to
+secure my money, and had succeeded; and to protect themselves, and get
+me comfortably out of the way, they had laid the trap into which I fell.
+
+"Blaikie appeared at the police station, and entered his complaint. He
+had been invited to join in a social game of cards at my rooms. When he
+arrived there, Brooks was there, seemingly on business, but he had
+remained but a short time. Then we had played cards, and Blaikie had
+lost some bank-notes. Next he won, and I had paid him in gold pieces. He
+had then staked his diamond studs, as he had very little money about
+him. These I had won, and next had permitted him to win a few more gold
+pieces. Blaikie did not accuse me of cheating, oh, no; but he had just
+found that I had won his diamonds and his honest money, and had paid him
+in _counterfeit coin_.
+
+"At that time, Blaikie had not become so prominent a rogue as he now is.
+His story was credited, and, while I was yet frantically searching for
+my lost money, the police swooped down upon me, and I was arrested for
+having circulated counterfeit money. The scattered cards, the two
+wine-glasses, the two chairs, all substantiated Blaikie's story.
+
+"A search through my room brought to light Blaikie's diamonds, and some
+plates for engraving counterfeit ten dollar bills, hidden in the same
+receptacle. In my trunk were the three rouleaux of freshly-coined
+counterfeit gold pieces, and in my pockets were some more loose
+counterfeit coin, together with the bank-notes which Blaikie had
+described to the Captain of police.
+
+"It was a cunning plot, and it succeeded. I fought for my liberty as
+only a desperate man will. I told my story. I accused Blaikie and his
+associates of having robbed me. I proved, by my bankers, that a large
+sum of money had actually come into my possession only the day before my
+arrest. But the web held me. Brooks corroborated Blaikie's statements;
+Lowenstein could not be found.
+
+"I was tried, found guilty, and condemned for four years to State's
+prison. A light sentence, the judge pronounced it, but those four years
+put streaks of gray in my hair and changed me wonderfully, physically
+and mentally.
+
+"I had gone in a tall, straight young fellow, with beardless face and
+fresh color; I came out a grave man, with stooping shoulders, sallow
+skin, and hair streaked with gray.
+
+"My mother had died during my imprisonment; my promised wife had married
+another man. I sold my farm and went again to the city; this time with a
+fixed purpose in my heart. I would find my enemies and revenge myself.
+
+"I let my beard grow, I dropped all habits of correct speaking, I became
+a slouching, shabbily-dressed loafer. I had no reason to fear
+recognition,--the change in me was complete."
+
+He paused, and seemed lost in gloomy meditations, then resumed:
+
+"It was more than three months before I struck the trail of the gang,
+and then one day I saw Brooks on the street, followed him, and tracked
+him to Trafton. He had just purchased the 'Brookhouse farm' and I
+learned for the first time that he had a wife and family. I found that
+Lowenstein, too, had settled in Trafton, having been arrested, and
+escaped during my long imprisonment; and I decided to remain also. I had
+learned, during my farm life, something about farriery, and introduced
+myself as a traveling horse doctor, with a fancy for 'settling' in a
+good location. And so I became the Jim Long you have known.
+
+"I knew that the presence of ''Squire Brookhouse' and 'Captain Manvers,
+late of the navy,' boded no good to Trafton; I knew, too, that
+Lowenstein was an escaped convict, and I might have given him up at
+once; but that would have betrayed my identity, and Brooks might then
+escape me. So I waited, but not long.
+
+"One day 'Captain Manvers,' in his seaman's make-up, actually ventured
+to visit the city. He had so changed his appearance that, but for my
+interference, he might have been safe enough. But my time had come. I
+sent a telegram to the chief of police, telling him that Jake Lowenstein
+was coming to the city, describing his make-up, and giving the time and
+train. I walked to the next station to send the message, waited to have
+it verified, and walked back content.
+
+"When Jake Lowenstein arrived in the city, he was followed, and in
+attempting to resist the officers, he was killed.
+
+"Since that time, I have tried, and tried vainly, to unravel the mystery
+surrounding these robberies. Of course, I knew Brooks and his gang to be
+the guilty parties, but I was only one man. I could not be everywhere at
+once, and I could never gather sufficient evidence to insure their
+conviction, because, like all the rest of Trafton, I never thought of
+finding the stolen horses in the very midst of the town. I assisted in
+organizing the vigilants, but we all watched the roads leading out from
+the town, and were astounded at our constant failures.
+
+"And now you know why I hailed your advent in Trafton. For four years I
+have hoped for the coming of a detective. I would have employed one on
+my own account, but I shrank from betraying my identity, as I must do in
+order to secure confidence. In every stranger who came to Trafton I have
+hoped to find a detective. At first I thought Bethel to be one, and I
+was not slow in making his acquaintance. I watched him, I weighed his
+words, and, finally, gave him up.
+
+"When you came I made your acquaintance, as I did that of every
+stranger who tarried long in Trafton. You were discreetness itself, and
+the man you called Barney was a capital actor, and a rare good fellow
+too. But I studied you as no other man did. When I answered your
+careless questions I calculated your possible meaning. Do you remember a
+conversation of ours when I gave my opinion of Dr. Bethel, and the
+'average Traftonite'?"
+
+"Yes; and also told us about Miss Manvers and the treasure-ship. Those
+bits of gossip gave us some pointers."
+
+"I meant that they should. And now you know why I preferred to hang on
+the heels of Joe Blaikie rather than go with the vigilants."
+
+"I understand. Has Blaikie been a member of the gang from the first?"
+
+"I think not. Of course when I heard that Brooks intended to employ a
+detective, I was on the alert. And when Joe Blaikie and that other
+fellow, who was a stranger to me, came and established themselves at the
+Trafton House, I understood the game. They were to personate detectives.
+Brooks was too cunning to make their pretended occupations too
+conspicuous; but he confided the secret to a few good citizens who might
+have grown uneasy, and asked troublesome questions, if they had not been
+thus confided in. I think that Blaikie and Brooks went their separate
+ways, when the latter became a country gentleman. Blaikie is too
+cowardly a cur ever to succeed as a horse-thief, and Brooks was the man
+to recognize that fact. I think Blaikie was simply a tool for this
+emergency."
+
+"Very probable. When you told my landlord that Blaikie was a detective,
+did you expect the news to reach me through him?"
+
+"I did," with a quizzical glance at me; "and it reached you, I take it."
+
+"Yes; it reached me. And now, Long--it seems most natural to call you
+so--I will make no comments upon your story now. I think you are assured
+of my friendship and sympathy. I can act better than I can talk. But be
+sure of one thing, from henceforth you stand clear of all charges
+against you. The man who shot Dr. Bethel is now in limbo, and he will
+confess the whole plot on the witness stand; and, as for the old
+trouble, Joe Blaikie shall tell the truth concerning that."
+
+He lifts his head and looks at me steadfastly for a moment.
+
+"When that is accomplished," he says, earnestly, "I shall feel myself
+once more a man among men."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI.
+
+A GATHERING OF THE FRAGMENTS.
+
+
+There was a meeting of the vigilants that night and Gerry Brown, Mr.
+Harris, Justice Summers and myself, were present with them.
+
+I gave them the details of my investigation, and related the cause of
+Doctor Bethel's troubles. When they understood that the outlaws had
+looked upon Bethel as a detective, and their natural enemy, the
+vigilants were ready to anticipate the rest of my story.
+
+When everything concerning the male members of the clique had been
+discussed, I entered a plea for Adele Lowenstein, and my audience was
+not slow to respond.
+
+Mr. Harris arose in his place, and gave a concise account of the visit
+paid by his wife and Miss Barnard to the dethroned heiress, as he had
+heard it described by Mrs. Harris.
+
+Adele Lowenstein had been sincerely grateful for their kindness, and
+had consented to act precisely as they should advise, let the result be
+what it would. She would give her testimony against the horse-thieves,
+and trust to the mercy of the Traftonites. Her story may as well be
+completed here, for there is little more to tell.
+
+She was not made a prisoner. Mrs. Harris and Louise Barnard were not the
+women to do things by halves. They used all their influence in her
+favor, and they had the vigilants and many of the best citizens to aid
+them. They disarmed public opinion. They appealed to men high in power
+and won their championship. They conducted their campaign wisely and
+they carried the day.
+
+There were found for Adele Lowenstein, the counterfeiter's daughter,
+"extenuating circumstances:" what the jury could not do the governor
+did, and she went out from the place, where justice had been tempered
+with mercy, a free woman.
+
+The Hill was sold, and Miss Lowenstein, who had avowed her intention of
+retaking her father's name, sullied as it was, prepared to find a new
+home in some far away city.
+
+One day while the trial was pending, Gerry Brown came to me with fidgety
+manner and serious countenance.
+
+"Old man," he said, anxiously, "I've been thinking about Miss
+Lowenstein."
+
+"Stop it, Gerry. It's a dangerous occupation for a fellow of your age."
+
+"My, age indeed! Two years, four months and seventeen days younger than
+your ancient highness, I believe."
+
+"A man may learn much in two years, four months, and seventeen days--,
+Gerry. What about Miss Lowenstein?"
+
+"I'm sorry for the girl."
+
+"So am I."
+
+"Don't be a bore, old man."
+
+"Then come to the point, youngster."
+
+"Youngster!" indignantly, "well, I'll put that to our private account.
+About Miss Lowenstein, then: She is without friends, and is just the
+sort of woman who needs occupation to keep her out of mischief and
+contented. She's ladylike and clever, and she knows the world; don't you
+think she would be a good hand on the force."
+
+I paused to consider. I knew the kind of woman that we sometimes needed,
+and it seemed to me that Adele Lowenstein would "be a good hand." I
+knew, too, that our Chief was not entirely satisfied with one or two
+women in his employ. So I stopped chaffing Gerry and said soberly:
+
+"Gerry, it's a good idea. We'll consult the lady and if she would like
+the occupation, I will write to our Chief."
+
+Adele Lowenstein was eager to enter upon a career so much to her taste,
+and our Chief was consulted. He manifested a desire to see the lady, and
+she went to the city.
+
+The interview was satisfactory to both. Adele Lowenstein became one of
+our force, and a very valuable and efficient addition she proved.
+
+I had assured Jim Long,--even yet I find it difficult to call him
+Harvey James,--that his name should be freed from blot or suspicion. And
+it was not so hard a task as he evidently thought it.
+
+Blake Simpson, like most scamps of his class, was only too glad to do
+anything that would lighten his own sentence, and when he found that the
+Brookhouse faction had come to grief, and that his own part in their
+plot had been traced home to him by "the detectives," he weakened at
+once, and lost no time in turning State's evidence. He confessed that he
+had come to Trafton, in company with Dimber Joe, to "play detective," at
+the instigation, and under the pay of Brookhouse senior, who had visited
+the city to procure their services. And that Arch Brookhouse had
+afterward bribed him to make the assault upon Bethel, and planned the
+mode of attack; sending him, Simpson, to Ireton, and giving him a note
+to the elder Briggs, who furnished him with the little team and light
+buggy, which took him back to Trafton, where the shooting was done
+precisely as I had supposed after my investigation.
+
+Dimber Joe made a somewhat stouter resistance, and I offered him two
+alternatives.
+
+He might confess the truth concerning the accusations under which
+Harvey James had been tried and wrongfully imprisoned; in which case I
+would not testify against him except so far as he had been connected
+with the horse-thieves in the capacity of sham detective and spy. Or, he
+might refuse to do Harvey James justice, in which case I would put
+Brooks on the witness stand to exonerate James, and I myself would
+lessen his chances for obtaining a light sentence, by showing him up to
+the court as the villain he was; garroter, panel-worker, counterfeiter,
+burglar, and general utility rascal.
+
+Brooks or Brookhouse was certain of a long sentence, I assured Blaikie,
+and he would benefit rather than injure his cause by exposing the plot
+to ruin and fleece James. Would Mr. Blaikie choose, and choose quickly?
+
+And Mr. Blaikie, after a brief consideration, chose to tell the truth,
+and forever remove from Harvey James the brand of counterfeiter.
+
+The testimony against the entire gang was clear and conclusive. The
+elder Brookhouse, knowing this, made very little effort to defend
+himself and his band, and so "The 'Squire" and Arch Brookhouse were
+sentenced for long terms. Louis Brookhouse, the two Briggs, Ed. Dwight,
+the festive, Larkins and the two city scamps, were sentenced for lesser
+periods, but none escaped lightly.
+
+Only one question, and that one of minor importance, yet lacked an
+answer, and one day, before his trial, I visited Arch Brookhouse in his
+cell, my chief purpose being to ask this question.
+
+"There is one thing," I said, after a few words had passed between us,
+"there is one thing that I should like you to tell me, merely as a
+matter of self-gratification, as it is now of no special importance; and
+that is, how did you discover my identity, when I went to Mrs. Ballou's
+disguised as a Swede?"
+
+He laughed harshly.
+
+"You detectives do not always cover up your tracks," he said, with a
+sneer. "I don't object to telling you what you seem so curious about.
+'Squire Ewing and Mr. Rutger went to the city to employ you, and no
+doubt you charged them to be secret as the grave concerning your plans.
+Nevertheless, Mr. Rutger, who is a simple-minded confiding soul, told
+the secret in great confidence to Farmer La Porte; and he repeated it,
+again in great confidence in the bosom of his family."
+
+"And in the presence of his son, Johnnie?"
+
+"Just so. When we learned that a disguised detective was coming into the
+community, and that he would appear within a certain time, we began to
+look for him, and _you_ were the only stranger we discovered."
+
+"And you wrote me that letter of warning?"
+
+"Precisely."
+
+"And undoubtedly _you_ are the fellow who shot at me?"
+
+"I am happy to say that I am."
+
+"And I am happy to know that I have deprived you of the pleasure of
+handling firearms again for some time to come. Good morning, Mr.
+Brookhouse."
+
+That was my final interview with Arch Brookhouse, but I saw him once
+more, for the last time, when I gave my testimony against him at the
+famous trial of the Trafton horse-thieves.
+
+When the whole truth concerning the _modus operandi_ of the
+horse-thieves was made public at the trial, when the Traftonites learned
+that for five years they had harbored stolen horses under the very
+steeples of the town, and that those horses, when the heat of the chase
+was over, were boldly driven away across the country and toward the
+river before a lumbering coal cart, they were astounded at the boldness
+of the scheme, and the hardihood of the men who had planned it.
+
+But they no longer marveled at their own inability to fathom so cunning
+a plot.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLII.
+
+IN CONCLUSION.
+
+
+When Winter closed in, and the first snow mantled the farms of
+Groveland, the poor girl whom Johnny La Porte had reluctantly made his
+wife, closed her eyes upon this earthly panorama.
+
+She never rallied after her return from the South. They said that she
+died of consumption, but her friends knew, whatever medical name might
+be applied to her disease at the end, that it began with a broken heart.
+
+When it was over, and Nellie Ewing had no further need of his presence,
+Johnny La Porte,--who, held to his duty by the stern and oftentimes
+menacing eye of 'Squire Ewing, as well as by the fear which Carnes had
+implanted in his heart, had been as faithful and as gentle to his poor
+wife as it was in his worthless nature to be,--now found himself shunned
+in the community where he had once been petted and flattered.
+
+There was no forgiveness in the heart of 'Squire Ewing, and his door was
+closed against his daughter's destroyer; for such the Grovelanders, in
+spite of his tardy reparation, considered Johnny La Porte.
+
+He attempted to resume his old life in Groveland; but 'Squire Ewing was
+beloved in the community, and when _he_ turned his back upon Johnny La
+Porte his neighbors followed his example.
+
+Nowhere among those cordial Grovelanders was there a place or a welcome
+for the man who had blighted the life of Nellie Ewing, and so he drifted
+away from Groveland, to sink lower and lower in the scale of
+manhood--dissolute, brainless, a cumberer of the ground.
+
+Nellie Ewing's sad death had its effect upon thoughtless little Mamie
+Rutger. She was shocked into sobriety, and her grief at the loss of her
+friend brought with it shame for her own folly, and then repentance and
+a sincere effort to be a more dutiful daughter and a better woman.
+
+Mrs. Ballou put her threat into execution after mature deliberation. She
+put her daughter Grace into a convent school, and then, to make
+assurance doubly sure, she rented her fine farm, and took up her abode
+near that of the good sisters who had charge of her daughter's mental
+and spiritual welfare.
+
+As for the Little Adelphi and Fred Brookhouse, they both lost prestige
+after coming under the severe scrutiny of the police. One iniquitous
+discovery concerning the theatre and its manager led to more; and before
+another Spring visited the Sunny South, the Little Adelphi and Fred
+Brookhouse had vanished together, the one transformed into an excellent
+green grocers' establishment, and the other into a strolling disciple of
+chance.
+
+Amy Holmes clung to the Little Adelphi to the last; and, after its final
+fall, she, too, wandered away from New Orleans, carrying with her, her
+secret which had been so serviceable a weapon in the hands of Carnes,
+but which he never knew.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+It is written in the book of Fate that I shall pay one more visit to
+Trafton.
+
+This time there is no gloom, no plotting; there are no wrongs to right.
+The time is the fairest of the year, May time, and the occasion is a
+joyous one.
+
+Doctor Denham, funny, talkative, and lovable as ever; Carnes, bubbling
+over with whimsical Hibernianisms; Gerry Brown, handsome and in high
+spirits; and myself, quite as happy as are the rest; all step down upon
+the platform at the Trafton depot, and one after another grasp the
+outstretched hands of Harvey James, whom we all _will_ call Jim Long in
+spite of ourselves, and then receive the hearty welcome of the Harris's,
+senior and junior, and many other Traftonites.
+
+We have come to witness the end of our Trafton drama, viz., the marriage
+of Louise Barnard and Carl Bethel.
+
+Bethel is as happy as mortals are ever permitted to be and as handsome
+as a demigod. There are left no traces of his former suffering; the
+wound inflicted by a hired assassin has healed, leaving him as strong as
+of old, and only the scar upon his breast remains to tell the story of
+the long days when his life hung by a thread.
+
+Of the blow that was aimed at his honor, there remains not even a scar.
+The plot of the grave robbers has recoiled upon their own heads. Dr.
+Carl Bethel is to-day the leading physician, and the most popular man in
+Trafton.
+
+"I have waited for this event," says Harvey James, as we sit chatting
+together an hour before the marriage. "I have waited to see them
+married, and after this is over, I am going West."
+
+"Not out of our reach, I hope!"
+
+"No; I have still the surplus of the price of my farm; enough to buy me
+a ranche and stock it finely. I mean to build a roomy cabin and fit it
+up so as to accomodate guests. Then by-and-by, when you want another
+Summer's vacation, you and Carnes shall come to my ranche. I have talked
+over my plans with Bethel and his bride, and they have already accepted
+my hospitality for next year's vacation. I anticipate some years of
+genuine comfort yet, for I have long wanted to explore the West, and try
+life as a ranchman, but I would not leave Trafton while Brooks continued
+to flourish in it. Do you mean to accept my invitation, sir?"
+
+"I do, indeed; and as for Carnes, you'll get him to come easier than you
+can persuade him to leave."
+
+"Nothing could suit me better."
+
+Louise Barnard made a lovely bride, and there never was a merrier or
+more harmonious wedding party.
+
+During the evening, however, the fair bride approached Jim--or Harvey
+James--and myself, as we stood a little aloof from the others. There was
+the least bit of a frown upon her face, too, as she said:
+
+"I can't help feeling cross with you, sir detective. Somebody must bear
+the blame of not bringing Adele Lowenstein to my wedding. I wrote her
+that I should take her presence as a sign that she fully believed in the
+sincerity of my friendship, and that Trafton would thus be assured of my
+entire faith in her, and yet, she declined."
+
+I do not know what to say in reply. So I drop my eyes and mentally
+anathematize my own stupidity.
+
+"Do you know why she refused to come?" she persists.
+
+While I still hesitate, Jim--I must say Jim--touches my arm.
+
+"Your delicacy is commendable," he says in my ear. "But would it not be
+better to tell Mrs. Bethel the truth, than to allow her to think the
+woman she has befriended, ungrateful?"
+
+I feel that he is wise and I am foolish; so I lift my eyes to her face
+and say:
+
+"Mrs. Bethel, Adele Lowenstein had one secret that you never guessed. If
+you had seen her, as I saw her, at the bedside of your husband, on the
+day after the attempt upon his life, _you_, of all women in the world,
+would understand best why she is not at your wedding to-day."
+
+She utters a startled exclamation, and her eyes turn involuntarily to
+where Carl Bethel stands, tall and splendid, among his guests; then a
+look of pitying tenderness comes into her face.
+
+"Poor Adele!" she says softly, and turns slowly away.
+
+"Adele Lowenstein is not the woman to forget easily," I say to my
+companion. "But there," and I nod toward Gerry Brown, "is the man who
+would willingly teach her the lesson."
+
+"Then," says Jim, contentedly, "it is only a question of time. Gerry
+Brown is bound to win."
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+LAWRENCE L. LYNCH'S WORKS.
+
+
+Madeline Payne, the Expert's Daughter; with 44 Illustrations. Price,
+$1.50.
+
+Shadowed by Three; with 55 Illustrations. Price, $1.50.
+
+Sold on all Railway trains, by all Booksellers, and sent postpaid, on
+receipt of price, by the Publishers.
+
+
+
+
+POPULAR BOOKS.
+
+
+_Dangerous Ground; or, The Rival Detectives._
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH. Illustrated by 45 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.
+
+Its incidents are splendidly handled. There is not a dull page or line
+in it. Dick Stanhope is a character to be admired for his courage; while
+one's deepest sympathies twine about the noble, tender-hearted Leslie
+Warburton.
+
+
+_Madeline Payne, the Detective's Daughter._
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH. Illustrated by 44 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.
+
+"One of the most fascinating of modern novels. It combines the
+excitement that ever attends the intricate and hazardous schemes of a
+detective, together with as cunningly elaborated a plot as the best of
+Wilkie Collins' or Charles Reade's."
+
+
+_Out of a Labyrinth._
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH. Illustrated by 36 original Engravings. Price,
+$1.50.
+
+"We have so often spoken of Mr. Lynch's superb abilities that further
+praise is scarcely essential. Suffice it to say that this work is in no
+way inferior to those which have preceded it."--_Aurora News._
+
+
+_The Gold Hunters' Adventures in Australia._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated by 41 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.
+
+An exciting story of adventures in Australia, in the early days, when
+the discovery of gold drew thither a motley crowd of reckless, daring
+men.
+
+
+_The Bushrangers; or, Wild Life in Australia._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated. Price, $1.50.
+
+The record of a second voyage to that land of mystery and
+adventure--Australia--by the "Gold Hunters," and replete with exciting
+exploits among lawless men.
+
+
+_The Gold Hunters in Europe; or, the Dead Alive._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated by 34 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.
+
+The heroes of "The Gold Hunters' Adventures" seek excitement in a trip
+through Europe, and meet with a constant succession of perilous
+adventures.
+
+
+_A Slaver's Adventures on Sea and Land._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated by 40 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.
+
+A thrilling story of an exciting life on board a slaver, chased by
+British gunboats, and equally interesting adventures in the wilds of
+Africa and on the Island of Cuba.
+
+
+_A Whaleman's Adventures on Sea and Land._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Illustrated by 36 fine Engravings. Price, $1.50.
+
+A vivid story of life on a whaler, in the Pacific Ocean, and of
+adventures in the Sandwich Islands, and in California in the early days.
+
+
+_Running the Blockade._
+
+By WM. H. THOMES. Profusely illustrated. Price, $1.50.
+
+A tale of adventures on a Blockade Runner during the rebellion, by a
+Union officer acting in the Secret Service of the United States.
+
+
+Sold on all Railroad Trains, by all Booksellers, or will be sent
+postpaid on receipt of price by The Publishers.
+
+
+ALEX. T. LOYD & CO.,
+
+133 LASALLE STREET, CHICAGO.
+
+
+
+
+A New Detective Story.
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH,
+
+Author of "SHADOWED BY THREE," "MADELINE PAYNE," etc.
+(_Ready Dec. 1st, 1884._)
+
+[Illustration: "Don't pull, boys; I've got the drop on ye!" Page 58.]
+
+DANGEROUS GROUND;
+
+OR THE
+
+RIVAL DETECTIVES.
+
+The author's latest and greatest work; intensely interesting.
+45 Elegant Illustrations.
+PRICE, $1.50.
+
+Sold on all Railway Trains and by all Booksellers.
+
+
+
+
+Madeline Payne
+
+THE EXPERT'S DAUGHTER.
+
+By LAWRENCE L. LYNCH
+
+Author of "Shadowed by Three." "Out of a Labyrinth," etc., etc.
+
+Illustrated with 45 Original Engravings.
+
+PRICE, $1.50.
+
+CONTENTS.--The Lovers' Meeting. The Serpent in Eden. A Sudden
+Departure. What the Old Tree Revealed. Two Heartless Plotters. The Story
+of a Mother's Wrongs and a Husband's Crimes. Turns her Back on the Old
+Home, and Trusts the Future and Lucian Davlin. Nurse Hagar is "Out of
+Sorts." Madeline Defies her Enemies. "_You are her Murderer!_" The
+Railway Station at Night. A Disappointed Schemer Rejoiced. Madeline's
+Flight. The Night Journey to New York. A Friendly Warning Unheeded.
+"Take it; _in the Name of your Mother I ask it_!" Alone in the Great
+City. A Shrewd Scheme. An Ever-Present Face. Olive Gerard's Warning. The
+Cruel Awakening. The Bird in a Golden Cage. The Luxurious Apartments of
+Lucian Davlin, the Man of Luck. A Dissatisfied Servant. The Man of Luck
+Defied. A Well-Aimed Pistol Shot. "Little Demon, I will kill you before
+I will lose you now!" Doctor Vaughn Summoned. A Charming Widow at
+Bellair. "The Danger is Past!" Gone! "When Next we Meet, I Shall Have
+Other Weapons!" Bonnie, Bewitching Claire. A Tell-tale Photograph.
+"Cruel, Crafty, Treacherous." Madeline and Olive in Conference. "Kitty,
+the Dancer, will Die!" The Story of an Old Crime Retold. "Percy! Percy!
+Percy!" A Message from the Dead. "May God's Curse fall on all who Drove
+her to her Doom!" Miss Arthur's French Maid. Cora Growing Weary of
+Dissembling. Celine Leroque Overhears an Important Conversation. Mr.
+Percy startled. Cora Shares this Feeling. Percy Turns the Tables. "And
+yet you are on the Earth!" Celine Manages to Play the Spy to some
+Purpose. Cora and Celine Measure Swords. Cora's Cunning Plot. "Celine
+looked Cautiously about her." An Intercepted Telegram. Face to Face. A
+Midnight Appointment. "I am Afraid for _you_; but give it up now?
+never!" An Irate Spinster. Celine's Highly Probable Story. Gathering
+Clues. A Hurried Visit. The Hand of Friendship Wields the Surgeon's
+Knife. Claire Keith Placed Face to Face with Trouble. A Dual
+Renunciation. An Astonishing Disclosure. "I am not Worthy of Him, and
+_she_ is!" Struggling Against Fate. "Ah, how Dared I think to Become one
+of you?" A Fiery Fair Champion. Hagar and Cora have a Meeting. Cora gets
+a Glimmer of a False Light. "To be, to do, to Suffer." A Troubled
+Spinster. An Aggravating French Maid. "Won't there be a Row in the
+Castle!" Setting some Snares. Cora and Celine form an Alliance. A
+Veritable Ghost Awakens Consternation in the Household. "If ever you
+want to make him feel what it is to Suffer, Hagar will help you!" Doctor
+Vaughn Visits Bellair. Not a Bad Day's Work. Henry Reveals his Master's
+Secrets. Claire Turns Circe. A Mysterious Tenant. Celine Hurries Matters
+a Trifle. The Curtain Rises on the Mimic Stage. Celine Discharged by the
+Spinster, takes Service with Cora. The Sudden Illness. The Learned
+"Doctor from Europe." "I am Sorry, very Sorry." The Plot Thickens. A
+Midnight Conflagration. The Mysterious House in Flames, and its
+Mysterious Tenant takes Refuge with Claire. The Story of a Wrecked Life.
+"Well, it is a Strange Business, and a Difficult." Letters from the Seat
+of War. Mr. Percy Shakes Himself. A Fair Invalid. "Two Handsomer
+Scoundrels Never Stood at Bay!" A Silken Belt Worth a King's Ransom. A
+Successful Burglary. Cross Purposes. A Slight Complication. A new
+Detective on the Scene. Clarence Vaughn seeks to Cultivate him. Bidding
+High for First-Class Detective Service. "Thou shalt not Serve two
+Masters" set at naught. Mr. Lord's Letter. Premonitions of a Storm.
+"The--fellow is Dead!" A Thunderbolt. "I have come back to my own!" A
+Fair, but Strong, Hand. Cora Restive under Orders. "You--you are----?"
+"Celine Leroque, Madam." A Madman. A Bogus Doctor Uncomfortable. "Don't
+you try that, sir!" Lucian Davlin's "Points" are False Beacons. Cora's
+Humiliation. An Arrival of Sharp-Eyed Well-Borers. Rather Strange Maid
+Servants. The Cords are Tightening and the Victims Writhe. A Veritable
+Sphynx. Sleeping with Eyes Open. A Savage Toothache. A Judicious Use of
+Chloroform. A Bold Break for Freedom. An Omnipresent Well-Borer. "No
+Nonsense, Mind; I'm not a Flat." "For God's sake, _what_ are you?" "A
+Witch!" The Doctor's Wooing. Mrs. Ralston Overhears Something. A Fresh
+Complication. "He is very Handsome; so are Tigers!" An Astounding
+Revelation. Mrs. Ralston's Story. "No," gasped Olive, "I--I--." A
+Movement in Force. Cora stirs up the Animals. A Wedding Indefinitely
+Postponed for Cause. Nipped in the Bud. Ready for Action. "Be at the
+Cottage to-night." A Plea for forgiveness. Sharpening the Sword of Fate.
+The Weight of a Woman's Hand. "Officers, take him; he has been my
+Prisoner long enough!" "Man, you have been a Dupe, a Fool!" Cora's
+Confession. "The Pistol is Aimed at Madeline's Heart!" "It is a Death
+Wound!" "The Goddess you Worship has Deserted you!" The Death-bed of a
+Hypocrite. "And then comes Rest!" The World is Clothed in a New White
+Garment.
+
+    "God's greatness shines around our incompleteness,
+    Round our restlessness His rest!"
+
+
+
+
+THE GOLD HUNTERS' ADVENTURE
+
+OR, WILD LIFE IN AUSTRALIA.
+
+By WM. H. THOMES, author of "The Bushrangers," "The Gold Hunters in
+Europe," "A Whaleman's Adventures," "Life in the East Indies,"
+"Adventures on a Slaver," "Running the Blockade," etc., etc.
+
+[Illustration: "Now for a rush.--Cut them to pieces!"]
+
+A FASCINATING STORY OF ADVENTURE.
+
+
+
+
+A SLAVER'S ADVENTURES
+
+ON SEA AND LAND.
+
+[Illustration: "We saw many species of wild animals." Page 39.]
+
+By WM. H. THOMES,
+
+Author of "THE GOLD HUNTERS' ADVENTURES IN AUSTRALIA," "THE
+BUSHRANGERS," "RUNNING THE BLOCKADE," etc., etc.
+
+ILLUSTRATED WITH FORTY ELEGANT ENGRAVINGS.
+
+SOLD ON ALL RAILWAY TRAINS AND BY ALL BOOKSELLERS.
+
+
+
+
+A Whaleman's Adventures
+
+_AT SEA, IN THE SANDWICH ISLANDS AND CALIFORNIA._
+
+[Illustration]
+
+By WM. H. THOMES,
+
+Author of "THE GOLD HUNTERS' ADVENTURES IN AUSTRALIA," "THE
+BUSHRANGERS," "RUNNING THE BLOCKADE," etc., etc.
+
+Illustrated with Thirty-Six Fine Engravings.
+
+SOLD ON ALL RAILWAY TRAINS AND BY ALL BOOKSELLERS.
+
+
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's note:
+
+Apparent printer's errors have been retained, unless stated below.
+
+Punctuation, capitalization, accents and formatting markup have been
+made consistent.
+
+Page numbers cited in illustration captions refer to their discussion in
+the text. Illustrations have been moved near their mention in the text.
+
+Page 13, "tress" changed to "trees". (Mamie Rutger, the only daughter of
+a prosperous German farmer; wild little Mamie, who rode the wickedest
+colts, climbed the tallest trees, sang loudest in the singing-school,
+and laughed oftenest at the merry-makings, also vanished.)
+
+Page 32, "a a" changed to "a". (Instead of working swiftly on to a
+successful issue, this must be a case of waiting, of wit against wit,
+and I must report to my chief a balk in the very beginning.)
+
+Page 65, "facts" changed to "facks" for consistency in dialect within
+the paragraph. (They're facks, as anybody can see.)
+
+Page 89, Missing "on" added. (Brookhouse tore off half of the yellow
+envelope, and sitting on his horse, wrote a few words, resting his scrap
+of paper on the horn of his saddle.)
+
+Page 92, "then" changed to "them". (He had put the matter before them in
+a new light, and each man felt himself for the moment responsible for
+his own acts.)
+
+Page 98, "bad" changed to "had". (Those who at first had been held in
+check by the doctor's manner were once more spurred to action by the
+sight of those earth-stained tools, and the general verdict was that
+"Bethel was bluffing, sure.")
+
+Page 139, "thus" changed to "this". (I arose and made a hasty toilet,
+feeling sure that something unusual had called him from his bed this
+early.)
+
+Page 148, "he" changed to "be". (Whom he would be elected to office, and
+whom he would not, came somehow to be disapproved by all Trafton.)
+
+Page 157, "dis-displeased" changed to "displeased". (Arch displeased me
+very much by not coming to your aid;)
+
+Page 158, "in" changed to "is". (Your influence in Trafton is
+considerable, I know.)
+
+Page 199, "is is" changed to "is". ("I am afraid some new misfortune
+menaces Trafton, if, as you say, Blake Simpson is already here, for
+Dimber Joe came down on the train to-night, and is in Trafton.")
+
+Page 203, "undividuality" changed to "individuality". (His words were a
+mass of absurd contradictions, betraying no trait of his individuality,
+save his eccentricity;)
+
+Page 213, "he" changed to "be". (I hear his fiddle, so I s'pose he can
+be seen?)
+
+Page 214, "machime" changed to "machine". (I had supposed it to be none
+other than an old school friend of that name, who, when last I heard of
+him, was general agent for a city machine manufactory.)
+
+Page 221, "began" changed to "begin". ("Ah! I begin to see!")
+
+Page 266, "compainions" changed to "companions". (I find there are
+plenty of guides and companions to be picked up.)
+
+Page 276, Telegram edited to match one on Page 280, as it states it is
+the same telegram.
+
+Page 335, "statute" changed to "statue". (Louise sat mute and
+statue-like by the bedside of her lover, and I, oppressed by the
+stillness, was leaning over the open window sill, wondering how it was
+faring with Jim Long, when the gate gave the faintest creak, and I
+lifted my eyes to see the object of my mental inquiry coming toward me.)
+
+Page 336, "and and" changed to "and". (He glanced from me to the
+doorway, where Mrs. Harris was now standing, with an expectant look on
+her benevolent countenance, and replied, laconically:)
+
+Page 336, "unoticed" changed to "unnoticed". (At the same moment I
+observed what was unnoticed by the other two; Miss Barnard had left her
+post and was standing behind Mrs. Harris.)
+
+Page 336, "imperceptable" changed to "imperceptible". ("Now, the
+Jestice," with another sidelong glance, and an almost imperceptible
+gesture, "is a man an' a brother.")
+
+Page 344, "litttle" changed to "little". (All we want, is here; half a
+dozen men with ordinary courage and shrewdness, and a little patience.)
+
+Page 376, "ecstacy" changed to "ecstasy". (I experienced a thrill of
+ecstasy when I learned that Wyman kicked him three times, with stout
+boots!)
+
+Page 403, "darks" changed to "dark". (Three dark forms approach, one
+after the other,)
+
+
+
+***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OUT OF A LABYRINTH***
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